Janaea Hudson
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dedicated youth development professional with hands-on experience in educational, community, and faith-based settings. Holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science, with a minor in Children’s Studies. Expertise in classroom leadership, family engagement, youth advocacy, and behavior management. Committed to empowering youth through mentorship and relationship-building, while fostering safe and inclusive environments.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Teacher
Debra T. Thomas Learning Center
Bloomington, Illinois
2025.06 - 2026.06
- Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and structured activities that promote school readiness and positive peer interaction
- Foster a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment that encourages emotional regulation, independence, and confidence
- Led classroom instruction and daily learning activities for children ages 2–4, enhancing cognitive, emotional, and social development
- Applied positive reinforcement and behavior management strategies, promoting student engagement and ensuring a safe learning environment
- Communicated regularly with parents and guardians about student progress, behavior, and developmental milestones to foster collaborative support
Youth Development Professional
Boys & Girls Club
Bloomington, Illinois
2024.05 - 2024.12
- Mentored groups of 20+ youth participants in academic enrichment, recreational programming, and leadership development activities, fostering personal growth and community engagement
- Encouraged leadership, accountability, and confidence-building through interactive group activities and mentorship opportunities
- Facilitated programs that strengthened communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and social-emotional development, enhancing participants' interpersonal skills and resilience
- Assisted youth with homework and provided mentorship and behavioral guidance.
- Built positive relationships with youth and families while creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
Youth Worker
Phalanx Family Services
Chicago, Illinois
2020.09 - 2022.08
- Mentored and supported 15+ youth in PlayStreets and community-based youth engagement programming, fostering personal growth and community involvement
- Guided youth in educational, recreational, and personal development activities that built confidence and improved interpersonal skills
- Modeled positive behavior and conflict resolution techniques while fostering respectful and supportive interactions among participants
- Planned and facilitated community events aimed at violence prevention and youth empowerment, enhancing neighborhood engagement and awareness
- Collaborated with staff, families, and community partners to coordinate services and promote positive outcomes for youth participants
Education
Bachelor of Science - Human Development And Family Science
Illinois State University
Normal, IL2026-05
Skills
- Youth Advocacy
- Family Engagement
- Child Development
- Classroom Leadership
- Behavior Management
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Trauma-Informed Support
- Conflict Resolution
- Relationship Building
- Community Outreach
- Program Coordination
- Leadership Development
- Executive Functioning Support
- Communication
- Team Collaboration
- Time Management
Timeline
Head Teacher
Debra T. Thomas Learning Center
2025.06 - 2026.06
Youth Development Professional
Boys & Girls Club
2024.05 - 2024.12
Youth Worker
Phalanx Family Services
2020.09 - 2022.08
Bachelor of Science - Human Development And Family Science
Illinois State University