Employee Spotlight

Region 7 ESC Employee Spotlight

At Region 7 ESC, we're proud to shine a light on the incredible individuals who dedicate their lives to making a difference in education. Our biweekly Employee Spotlight highlights team members whose passion and commitment help shape the future of our students. Through their hard work and expertise, they support both teachers and students across the region. This week, we're excited to introduce three standout employees who exemplify what it means to lead with heart.

Lyndsey Register name divider

R7 Employee Spotlight Lyndsey Register picture

Lyndsey is an Administrative Assistant in Center for Effective Districts and has been in education for 3.5 years.

"I do what I do because I love helping people. I had been in the Medical Administrative field for over 15 years and was ready for a positive change. I never thought I would go into the Education side. I’m so glad I did. Educators are such different people. They have such a different way about them and a positive vibe that makes you enjoy working with them. Having a child with an Intellectual Disability has also helped me work here, and what I have learned from my coworkers and their experience with special education. I’m so glad I made the change!"

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R7 Employee Spotlight Lisa Richardson picture

Lisa is a Specialist II in Head Start and has been in education for 24 years. 

"My love for education began long before I stepped into a classroom. As the oldest of five children, I often played “teacher” with my siblings, unknowingly preparing for the path ahead. Along the way, I was shaped by educators who saw my potential and encouraged me to dream, especially my high school coach, Merl Muse, whose words, “Aim high and stay focused,” still guide me today. With the steady support of my parents and, later, my husband, I became the first in my family to attend college. After spending time at home raising my children, I began my teaching career at 27, working with 3- and 4-year-olds in Head Start. It was there that I witnessed the life-changing power of early childhood education. My classroom became a place where every child felt seen, valued, and safe—a place where learning and belonging were at the heart of everything we did. Over the years, my role evolved from teacher to mentor and advocate, supporting children and families on their learning journeys. In 2013, I joined Region 7 ESC as a Head Start Education Specialist. After one year in that role, I was given the opportunity to launch EcoLand—a hands-on, multisensory learning center where my creativity and passion for innovation came to life. I helped create a space where young children could explore, create, and thrive through rich, meaningful experiences. After nearly 9 years at EcoLand, I returned to Head Start. Programs like Head Start and EcoLand are more than educational services—they are gateways to lifelong learning, opening doors to opportunity and success for every child. I’m proud to be part of Region 7 ESC and look forward to every opportunity to support children, families, and educators. I trust the path ahead will continue to challenge and inspire me as I grow in my service to others and follow the calling that has shaped every step of my journey."

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R7 Employee Spotlight Latisha McLaughlin Picture

Latisha is a Health/Nutrition Support in Head Start and has been in education for 11 years.

"I work in Head Start, supporting Head Start students through the health and nutrition component. My job is all about helping kids and their families build healthy habits early on—whether it's ensuring they get nutritious meals or medical/dental services when needed. I do what I do because every child deserves a strong, healthy start. I was once in the shoes of a Head Start parent 19 years ago, and I never thought I could work for such a fantastic program. Seeing the difference we can make by showing up, caring, and giving our students the tools to thrive (like glasses) is incredible.”