Melissa Wintin

Early Childhood Specials Teacher

Melissa Wintin has always known she was meant to be a teacher. “I absolutely love children. They make every day better,” she said. From running a backyard summer camp with her sister to volunteering in a tutoring program at Wheeler Mission, Melissa’s passion for teaching began early. “Those experiences helped develop my organizational skills and strengthened my creativity, like learning how to make homework exciting and engaging.”

After earning her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Purdue University, Melissa taught kindergarten and first grade in Indianapolis for six years before taking a break to raise her three daughters. “I’ve always kept my foot in the education world,” she shared. “I worked at a local preschool for a bit and tutored older students in math. One of my favorite endeavors has been running a children’s book club.”

Today, Melissa teaches Library, Movement, and STEM as part of the Early Childhood Specials program at Heritage. “In my classroom, I strive to show students that every good thing we have is from God above (James 1:17). He is the great Creator. Our job is to glorify Him in all that we do. Whether that is exercising our bodies to stay healthy or using our hands and minds to build new things, it can all bring glory to God.”

Melissa has a special connection to Heritage: she’s a proud alumna who attended from second grade through graduation. “Coming back to Heritage on the parent side was a much different experience than being a student here,” she said. “A lot has changed! But the Lord is generous and kind. One thing we love about the school is that it feels very much like an extended family.”

In her role, Melissa helps nurture both the minds and bodies of the youngest HCS Eagles. Early Childhood Specials is where academic growth, physiological development, and play come together. Through hands-on activities in Art, Music, Library, STEM, and Movement, these students learn to explore, create, and grow in confidence. A highlight of Melissa’s week is The Maze, an obstacle course that lets students practice balance, coordination, and processing skills through joyful, active play.

We’re so thankful for Mrs. Wintin and for teachers like her who pour their hearts into helping our youngest Eagles learn, grow, and see God’s hand in all things.