Frances Garcia
Knoxville,TN
Summary
Bilingual (English-Spanish) early childhood education professional with experience supporting children ages 3-5 through trauma-informed care, individualized learning, and family partnership. Background includes leadership in afterschool programming, parent coaching, staff training, and freelance interpreting across medical and financial settings. Committed to building trust with at-risk families and empowering them through culturally responsive education and support.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Director
SHADES of Development
08.2020 - Current
- Lead afterschool programming for children ages 3-5, supporting social-emotional and academic development
- Collaborate with parents to create individualized behavior and learning plans
- Train and supervise staff on child safety, engagement strategies, and effective parent communication
- Maintain detailed records, attendance, and progress notes in accordance with licensing standards
- Apply trauma-informed care practices, especially for children in foster care or with behavioral needs
- Foster inclusive environments for culturally and linguistically diverse families
Spanish Interpreter
Freelance
09.2023 - Current
- Provide Spanish-English interpretation for medical, financial, and community-based appointments
- Assist clients in understanding diagnoses, documentation, insurance, and business processes
- Ensure confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and clarity in emotionally sensitive conversations
- Support immigrant families navigating healthcare and education systems
Lead Teacher
SHADES of Development
08.2019 - 08.2020
- Planned and implemented developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschool-aged children
- Conducted developmental screenings and assessments; partnered with families to support growth areas
- Supported children with special needs, coordinating with specialists and service providers
- Established trusting relationships with children and families through consistent communication and empathy
Education
Psychology
University of Florida
Skills
- Child Development (3-5)
- Family Engagement & Coaching
- Bilingual Communication (Spanish-English)
- Foster & Trauma Exposed Youth Support
- Special Needs & Behavioral Strategies
- Staff Training & Team Supervision
- Documentation & Recordkeeping
- Cultural Competency
- Medical & Financial Interpreting
Certification
CPR and First Aid
Timeline
Spanish Interpreter
Freelance
09.2023 - Current
Assistant Director
SHADES of Development
08.2020 - Current
Lead Teacher
SHADES of Development
08.2019 - 08.2020
Psychology
University of Florida
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