She and her husband, Dave, are lifetime residents of Salina. Melinda graduated from Salina South High School, received a BS in Education from Fort Hays State University, a Master’s Degree from Kansas State University, and has her ESL endorsement. She and her husband have 3 children, 2 whom have recently married. Melinda is a kindergarten teacher at Stewart Elementary. She has taught for 25 years in Salina Public Schools and has been the recipient of SEF grants. Her community activities include being a member of Stewart’s Site Council and PTA and being a member and volunteer of Children’s Activities at Salina First United Methodist Church. She serves on the Allocations Committee. Melinda was selected by NEA Salina as 2017 Master Teacher of the Year and is one of seven teachers across Kansas to receive an Emporia State University Master Teacher Award.