From Passion to Purpose: How One Mom Turned Her Dream into a Career with TEACH UP!
Balancing motherhood, college, and work is no small feat, but for Sharmica Murph, the drive to make a difference in children’s lives pushed her to pursue her dream of becoming an educator. Her story is one of resilience, inspiration, and transformation through the TEACH UP! program, and it’s exactly the kind of journey that shows what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.
Finding the Spark
At 39, this determined mom of four was already wearing many hats — nonprofit founder, caregiver, karaoke lover, and community advocate. But what set Sharmica apart was a deep passion for working with children.
Her journey began when her daughter joined Centers For New Horizons’ home-based program. It was there she met Ms. Frazier, a teacher who saw something special in her. Despite being homebound due to a medical condition, Sharmica found ways to stay engaged with her neighborhood’s children. Inspired by her commitment, Ms. Toni encouraged her to pursue TEACH UP!, the Child Development Associate (CDA) program offered through Centers For New Horizons.
“Because of my enthusiasm and commitment, Ms. Toni believed the program would be beneficial as I followed my dream to become a teacher.”
Learning and Growing through TEACH UP!
Once in the program, everything started to come together.
Through TEACH UP!, Sharmica learned the importance of letting children explore and learn through play, how to build meaningful partnerships with families, and how to create a positive, safe classroom environment that honors each child’s uniqueness.
“The most valuable thing I learned was how to support our babies and their families through intentional planning, observation, and structure — all while respecting that each child learns in their own way.”
Putting Passion into Practice
Today, Sharmica works as an Early Head Start assistant teacher for Centers For New Horizons at Altgeld Gardens, guiding and supporting two-year-olds through their developmental milestones — exactly the kind of impact she dreamed of making.
And it’s just the beginning.
She is also preparing to graduate this June with an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Arizona Global Campus.
Advice for Future Educators
When asked what she would say to someone considering the program, Sharmica’s response is clear:
“Although working with children has its challenges, the reward is greater than anything you’ll face. The CDA program will equip you with the support and experience needed to accomplish your teaching goals.”
And to new participants just starting out?
“Be consistent. Focus and finish. Our babies and families need you to show up and stay committed.
Ready to Follow Your Passion?
If you’ve been thinking about becoming an early childhood educator but aren’t sure where to start, the TEACH UP! program is here to support you — just like it supported Sharmica.