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.
Karen is an EHS Education Specialist in the Head Start Department and has been in education for 33 years, 18 of those with Region 7 ESC.
"I wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I used to play "school" as a little girl and always knew that would be the path I would take as an adult. I was offered the opportunity to work for Region 7 as an Education Specialist while teaching Head Start at the Kilgore College Lab School, and jumped at the chance to make an even greater impact on the Head Start/Early Head Start teachers in our region."
Sonya is the Deputy Director of the Head Start Department and has been in education for 32 years.
"From early in life, I loved to play school with my cousins/classmates, and I was always volunteering to be the teacher. As I entered college, I knew I wanted to work in education, but was drawn toward Special Education and the desire to make an impact and help children with disabilities. That decision later grew into helping parents navigate the ARD/IEP process and advocate for their children. In administration, my desire was to continue to educate parents and work alongside them to design plans for their children and help them develop skills to support their children. We celebrated successes and together worked through challenges. After 24 years, I made the decision to leave the district and come to Region 7. I knew without a doubt that I could make an impact with numerous children and families in Head Start. Not only the families but building relationships with administrators and staff all over East Texas, hopefully leaving a legacy of continued love for children and purpose for their future."
Barbara is the Deputy Director of the Technology Services Department and has been in education for 19 years.
"I worked in the private sector for many years and wanted to work for an organization whose mission aligned with my personal values instead of the bottom line. Working at Region 7 combines my business experience creating services that assist districts in the IT, PEIMS, and Financial Services areas. Our staff is highly trained, and when they partner with the LEA staff, they can achieve great results!"