Melinda began studying modern dance and jazz at the age of 14. From her first ballet class, she was determined to dance "en pointe" and relentlessly pursued this goal. Despite knowing that joining The Joffrey Ballet might not be feasible for someone starting dance later in life and not being a natural dancer, Melinda remained resolute in her faith and desire. Life events such as relocation, marriage, and having a child put her dream on hold. Still, she resumed studying ballet with Andrei Tremaine in 1987 after enrolling her daughter in ballet classes with Natasha Middleton. Tremaine reignited Melinda's passion for Pointe, and she pursued it tirelessly until achieving her goal.

Melinda's success was not defined by the height of her kicks but by the unwavering dedication and drive that she embodied. With this in mind, she developed a complete, diverse, and standards-based dance program suitable for children of all ages. Her dance curriculum celebrates the individual strengths of every dancer, regardless of their experience or talent level, and instills in them a love for movement and creativity through dance. The program culminates in end-of-term performances three times yearly to showcase the children's growth and success.

Melinda established this program in September 2000 and has since shared her unique approach to dance with thousands of children in school districts and private preschools all across Southern California.  Today, Melinda is thrilled at the opportunity to make her dance program more accessible for children with the launch of her mobile app, MamaWatchMeDance.