Kelly VanZandt
Piedmont,OK
Summary
Proactive Child Care Licensing Specialist with extensive experience in conducting inspections, evaluating applications, and providing technical assistance to ensure compliance with state regulations. Skilled in customer service, training, and collaboration across departments. Bringing strong organizational and communication skills to advance child care standards and foster safe, nurturing environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Child Care Licensing Specialist
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
09.2023 - 08.2024
- Conducted comprehensive inspections and evaluations of licensed child care facilities to ensure compliance with state regulations and safety standards.
- Reviewed and assessed applications for child care licenses, including conducting background checks and verifying qualifications of staff.
- Provided exceptional customer service to applicants, addressing inquiries with accurate information and timely responses. Provided technical assistance and guidance to child care providers on best practices, licensing requirements, and regulatory changes.
- Enhanced cross-functional collaboration between departments through effective communication and coordination of licensing activities.
- Investigated complaints and incidents reported by the public, parents or staff, ensuring timely resolution and adherence to established protocols.
- Maintained accurate records and documentation of inspections, findings, and communication with child care providers and stakeholders.
Licensed Child Care Provider
Self-employeed
02.2011 - 07.2023
- Implemented daily routines that promoted structure and consistency, contributing to enhanced emotional wellbeing in children.
- Cultivated strong relationships with families, resulting in increased trust and open communication regarding their child''s care.
- Enhanced children''s social skills by implementing group activities and collaborative projects.
- Assisted children with developing self-help skills like dressing themselves or cleaning up after playtime, fostering independence at an early age.
- Collaborated with other childcare providers to share resources, ideas, and support one another in providing exceptional care services.
- Implemented age-appropriate curriculum to foster intellectual growth while adhering to state educational standards.
- Managed administrative tasks such as billing and record-keeping, maintaining an organized system for efficient operations.
- Developed creative lesson plans tailored to individual learning needs, leading to improved cognitive development in children.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the childcare industry.
Trainer
The Elephant Bar
02.2006 - 07.2010
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs for new employees at multiple restaurant locations across the United States.
- Conducted on-site training sessions, focusing on operational standards, customer service excellence, and food safety protocols.
- Collaborated with restaurant management to assess training needs and tailor programs to meet specific location requirements.
- Traveled extensively to various states, ensuring timely and effective training for staff prior to grand openings.
- Facilitated engaging workshops and hands on training activities to enhance team performance and operational efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Organizational Leadership
The University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, OK07.2023
Skills
- Customer Service
- Excellent Communication
- Organizational Skills
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Professionalism
- Teamwork and Collaboration
Timeline
Child Care Licensing Specialist
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
09.2023 - 08.2024
Licensed Child Care Provider
Self-employeed
02.2011 - 07.2023
Trainer
The Elephant Bar
02.2006 - 07.2010
Bachelor of Science - Organizational Leadership
The University of Central Oklahoma
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