Bekah Barrales- Owner/Administrator
I am the Owner/Administrator of Bee Balm. I have been at BBLC since September 2005 and purchased the center from the previous owner in June of 2014. I have a B.A in Art History from UW Madison and two credentials from UW-Milwaukee; a Child Care Administrator's Credential and a Leadership Credential, as well as numerous other courses and experience in Early Childhood Education. My heart has always been in working with children and I feel so fortunate that I get to be a part of their lives by providing a safe and happy place for them to grow and learn.
I have a husband, Manuel, an amazing son, Luka, who attends Bee Balm, twin step-daughters, Daphne and Tasha (Luka, Daphne, and Tasha all have the same birthday!), and two lively puppies, Sizu and Iker. I enjoy playing tennis, reading, gardening, and spending as much time as possible with my family. I love coming to work each day because I can always count on one of the kids to say something to make me smile or laugh!
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 child care 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, staying active, and participating in almost any sport. I'm a huge Badgers, Packers, 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.
Liane Rhodes- Activities Coordinator
I began working at Bee Balm in February of 2012 as a substitute. I loved getting to know all of the children in the center but the infants and toddlers absolutely stole my heart. I became the Lead Teacher in the Sweet Peas in August of 2012, and then in August 2015 I took the position of Activities Coordinator. I received my degree from UW-Whitewater. I live here in Madison with my husband, daughter Kelly, son Nolan, and our Boston Terrier named Arnold. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, baking, watching movies, and reading.
Donna Malin - Operations Coordinator
I have been at BBLC since February 2013. I have a Bachelors Degree from UW-Stout in Child Development and Family Life. I have been working with children/families for over 25 years! I really enjoy coming to BBLC to be the Operations Coordinator, as well as float around the Center. My hobbies are card making and hanging out with family and friends.