Mrs. Martey is an original employee of the Texas A&M University Children’s Center (now known as the Becky Gates Children’s Center). For 23 out of the 25 years, she has been a toddler teacher working in the Toddler 2 wing. Martey is our Early Childhood Lead Teacher for the Aggie Ring classroom. What initially brought her to BGCC was the potential to impact children and families in a university childcare environment. Having such a diverse early childhood education environment being built from the ground up was an exciting opportunity for growth to her. She hoped it would connect with the education department at Texas A&M as it now has today.

There have been tremendous amounts of growth and learning during the 25 years. Martey enjoys meeting and connecting with current and potential families, student workers and other visitors at the center. Martey is thankful for the opportunity to watch and participate in the transformation happening in the field of early childhood education. Martey particularly enjoyed the shift at BGCC from brightly colored classrooms to a more natural aesthetic. She described the environment at BGCC as open, kind and welcoming. She admires how accommodating everyone is by going above and beyond on supplying resources for families and getting to know each child and their specific needs.

One of Martey’s favorite parts of her job is that her routine may stay the same, but the experience is always unique and comes with different challenges and rewards each day. One of Martey’s most valuable memories is when Barbara Bush visited and Martey had the opportunity to meet her and watch as she bonded with the children. 

Martey’s advice is to not take it personally when there are challenging behaviors. Kids are kids and it is important to take care of yourself in order to properly take care of others. There is a great amount of knowledge present at BGCC, do not be afraid to ask for help when needed. One of Martey’s biggest challenges starting at BGCC was having to learn to adapt to the changes. Though adapting to change was challenging, she discovered they were positive and grew from them which has helped her become the teacher and person she is today. 

Martey’s hope for the future of BGCC is that it continues to grow and adapt the way it has in the past. As we learn from new research that is discovered, we can use that as an opportunity to grow. The center has played a significant role in many lives including herself, and the students, families, employees, and educators.