Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

David Thomas

Caledonia,MI

Summary

Dynamic professional with extensive experience in leadership development and youth mentoring at Kentwood Public Schools. Proven track record in enhancing safety culture and implementing effective programs. Expertise in crisis intervention and problem-solving, fostering trust and communication among diverse groups. Committed to achieving positive outcomes through collaboration and strategic planning.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Safety Officer/Youth Advocate/

Kentwood Public Schools
Kentwood, MI
05.2020 - Current
  • Maintained records of all incidents, including accident reports, near misses, and unsafe conditions or acts.
  • Developed safety programs in accordance with OSHA standards and company policies.
  • Coordinated emergency response teams during drills or actual events such as fires, chemical spills.
  • Collaborated with various departments to develop strategies for improving workplace safety culture.
  • Produced reports outlining assessments completed and follow-up recommendations.
  • Encouraged open dialogue between mentor and mentee pairs to promote trust, respect and understanding of different perspectives.
  • Mentored individuals on professional development topics such as communication skills, problem-solving and goal setting.

Paraprofessional

Kentwood Public Schools
Kentwood, MI
02.2014 - 05.2020
  • Attended professional development workshops related to job responsibilities.
  • Ensured that all safety regulations were followed in the classroom environment.
  • Monitored student attendance records and reported any discrepancies to appropriate personnel.
  • Facilitated communication between educators, administrators, and parents regarding student progress.
  • Supervised small groups of students during instruction time.
  • Maintained accurate records of student attendance, grades, and progress reports.

Program Coordinator / Youth Advocate

Kentwood Public Schools
Kentwood, MI
02.2004 - 05.2010
  • Provided guidance and support to youth regarding educational, behavioral, social, and emotional issues.
  • Addressed any concerns or complaints from parents or guardians promptly.
  • Collaborated with parents, teachers, and other professionals to ensure positive outcomes for youth.
  • Implemented behavior management techniques to encourage appropriate behavior from participants.
  • Facilitated group sessions focusing on topics such as conflict resolution, self-esteem building.
  • Developed relationships with families through home visits and outreach efforts.
  • Established trusting relationships with youths by providing consistent support.

Youth Specialist II

Wedgewood
Kentwood, MI
01.2001 - 10.2004
  • Provided crisis intervention services during times of distress or emergency situations.
  • Established trusting relationships with youths by providing consistent support.
  • Assisted in developing and implementing individualized service plans for youth.
  • Facilitated group sessions focusing on topics such as conflict resolution, self-esteem building.
  • Ensured compliance with policies, procedures, laws and regulations pertaining to youth services.
  • Monitored daily activities of youth participants in order to ensure safety at all times.

Surveillance Officer

Kent County Juvenile Court
Grand Rapids
06.1997 - 12.2000
  • Created detailed reports on all incidents that occurred during shift including descriptions of individuals involved and action taken.
  • Adhered strictly to all policies related to confidential information and restricted areas within the facility while on duty.
  • Provided access control services at designated entry points including verifying identification documents and conducting searches as necessary.
  • Monitored security cameras, alarms, and other equipment to ensure proper functioning and alert management to any discrepancies or malfunctions.
  • Collaborated with other departments to coordinate efforts towards achieving common goals.
  • Assessed risk factors associated with certain behaviors or conditions and created strategies for mitigating those risks.
  • Monitored progress of clients through regular reviews of treatment plans and goals.
  • Encouraged participation in therapeutic activities such as art therapy or music therapy which allowed for further exploration into personal issues.

Education

Some College (No Degree) -

Grand Rapids Community College 01/2014 - 12/2015
Grand Rapids, MI

Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration

Jordan College 01/1993 - 12/1994
Grand Rapids MI

Skills

  • Leadership Development
  • Monitor Security Camera's
  • Mentoring
  • Leadership
  • Communicating w/ Youth
  • Problem Solving

Accomplishments

  • Coached Football 27 years - 13yrs at East Kentwood High School - Kids& Cops Program
  • United States Marine Corps E-4 "Corporal" 03/1988 - 02/1992

Timeline

Lead Safety Officer/Youth Advocate/

Kentwood Public Schools
05.2020 - Current

Paraprofessional

Kentwood Public Schools
02.2014 - 05.2020

Program Coordinator / Youth Advocate

Kentwood Public Schools
02.2004 - 05.2010

Youth Specialist II

Wedgewood
01.2001 - 10.2004

Surveillance Officer

Kent County Juvenile Court
06.1997 - 12.2000

Some College (No Degree) -

Grand Rapids Community College 01/2014 - 12/2015

Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration

Jordan College 01/1993 - 12/1994