In 2000, the leadership of Grace Church began dreaming about creating a high-quality weekday preschool that would serve families in our community. With a strong desire to minister to young children and their families, GEM Express Preschool & Kindergarten opened its doors in the fall of 2001.

Under the direction of our founding director, Diana Abbott, we began with two teachers and one assistant. On our very first day, 20 students walked through our doors. Classes were held Monday and Wednesday for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

From the beginning, we committed to excellence. In 2001, we partnered with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). In 2004, we became licensed by the state of Texas. In 2014 we earned ACSI Accreditation, with the most recent renewal in 2024.

What began as a small ministry with 20 students has grown beautifully over the years. Today, we are blessed to serve over 150 students and employ over 30 staff members who are passionate about nurturing young hearts and minds.

We are honored to have been voted “Favorite Best Early Childhood Center” by readers of the Allen American in both 2017 and 2021, and “Best of Allen” Kindergarten program in 2023 and 2024.