Meet our Team

Education: Attended University of Wisconsin- River Falls
Joined LBLC: April 1999

Welcome to Little Beginnings Learning Center! I am the owner of Little Beginnings. I have an educational background in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. Owned and operated since 1999 by myself and my husband, Wade, we have a desire to create an environment where children will feel loved and where parents will know that their child is receiving the best care possible. In addition, we provide a Christian atmosphere where children will grow and know the love of God. With two children of my own, Hannah and Austin, I know the importance of creating a family-oriented center where we encourage participation and involvement in any and all activities held here at the center. Besides loving working here at Little Beginnings, I enjoy running, horseback riding, gardening, camping, hiking, and traveling.

Education: AA in Liberal Arts, Inver Hills
Joined LBLC: April 1999 & May 2017

Hello, my name is Wade Gelhar. I have worked behind the scenes at Little Beginnings since 1999. I am a son, a brother, a husband, a father, and now a grandfather. My former work experience has been in the transportation industry, dispatching, planning, and training drivers for UPS and over-the-road truck drivers. I have also worked and owned my own business in the construction industry, painting residential and commercial projects. I’ve always enjoyed my career choice, but my heart has always wanted to be here at Little Beginnings with my wife and daughter. In May of 2017, I was able to fulfill that dream! Along with keeping the building and the grounds operational and fulfilling the “honey-do” list from all of the staff, I also maintain the software that runs all of our administrative needs here at the center. Among all of these duties, I love seeing all the kids smiling faces each day. Every once in a while, you may even find me filling in in a classroom here and there! I’m happy to be a part of this team!

Education: BA in Criminal Justice, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Joined LBLC: May 2022

Hello, my name is Kat Beebe, and I'm so happy to be a part of the Little Beginnings family. I have been blessed to work with all age groups over the years. Before joining LBLC, I was both a Curriculum Coach as well as a Director within another center. As a child, my father was in the service, and we spent a lot of time overseas, specifically in Okinawa, Japan. Once stateside, we lived in Fredericksburg, Virginia, just outside of the DC area. As an adult, my parents moved to Minnesota, and I followed. My husband and I have two amazing boys, and we are active within our community, taking part in sporting events, scouts, and working with rescue animals.

Education: BS in Anthropology & History, Iowa State University Joined LBLC: 2014 Hello, I am Ashley Spicher, and I am the Assistant Director at Little Beginnings Learning Center. I started working at Little Beginnings in January 2014, shortly after moving to the Twin Cities area. I grew up in Central Iowa and am an Iowa State University Graduate with degrees in Anthropology and History. I worked in a childcare facility while studying there. I wanted to continue working with children in a mission setting after I graduated, so I spent one year working at an emergency shelter for at-risk teens before moving here with my husband. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, antiquing, reading, traveling, and chasing after my own kiddos (Ren and Lyn). I am very excited to be working with your children and showing them Christ’s love. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak with me! I look forward to meeting all of you and building positive relationships with you and your children.

Education: BS in Psychology, University of Wisconsin, River Falls
Joined LBLC: December 2022

Hi, my name is Nicki.  My husband, Dan, and I raise our son, Oliver, and our twin girls, Audrey and Charlie, in Cottage Grove.  I switched career paths to focus more on my family and thankfully was able to join this wonderful company.  Now I have the opportunity to grow with them.  I love seeing the kids exploring their imaginations and learning more every day.  Outside of work, I spend most of my time with family camping as many months of the. year as possible and working on my photography.

Education: St John's University
Joined LBLC: December 2022

Hey, my name is Eric and I prepare meals for the children here at LBLC. I grew up in Brainerd, MN and discovered my passion for food early in life as I began my food service career in restaurants. I attended college at St John's University where I studied Biology and met my wife, Juliet. Together, we moved to Eau Claire, WI for 14 years where my enthusiasm for cooking brought me to work in hospital food service. While working in healthcare, I enhanced my knowledge of food service and took an interest in understanding allergies and dietary restrictions. In November of 2022, my wife and son, Raynor, moved back to Minnesota where our families live and I was drawn to LBLC. Nothing compares to the smiling faces and appreciation of children asking, "What's for lunch today Mr. Eric?" ... "Ooh, that's my favorite!"

Joined LBLC: August 2024
Hello my name is Debi Keeler and I am honored to be apart of this team!  I have two adult children; Michael is 48 and owns his own plumbing company and Allison is 46 and also owns her own cycle fitness center!  I have 7 grandchildren. I grew up on the East Side of St. Paul, raised my kids in Cottage Grove and now resides in Hastings for the past 23 years. My work history has been Administrative Assistant and HR/Recruitment. I enjoy my family, friends and traveling.  I feel blessed to be working at LBLC!

Education: Attended Hennepin College
Joined LBLC: July 2024

My name is Zulma Sanchez. I have been working in the childcare field since 2008. I truly enjoy being part of the early stages of a child’s development and feel honored to help nurture and support their growth each day.
My husband and I met in 2011 and were married in 2015. In 2016, he gave me the incredible gift of donating one of his kidneys—a true reminder of the love and strength that shapes our family. We now live in Red Wing with our two wonderful children—our daughter Mia and our son Mateo.
Being a mother has deepened my connection to the work I do every day. Children are a blessing, and it’s so rewarding to watch them reach milestones and begin discovering the world around them. In my spare time, I enjoy creating memories with my family and soaking up every moment together.

“When we hold a baby, we hold the future. With every cuddle, smile, and song—we are planting seeds of love that last a lifetime.”

Joined LBLC:  March 2025

Hi, I’m Ninibeth Leal! Originally from Maracaibo, Venezuela, I’ve been calling Minnesota home for the past 7 years. I’m curious by nature and love discovering new things, learning along the way, and embracing every adventure life brings. I’m excited to work in the baby room, bringing patience, creativity, and a warm, caring spirit to help each little one thrive.

Education: BA in Biblical & Theoligical Studies, North Park University Joined LBLC: September 2021 Hi! My name is Michelle. I’ve worked at LBLC since 2021, most of which have been in the Ant & Bumblebee rooms. My husband, two daughters, two dogs, and I live in Cottage Grove. We love going on walks, baking, and playing games as a family. I love working with the babies and watching them grow up as they move up throughout the center, as well as getting to know all the families.

Education: Child Development Certificate, Century College
Joined LBLC: January 2007

Hi, my name is Stephanie. I started working at Little Beginnings in January of 2007. I received my certificate in Child Development from Century College. I enjoy working with kids.
I live in Prescott with my boyfriend, Jeremy. My mom lives in Cottage Grove, and my dad lives in Maplewood. I have a younger brother named Eric. He lives in Germany with his wife Stefanie.
In my spare time, I like to hang out with family and friends, go on fun vacations, read, go to the movies, and relax.

Education: Childcare Education Institute Certification Joined LBLC: September 2021 My name is Sammie. I have three children. I love working with kids because I grew up watching my mother take care of multiple children, including her own. Seeing the joy it brought to her and the kids inspired me to be like her and want to make a difference in children's lives. Being a part of a company like this brings so much happiness to my life, and just knowing I can bring smiles to babies' faces satisfies me mentally. I'm grateful to work with all ages and to be working beside such amazing co-workers.

Education: Child Development Associate Credential
Joined LBLC: October 2023

Hi, I'm Kimber and I'm one of the Ladybug teachers here at Little Beginnings! I've always loved working with kids -- It's truly what I'm meant to do. Before joining LBLC, I spent 24 years teaching toddlers and twos at another center, and every day was a new adventure.

I feel so lucky to be a part of your child's life and to help them grow, learn, and celebrate all those special milestones (with lots of smiles along the way!)

I live in Denmark Township in Hastings with my husband, Kevin, our dog, Zoey, and our two cats, Fiona & Chloe. I'm also a proud mom to my son and I have three very sweet grandchildren, who I adore. being a mom was amazing, but becoming a grandma has been an even bigger blessing!

when I'm not at work, I love being outside - boating on the St. Croix, sitting around a campfire, or just spending time with my family and making memories together.

Thanks so much for letting me be a part of your child's journey!

Education: Childcare Institute Certification Joined LBLC: 2016 Hello! My name is Ashley Potter, and I work all over the center. Before working at Little Beginnings, I was actually a Little Beginnings mom.  My sons, Landon and Logan, have worked their way to the Spider Room.  My younger boys, Waylon and Colt, are now at Little Beginnings as well.  I spent a few years before LBLC in the travel industry, but after realizing my love for teaching and children outweighed my love for travel, I completely changed my career path.  Now, I am blessed to be spending my days watching your kids learn and grow.  My husband, Austin, and I currently live in Hampton with our 4 boys, 2 dogs, and a cat.  We like to spend time outside, go on walks, play games, and spend time with family during our free time.  I also enjoy spending time with my twin sister.  Thank you for allowing me to teach, and love your kiddos every day!

Joined LBLC: September 2025

Hi, I’m Izzy! I love anything and everything to do with brains—neuroscience is my passion, and I’m always excited to learn more and share what I know! Before joining the LBLC team, I worked as a Cognitive Trainer at LearningRx in Hudson, WI, volunteered in pediatrics at Marshfield Medical Center, and also gained experience as both an Emergency Medical Technician and a Substance Use Disorder Counselor. I love playing volleyball, doing crafts, spending time with family and friends, and going on walks in nature. I’m really looking forward to working with the staff to create a fun, safe, and comfortable environment for kids to be kids!

Education: AA in Liberal Arts, Rochester Community Technical College Joined LBLC: August 2018 Hello, my name is Bethany Tuckner. I have been with Little Beginnings for almost since 2018. Most of that time has been in the Ant room, but I also spent a few years in the kitchen and now I'm taking on the preschool wing in the Caterpillar room. I love watching the children grow and helping them meet their milestones as they work their way through our room. My husband and I live in Hastings with our daughter, son, and dog. We love spending time outside exploring new places, parks, and lakes to fish on. We also love to play games as a family, and the kids are getting very enthusiastic about cooking with me.

Education: Associates in Early Childhood Education, North Iowa Area Community College
Joined LBLC: July 2024

Hi, I’m Heather! I enjoy spending time with my family, relaxing around the fire pit, eating out, kayaking, watching movies, and cooking. I’ve been fortunate to work with children in many ways—teaching preschool for 3 years, coordinating ECFE for over 13 years, being a children’s director at my church, working in daycare, nannying, and subbing in preschool for over a decade. I’m also a certified parent coach and meditation teacher. In the preschool room, I love supporting each child’s growth, curiosity, and learning in a calm and thoughtful way, helping them explore and thrive.

Education: BA in Business Administration, Winona State University
Joined LBLC: 2020

I am Kayla Blackie, and I have been with Little Beginnings since June 2020. I have worked in a bakery since I was 15 and found my passion for cake decorating and baking. I was a manager and cake decorator for a bakery for many years. During the global pandemic, I decided that I wanted a part-time job and wanted something completely different from what I used to. I was fortunate enough to be hired at Little Beginnings. This job has turned into something that I love. Going to work, seeing all the kids, and getting to know and work with them has been amazing! I am so lucky and grateful I get to be a part of such an amazing team helping shape the minds of our little kiddos.

Education: BA in Elementary Education, North Central University
Joined LBLC: 2022
Hi, my name is Liz Peterson, and I joined the Little Beginnings team in 2022. I graduated from North Central University in 2019 with a BA in Elementary Education K-6 and a Certification in Communication Arts 5-8. Before joining Little Beginnings, I worked as a TA, a daycare teacher, and a job coach for adults with special needs. I currently live in Inver Grove Heights, MN, with my husband, Bryce, and our mini Golden-doodle, Nala. I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and trying new foods in my free time. I have a passion for showing the love of God to children and feel blessed to have the opportunity to do that at Little Beginnings. I look forward to connecting with you and your children!

Education: BA in Missional Ministries and Relational Communications and MA in Ministry
Joined LBLC: May 2025

Hello friends! My name is Gracie Van Beusekom and I joined LBLC in Spring 2025. I graduated from Bethel University in 2022 and graduated from Bethel Seminary in 2023. I currently live in Inver Grove Heights with my amazing husband, Brent. We enjoy anything outdoors, especially hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Before I joined Little Beginnings I was one of the Directors for Trout Lake Camps in Pine River, MN. Since I was two years old camp ministries have been one of the most impactful parts in my life. Because I grew up as a camp girl, I have a deep passion for outdoor ministry and teaching children about Jesus! I am honored to be part of a team where I get to do both the things I love. I am excited to grow and learn alongside your kiddos!

Joined LBLC: 2023

Hello, my name is Taylor. I am one of the teachers in the Spider Room. Before working at Little Beginnings, I worked at a nursing home. I much prefer changing kids' diapers to seniors! I live in Hastings with my mom, step-dad, and sister. I also live in Cottage Grove with my dad, step-mom, and infant brother. In my spare time, I enjoy painting and doing art projects. I love doing them with the kids now, too!

Education: BS in Psychology at St. Mary's University Joined LBLC: 2023

Hi, I’m Emily! I love arts and crafts, pottery, jewelry making, playing electric bass, frisbee, hiking, and camping. I enjoy watching children explore their curiosity and creativity every day. I’ve worked in special needs childcare, babysitting, children’s theatre productions, and volunteered in after-school programs for underprivileged youth. As a center float, I love getting to work with different age groups and bringing creativity, fun, and curiosity into every classroom I join.

Education: Attending Metropolitan State University for Early Childhood Education
Joined LBLC:  October 2025

Hi! My name is Ashley and I have been working with children in various settings for over ten years. I am passionate about helping kids learn, grow, and have fun in a supportive environment. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, going camping, and being outdoors.

Joined LBLC: 2024

Hello! I am Teaghan! I am very involved in school and my church. I've been in childcare for over 5 years and I love it every day. I take pride in building relationships with children and being a part of their walk with God. I also enjoy doing arts and crafts and staying active. Apart from church and school, I love to ride horses, go to truck pulls, work on cars, and help others.

Joined LBLC: January 2026<br/>Education: Chippewa Valley Technical College <br/><br/>Hello! I’m Katrina, and I’m grateful to be part of this faith-based community. I aim to create a nurturing, calm environment where each child feels valued and encouraged to grow through experiences inspired by God’s creation. I strive to model kindness and grace while supporting children academically, socially, and emotionally. <br/><br/>“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14

Education:  Attending Minnesota Online High School
Joined LBLC: 2023

Hello. My name is Cora! I've always loved working with children, and I take every opportunity to be involved with kids, from babysitting to working with them at church and now working here. I live in Hastings and enjoy spending time with friends and family.

Joined LBLC: December 2025<br/><br/>Bio coming soon.