A message from the director, Crystal Sanders
Hello, families,
Welcome to the SFA Early Childhood Laboratory, where I’m honored to serve as director.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from SFA and completed two master's degrees in educational leadership and 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.
I began my career in education with the Nacogdoches Independent School District as a classroom teacher. My passion for helping children led me to the roles of counselor and assistant principal. I am a strong believer that it is never too late to learn and found joy in working with adults to obtain their GED diploma and enhancing adult reading skills through a college-level remedial course.
I love spending my spare time with family and expressing my creativity through various projects. I'm committed to providing high-quality child care to help ensure the development of young children. I love collaborating with our community, families and staff members to help build the learning foundation for children.
Best regards,
Crystal Sanders
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'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.