DERICKA J. SIMS
Chesterfield,VA
Summary
A results-driven director with a strong track record of leading and transforming diverse teams to meet and exceed strategic goals. Recognized for driving business growth, optimizing operations, and consistently delivering high-impact outcomes. A dynamic and motivated leader with a passion for designing effective educational strategies and coaching individuals from concept to execution. Skilled in building and leading cross-functional teams, communicating with clarity and purpose, and navigating challenges with sound decision-making.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
University Instructors
09.2025 - Current
- Delivered differentiated instruction to students with disabilities across core subjects.
- Adapted lessons and materials to align with IEP goals and diverse learning needs.
- Developed and implemented IEPs, including FBA/BIP strategies and accommodations.
- Implemented classroom structure and utilized redirection strategies to support positive student behavior.
- Supported behavior management using evidence-based practices to maintain a productive learning environment.
- Provided in-school tutoring to reinforce academic skills and improve student performance.
- Monitored student progress using data-driven assessments and maintained accurate records.
- Collaborated with parents, paraprofessionals, and multidisciplinary teams to support student success.
Overnight Team Lead
Kroger
08.2025 - 03.2026
- Supervised overnight team operations, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Coordinated inventory management, optimizing stock levels for efficient replenishment.
- Trained and mentored 20 team members on operational procedures and customer service excellence.
- Implemented process improvements that increased workflow efficiency during peak hours.
- Enhanced employee retention through supportive leadership and prioritizing open communication channels.
- Provided ongoing training opportunities to develop team members'' skills, empowering them for career advancement within the company.
- Increased overnight productivity by implementing efficient task delegation and team management strategies.
Program Director
Hope, Care and Love Home Health Care Services
10.2023 - 08.2025
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with partners, agencies, and vendors to support marketing initiatives.
- Manage individual and staff documentation, including chart maintenance and compliance tracking.
- Develop, implement, and maintain policies and procedures in accordance with DBHDS regulations.
- Communicate regularly with social workers and case managers to coordinate care and services.
- Track service authorizations, quarterly reviews, and Individual Service Plan (ISP) deadlines.
- Respond to Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) and ensure compliance with licensing requirements.
- Manage operations for three group homes and multiple community programs, ensuring regulatory compliance and high-quality service delivery.
- Collaborate closely with compliance officers, QDDPs, social workers, and staff to support individuals during programming hours.
- Advocate for individuals with disabilities, coordinating care and services with city agencies and community partners.
- Lead program planning, budgeting, and evaluation using data-driven strategies to improve outcomes.
- Work with the city to obtain building licenses and attend DBHDS meetings to maintain program standards.
- Organize and promote community events, develop marketing materials, and manage outreach initiatives across all programs.
Director of Activities
Sage Point
02.2023 - 10.2023
- Led development and implementation of engaging activity programs for diverse resident populations.
- Coordinated staff training sessions to enhance service delivery and program effectiveness.
- Managed budgeting and resource allocation for activity initiatives, ensuring optimal utilization.
- Fostered partnerships with local organizations to expand community engagement opportunities.
- Evaluated program outcomes through resident feedback and participation metrics to drive improvements.
- Mentored team members on best practices in resident engagement and program facilitation.
- Introduced innovative solutions to address challenges faced in program design or implementation phases.
- Implemented a system for tracking attendance records, ensuring accurate reporting of participation rates.
Program Director
La Petite Academy
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Managed school staffing by planning work schedules, evaluating staff performance, and developing performance improvement plans.
- Implemented company-provided curriculum through coaching, clear communication, and interpretation of educational standards with teachers.
- Oversaw daily school operations to ensure smooth, efficient functioning.
- Promoted the company's positive image and played a key role in establishing it as a provider of choice within the community.
- Recruited, selected, and retained high-quality staff to maintain strong instructional and operational teams.
- Managed budgeting, payroll, and marketing activities to support overall school success.
- Held responsibility for the care and education of up to 110 children and the supervision of 20 staff members.
- Oversaw classroom and program management to ensure compliance, quality, and engagement across all educational offerings.
Director of Early Childhood Education
Parks and Recreation Department
02.2019 - 12.2021
- Developed and implemented age-appropriate curriculum aligned with state standards.
- Oversaw daily operations of early childhood education programs to ensure compliance and quality.
- Led staff training sessions to enhance teaching effectiveness and program delivery.
- Collaborated with community partners to expand resources and support for families.
- Streamlined administrative processes, improving efficiency in program management and reporting.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through assessments, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by promoting inclusive practices among educators and students.
- Oversaw day-to-day operations of the center while maintaining compliance with state licensing regulations as well as accreditation standards.
Special Education Teacher
Renaissance Academy
06.2017 - 01.2019
- Managed daily classroom instruction and activities to promote student engagement and learning.
- Performed a variety of instructional and support tasks to facilitate smooth classroom operations.
- Monitored and addressed students' needs, including personal care, safety, physical assistance, behavioral observations, and reporting.
- Developed and implemented Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs.
- Collaborated with parents, teachers, and specialists to support student progress and success.
- Integrated assistive technology and adaptive materials to enhance student access to the curriculum.
Education
Bachelor of Biology - Psychology, Minor
Post University
Waterbury, CT01-2017
Skills
- Program Management
- Time Management
- Leadership
- Conflict Management
- Customer Service
- Data Collection
- Case Management
- Crisis Intervention
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
Certification
- CPR Certified
- TOVA
- Direct Support Professional
- Assurance
- Medication Administration Technician
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
University Instructors
09.2025 - Current
Overnight Team Lead
Kroger
08.2025 - 03.2026
Program Director
Hope, Care and Love Home Health Care Services
10.2023 - 08.2025
Director of Activities
Sage Point
02.2023 - 10.2023
Program Director
La Petite Academy
01.2022 - 01.2023
Director of Early Childhood Education
Parks and Recreation Department
02.2019 - 12.2021
Special Education Teacher
Renaissance Academy
06.2017 - 01.2019
Bachelor of Biology - Psychology, Minor
Post University