Meet our Staff:

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My name is Mara Neal. I love working at Agape'.  Previously, I was a lead toddler teacher here and I still maintain my CDA.  I enjoy getting to know all of the children here as well as our Agape' families. I am married and have two beautiful girls. Being a parent, I understand wanting the absolute best care for your child. I strongly believe Agape' does this as well as provide them with a strong foundation of loving Jesus.

Steve White joined the Agape’ Learning Center staff on September 17, 2019 as Chaplain. Steve just retired as an educator of 41 years, serving at the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home (24 yrs.), Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility (9 yrs), and Anderson Preparatory Academy (8 yrs.). He is a founding member of Memorial Baptist Church where he serves as an Elder, Adult Bible Teacher, and on the missions committee. Steve has been married to his wife, Amy for 43 years and they have two children and five grandchildren. Steve has hobbies of bike riding and working outside. He loves being in a position to share the love of Jesus Christ with the Agape family.

I began teaching K-5 at Agape' in 2005.  I like the small class sizes we have because it allows me to really get to know each child.  I enjoy reading, so one of my favorite things to see is the excitement on the children's faces as they learn to read on their own.

Hello! My name is Kelsay Smith. I started working at Agape in 2013. My husband Jordan and I live in New Castle. We are foster parents and are currently caring for 2 of the sweetest little girls. We love traveling, being outdoors, spending time with family and hanging out with the youth at our church. I went to Agape as a child and I see the impact it had on me. I'm so thankful I get the opportunity to work here and invest in your children like my teachers did for me.  

Hello, my name is Ms. Kara. I joined Agape’s staff in August of 2019. Since then, I have earned my CDA certification in Early Childhood Education and have been given the opportunity to lead teach in the purple room since June 2021. I am not only a teacher her at Agape, I am also a mother. I have been blessed with 6 children and 1 wonderful daughter-in-law! My youngest is an energetic 6-year-old who attends kindergarten here at Agape! God has blessed me abundantly!! It is my desire to instill in your kids the unconditional love God has for all of us as they grow and learn.

​My name is Lesa Stewart. I am happily married to Dewayne Stewart for 34 years. We have been blessed with 4 children. I began my early childhood career almost 27 years ago here at Agape’ Learning Center. I later moved on to teach preschool and have a licensed day care in my home. I am happy to be back here at Agape’ where I am blessed to care for your children.

Hello! My name is Tabitha Sparks. I'm the lead teacher in the Green Room. I started working at Agape' in August of 2022. I am married to my husband Charles and we have been blessed with 2 wonderful little boys.   I am currently taking classes to get my Early Childhood Education certification. I enjoy staying home and spending time with my family. I am so blessed to be able to teach your kiddos and watch them grow! 

My name is Miss Dani. I am a teacher in the Orange room, though you may see me in other rooms as well! I have worked in child care since 2017, but I've served in children's ministy since I was 12 years old. I love teaching your babies about Jesus! I have Bachelor of Arts degree in Ministry and Leadership and an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies. I am also a Foursquare Pastor! When I'm not here loving on your kiddos, I'm usually at home enjoying time with my husband of almost 7 years and loving on my 3 babies - Erin, Jack, and Shannon! Praying blessings over you and your family! 

​My Name is Emma. I am a wife, a mother to 1 boy and 2 girls and came to work at Agape in November of 2019. I have been involved in children’s ministry through my church in one way or another for 9 years. It is a amazing blessing to be able to watch a child grow and learn, so I am so happy to be able to be apart of Agape.

​My name is Francesca Lao but your kiddos call me Miss Frankie. I'm 20 years old. I graduated from New Castle High School in 2018 and started at Agape' in September of 2019. In the Spring I plan on going to school to get my Degree in Early Childhood Education. In my free time I love to sing, go to church, spend time with family and friends, read the Bible and tell other people about Jesus! I feel very blessed to be teaching and loving your kiddos everyday!

​Hello my name is Miss. Evie and I have been working at Agape since March of 2019. I work with many age groups here, and have worked with kids in church since I was thirteen. Next year I plan to work towards earning my Paramedics license. In my free time I love to read, bake, and play with different forms of art!