Faculty & Staff

Director

Damian Patton, M.Ed.

Director & Jean W. Roach Chair of Laboratory Schools
817-257-6070
d.patton@tcu.edu
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Administration

First Steps Classroom

Libby Middleton, M.Ed.

Hello! My name is Libby Middleton, and I am honored to be the lead teacher in the toddler classroom at KinderFrogs. I love what a warm and inviting environment this school offers to both families and the university. It is a place where learning occurs on every level, and individuals work together seamlessly to provide high-quality instruction.

I have been teaching at KinderFrogs since 2008, and taught in public schools for four years before starting here. I graduated in 2003 from Texas A&M with my degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and in 2011 with my Master’s degree from TCU (Go Frogs!). My husband, Brandon, and I live in Fort Worth with our two girls. We love being a part of the TCU community, and more importantly, the KinderFrogs family. As a teacher, I cherish all the teachable moments that occur throughout our days. I love watching my little friends learn, grow and exceed even the highest expectations.

Pre-K Classroom

Kaitlin Kountz, M.Ed.

I am thrilled to be the lead teacher in the Pre-K class at KinderFrogs. I have served in a variety of roles here, including volunteer and KinderFrogs Associate, and I feel like this is where I am meant to be. I know what a truly special place this school is, and what an encouraging environment it provides for all its students and families.

I taught in public schools for two years prior to coming to KinderFrogs, in self-contained classes and co-taught, inclusive Pre-K settings. I graduated from Texas A&M University in 2012 with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and in 2014 with my Master’s degree from TCU. My husband Zach and I live in Mansfield with our two dogs. We are both excited to be part of the KinderFrogs family.

L.E.A.P. CLASSROOM

Courtney Heigel, M.Ed.

Hi! My name is Courtney Heigel, and I could not be more grateful to be the lead teacher in the L.E.A.P. classroom here at KinderFrogs. I have dreamed of working here since the first day I walked through the door and am so happy to be part of the KinderFrogs family! It is a great honor to be a part of each of my friends’ journeys at KinderFrogs, to help them learn, and to watch as they grow and develop.

I officially began teaching here in 2019 after serving as an inclusive kindergarten teacher in a local public school for four years. However, I feel like this is truly my home away from home. I first stepped foot in the doors as a volunteer during high school and instantly fell in love with the students and the school! I knew from a very early age that I wanted to pursue a career in special education because of my cousin, Jenny, who has Down syndrome. I graduated from TCU with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Special Education. During my time at TCU, I spent every minute I could here at KinderFrogs. I am so happy to be back! My fiancé, Jackson, and I actually met here at KinderFrogs as well! Needless to say, KinderFrogs holds a very special place in my heart for so many reasons. I am so thrilled to continue to build memories with each new student and family who walks through the door!

Lab School Adapted Physical Education