This month we are highlighting Krista Van De Flier. Krista originally had a nursing background. However, she changed career paths in 2001 when she volunteered at her daughter’s Child Development Center and realized her passion for early childhood education. She moved to Texas in 2012 when her husband retired from the Air Force and began her BGCC career as a lead pre-K teacher. Three years later she was promoted to administrative coordinator and in January 2022, she moved into her current role as instructional coach.

As instructional coach, Krista serves as a resource for full-time teachers and teaching assistants. She assists classrooms in areas where support may be needed, offering ideas and suggestions for activities that align with HighScope curriculum, providing information about helpful training, or simply being a listening ear for teachers.

Krista enjoys being an instructional coach. Having been a teacher herself she knows the stress and pressures of being an early childhood educator.

“I love being able to advocate for young children and early childhood teachers every day. I am very much a people person and enjoy building relationships with the staff, children, and families. I want teachers to feel supported and seen”, said Krista. “Best practices in early childhood education are always changing and evolving, so teachers must stay updated on the latest research. I love coaching the teachers and helping them become lifelong learners.”

Krista feels the most fulfilling part of being an instructional coach is seeing the impact teachers have on the children at BGCC .

“When I see a child flourish and grow in their development because of the teachers’ commitment and care, it warms my heart. The teachers are the real rockstars; I am just here to support them!”

In the future, Krista says she would like to work with educators and children in need of early intervention education because it is an area that needs more support.