Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

Heather Nichols

Canton

Summary

Dynamic professional with extensive experience in administrative support and office management. Known for exceptional organizational and communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering positive environments. Eager to leverage leadership abilities to enhance operational efficiency and team collaboration.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience

Work History

Front Desk Lead Receptionist

The Homestead at Gentlebrook
Harville
04.2024 - Current
  • Greet visitors at front reception desk in a professional and pleasant manner
  • Receive incoming calls and ensures questions and needs are directed to appropriate person
  • Serve as community ambassador to visitors: answer general questions from potential residents and families
  • Perform administrative and clerical support tasks for community, including update resident rosters and distributing mail
  • Collect resident and guest meal purchases and maintain petty cash
  • Ability to use Microsoft and Excel Computer Programs
  • Order and maintain all office supply materials
  • Attend in-services monthly as directed
  • Create and maintain an atmosphere of warmth, personal interest, and positive emphasis, as well as a calm environment throughout the facility
  • Type correspondences, forms and memos for all supervisory personnel
  • Familiar with medical program (EMR) PCC
  • Update and maintain weekly calendar of resident appointments
  • Works with the Limble System to enter and distribute work orders to maintenance department

Substitute Teacher for Stark County K-12

Stark County Public Schools
Canton
01.2019 - 03.2024
  • Substitute teacher for all schools in Stark County K-12
  • Implemented classroom management techniques to maintain order and facilitate a productive learning atmosphere.
  • Developed positive relationships with students, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment.
  • Maintained a tidy and organized classroom, including updating displays to reflect student work and learning.
  • Delivered engaging and effective lessons across various grade levels and subjects, adapting to different learning styles.
  • Implemented lesson plans, both those provided and those created independently, ensuring continuity of learning.
  • Utilized educational technology tools to enhance learning experiences and engage students.
  • Assessed student work and provided constructive feedback to support their learning progress.
  • Adapted to different classroom settings and student needs, demonstrating flexibility and resourcefulness.
  • Managed classroom transitions and unexpected situations effectively, maintaining a calm and organized approach.
  • Collaborated with regular teachers to ensure a smooth transition and maintain curriculum consistency.
  • Quickly adapted to new school procedures and policies, contributing to a positive and efficient learning environment.
  • Communicated effectively with students, parents, and school staff to ensure clear expectations and support student success.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices and resources, contributing to a positive and supportive learning community.
  • Facilitated communication between students, promoting teamwork and peer-to-peer learning.

Office Administrator

MB Nichols Contracting
Crofton
06.2006 - 12.2018
  • Managed daily office operations, ensuring a smooth and efficient work environment.
  • Implemented and maintained office procedures, policies, and systems.
  • Supervised and mentored administrative staff, providing guidance and support.
  • Coordinated meetings, travel arrangements, and event planning.
  • Managed office supplies, equipment, and inventory.
  • Maintained accurate records and files, both electronic and physical.
  • Processed invoices, expense reports, and other financial documents.
  • Utilized various office equipment, including printers, scanners, and copiers.
  • Developed and maintained strong working relationships with staff, vendors, and clients.
  • Effectively communicated with all levels of staff, both verbally and in writing.
  • Resolved conflicts and addressed employee concerns professionally.
  • Provided excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Acted as a point of contact for all office-related inquiries.
  • Managed office budgets and tracked expenses.
  • Developed and implemented cost-saving initiatives.
  • Processed payments and maintained financial records.
  • Assisted with bookkeeping and financial reporting.
  • Negotiated with vendors to obtain favorable pricing and terms.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Familiar with various project management and collaboration tools.
  • Utilized database management systems for efficient data storage and retrieval.
  • Basic IT troubleshooting skills.
  • Familiar with accounting software for financial management.
  • Led and motivated a team of administrative professionals.
  • Managed multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
  • Identified and resolved operational issues and inefficiencies.
  • Developed and implemented solutions to improve office productivity.
  • Prioritized tasks and managed time effectively.

School Secretary

Gerstell Academy, Inc
Finksburg
11.2005 - 06.2006
  • Principal Secretary
  • Creating and filing student information
  • Liaison between front office and teachers/staff
  • Attend, transcribe and distribute notes from weekly staff meetings
  • Participate in school functions i.e., Grandparent’s Day, Holiday activities, etc.
  • Substitute in classroom as needed
  • Proficient in the use of standard office equipment and relevant software applications
  • Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and documents
  • Knowledge of basic mathematics, grammar, punctuation, and office procedures
  • Displays familiarity with school operations, policies, and compliance requirements
  • Schedule and manage multiple meetings and events
  • Collect and organize data and maintain accurate files
  • Adapt to frequent interruptions and changing priorities
  • Communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
  • Function as a team member and represent the school professionally
  • Draft correspondence, reports, and other documents from oral or written instructions
  • Maintain and update files, student records, and enrollment data using tools such as ProgressBook Suite, ODDEX, Online Registration, and FileBound
  • Handle confidential information related to students, staff, and school business
  • Manage incoming/outgoing mail and direct communications appropriately
  • Monitor student attendance and report concerns to the Director per SAM and state policy
  • Answer and direct phone calls and messages in a professional manner
  • Order and maintain office and classroom supplies
  • Perform bookkeeping duties including collection of fees and handling of financial transactions
  • Maintain appointment schedules and coordinate meetings (e.g., IEPs, parent conferences)
  • Greet and screen visitors according to school protocols
  • Oversee the infirmary, administer student medications per policy, and maintain related logs
  • Track staff attendance and prepare payroll summary sheets for HR, including leave balances
  • Attend staff meetings, student orientations, and Board meetings as needed
  • Monitor school entry points, door systems, and emergency alerts
  • Request maintenance or IT support via the Help Desk when needed
  • Coordinate student records and transportation with local districts
  • Prepare and submit accurate reports to ODE, EMIS, and other agencies as required
  • Organize logistics for field trips, including lunch, transportation, and permissions
  • Prepare and submit CN6/CN7 documentation for the school lunch program
  • Maintain compliance with student/employee confidentiality regulations
  • Support the implementation of SAM policies and contracts
  • Serve as the point of contact for onboarding schedules and general staff orientation
  • Liaise with HR for employment changes, including hiring, resignations, FMLA, Workers' Comp, etc.
  • Promote positive internal and external relations
  • Other duties as assigned by the School Director and/or CEO

Elementary School Secretary

The Young School
Columbia
01.2004 - 06.2005
  • Head Secretary for Elementary School
  • Answered all incoming phone calls and directed to appropriate location
  • Greeted all incoming guests
  • Liaison between office and school personnel
  • Created, updated and maintained student files
  • Ordered all office materials and serviced all office equipment
  • Well versed in Computer Programs—Word, Excel, etc.
  • Distributed daily mail
  • Handled payments made for monthly tuition (Processed and deposited)
  • Prepares programs for special events.
  • Maintains a pleasant environment in the office area at all times.
  • Assists with completion of purchase requisitions.
  • Serves as clerk-custodian of monies received and expended, make deposits, check bank statements and send monthly reports to the central office.
  • Maintains office records and reports which complement the current bookkeeping procedure.
  • Administers medication in accordance with school policies.
  • Maintains date and dosage records for these students.
  • Handles first aid in absence of the school nurse.
  • Maintains injury log.
  • Transports students in emergency cases.
  • Makes building announcements when necessary.
  • Assists building staff as needed.
  • Keeps accurate account of staff absences/requesting substitutes/assuring completion of proper paperwork.
  • Coordinate and input of all educational management information system data for Department of Education.
  • Maintains school financial records and individual teacher accounts.
  • Coordination of school fund-raiser/maintain financial records/handle bank deposits.
  • Maintains petty cash fund.
  • Coordinates school photographs/prepare student lists for photographer/deliver photos to students/place photographs on proper records.
  • Demonstrates the ability to organize tasks to completion.
  • Identifies, analyzes and solves problems.
  • Seeks to improve personal and organizational performance by measuring and monitoring outcomes.
  • Is open to change and willing to be involved in the change process.

Third Grade Teacher

Canton Schools
Canton
09.2001 - 06.2003
  • Lead Third Grade Teacher
  • Adapt to changing schedules
  • Plan and attend school field trips/in-school activities
  • Collaborated with colleagues and parents to develop individualized learning plans for students.
  • Communicated effectively with parents and guardians regarding student progress and performance.
  • Participated in professional development workshops, enhancing teaching skills and knowledge.
  • Facilitated interactive learning activities, promoting active participation and critical thinking among students.
  • Provided individualized support and tutoring to students, helping them achieve academic success.
  • Created a positive and supportive learning environment that encouraged student collaboration and communication.
  • Managed a classroom of 25+ students, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment by implementing effective classroom management strategies.
  • Designed and delivered engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards, resulting in a 15% increase in student test scores.
  • Differentiated instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring all students have access to the curriculum.
  • Incorporated technology into lessons, enhancing student engagement and knowledge retention.
  • Utilized positive reinforcement techniques to create a safe and respectful learning space, resulting in a 10% decrease in disciplinary referrals.
  • Developed and implemented classroom routines and procedures, promoting student independence and responsibility.

Kindergarten Teacher

Arlington Montessori House
Arlington
06.2000 - 08.2001
  • Implemented Montessori curriculum and materials across various subject areas, including Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language, and Cultural activities.
  • Developed and adapted lesson plans to meet the individual needs and learning styles of students.
  • Created a stimulating and organized learning environment that encouraged exploration, discovery, and independence.
  • Observed and assessed student progress using Montessori methods, maintaining detailed records and reports.
  • Integrated art, music, and movement into the curriculum to enhance learning and creativity.
  • Provided individualized instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs.
  • Prepared and maintained Montessori materials, ensuring they were accessible and in good condition.
  • Fostered a love of learning and a sense of curiosity in students through engaging and hands-on activities.
  • Managed classroom behavior effectively, using positive reinforcement and conflict resolution techniques.
  • Created a positive and inclusive classroom community where students felt safe, respected, and valued.
  • Communicated regularly with parents about student progress, classroom activities, and any concerns.
  • Collaborated with other teachers and staff to create a cohesive and supportive learning environment.
  • Organized and facilitated parent education workshops on Montessori principles and practices.
  • Maintained a clean and organized classroom environment, conducive to learning.
  • Provided guidance and support to students in their daily routines, including toileting and snack times.
  • Completed Montessori certification from a recognized training center.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development to stay current with Montessori best practices.
  • Demonstrated strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
  • Showed adaptability and flexibility in responding to the needs of students and the school environment.
  • Exhibited a passion for working with children and a commitment to their holistic development.

Education

BS - Elementary Education

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK
05.2000

Skills

  • Visitor engagement
  • Microsoft Excel
  • EMR systems
  • Office supply management
  • Administrative support
  • Customer service
  • Time management
  • Exceptional communication
  • Scheduling expertise

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Front Desk Lead Receptionist

The Homestead at Gentlebrook
04.2024 - Current

Substitute Teacher for Stark County K-12

Stark County Public Schools
01.2019 - 03.2024

Office Administrator

MB Nichols Contracting
06.2006 - 12.2018

School Secretary

Gerstell Academy, Inc
11.2005 - 06.2006

Elementary School Secretary

The Young School
01.2004 - 06.2005

Third Grade Teacher

Canton Schools
09.2001 - 06.2003

Kindergarten Teacher

Arlington Montessori House
06.2000 - 08.2001

BS - Elementary Education

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

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