Staff
Samantha Medore
Director
I am so thankful and excited to be a part of the New Life community. I began at NLCCS in 2020 as an Assistant Director and fell in love with the families, students, and staff. As director, I am dedicated to ensuring that New Life Community Christian School is a safe environment filled with Christ-centered learning and heart-felt joy.
My husband, Derek, and I have three children: Caitlyn (15), Max (12), and Hadley (4). We enjoy board games, thrift-shopping, and quality time with our extended family.
TBD
Assistant Director
Olga Ruiz
3s Lead Teacher
I am originally from Mexico and at the age of 6 my family moved to the U.S.A. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I have two children. My oldest Milyn (30), and Josiah (16) who keeps me young.
I have my CDA and an Associates in Theology. I have 18 years of experience working with children, with 14 years here at New Life.
I also have the privilege to work with the littlest of our New Life friends. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which each child is loved and encouraged to grow.
Chiquita Southerland
2s Lead Teacher
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI where I earned my BA in Sociology from UW - Milwaukee in 2010. I also obtained my Administrator's Credential in Early Childcare at UW - Platteville in 2020.
I am the honored wife of Donovan Sr. and we are blessed parents of Lauren (14), Cailyn (12), Morgan (10), Donovan Jr. (3), and Faith (1). I love to spend time with my family, discussing our day over dinner, traveling the world, and serving God's people.
My mission is to reach each child where they are. I believe that building relationships with children and their parents creates a healthy and successful learning experience.
Brenna Fricks
Infant Aftercare Teacher
I have lived in the Houston area all my life. In my spare time I like to craft and spend time with my family.
I started taking care of children at age 16 and nannied for a year before I started working at NLCCS. My favorite thing about childcare is watching children grow and seeing their personalities develop.
Lilia Ayala
2s and Toddlers Assistant Teacher
Alondra Rodriguez
Support Staff
I'm bilingual and love traveling. About a year and a half ago God called me into children’s ministry. It has been an amazing journey and I'm loving every minute of it. God speaks to us in many different ways and one of those for me is through the kids. He has shown me repeatedly that He wants us to come to Him like children. I'm so excited to work at NLCCS and see how the Lord is working!
Jazmin Perez
PreK Lead Teacher
I have been in Early Childhood Education for 8 years. During those years I obtained my CDA credential to better help the littles in my care. My husband and I have 2 sweet girls, Sofia (9) and Penelope (5), 2 wild dogs and a feisty cat. When I'm not at work, I spend my time loving them the best way I can. Leading with love & grace in our classroom is what I take pride in.
Alyssa Hernandez
3s Lead Teacher
I have been working with kids since I was 17, starting with babysitting to now being a Two’s Lead Teacher here at New Life! I graduated from Klein Oak High School, and I am also bilingual so I love tying Spanish into our curriculum and class activities. I am super excited to be on this academic journey with your child and to teach them the Word of God!
Marisa Cedano
Infant and Aftercare Lead Teacher
As a child I was one of New Life Community Christian School's first students. All of my siblings have also attended NLCCS and my family has been involved in this ministry since that time. I'm so excited to be working with the wonderful staff and students of NLCCS.
I currently attend Lone Star College and am a member of New Life Church.
Kristina Van Gent
Infant Assistant Teacher
I'm originally from Southern California and move to Texas in 2022. I've been married for 12 year to my husband, Douglas. We have 3 wonderful boys: Hunter (11), Jacob (8), and Nolan (4). I enjoy crafting, photography, and going to Disneyland with my family.
I have worked with children in many capacities for the past five years. After subbing at New Life for a couple of days, I fell in love with the children and the Christ-centered environment. I look forward to watch my students grow and having the opportunity to build relationships with families.
Leslie Branscum
Toddlers Lead Teacher
I am originally from Arizona and moved to Houston in 1988. I am blessed to have 3 awesome children. Ashlyn (24), Ty (20), and my caboose, Maci (13). We have 1 dog named Dexter and he is the 5th member of the family. I attended Stephan F. Austin and received my bachelors. I have over 10 years of experience in early childcare.
I give my free time to a ministry called The Balm of The Branch which seeks to help those with sickness/disease freedom through spiritual healing. Serving children is also something I love. My goal is to help your child be the best version of themselves while helping them succeed.