School Creator
Teacher Chery, inspired and directed by God, opened Circle of Friends in 1980. Meeting in her home until the school simply needed more room and found its new and permanent home here at First Presbyterian.
After 35 years of teaching, she retired in 2015 but was happy to return when asked to take over the position of director once again in fall of 2024. She finds daily joy spending time with the children, sharing smiles, hugs, her endless supply of energy and her love of Jesus.
In her time away from school, she loves to read and walk. And walk, and walk!!
Teacher Sam joined our team in the spring of 2023.
The fall of '24 she moved into lead teaching the 3s classroom and by summer of '25 she took on directorship as well. With Teacher Chery's reduction in hours and Teacher Sam's unending joy, positivity and energy, she fell into the role peacefully.
In her free time she loves going to the movies or being outdoors. Walking- although not as fast as Teacher Chery- hiking, swimming and kayaking are some favorite actives. She married her best friend the summer of '22 and has two sweet cats.
Teacher Meagan joined us in the spring of 2024.
She has two amazing boys, one graduated our Kindergarten in 2025. Meagan is always open for new things and willing to grow and learn and She loves sharing Gods love with children. She loves the beach, outdoors, and coffee!
Teacher Carsen joined us in the spring of 2025.
She loves working with kids and has been a nanny for three years prior. She got married in January 2023 and family is incredibly important to her. She also loves camping, hiking, motorcycles and just being outside.
Assistant Teacher Rainbow 4s
Teacher Brenda started teaching at First Circle of Friends in fall 2023.
She has previous experience working at other preschools. She is excited to work with and join our wonderful group of teachers and we are blessed to have her. She brings quiet joy and gentleness to the classroom. When she is not working she loves spending time with her family.
Assistant Teacher Rainbow 4s
Teacher Linda started teaching at First Circle of Friends in the fall of 2015.
She taught in Maryland for fourteen years before moving back to Oregon. She loves being close to her children and grandchildren. She feels privileged to teach children about the love of Jesus and seeing them grow in their knowledge and understanding. In her free time she gardens or makes beautiful quilts.
Subsitutes
Teacher Lou started teaching at First Circle of Friends in in the fall on 2019.
She has been married to her husband for 46 years and they have seven grandsons. She homeschooled her children, along with other children, for a total of sixteen years. It's a delight of her heart to teach and share the love of Jesus.