Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Erika Arellano

Suffern

Summary

Experienced operations professional skilled in optimizing processes and driving efficiency. Strong focus on team collaboration, strategic planning, and achieving measurable results. Adept at adapting to changing needs, leading cross-functional teams, and skilled in project management, process improvement, and resource allocation. Dependable and results-driven individual known for enhancing operational performance.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Operations Manager/ SBA

Paterson Prep
02.2023 - Current
  • Lead day-to-day operations across departments including front office, enrollment, food services, and facilities.
  • Coordinate team schedules, assign responsibilities, and oversee operational workflows to ensure consistent service delivery.
  • Develop, monitor, and reconcile operational budgets; collaborate on audits and financial planning.
  • Submit all state compliance reports including NJSMART, NJ Homeroom, SNEARS, and other mandated DOE filings with accuracy and timeliness.
  • Maintain inventory systems, oversee procurement, and ensure cost-effective purchasing aligned with budget goals.
  • Work closely with school leadership, external vendors, and district officials to ensure operational alignment with school priorities.
  • Support student attendance tracking, enrollment reporting, and onboarding of new families.
  • Uphold safety and emergency procedures through scheduled drills and ongoing facilities assessments.

Interim Director of Operations

Paterson Prep
12.2024 - 05.2025
  • Oversaw all non-instructional operations for the school including facilities management, food service, transportation logistics, and vendor contracts.
  • Supervised and supported operational staff including front office, custodial, and food service teams.
  • Managed procurement processes, vendor negotiations, and budget allocations for school-wide services.
  • Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations including fire safety, health inspections, and DOE reporting.
  • Led implementation of emergency systems, safety protocols, and school drills in coordination with security staff.
  • Partnered with leadership on strategic operational initiatives to support school expansion and student success.

Director of Operations

Philip’s Academy Charter School
11.2021 - 02.2023
  • Directed all non-academic operations for a K–8 charter school, ensuring efficient service delivery and regulatory compliance.
  • Supervised multiple staff teams including front office personnel, school nurse, security, and facilities crew.
  • Managed school calendars, family communications, and student data systems in partnership with instructional leaders.
  • Led enrollment, student orientation, and lottery coordination, helping the school meet strategic growth goals.
  • Oversaw school meal program operations and technology services to minimize service interruptions.
  • Coordinated transportation logistics, field trips, and school-wide events, acting as liaison to Paterson Public Schools.
  • Managed all maintenance, repairs, and capital improvement projects, ensuring safe and functional school environments.
  • Directed emergency preparedness, safety plans, and drills; updated emergency protocols in line with district guidance.
  • Supported DOE reporting, grant submissions, and procurement with fiscal accountability.
  • Served as key liaison to the school’s Parent Organization and external community partners.

Assistant Director

Apple Montessori
08.2019 - 04.2020
  • Oversaw building operations, regulatory compliance, and team supervision in a high-enrollment early childhood center.
  • Maintained licensing, health, and safety standards, conducting daily inspections and coordinating building repairs.
  • Supported Director with curriculum compliance and operational decision-making.
  • Managed hiring, onboarding, and 30/60/90-day performance reviews for new staff.
  • Handled enrollment management, parent communications, and student file compliance.
  • Conducted center tours, scheduled programs, and organized seasonal activities and field trips.
  • Delivered staff training on proprietary software and ensured readiness for state inspections.

Education

Doctor of Business Administration - Organizational Leadership and Development

Capella University
06-2027

MBA -

Capella University
02-2022

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice

Berkeley College
04.2013

Associate of Science - Business Administration

Berkeley College
03.2010

Skills

  • School Operations Leadership (K–8)
  • Budget Development & Fiscal Management
  • NJDOE Compliance Reporting (NJSMART, Homeroom, SNEARS)
  • Cross-Functional Team Management
  • Facilities & Vendor Oversight
  • Enrollment & Attendance Systems
  • Procurement & Contract Negotiation
  • Emergency Preparedness & Safety Protocols
  • Process Improvement & Policy Implementation
  • Stakeholder Communication & Engagement

Timeline

Interim Director of Operations

Paterson Prep
12.2024 - 05.2025

Operations Manager/ SBA

Paterson Prep
02.2023 - Current

Director of Operations

Philip’s Academy Charter School
11.2021 - 02.2023

Assistant Director

Apple Montessori
08.2019 - 04.2020

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice

Berkeley College

Associate of Science - Business Administration

Berkeley College

Doctor of Business Administration - Organizational Leadership and Development

Capella University

MBA -

Capella University

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