Our Team
A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
It is such a blessing to partner with your family. Here at St. Mel, your family will always feel at home.
We believe that having open communication and an open classroom helps shape the child in their education as well as their well-being. Even though we are a preschool, we are still very involved with the school community. We attend assemblies, Mass once a month, jog-a-thon, and more. We bring faith, fun, and exploration into our classroom every day.
Our teachers create well-thought-out daily lessons that encourage independence, curiosity, kindness, and a love for their faith. We want to help children learn how to be kind friends and students, share, and follow daily routines.
Thank you for trusting us with your precious little one. I am so excited to be a part of the beginning of your child’s educational journey.
Warmly,
Mrs. Mehrkens
Whitney Mehrkens
Preschool Director
I am honored to serve as the Director of Saint Mel Preschool. I grew up in San Jose and moved to the Sacramento area over a decade ago to be closer to my family and to further my education.
I have 13 years of experience in faith-based early childhood education, including more than four years running my own licensed faith based daycare. Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to creating safe, loving, and enriching environments where children can grow spiritually, socially, and academically.
While I enjoy working with children of all ages, preschool has always been my favorite stage of development. I find so much joy in the curiosity, creativity, and growth that young learners bring each day.
Outside of school, I am a wife and a proud mom to two wonderful sons. Our home is also shared with three sweet dogs who bring a lot of love and energy to our family.
I feel truly blessed to be part of the Saint Mel community, and I am committed to supporting our families during these important and foundational early years.
Alishenka Liranzo
Preschool Teacher
St. Mel holds a special place in my heart, as I previously served as a 2nd Grade Instructional Aide for three years. It was a privilege to support students during such an important time in their faith formation, especially as they prepared for their sacraments.
My background also includes working with toddlers at a Montessori childcare center, which helped shape my understanding of early childhood development.
I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville, as well as an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education through the Los Rios Community College District.
This dual academic path allows me to integrate a well-rounded approach to nurturing both the intellectual and spiritual development of young children.
Guadalupe De La Vega
Preschool Teacher
My name is Guadalupe but the children call me Mrs. Lupe. I am so excited to welcome you and your children to our classroom. I am a mother of five, and my children are my greatest inspiration. My family and I are from Mexico, and our culture and traditions are a very important part of who I am.
My passion for early childhood education is something I live every day. Working at a Catholic school is truly a dream come true for me. It is a gift to nurture children’s curiosity and love for learning while also sharing my faith and helping them grow in their love for God.
With past experience running a family daycare and teaching preschool, I have learned that the early years are a magical time of discovery. I am dedicated to creating a safe, loving, and welcoming environment where your little ones can explore, learn, and grow