Early Education Center
Administrative Team
Dr. Melinda Tartaglione
Principal
I have been in education for 24 years, beginning my career teaching Spanish, German and English as a Second Language. I spent 3 years living in Germany and 1.5 years in Puerto Rico, as an exchange student first and then living there with my family. I entered education excited to teach children and share my love of languages, culture and the fun of communicating with others. I taught at the high school level for 15 years, have been at the middle school level for 7 years, and have 1 year at elementary. Through all of these years and levels, connecting and building relationships has been at the heart of my work. I care deeply about building strong academic systems and providing students with enriching experiences. Over the years, I have worked with AVID, International Baccalaureate, ESL, MTSS, BSAP, special education and Gifted and Talented, and have learned that it takes intentionality to help each program thrive and also the importance of bringing all of these pieces together as one strong school community. This is my 9th year in Brandywine School District and I have a Masters in Teaching and Supervision and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
I am married and have four children, and that is where all of my free time is spent. My oldest son has autism and he prefers the quiet of being in his quiet spaces, so we enjoy time at home together with his favorite music and videos, and going for walks. My two youngest are in middle school and love soccer, baking, and, of course, Minecraft. My second son is enjoying his career and I couldn’t be more proud of him. I enjoy gardening, reading, listening to Salsa, and just relaxing with my husband and kids. A dog, a bossy cat, and some fish round out the family.
With a commitment to building a strong community and an excellent educational program, I am very excited to join Bush Early Education Center, Darley Road, and ECAP. I welcome the opportunity to meet and build strong ties with families and students, and I hope to connect with you soon at back-to-school events, tours, and special programming.
The school - home partnership is extremely important, so please reach out with any questions or just to connect.
Ms. Erika Gunter
Assistant Principal
It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the Assistant Principal of Brandywine Early Education Programs. My decision to become an administrator stems from my passion for making a positive impact on the entire school community. I am excited to continue advocating for and providing all students and families with an educational experience that celebrates values and diversity.
My career in early childhood education has been fulfilling. I have served as a classroom teacher, mentor teacher, and equity team lead. I was honored to be named Bush Teacher of the Year for the 2021-2022 school year. Currently, I am pursuing a Doctorate in Early Childhood Education with a focus on School Leadership. My academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education & Early Childhood Special Education, and a Master of Education degree in School Leadership.
Throughout my career, I have embraced the challenges of education, collaborating with colleagues, parents, and students. My professional interests include recruiting and retaining educators, fostering inclusive education, and promoting equity within the school setting. I have planned and implemented professional development at the building, district, and national levels.
On a personal note, I am a native Delawarean and reside within the Brandywine School District. My husband, Robert, and I enjoy spending time with our children, Noah (a 7th grader) and Charlotte (a 5th grader). I look forward to meeting and welcoming back all students and families this coming school year!
Administrative Assistants
- Melanie Koli, Bush Administrative Assistant
- Brenda Eccleston, Brumskill ECAP Administrative Assistant
- Stacy Torrens, Darley Administrative Assistant