Gracee Koester-Schmidt
Fayetteville,AR
Summary
Senior at the University of Arkansas majoring in Human Development and Family Sciences, focusing on Lifespan Development in Diverse Contexts. Currently a Child Development Technician at UAMS Kids First and a former caregiver in Northwest Arkansas. Skilled developmental technician trained in child development, special education, and behavioral guidance. Ability to document, translate, and implement evidence-based practices, foster inclusive environments, and collaborate effectively with a child's care team to aid in developmental milestones and enhance parental understanding.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Child Development Technician
UAMS Schmieding Kids First
Springdale, Arkansas
06.2024 - Current
- Facilitate daily activities to promote social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development.
- Assist in activities of daily living, including dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, to promote independence and ensure well-being.
- Implement individualized treatment plans for children with autism spectrum disorder.
- Establish positive relationships with families by communicating regularly regarding concerns or questions about their child's progress.
- Collaborate with occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, teachers, early childhood development specialists, and nurses.
- Implement evidence-based interventions within an individualized care plan.
- Maintain records regarding each child's progress.
- Monitor classroom activities to ensure compliance with state regulations for health and safety standards.
- Actively participate in professional development workshops related to early childhood education topics.
Childcare
Self-Employed
Bentonville, AR
01.2020 - 07.2024
- Full-time and part-time childcare provider for multiple families.
- Provided a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for infants, toddlers, preschool, and adolescent-aged children.
- Adapted care strategies to meet the unique needs and resources of diverse families.
- Facilitated independence during mealtimes, personal hygiene, homework, and household chores, providing support as needed.
- Assisted with the development of motor skills by playing outdoor sports and physical activities.
- Balanced schedules to promote optimal rest, play and educational periods.
- Established positive, long-lasting relationships with parents to foster open communication and collaboration.
Lead Activity Staff
Camp Acacia
Gentry, AR
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Oversaw all water-based activities, including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and the waterslide, ensuring camper safety and enjoyment.
- Adapted activities to suit campers' individual physical, cognitive, and sensory needs.
- Acted as the primary lifeguard during any water activities.
Monitored the waterfront to enforce safety protocols and prevent accidents. - Trained and prepared to respond quickly to water-related emergencies, administering first aid or CPR if necessary.
- Assisted counselors to include physical transfers, helping with adaptive equipment, and offering camper encouragement and guidance.
- Created an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where all campers, regardless of ability, can confidently engage in water activities.
- Worked with other camp staff, including recreational therapists, counselors, and medical staff, to coordinate safe and accessible camper participation.
- Communicated any concerns or observations about campers' safety or progress to the team.
- Assisted counselors during downtime by engaging campers in activities, providing support, and helping with transitions between scheduled events.
SummerKids Camp Counselor
Camp Fire of Central Oregon
Bend, OR
06.2019 - 08.2019
- Collaborated with other counselors to develop creative ideas for afternoon programs and activities for campers.
- Supported learners in identifying individual strengths and weaknesses to set achievable goals for personal growth.
- Helped campers build confidence and self-esteem through consistent guidance and mentoring.
- Cultivated effective relationships with campers, parents, and other camp counselors by utilizing active listening and dynamic interpersonal skills.
- Participated in ongoing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to youth development and outdoor education.
- Implemented behavior management techniques, fostering a respectful and positive environment.
- Developed and implemented a weekly schedule of events for campers.
Student Employee
OSU Cascades Dining Hall
Bend, OR
09.2018 - 04.2019
Childcare Center & Event Host
SouthWest Community Center
Portland, Oregon
05.2016 - 06.2018
Education
Human Development and Family Sciences, Lifespan Development in Diverse Contexts
University of Arkansas
12.2025
AS - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Northwest Arkansas Community College
05-2023
Oregon State University Cascades
Bend, OR06.2019
Riverdale High School
Portland, Oregon06-2018
Skills
- Cognitive and behavioral development
- Documentation management
- Developmental assessments
- Physical and social development
- Parent communications
- Early intervention services
- Behavioral guidance
- Evidence-based practices
References
- Ginger Grimsley, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, 479-721-2449
- Nicole Helms, Director at UAMS Kids First, 479-530-5251
- Sophie Lowe, Director of Therapeutic Programming at Camp Acacia, 423-508-5845
- Alicia Fultz, Former Supervisor for Childcare, 479-530-2900
- Natalie & Jon Schubbe, Former Supervisors for Childcare, 920-915-7154
Volunteer Experience
- EMPOWER Program, Peer Mentor, 01/24 - Present
- LifeStyles, Community Engagement Volunteer, 02/24 - Present
- Centerton Animal Services, Dog Walker, 06/24 - Present
Timeline
Child Development Technician
UAMS Schmieding Kids First
06.2024 - Current
Lead Activity Staff
Camp Acacia
05.2023 - 08.2023
Childcare
Self-Employed
01.2020 - 07.2024
SummerKids Camp Counselor
Camp Fire of Central Oregon
06.2019 - 08.2019
Student Employee
OSU Cascades Dining Hall
09.2018 - 04.2019
Childcare Center & Event Host
SouthWest Community Center
05.2016 - 06.2018
Human Development and Family Sciences, Lifespan Development in Diverse Contexts
University of Arkansas
AS - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Northwest Arkansas Community College
Oregon State University Cascades
Riverdale High School
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