Laura Newman
Longview
Summary
Accomplished Director at Happy Hippo, adept in strategic planning and relationship building, significantly increased enrollment by over 150%. Leveraged strong decision-making and staff management skills to foster team growth, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Proven track record in employee development and project management, achieving substantial improvements in educational program quality and facility safety.
Results-driven leader with strong background in strategic management and organizational growth. Skilled in developing and implementing effective business strategies, optimizing processes, and driving team performance. Known for adaptability, effective collaboration, and delivering measurable outcomes in dynamic environments. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities, coupled with focus on fostering productive and positive team culture.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Director
Happy Hippo
09.2023 - Current
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Implemented Texas state childcare guidelines to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Directed the Texas Food Program for all kids, managing reimbursement processes.
- Successfully acquired grants to develop and upgrade the Childcare center's educational programs and facilities.
- Oversaw the development and enforcement of safety procedures within the childcare facility.
- Oversaw the recruitment, hiring, and termination processes for teachers and administrative staff.
- Successfully boosted the center's enrollment from 20 to over 50 children in less than a year.
- Conducted teacher training sessions to maintain educator proficiency in current curriculum and technological advancements.
Assistant Director
SeeSaw Childrens Place
12.2021 - 09.2023
- Streamlined communication between teachers, parents, and administrators to foster a collaborative learning environment.
- Oversaw the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for new educators to maintain a high-quality teaching staff.
- Implemented effective conflict resolution strategies for resolving issues among faculty members or between students.
- Mentored new teachers through observation, feedback, and professional development opportunities.
- Conducted regular safety drills to ensure preparedness in case of emergency situations at school premises.
- Developed strong relationships with community partners to enhance educational opportunities for students.
- Ensured compliance with state education standards by regularly reviewing curriculum materials and teaching practices.
8th Grade Mathematics Teacher
Kilgore ISD
05.2021 - 12.2021
- Organized after-school tutoring sessions for struggling students to provide additional support and enrichment opportunities outside of regular class time.
- Enhanced curriculum effectiveness by collaborating with colleagues to share best practices and develop new teaching methods.
- Served as an advisor for extracurricular activities such as math club or tutoring programs to support student success outside of the classroom.
- Evaluated student progress regularly through formative assessments, providing timely feedback on areas for improvement and celebrating achievements.
General Manager
Genghis Grill
01.2015 - 02.2017
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- Implemented operational strategies and effectively built customer and employee loyalty.
Dental Assistant
Dallas Dental Care
05.2012 - 12.2014
- Cleaned and sanitized dental tools and equipment, straightened treatment rooms, and restocked supplies to prep for next patient and maintain health and safety practices.
- Maintained a clean and sterile work environment to prevent cross-contamination and infection.
- Sanitized trays, instruments, and surfaces for clean dental office setting and patient safety.
- Provided chairside assistance during examinations, improving dentist efficiency and patient satisfaction.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Education
East Texas Baptist University
Marshall, TX05-2021
Associate of Science - Dental
Eastex Dental Academy
Longview, TX05-2012
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- Operations management
- Project management
- Project coordination
- Employee development
- Staff management
- Program management
Timeline
Director
Happy Hippo
09.2023 - Current
Assistant Director
SeeSaw Childrens Place
12.2021 - 09.2023
8th Grade Mathematics Teacher
Kilgore ISD
05.2021 - 12.2021
General Manager
Genghis Grill
01.2015 - 02.2017
Dental Assistant
Dallas Dental Care
05.2012 - 12.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Education
East Texas Baptist University
Associate of Science - Dental
Eastex Dental Academy
Similar Profiles
Felix MalungaFelix Malunga
Bartender/mixologist at Happy Hippo Pub And GrillBartender/mixologist at Happy Hippo Pub And Grill
Giana Kyla GonzagaGiana Kyla Gonzaga
Early Childhood Educator at Happy Hippo Kindergarten And ChildcareEarly Childhood Educator at Happy Hippo Kindergarten And Childcare
Tobin ChampignyTobin Champigny
Shift Lead at Blue Hippo Car WashShift Lead at Blue Hippo Car Wash