- Trinity Lutheran School
- Preschool Teachers

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 104
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Ms. Melanie DeYager

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 102
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Darla Healey

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 107
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Missy Kruse
Mrs. Missy Kruse was born and raised in a small rural community in Wisconsin. Both of her parents were teachers. As soon as she was tall enough, she remembers writing on the chalkboard in her father's classroom. Mrs. Kruse knew even at that young age that she wanted to teach. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and Special Education in 2002. Missy eagerly left the cold weather and snow and moved to Arizona where she enjoyed teaching Developmental Preschool. She met her husband and took a break from teaching shortly after they were married when God led them to adoption. They now have three amazing children who all attend Trinity Lutheran School. The Kruses became part of the Trinity Lutheran School family 12 years ago when their oldest began preschool. Mrs. Kruse is honored to be a member incredible staff of Trinity Lutheran School!
Website: www.trinitynewthinking.org/kruse

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 108
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Amy Melara
Mrs. Melara has been teaching at Trinity since 2012. She was born and raised in Orange County, California. She began teaching preschool in 1999. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Child Development from California State University, Fullerton in 2004. Amy moved to Arizona in 2007. She and her husband, Jason, have two daughters, Ryan and Samantha. Both of their daughters attended Trinity Lutheran School. Mrs. Melara has her Master Teacher Credential from the State of California. Her favorite age to work with is the two year olds, and she loves watching them learn and grow. In her free time, Mrs. Melara enjoys drinking coffee and spending time with her family.
Website: www.trinitynewthinking.org/melara

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 112
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Marlaina Mitchell

Phone: 623-935-4690 ext. 101
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Sandy Valdez
Mrs. Valdez was born and raised in Arizona and has been teaching at Trinity since 2012. She has worked with each age group in our Early Childhood Program and will teach a three year old preschool class for the 2021-2022 school year. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Ted, since 1999. They have three children, Xavier, Brandon, and Mariah, and also have two fur babies. Mrs. Valdez knew at a young age that she wanted to work with children and feels that there is nothing more inspiring than to see the face of a child who has mastered a new skill. Her mission is to instill the love of Jesus and learning within each child she teaches and is dedicated and committed to her family, students and Jesus. When she isn’t in the classroom, Mrs. Valdez loves spending time with her family, traveling and crafting.
Visit Mrs. Valdez's website: www.trinitynewthinking.org/valdez