My name is Chris Smirl, and I am the Director here at Stepping Stones. I have been here since May 8, 2023. I have worked in some form of childcare for the better part of 20+ years, through ministry or being a foster and adoptive parent. My wife and I have 4 beautiful boys (2 bio, 2 adopted). I am also a lead pastor. I believe children are a gift from God and that they need all the love that they can get. I enjoy spending time with my family and most anything outdoors. I also enjoy a good Dr. Pepper, BBQ, or Asian food (especially sushi). Lastly, I very much enjoy my job here at SSLC and look forward to building strong relationships with students and parents alike.
Hello! I’m Kim Overby and I am the Lead teacher. I have lived in Borger my whole life! I have 2 children that are 20 & 19 and the absolute loves of my life. I am a first time grandma to a very beautiful granddaughter! Every child that comes thru the center is loved just like they are my own. Watching them achieve even the smallest of goals is such an amazing feeling!
Hello, My name is Sharen Winters and I am the curriculum aide at Stepping Stones. I have been here since the center opened. My hometown is Happy, Tx and I graduated from Happy High School. I went to West Texas State University where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Education. I have also taught at Plainview ISD, Spring Creek ISD, and Borger ISD. I have 2 sons and their wives and 4 grandchildren. In my free time I watch sports, especially the Dallas Cowboys and the University of Texas.
My name is Shelby Gaines and I am the Pre-K teacher. I have been here since August 2021. I was born and raised in this area and I am an alumni of West Texas Comanche of 1989. I have 5 children and 8 grandchildren. I have been married to Antonio since 2014. I was the Lead Officer for the department of Homeland Security for 8 years and have several years of customer service experience. In my free time I love estate sales, camping and riding the sea-doo.
Hello, my name is Michelle and I am a teacher in the Sleeper’s (Infants: 6wks – 10mos) classroom. I have been in childcare for many years and absolutely love it. My kiddos are my passion and pride. I love to read and enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter. I love Dr. Pepper Zero, roses and the Green Bay Packers.
My name is Mrs. Jodi and I am the teacher in the Wobblers (11mos – 17mos) Class. I came to work here at SSLC in Aug. 2023 and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I love my kiddos and do my best to help them in their continued growth. I love TEMU, the color pink, and a KC Chiefs fan. In my spare time I enjoy family time, church, and fishing.
Hi, my name is Emma Mercer and I am the teacher in the Tiny Tots classroom. I began working for SSLC in December of 2022. I enjoy spending time with my family, friends or simply sitting at home. I am so excited to be working with such amazing kids and co-workers!
Hi, my name is Keisha and I am a co-teacher in the Pre-K classroom. I have many years in childcare as well as fostering and adoption. I really enjoy our Sleeper’s class. I enjoy having a good laugh and making others laugh as well. I really love Chicken Express chicken livers, sweet tea, and the Green Bay Packers. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family.
My name is Macie Whittington and I have been here since June of 2024. I am a co-teacher in the Sleepers (Infants) class. I consistently work with the Fantastic Four’s class, but assist in any other areas as needed. I absolutely love working at SSLC with all the staff and kiddos. Currently I attend WT in Canyon and will graduate, December 2024 with a bachelors in Animal Science. One day down the road I would love to be an Ag teacher. For now, though I thoroughly enjoy working with children at SSLC. Outside of work, I like to hangout with friends, family, and my dog. Especially at the lake. Some of my favorites are, Italian food, shopping online (Amazon), and sweet coconut tea. My favorite snacks or desserts are, Oreo cookies and strawberry cake. Pink is my color of choice. Btw, I’m a Dallas Cowboys fan.
My name is Kallie Walker and I am the lead kitchen staff along with being an assistant to any class that is in need of help. I have been with Stepping Stones since 2020. I absolutely love my job and my babies and all the kids there! I have 3 kids (2 boys and 1 girl). I love to hang out with my kids and do fun extra curricular activities with them. I love to watch scary movies, and my favorite color is green.
