Amy Musick

My Story

In the 6th grade, growing up in Southern Maine, I made a decision that would shape the rest of my life: I would attend Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) to study Marine Biology and one day become a high school science teacher—just like my academic hero and uncle, Dr. Joseph E. "Doc" McCarthy. While many questioned a plan made so early, I was as determined and tenacious as Doc himself. Refusing to be deterred, I graduated from high school, packed my tiny hatchback, and drove across the country to begin an adventure I never could have imagined.

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After earning my B.S. in Marine Biology from TAMUG, I was hired to teach high school Biology and Aquatic Science. During this time, I gained valuable experience working with at-risk students, special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and gifted and talented instruction. I also explored various instructional strategies and curriculum designs, eventually serving as the Science Department Head. But I was never content with “just teaching.” I sought opportunities beyond the classroom—training with external organizations and contributing to committees focused on instructional design, technology integration, and assessment. Fueled by a passion for lifelong learning, I earned my first master’s degree in School Administration from Lamar University.

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Five years into my high school teaching career, I stepped far outside my comfort zone to teach middle school. The experience was intense—full of challenges, growth, and reflection. After seven years in the classroom, I came to a life-changing realization: my passion for education was bigger than any single classroom. I took a leap of faith and stepped away, unsure of what would come next.

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Everything changed just after Hurricane Harvey. Elizabeth Turner, founder of SMART Family Literacy, invited me to help distribute books to children affected by the storm. I assumed I was volunteering. Instead, I was being offered a role that would transform my career. With SMART, I discovered my true calling—advocating for young children during the most critical brain-building years of their lives. As a trainer, mentor, and consultant, I support early childhood educators, directors, and families in creating strong foundations for lifelong learning.

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While working at SMART, I completed my second master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Houston–Clear Lake. I now also serve as an adjunct professor at the same university—closing the loop on a journey dedicated to education at every level. Today, I live a life committed to learning, teaching, and empowering educators and families alike.