Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
background-images

Debra Smeilus

Butler,NJ

Summary

Dynamic educator with a positive attitude and effective communication skills, experienced in supporting curriculum development at Noah's Ark Christian Daycare. Proven ability to engage students individually and in groups, fostering a nurturing environment. Skilled in assisting students with special needs, enhancing their learning experiences and promoting academic success.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience

Work History

Teacher's Assistant

Noah's Ark Christian Daycare and Preschool
11.2019 - 06.2025
  • Supported the lead teacher in developing curriculum materials, ensuring alignment with state standards and educational objectives.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on the latest teaching trends and methodologies, enhancing overall effectiveness as an educator.
  • Ensured the safety of all students by adhering strictly to school policies regarding proper supervision during class times as well as extracurricular activities.
  • Worked with students individually and in small groups to reinforce learning concepts.

Kinnelon After School Program

Kinnelon Public School District
04.2017 - 11.2019
  • Assisted lead teacher in a afterschool enrichment program for Kindergarten students.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication with students, parents, and staff.
  • Assisted in caring for children in the morning and afterschool ensuring the well being of the children, assisting with homework, promoting positive social interactions with the children and correcting behavioral issues.

Assistant Editor of Books in Print

Reed Reference Publishing
06.2000 - 05.2002
  • Books in Print is one of the most trusted and authorative sources of biblographic information. As an editor I reviewed content for grammar, spelling and punctuation.
  • Arragned titles by subject to make sure they are easily found and accessible to those using for research purposes.

Assistant Manager, Customer Service

Reed Reference Publishing
04.1997 - 06.2000
  • Provided exceptional support to management, assisting in daily operations and decision-making processes.
  • Fostered strong relationships between team members by facilitating open dialogue sessions where ideas could be freely exchanged without fear of judgment or criticism.
  • Conducted regular evaluations of team performance to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
  • Created a positive work environment for staff members, promoting teamwork and employee morale.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving customer complaints in a timely manner.

Credit Specialist, Customer Service

Reed Reference Publishing
05.1995 - 04.1997
  • Maintained accurate documentation of all credit-related activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
  • Contacted clients about verifying account information and updated services, answered questions and resolved concerns to uphold exceptional customer service standards and promote brand loyalty.
  • Worked hand in hand with our warehouse to ensure returns were properly processed and promptly credited to customer accounts.

Customer Service Representative

Reed Reference Publishing
01.1993 - 04.1997
  • Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
  • Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
  • Handled escalated calls efficiently, finding satisfactory resolutions for both customers and the company alike.
  • Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.
  • Developed strong product knowledge to provide informed recommendations based on individual customer needs.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - History

William Paterson University of New Jersey
Wayne, NJ
12-1992

Skills

  • Positive attitude
  • Effective communication
  • Calm and patient demeanor
  • Student tutoring
  • Student engagement
  • Helping students with special needs
  • Teacher support and collaboration
  • Small group and individual assistance

Timeline

Teacher's Assistant

Noah's Ark Christian Daycare and Preschool
11.2019 - 06.2025

Kinnelon After School Program

Kinnelon Public School District
04.2017 - 11.2019

Assistant Editor of Books in Print

Reed Reference Publishing
06.2000 - 05.2002

Assistant Manager, Customer Service

Reed Reference Publishing
04.1997 - 06.2000

Credit Specialist, Customer Service

Reed Reference Publishing
05.1995 - 04.1997

Customer Service Representative

Reed Reference Publishing
01.1993 - 04.1997

Bachelor of Arts - History

William Paterson University of New Jersey
Debra Smeilus