Lakenda Ruffin
Birmingham,AL
Summary
Accomplished Director at Everyday Sunshine Academy, adept in Program Development & Implementation and Team Leadership. Spearheaded innovative initiatives, significantly enhancing learning outcomes and staff retention. Excelled in Parent Engagement, Community Outreach, and Crisis Management, fostering a nurturing environment for diverse families at Latch and Live Foundation.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Mentor
Latch and Live Foundation
Bessemer, AL
08.2019 - Current
- Mentor and support families of homeless women and children, providing guidance and resources for overcoming challenges related to housing, financial stability, and parenting.
- Deliver personalized childcare services and learning programs for children in transitional housing, ensuring their educational needs were met despite challenging circumstances.
Director
Everyday Sunshine Academy
Bessemer, AL
05.2017 - Current
- Lead and mentor a team of staff members, providing ongoing professional development, training, and support to enhance staff performance and retention.
- Tailored and executed curricula to enhance cognitive, social, and emotional development in children.
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the childcare learning center, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children ranging in age from infants to school-age children.
- Applied effective behavior management methods leading to superior academic achievement.
- Develop and maintain strong partnerships with parents, conducting regular meetings to discuss children’s progress, provide guidance, and address concerns.
- Create and implement innovative initiatives to enhance the overall learning experience, including seasonal programs, field trips, and enrichment activities.
- Facilitate a safe and positive environment for children to engage in hands-on learning, promoting independence, problem-solving, and creativity.
- Manage all aspects of the center’s administration, including budgeting, scheduling, compliance with state regulations, and reporting.
- Host an annual free community event, providing an opportunity for local families to connect with the center, enjoy interactive activities, and access resources that support child development.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL05-2017
Skills
- Program Development & Implementation
- Team Leadership & Staff Training
- Behavioral Management
- Parent Engagement & Communication
- Community Outreach & Event Planning
- Operational Management
- Crisis Management
- Cultural Competency
Community Involvement
- Volunteer Mentor, Latch and Live Foundation (2019-Present)
- Organizer, Annual Community Fall Festival (2022-Present)
Timeline
Mentor
Latch and Live Foundation
08.2019 - Current
Director
Everyday Sunshine Academy
05.2017 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
University of North Alabama
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