Our Staff
A director, 3 teachers and a host of wonderful volunteers - the staff at Bella Vista Preschool are all dedicated to making preschool the foundation from which students can successfully begin their school career.
Melanie Nichols
Mrs. Nichols has been with Bell Vista PreSchool since 2012. She started first as a substitute, then the Caterpillar teacher and has now moved to the position of Director. A graduate of Rogers High School, she and her husband Matt returned to NWA over 15 years ago. They have three children, all of whom attended BVPS during their preschool years and are now attending Gravette schools.
Mrs. Nichols has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Mrs. Nichols worked in 2 Headstart Centers in Kansas City, and taught preschool for 3 years while attending college. She then taught 5th grade for 4 years before her oldest was born. She is currently working on a Master of Science in Early Childhood Services through ASU.
Katie Gulbransen
I’m excited to be part of the Bella Vista PreSchool. I have 6 kids ranging from young adult down to junior high - 4 of whom are BVPS alumni! I have enjoyed many years of teaching my own children and their friends in joy school and through our church children’s ministries. I love to read. I always have a book with me wherever I go. I love to be outside. I spend many of my summer days at the Metfield pool. I’m thrilled to be a part of the BVPS family, loving our children, and helping them learn and grow.
Terri Wellman
Mrs. Wellman is new to BVPS this year. She is excited to be part of the staff at Bella Vista PreSchool! She worked for 13 years in Springdale pre-K and is looking forward to spending time in the classroom again. Mrs. Wellman and her husband, Dale have lived in Northwest Arkansas for 30 years. They have three grown children - their oldest daughter is Mrs. Watson, the Butterfly teacher! Mrs. Wellman loves being Nana to her six grandkids - 2 are BVPS alumni. Her favorite part about teaching preschool is spending time with the kids and she is excited to be a part of the Caterpillars’ growth learning this year.
Christina Schwalm
We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our team, Christina Schwalm! Christina joined our BVPS staff during the the 2024-2025 school year as an assistant teacher in both classes. What's even more exciting is that she will also be leading our science curriculum!
Christina lives in Bella Vista with her husband, 2 children - one a recent BVPS alumni! - and sister-in-law. Christina has a deep love for working with young children, and her passion and excitement are contagious.
Volunteers
One of the many unique things about BVPS is our group of volunteers who work in the classroom. From those who sit on the board of directors to parents of current and former students to those in our community who love children, the volunteers truly make Bella Vista Preschool a special place for kids!