Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic

Kerri Meyer

Middletown,PA

Summary

Passionate Early Childhood development professional and problem solving parent of four with over thirty years experience teaching, home visiting, and operating a child centered, hands on play space focusing on imaginative and creative play. Enthusiastic to join a team of dedicated early childhood educators striving to achieve the same goals and carry out the Mission, Vision, and Values of Celebree.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience

Work History

Creator, Co-Owner, Operator

Let's Pretend - Interactive Play Center
01.2012 - 08.2021
  • Created, developed, designed and operated this small, family business focused on promoting creative and imaginative play. Concept intended to provide safe, low tech play areas for both children AND adults to play together, emphasizing continuity of play. Pretenders could use the entire center to create their imaginative scenarios.
  • Daily operations included opening the space by turning on lights, computer, cash register, listening to voice mails, and setting up each play area ,ensuring each area was tidy and safe for incoming Pretenders. Greeted as many as 125 guests in one day, providing information about Let's Pretend and offered additional support during their visit. Planned and executed all details for special events and birthday parties.
  • Fulfilled all duties of operating a business, to include exceptional attention to detail, and admirable problem solving skills.

Early Head Start Home Visitor

Capital Area Head Start
04.2009 - 08.2013
  • Planned developmentally appropriate weekly lessons for each child.
  • Implemented comprehensive developmental screenings using standardized assessment tools to identify potential delays or concerns early on.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in early childhood education and family support services.
  • Provided 16 families with information on appropriate nutrition, health and safety practices to enhance overall well-being and prevent potential health issues.
  • Facilitated connections among families in Early Head Start, by organizing group socializations, fostering a sense of community and shared support.
  • Developed trusting relationships with families by maintaining open communication channels and demonstrating empathy during challenging situations.
  • Maintained current assessments of families and children and prepared daily portfolios.

Co-Teacher in Head Start Preschool Program

Capital Area Head Start
08.2004 - 04.2009
  • Assisted in creating safe and nurturing classroom environments that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child''s progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Developed 16 individual weekly lesson plans.
  • Strengthened communication skills among preschoolers through daily dialogue practice during circle time sessions.
  • Increased parent involvement by effectively communicating with families about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and student progress reports.
  • Modeled positive behavior and communication skills for students.
  • Maintained accurate records of each child''s progress throughout each year using various documentation methods such as portfolios or tracking sheets.

Infant and Toddler Teacher

Stepping Stones, Ebenezer Christian Child Care
09.1993 - 12.2004
  • Provided support during transitions between classrooms or activities, ensuring smooth adjustments for young children.
  • Managed classroom materials effectively, ensuring a clean, organized space conducive to learning at all times.
  • Increased parent involvement in children's education by maintaining open communication and providing regular updates on child progress.
  • Engaged with children on individual basis to build positive relationships and promote learning.

Education

Master of Education - Leadership in an Educational Organization

American Intercontinental University, Online
Schaumburg, IL
01.2009

Bachelor of Science - Human Development and Family Studies, Infancy and Early Childhood Development

The Pennsylvania State University
State College, PA
05.1993

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • Time management
  • Planning
  • Adaptability, Flexibility
  • Relationship Building
  • Goal Setting

Additional Information

In August of 2021, my business and life partner and I, made the difficult decision to close Let's Pretend permanently. We knew that Let's Pretend would never be the same after CoVid. Since then, my work as a Personal Shopper, has been vastly different than my past work experience. Being a personal shopper for Shipt, has afforded me the ability to create my own schedule, working around my family life.



Timeline

Creator, Co-Owner, Operator

Let's Pretend - Interactive Play Center
01.2012 - 08.2021

Early Head Start Home Visitor

Capital Area Head Start
04.2009 - 08.2013

Co-Teacher in Head Start Preschool Program

Capital Area Head Start
08.2004 - 04.2009

Infant and Toddler Teacher

Stepping Stones, Ebenezer Christian Child Care
09.1993 - 12.2004

Master of Education - Leadership in an Educational Organization

American Intercontinental University, Online

Bachelor of Science - Human Development and Family Studies, Infancy and Early Childhood Development

The Pennsylvania State University
Kerri Meyer