Jonita Brown-Simmons
Lithonia,GA
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with over 20 years of experience in residential child welfare, program operations, and supervision. Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, implement trauma-informed and DFCS-compliant care, and maintain high standards of performance, safety, and documentation. Skilled in executing policies and procedures, coordinating services across systems, and driving measurable improvements in youth outcomes. A strong advocate for compliance, staff development, and program excellence aligned with Elks Aidmore’s mission to strengthen children, families, and communities.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Owner/Operator
Greater Grace, LLC.
01.2013 - Current
- Conduct pre-assessment interviews to collect client background, behavioral, and psychosocial information used to develop individualized treatment and service plans.
- Document treatment sessions and home visits in BIRP format (Behavior, Intervention, Response, Plan) while maintaining full compliance with state and Medicaid billing standards.
- Provide behavioral support, social-skills development, and crisis intervention for at-risk youth and families.
- Develop and implement individualized behavior-management and coping-skills strategies consistent with trauma-informed best practices.
- Facilitate family mediation, parent training, and resource linkage to support stability and resilience.
Direct Care Worker
Elks Aidmore, Inc.
01.2012 - Current
- Directed case management and program coordination for youth in residential and community-based placements, ensuring full compliance with DFCS, COA, and agency policy requirements.
- Implemented policies, procedures, and reporting systems to maintain operational consistency and audit readiness across all program areas.
- Supervised assigned Community Liaison Workers (CLWs), providing oversight, coaching, and performance support to ensure quality service delivery and adherence to documentation standards.
- Reviewed and approved case notes, visit logs, and contact documentation for accuracy and compliance with agency and DFCS guidelines.
- Processed and approved foster parent billing, mileage, and payroll submissions for assigned CLWs in coordination with the finance department.
- Developed and implemented the Foster Care Electronic Respite Request Protocol to streamline approvals and ensure compliance with DFCS and internal procedures.
- Coordinated counseling, educational, and behavioral interventions through collaboration with therapists, caseworkers, and foster families.
- Supported administrative operations including scheduling, staff communication, and coordination of residential care logistics.
- Participated in administrative team meetings to revise operational processes and staffing plans to meet evolving program needs.
- Facilitated multidisciplinary meetings, IEPs, and behavioral staffings to promote individualized support and permanency planning.
- Collected and analyzed data on youth progress, staff performance, and service delivery to support reporting and strategic planning.
- Represented Elks Aidmore in community events, professional meetings, and collaborative initiatives promoting youth advocacy and engagement.
ISS Coordinator
Community Education Partners, Inc.
01.2003 - 01.2009
- Led the in-school suspension and safety program for high-risk youth, ensuring structure, discipline, and consistent intervention.
- Conducted staff workshops on behavioral de-escalation, classroom management, and CPI-based crisis prevention.
- Partnered with school officials, families, and community agencies to promote safe learning environments and reduce recidivism.
Education
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Curriculum & Instruction
Ashford University
San Diego, CA01.2012
Bachelor of Science - Social & Criminal Justice
Ashford University
San Diego, CA01.2010
Certification
- Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) – Certified Trainer
- Certified IMPACT Trainer
- Certified Life Coach – GA Dept. of Children & Families
- Mental Health First Aid
- CPR / First Aid / AED Certified
Timeline
Owner/Operator
Greater Grace, LLC.
01.2013 - Current
Direct Care Worker
Elks Aidmore, Inc.
01.2012 - Current
ISS Coordinator
Community Education Partners, Inc.
01.2003 - 01.2009
Master of Education (M.Ed.) - Curriculum & Instruction
Ashford University
Bachelor of Science - Social & Criminal Justice
Ashford University