Melissa Egan

Melissa Egan started teaching the Tadpoles at Downey in 2007 after seven years of being a co-op parent. Her past experience, including being a preschool teacher from toddlers to four-year-olds and a grade school volunteer, make her a great fit for the Downey team. As a co-op parent, she held a variety of positions, including president, and served on the board of ICPC. Melissa has a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Western Kentucky University and received specialized training in early childhood education at Gateway Technical College in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Melissa is a calming presence in the classroom and enjoys building relationships with the parents. She loves being in nature, spending time with her family, and laughing as often as possible.

Mindy Dant

Mindy Dant began her experience at Downey as a co-op parent when her oldest child was part of the Polliwog class.  She has held roles as class rep, president, co-president, and treasure before teaching the Frogs‘ class.  She is a graduate of Indiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.  After graduation she spent six years teaching kindergarten.  Mindy whole-heartily believes in the “learn through play” motto and cooperative model of Downey.  She works to create activities and experiences that encourage children to inquire, explore, and play freely.  Mindy enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, being in nature, going on bike rides, and discovering new and interesting children’s books.

Angie Lacy

Angie Lacy serves as our Polliwog and Lily Pad teacher. She has been a pediatric Occupational Therapist for 25 years; specializing in the birth to 3 population. She currently also works for the Indiana First Steps program. Angie has a long time affiliation with Downey Cooperative Preschool; attending Downey herself as a child and as a co-op parent for her 4 children. As a co-op parent, she held a variety of positions including president, secretary, and membership chairperson. Angie also founded and runs a non-profit organization called Project Play, Inc. which provides toys and books to children who need them. She has a strong belief in the power of learning through play.

Brandi Sharp

Brandi Sharp is excited to begin her co-op experience at Downey as a parent and our Leapfrog Kindergarten teacher!  She has 7 years of experience teaching pre-K through 1st grade. Brandi attended IUPUI where she received a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She strives to create an environment that promotes equity and compassion.  It’s her goal to nurture and encourage creativity and curiosity through play and exploration.  Brandi loves spending time with family, baking, and watching football.