Axe ’Em, Jacks!
A message from the director, Ms. Crystal Adams
Hello ECHL family members,
I'm extremely honored and proud to serve as the director of the Early Childhood Laboratory. After beginning my love of the ECHL more than a decade ago as the director's assistant, I'm excited to be back home.
I began working for the Nacogdoches Independent School District in 2010 as a classroom teacher, and have served as counselor and assistant principal. I also have taught part time for Angelina College and the Nacogdoches Adult Learning Center, helping adults enhance their reading skills and achieving their goal of earning a GED.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from SFA and completed my master's degree in educational leadership and Master of Arts in school counseling from the University of Texas at Tyler. I hold certifications in educational leadership, gifted and talented supplemental, school counseling, English as a second language supplemental and as a generalist.
During my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Tristan, and our beautiful son, Grayson. A fun fact about me is I'm a huge Hello Kitty fan.
I'm committed to providing high-quality child care to help ensure the development of your young child. I look forward to learning, growing and having fun with your child. I'm absolutely ecstatic to build the foundation for your child of wonderful lifelong learning along with our wonderful staff members and families.
Best regards,
Crystal Adams
Ms. Alexis "Alli" Beck, office coordinator
Hi, I'm Alli! I grew up in Nacogdoches and graduated from SFA in 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theatre and acting. I've previously worked at a Montessori preschool in Dallas and also as a nanny for young children. I'm passionate about fostering a rich environment for children to thrive as they learn and grow. In my free time, I enjoy playing with my cat, Lola, as well as reading, collaging, writing poetry or spending time in nature. I look forward to meeting you and helping your child along on their journey.
Ms. Jocelyn Zertuche, office/teacher substitute
I'm Jocelyn, and I am so happy to be working for the Early Childhood Laboratory! I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and graduated from SFA in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. During my time as an undergrad, I worked as a teaching assistant at the ECHL for all four years. Since then, I’ve worked with students from the ages of 2 months to 5 years old. My time serving helped me understand more about a child's needs, such as developmental growth, redirecting actions, fine and gross motors skills, etc.
I like to spend quality time with loved ones and learning new hobbies. I would like to continue my education in the school psychology master's program. My overall goal is to provide for the children and their families with any assistance they may need to feel more welcomed at the ECHL.
