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 started as a substitute teacher in Hallsville, then moved to a teaching assistant position with Pre-K, then Head Start. I loved working with preschool-age children. When a Family Service Worker position opened to work with Region 7 Head Start, my principal at the time, Rusty Clark, encouraged me to apply. I was hired and have been with Head Start for over 26 years now. I worked as a Family Service Worker for 15 years and now as a Health, Nutrition, and Safety Support for 11 years. I love Head Start's mission and working with the Health, Nutrition, and Safety Component. One of the things I love most about my job is that we are able to provide services to families when they can't afford them. We assist children who qualify with dental treatment, glasses, medical follow-up, community resources, and so much more. A child learns so much better when they are healthy and happy!"
Denise is a Strategic Integration Liaison in Special Education Services and has been in education for 39 years.
"Forty-three years ago, I walked into a unique elementary classroom in Arkansas that changed the way I saw education forever. It was a failing neighborhood school piloting a gifted-and-talented program, and I watched students from every background and ability level learn, grow, and succeed together. That experience sparked a passion that has never left me: every child deserves to belong, learn alongside their peers, and receive the support they need to thrive.
That passion has guided every step of my journey—from classroom teacher to educational diagnostician, inspired in part by the adoption of our son, to now watching my daughter discover the same calling as a special education teacher. Today, I have the privilege of serving as a Strategic Integration Liaison at Region 7, partnering with district leaders to rethink systems, build universal classrooms, and create meaningful access to improve outcomes for all students. For me, this isn't just a career—it's been a lifelong mission."
Melinda is a Coordinator in Curriculum Services and has been in education for 22 years.
"With 24 years in education, I have been fortunate to serve in a variety of roles that have shaped my passion for teaching and learning. As a Curriculum Coordinator, I enjoy partnering with educators to support the implementation of high-quality instructional materials, facilitate meaningful professional learning, and help schools create engaging learning experiences that lead to student success.
What I enjoy most about my work is building relationships with educators and watching their confidence grow as they discover new ways to impact students. I believe that every teacher deserves the support, resources, and encouragement to thrive, and I am grateful to be part of that journey.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, traveling, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends. I feel incredibly blessed to spend each day doing work that makes a difference for educators and students across our region."