Bekah Barrales- Owner/Administrator
Hi! My name is Bekah Barrales and I am the owner/administrator of Bee Balm Learning Center. I have been in early childhood since 2005 and became the owner of Bee Balm in 2014. I have a B.A. in Art History from UW Madison, and when I discovered my passion for working with young learners I went back to school and earned an Early Childhood Administrator's Credential, an Early Childhood Leadership Credential, and an Early Childhood Program Development Credential from UW Milwaukee. I am also a Tier 3 early childhood trainer and consultant and contributing author to the early childhood publication, Exchange Magazine. I feel so honored that I get to provide a place that helps develop young children into the wonderful human beings they will become. I feel strongly about creating a community amongst the children, families, and staff that celebrates everyone's individuality.
I have been married to my husband since 2006 and together we have 3 children. My son, Luka, was born in October 2013 and spent the first 5 years of his life at Bee Balm! My twin daughters, Charleigh and Reya, were born in January 2021, and will also spend the first five years of their lives growing and learning at Bee Balm. I also have twin (yes another set of twins!) step daughters, Daphne and Tasha, who were born in 1996. Amazingly, Daphne, Tasha, and Luka all have the same birthdate, October 19th, just 17 years apart!
In my time outside of work I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, which includes; hiking, biking, swimming, sledding, and going on picnics. I also enjoy playing tennis, doing yoga, reading, and painting.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family's life!
Kyle Klenko- Director of Operations
I have been working at Bee Balm Learning Center since June 2009. I hold the position of Director of Operations. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and look to utilize my skills to make Bee Balm the best early learning center in Madison. I enjoy working with children because every day offers something different. Not only am I helping them learn, but I'm also learning from them constantly.
I have three siblings; an older brother and sister, and a twin brother. In my free time I love spending time with friends and family, my dog, Wisko, staying active, and participating in almost any sport. I'm a huge Badgers, Packers, Bucks, and Brewers fan and look forward to going to as many games as I possibly can.
Kaelynn Vanderslice - Director of Student & Staff Development
Hello Bee Balm Learning Center family and friends! My name is Kaelynn. I have worked at BBLC since 2015. I have found a second home in my time here and am excited for many more happy years to come.
When I began working here I was the Lead Teacher in the Tiger Lily room. After two years a Lead I have transitioned into the centers Child Enrichment Coordinator. My BS in Social Work (with an emphasis in early childhood development and psychology) has prepared me for this new role.
I am not the only one in my family to have found a happy home here at BBLC. My son, Emry and (step) daughter, Juliet are enrolled here and enjoy coming here each day. This environment has promoted them to be life-long learners as well as nurtured their indivuality. I couldn't ask for a better center to work for nor have my children attend.