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.

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R7 Employee Spotlight Alan Henson picture

Alan is an Environmental Safety Specialist in Head Start and has been in education for 7 years.

"I work for the HeadStart program and some of my primary duties are inspecting our classrooms, facilities, and playgrounds to be sure that they meet HS standards and requirements for our students and staff. My life revolves around spending time with my family; I have a passion for all sports and the outdoors, having played coached and enjoyed so many activities over the years, mainly Volleyball, Baseball, Basketball, fishing, and hunting. After over 20 years in the service industry, I believe that the Lord led me to Region VII and a job that is perfectly tailored for my skills and experiences. Working at Region VII is a blessing that has been bestowed on me, and I am thankful for the opportunity to work with a such a great group of people with a passion to teach and lead the children of East Texas."

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R7 Employee Spotlight Carmen Dowdy picture

Carmen is a Director in Curriculum Services and has been in education for 20 years. 

"Every step of my journey in education has been a natural and purposeful progression. I give full glory to God for guiding each opportunity and opening every door over the past 20 years of learning, teaching, and leading. Joining Region 7 allows me to continue growing while contributing to a broader mission that impacts students, educators, and communities across our region. I’m deeply grateful each day for the people I work alongside and the opportunity to serve and make a difference through this work."

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R7 Employee Spotlight Ginger Canaan

Ginger is a GT Specialist in Curriculum Services and has been in education for 25 years.

"I’m driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact; in this profession, I see the ripple effect of that impact every day. Coming to Region 7 has allowed me to expand that reach across East Texas and throughout the state through my work on the Commissioner’s Advisory Council on the Education of Gifted/Talented Students. I’m deeply grateful to Region 7 for the opportunities, support, and collaboration that have made this work possible.

There’s no greater honor than walking alongside educators who make extraordinary things happen in ordinary classrooms every day.”