DENISHA LEONARD
Washington,DC
Summary
Experienced Early Childhood Educator and Teacher Assistant with 14 years supporting children from infancy to elementary levels. Expertise in traditional education, Montessori methods, and special education, with strong skills in classroom management, individualized learning, IEP support, and fostering positive behavior. Focused on cultivating nurturing environments that enhance academic, social, and emotional development.
Overview
1
1
Certification
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Teacher — Temporary-to-Permanent Assignments
Align Staffing
Washington, DC
01.2020 - Current
- Supported classroom instruction and daily routines, facilitating developmentally appropriate learning for assigned age groups.
- Provide one-on-one and small-group support and reinforce teacher-led lessons.
- Assisted students with various learning and behavioral needs, following classroom strategies and IEP-related guidance.
- Promoted positive behavior and ensured safe transitions, encouraging participation during classroom activities, lunch, and recess.
Assistant Facilitator — Traditional Camps
Department of Parks and Recreation / BOOST
Washington, DC
07.2022 - 07.2023
- Facilitated group activities and enrichment experiences to foster age-appropriate learning and engagement.
- Managed children's interactions to ensure safety., reinforced safety expectations, and encouraged positive peer interactions.
- Supported BOOST facilitators with daily youth activities and program routines.
- Supervised children during recreation, meals, and transition periods.
- Led group games, crafts, and learning activities for participants.
Dedicated Aide
Creative Minds Public Charter School
Washington, DC
02.2022 - 09.2022
- Delivered individualized academic and behavioral support, enhancing student participation in classroom instruction.
- Reinforced student goals and classroom expectations, facilitating smooth small-group activities and transitions.
- Maintained safe, structured learning environment, sharing critical observations with classroom staff to support student needs.
Teacher Assistant
The Harbor at Station Place
Washington, DC
08.2018 - 09.2020
- Facilitated nurturing care for infants and toddlers during daily activities, including feeding, diapering, hygiene, and rest periods.
- Utilized books, music, sensory exploration, and infant sign language to promote early communication and developmental milestones.
- Engaged with families and maintained a nurturing, organized classroom to support child growth and family involvement.
Lead Toddler Teacher
Little Jewels Child Development Center
Washington, DC
01.2013 - 08.2016
- Directed toddler activities to enhance learning through play and creative expression. using early literacy, art, music, play, and multicultural learning experiences.
- Supported language development and social skills through age-appropriate routines, promoting independence and positive interactions.
- Communicated daily with families about children's experiences and progress, strengthening home-school connections.
Education
Bachelor's degree - Education / Early Childhood Education
University of Phoenix — Online
Skills
- Traditional early childhood education
- Early childhood experience
- Montessori-informed learning
- Individualized instruction
- IEP support
- Special education support
- Positive behavior guidance
- Classroom management
- Early literacy and language development
- Sensory learning activities
- Social-emotional development
- Family communication and student progress
Personal Information
Title: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR
Certification
- Child Development Associate (CDA)
- Infant and Toddler Credential
- OSSE Suitability Letter
- Valid through June 4, 2027
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
DC Scholars Public Charter School, Volunteer — Student Learning Support, Washington, DC, 2016-10, 2019-01, Helped students with assignments, tutoring, and hands-on learning activities., Reinforced classroom lessons and encouraged participation and confidence.
Timeline
Assistant Facilitator — Traditional Camps
Department of Parks and Recreation / BOOST
07.2022 - 07.2023
Dedicated Aide
Creative Minds Public Charter School
02.2022 - 09.2022
Assistant Teacher — Temporary-to-Permanent Assignments
Align Staffing
01.2020 - Current
Teacher Assistant
The Harbor at Station Place
08.2018 - 09.2020
Lead Toddler Teacher
Little Jewels Child Development Center
01.2013 - 08.2016
Bachelor's degree - Education / Early Childhood Education
University of Phoenix — Online