Serving 15-17 children aged from four to five years, the curriculums of “learning centers,” and FrogStreet are expanded while adhering to the State guidelines of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. Children are broadening their vocabulary and social-emotional and physical development while refining their academic content (language and communication, mathematics, social studies, science, and fine arts) for Kindergarten readiness.

Pre-K (Lions & Foxes)

  • A nap mat and 2 - 3 extra sets of seasonal appropriate clothes should always be in their cubby.

  • Children should always come to school with their water bottle and a packed lunch. The preschool has extra water bottles in case a child does not have one.

  • No! The preschool sends home nap mats every Friday to get washed. On Monday, if you forget to bring your child’s nap mat then no worries, the preschool has extra nap mats your child can borrow.

Lions ‍Foxes

Ms. Linda, lead teacher

Hi! My name is Linda Johnson! I am an East Texan native, born and raised down the road in Center, Texas! I come from a small but mighty family that still lives in the area! I moved to Nacogdoches to attend SFA, met my husband and never left. This March we will celebrate our 19th wedding anniversary! We have one son, who is our world, and one dog who thinks she’s human!

My Christian faith is the cornerstone of my life. While I grew up in a Christian home, my relationship with Jesus became alive and real to me in my late teens and early twenties. Making the decision to put my faith in Jesus has shaped who I am today. I strive every day to share His love and grace with those around me.

Both of my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree are in social work, but teaching has long been my passion! I have three years of teaching experience and I am excited to embark on my fourth year, the 2026-2027 school year. My teaching philosophy centers around making learning both exciting and fun. I believe when children are curious and joyful, they are more engaged and eager to learn.

Outside of school, you will find me spending time with my family. My greatest joy is my family and friends. We are active in our church and I teach our ladies Sunday school class. In my free time, I love savoring a strong cup of coffee, diving into a good book, and enjoying mystery movies.

Ms. Samantha, co-teacher

Hello! My name is Samantha Martin and this is my seventh year in education. I studied at Angelina College and SFA for Interdisciplinary Studies (EC - 6th). I taught at FUMC for many years before teaching K-Prep at Regents Academy. I am excited to be back here at FUMC in Pre-K with Ms. Linda! I have four children, my two oldest both went through the preschool and my youngest two will be attending the preschool as well!

I enjoy the outdoors, spending time with family, going to the movies, and taking trips to the beach. I have a hands-on learning style, I love finding creative ways to help out littlest learners grow, play, and discover the world around them.

Ms. Denise, lead teacher

Hello, I’m Mrs. Denise Powers, the lead teacher in the Foxes classroom! I have a passion for teaching, and I am dedicated to creating a positive learning environment. I have worked in child education for 17 years now. I have worked with different age groups from babies up to school-aged children. I have worked in every classroom at FUMC, whether it be as a co-teacher or lead-teacher, but this year will be my first time teaching Pre-K at FUMC. It has all been a learning experience and I love to learn everyday! I attended Tyler Junior College (TJC) for child psychology for a bit and currently have my Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate!

I am married to Mr. Jerry Powers, who used to work at FUMC. We are both involved in our church. I serve in my church as the choir director, youth Sunday School teacher, and in the kitchen as the church fellowship organizer. We have three wonderful kids, with my youngest attending FUMC in the two year-old classroom.

Ms. Cristina, co-teacher

Hello! I’m Ms. Cristina Juarez, your teacher in the Foxes classroom. I have been working in Child Education for the past ten years and seven of those years were here at the FUMC Preschool in the two year old classroom! I was in the three year old classroom last school year and have followed Ms. Denise to the Pre-K classroom this year! I am working towards getting my degree in Child and Family Development and currently have a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate.

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