About us

Monroe Early Childhood Association, INC is a non-profit organization that opened its doors in 1976 to the community. The need was established for a child care service after a detailed analysis of the community needs for children. Over the past 40 years we have served over 3,600 families, with children ages 6 weeks through 13 years of age. In April 2003, the center was able to open an infant/toddler program for children ages 6 weeks through 3 years. Since 2010 the center has had a 45% increase in children and is still growing. In March of 2024, we became NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children)! This is a very prestigious accreditation that is only given to centers that meet all 10 of the very rigorous standards that include but are not limited to: relationships, curriculum, community relations, and more.

Our Faculty

The faculty of the center are all high quality professionals in the early education field with a love for all children we serve. Four of our staff members hold Apprentice Child Development Specialists Certificates. The requirements of all staff are as follows: S.T.A.R.S. registered through the state of WV, must pass a criminal background check, and carry 18 hours of continuing education in child development and early education each year.

Our Staff

Meet our Board of Directors

Michelle McFall

Director
Michelle Groves McFall has been a lifelong resident of Monroe County since November 19, 1971. She is the daughter of Carol and the late Bob Groves and currently resides in Sinks Grove, WV.
Michelle has four children and 7 grandchildren. Michelle has devoted her life to Monroe County and the residents of the county. She has worked as Monroe Day Care Center’s Director for 21 years and has been the Monroe County Coalition for Children & Families Executive Director for 8 years. Michelle also sees herself in the role of President to the Union Area Chamber of Commerce.
Under the direction of Michelle, the Monroe Early Childhood association continues to grow and thrive.
Laurel Karnes

Board Member
I am a wife and mom of two children and three stepchildren. I live on our family farm in Gap Mills, WV, with my husband, our two children and my stepson.
I have a B.S. degree in Business Administration and have worked for the Federal Bureau of Prisons for a little over 17 years. I have held several positions throughout my career, but I have been a Contracting Officer for the last 14 years handling government contracts and procurements.
I enjoy baking and cooking along with spending time with my family. Both of my children have attended Monroe Early Childhood Association since they were babies. Daycare is a much-needed resource for working parents and I relied on this center daily for many years. While my children are getting older and are not at daycare as much these days, I still value, respect and treasure the daycare and the staff that provide exceptional care to the children in our area. It has been an honor to be a small part of this center and all they accomplish and provide for this community.
Tina Johnson

My name is Tina and I have been a resident of Monroe County for my whole life. I have six children, all of which have attended Monroe Daycare Center throughout the years. I am currently engaged to TJ Williams and am the owner/operator of Betty’s Cafe and a United States Army Veteran.
I have volunteered for many years on the daycare board as well as other organizations including the Union Bulldogs little league sports.
Since I have been associated with the daycare for so long, I have been able to see the growth and am so proud of how far they have come. Their recent NAEYC accreditation is something that I have seen them work long and hard on.

Sharon Ridgeway

Board Member
My name is Sharon Ridgeway. I am married with five children, six grandchildren and a new great grandbaby on the way. I have been involved with the Monroe Daycare Center for over 20 years, as an employee, parent, grandparent, and now volunteer as treasurer for the board.
I enjoy spending time with my family, riding side by sides and sewing. This daycare will always hold a special place in my heart.
Brittany Havens

Board Member
Bio Coming Soon!
Nikki Weikle

Board Member
Nikki Weikle is a native of Union, WV. She lives with her 2 children and husband Josh. She is a physical therapist assistant at Greenbrier Valley Physical Therapy in Peterstown. She enjoys crafting and volunteering for the local 4H clubs.

Bri Echols

Board Member
Bri Echols lives on a farm in Gap Mills, WV with her husband Andrew, and son Azel. She works full time for a veterinary pharmaceutical company and farms on the side. Bri enjoys a life of service and has spent most of her life serving on numerous leadership organizations and non-profit committees. She is grateful that the children in our small community have access to a quality center and is proud to be a member of our board.