Karna Allen-Bennewitz
Antioch,CA
Summary
Accomplished Program Director, Teacher, Case Manager and Care Coordinator, adept in organizational leadership, client services and ensuring regulatory compliance. Demonstrates a unique blend of dedication and the ability to lead teams in high-stress environments, achieving program excellence and innovation. Skilled in comprehensive service delivery and office management, embodying integrity and a results-driven approach. Excels in being able to multi-task and work hands-on with a diverse team to accomplish goals and objectives. Links success of the individual to the success of the team and the supervisors that support us.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Program Director and Assistant Director
Learning Care Group
Contra Costa County, CA
09.2019 - 11.2024
- Managed and directed program operations using a hands-on approach, including oversight, case management, administrative organization, teaching, and even driving the school bus when needed.
- Conducted needs assessments and implemented program objectives to support clients and staff.
- Managed budgeting processes, monitoring ordering, spending, tracking, and reporting expenses.
- Ensure successful program operations and regulatory compliance daily.
- Provided leadership in developing innovative approaches to meet program goals and client needs.
- Reviewed existing programs and identified areas of improvement or expansion.
- Ensured compliance with organizational standards and applicable state and federal regulations through direct supervision and support.
- Maintained communication with clients throughout their involvement in the program.
- Compiled assessment reports, operational reports, and other information to present to clients, executive leadership, and stakeholders.
- Managed program operations and provided strategic leadership and support for staff, including running a highly organized and efficient office.
- Facilitated staff meetings and training opportunities to strengthen staff competencies.
- Worked with administrative support staff and teachers to facilitate day-to-day program activities.
- Hired and developed staff members to collaboratively achieve program goals.
- Maintained budgets and monitored expenditures to keep program operations aligned with budget targets.
- Conducted performance evaluations and recommended areas for improvement.
- Coordinated daily operations and managed staffing to maintain high-quality program operations and classroom ratios.
- Oversaw the maintenance and updating of organizational databases and records.
Program Director
The Lands End School
San Francisco, CA
10.2015 - 07.2018
- Managed the day-to-day operations of a nature-based Early Childhood education program serving children ages 3 months to 5 years.
- Helped maintain NAEYC accreditation and QRIS standards to the highest level of quality.
- Worked with local funders to secure grants and provide services to low-income and veteran families.
- Recruited and worked with a volunteer-based Board of Directors for school oversight and leadership.
Infant/Toddler Program Supervisor
Felton Insititute
San Francisco, CA
01.2014 - 07.2015
- Ensured the delivery of high-quality care and education to our youngest students across several classrooms.
- Maintained assessment records, clients' files, and program records.
- Directly delivered medications to medically fragile infants daily.
- Worked with Program partners to implement IEPs and site-based therapies.
Site Supervisor
Harbor House Childcare Center
San Francisco, CA
04.2002 - 12.2013
- Managed the day-to-day operations of the childcare center, serving children ages 3 months to 5 years.
- Managed and supervised a team of 10+ site staff members to ensure safety, quality, and delivery of education and family supports.
- Worked with Case Managers to unify families leaving incarceration and helping them navigate compliance with CPS to ensure successful life re-entry.
- Successfully implemented one of the first Preschool for All Programs, working with local funders and state agencies for program compliance and advancement.
- Taught children, inspired teachers, supported families, helped my leadership shine.
Program Coordinator
Jumpstart
San Francsico, CA
09.1998 - 06.2000
- Member of the founding team for Jumpstart San Francisco at San Francisco State University.
- Established literacy programs in multiple elementary schools across the city.
Lead Infant-Toddler Teacher
Scott's Valley Children's Center
Scotts Valley, CA
03.1996 - 06.1998
Education
Associate of Arts - Consumer And Family Sciences
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA06-2000
Associate of Science - Early Childhood Education And Care
Cabrillo College
Aptos, CA06-1998
Skills
- Identifying needs and providing comprehensive service delivery
- Skilled Team Leader and business manager
- Effective program coordination and oversight
- Ensuring regulatory compliance and program standards
- Customer service experience
- Driving all manner of company vehicles, even school buses
- Strategic leadership
- Office and database management
- Multitasking in a high-stress and needs-based environment
- Staying calm and positive when others are not
- Willingness to step in and step up when needed to ensure that, at the end of the day, the job is done, whatever that may be
- Dedication, loyalty, integrity, and a can-do attitude
Accomplishments
- Graduate of the PITC program
- Member of NAEYC
- Graduated with Honors from Cabrillo College and SFSU
Certification
- CA State Site Supervisor Permit
- CA State background check, DOJ clearance current
- Current on all vaccines and related medical requirements
Timeline
Program Director and Assistant Director
Learning Care Group
09.2019 - 11.2024
Program Director
The Lands End School
10.2015 - 07.2018
Infant/Toddler Program Supervisor
Felton Insititute
01.2014 - 07.2015
Site Supervisor
Harbor House Childcare Center
04.2002 - 12.2013
Program Coordinator
Jumpstart
09.1998 - 06.2000
Lead Infant-Toddler Teacher
Scott's Valley Children's Center
03.1996 - 06.1998
Associate of Arts - Consumer And Family Sciences
San Francisco State University
Associate of Science - Early Childhood Education And Care
Cabrillo College
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