As the Director of Circle of Friends Preschool, I have a passion for helping children and families enjoy a great start to life-long learning!

I have an Associate’s degree in Child Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Business. I have been involved in the early childhood education field as both a teacher and an administrator for over 27 years. Prior to joining Circle of Friends, I was the director of a corporate child development center in downtown St. Louis. I am the proud parent of twin boys. In my spare time I love to read, spend time with my boys, enjoy the St. Louis Cardinals and Blues, and I used to scuba dive (which I hope to get back into soon). I am thrilled to be a part of the Circle of Friends family!

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Staff

Melanie Knipping

As the Director of Circle of Friends Preschool, I have a passion for helping children and families enjoy a great start to life-long learning! I have an Associate’s degree in Child Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Business. I have been involved in the early childhood education field as both

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Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher

Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher is the Executive Pastor at Manchester UMC. He and his wife, Kristen, met in college at Missouri State University. They have two children, Zachary & Nathan, who are both excited to be a part of a church community that offers so many opportunities for their family

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Julie Weitzel

Julie Weitzel is the SonShine Singers Director at Manchester UMC. Julie was a member of Manchester UMC’s Children’s Choirs when she was in elementary school and is currently a Spanish Teacher and choreographer at Eureka High School. Julie enjoys musical theater, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She

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