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.
"I entered the field of education—specifically special education—because of a formative relationship I had growing up with a girl who had Down syndrome. That experience inspired in me a deep desire to help others and to support students who face unique challenges in learning. I believed that by becoming a special education teacher, I could help bridge learning gaps and provide strategies that minimize the impact of disabilities on students’ opportunities to succeed.
I chose to work at the ESC because I am passionate about serving others. In this role, I have the privilege of supporting 101 LEAs and contributing to improved outcomes for students who receive special education services."
Melanie is an ESSA Specialist in State and Federal Programs and has been in education for 19 years.
"I became an educator because I genuinely love to teach—children, adults, anyone eager to learn. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching learners reach their goals and grow in confidence and understanding.
Transitioning into federal programs gave me the opportunity to support students in a different way: by helping ensure every child has access to a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. I joined Region 7 because I saw the chance to make a broader impact—supporting entire school systems across our region and helping them create the conditions where all students can thrive."
Lauren is a Communications Specialist in DMAC and has been in education for 17 years.
"I started at Region 7 ESC at 19 as an administrative assistant and quickly discovered my passion for growth and learning. After my current coordinator, Carly Barton, joined the team, she mentored me in marketing and helped me transition into a Communications Tech role in 2013. Over the years, I’ve gained experience in graphic design, website development, and event planning for both local and statewide conferences. In 2020, I went back to school and earned my bachelor’s degree in IT in early 2024, followed by my Master’s in Marketing in February 2025. Now, as a Communications Specialist, I have started to dig deeper into more of what DMAC can do for our districts across the state and love being able to help make everyone’s life easier. There is so much more DMAC can do beyond assessment data, and it is my goal to help get the word out about it."