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.
Kimberly is the Health, Nutrition, and Safety Coordinator in the Head Start Department and has been in education for 22 years.
"I initially got into education, and then nursing because I have a passion for both children and helping others. I honestly was not looking to change jobs, but through a conversation, I was asked if I would be interested in a nursing grant position at the ESC. Out of curiosity I looked at the ESC's job opportunities, and while that particular position was no longer available, I saw a different position that would allow change and growth for my nursing career. The rest of the story is "just God". It has been a blessing to work with Head Start children and families."
Carrie is a CTE Specialist in the State & Federal Programs Department and has been in education for 20 years.
"My path to education was unconventional. I had no interest in teaching and initially dreamed of becoming an FBI agent after high school. However, everything changed when I met my husband. Together, we shifted our focus to education and coaching. Inspired by my high school drill team director, who profoundly influenced my life, I pursued a degree in Social Studies with secondary certification from the University of Texas at Tyler, combining my love for history and law. Over the next 9 years, I taught history and dance while coaching high school drill teams. As a director, I mentored students through difficult times, offering them hope and showing them, they could shape their own futures. Transitioning to administration as a high school assistant principal, I had the opportunity to guide students facing discipline challenges. This experience sparked my passion for breaking the cycle of generational poverty. I believe every child has the potential to succeed with the support of a caring adult. Now in my fourth year as a CTE specialist at the ESC, I help districts access the resources and support they need to prepare students for a successful future. What a student is born into doesn’t define where they can go."
Cathy is the Education Coordinator in the Head Start Department and has been in education for 26 years.
"I support the Head Start education staff by providing training and guidance to enhance teaching practices. My journey into education began when our minister’s wife noticed my passion while I was teaching Sunday School. She asked me to help establish a preschool program at our church. Realizing the importance of understanding how to teach young children effectively, I decided to return to college to further my education. I quickly fell in love with Early Childhood Education; the rest is history.
I joined Region 7 at the encouragement of Jackie Jones, who asked me to apply for the Education Coordinator position for Head Start, asking for a commitment of at least three years. Fourteen years later, I’m still here, dedicated to supporting and growing the program."