Thorndale ISD

Thorndale ISD takes great pride in celebrating the accomplishments of our alumni, and this month, we shine the spotlight on Melanie Towery Kunkel, a proud Class of 2002 graduate who has made a significant impact in the field of education.

High School Years & Community Involvement

During her time at Thorndale High School, Melanie was actively involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, including Girls Athletics—participating in volleyball, basketball, softball, and track. She was also a cheerleader and a dedicated member of 4-H, National Honor Society, Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), One Act Play (OAP), and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).

Melanie was also a freshman on the first varsity softball team in Thorndale history. While the team faced challenges, they made it to a district playoff game for a chance to advance further. Though they did not win, she cherishes the experience of being part of the inaugural team and the foundation it laid for future athletes.

Educational Journey & Career

After graduating from THS, Melanie attended Texas A&M University, where she immersed herself in several organizations, including Aggie Access, Aggie Coaches & Kinesiology Teachers, Alpha Phi Omega, and Kids Klub. In 2007, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology and returned to Thorndale ISD to substitute teach in the spring of 2008.

Following her marriage to her husband, Michael, Melanie moved to Comanche and began her teaching and coaching career at Brownwood ISD. She coached and taught at both the junior high and high school levels before taking a break from coaching in 2014 after welcoming twins, Klein and Claire.

In 2016, Melanie and her family moved closer to home, where she joined Gatesville ISD as a teacher and coach. Her passion for education led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Angelo State University, which she completed in 2018. She then transitioned into her current role as a high school counselor at Gatesville High School.

Life Beyond the Classroom

Outside of work, Melanie stays actively involved in her children's activities, coaching them in multiple sports. She also serves as a parent volunteer for their local 4-H club and is a dedicated member of the Coryell County Go-Texan committee.

A Lasting Connection to Thorndale

Melanie cherishes the deep-rooted support of the Thorndale community, which she feels even after moving away. “I still feel very welcome when I come back and always have a hard time leaving,” she shares. With deep family ties and lasting friendships, she returns to Thorndale frequently and takes great pride in seeing her sister, cousins, and friends raising their children in the same supportive environment. “It is a blessing to be a member of a community that cares so much for its children and their futures.”

Favorite THS Memories

When asked about her favorite memories at THS, Melanie immediately reflects on her time in Thorndale Girls Athletics, where she learned invaluable life lessons from her coaches: Coach Dickerson, Coach Betak, Coach Richardson, Coach C (now von Gonten), and Coach Stuard. She credits them with teaching mental toughness, teamwork, and perseverance—values that have carried her through life.

Melanie also fondly recalls her years in Mrs. Culp’s class, where high expectations were set, and strong relationships were built. She remembers her as “silly, but stern,” always pushing students to never limit themselves.

Words of Wisdom for Current Students

Melanie encourages current THS students to set high expectations for themselves in all areas of life. “When you do the bare minimum in life, you reap the bare minimum,” she advises. Her message is simple yet powerful: Find your niche and get involved!

She also reminds students to put the phones & technology down. “Go make memories with your families & friends. You will not get these days back, and you’ll want to have good, core memories to look back on. Do not waste your life away by staring at a screen!”

Thorndale ISD is proud to recognize Melanie Kunkel and her dedication to education, athletics, and community involvement. She embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Thorndale Bulldog, and we wish her continued success in all she does!