Nicolette Smith
Gardnerville
Summary
Dynamic Youth Program Officer with extensive experience in secure juvenile facilities, specializing in Aggression Replacement Training, crisis intervention, and expert-level facilitation of evidence-based programs. Proven ability to lead impactful group sessions that promote accountability, emotional regulation, and positive behavioral change. Skilled in de-escalation, staff leadership, and maintaining safety while fostering growth and resilience in diverse youth populations.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
2000
2000
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Youth Program Officer 2
China Springs Youth Camp
Gardnerville
08.2016 - Current
- Provide direct care and supervision for adjudicated youth (ages 12–18) in a secure facility, ensuring safety, health, and overall well-being
- Lead and coordinate shift operations, supervising staff and ensuring compliance with safety protocols and daily routines
- Facilitate evidence-based group sessions, demonstrating expert-level facilitation skills that promote behavioral change and emotional development
- Deliver individual mentoring and crisis intervention using proven de-escalation techniques
- Monitor youth behavior and implement appropriate interventions to maintain safety and structure
- Train and mentor new staff, contributing to both on-the-job and classroom training environments
- Conduct intake and release procedures, including orientation, inventory control, and rule enforcement
- Maintain accurate documentation, including incident reports, daily logs, and progress notes
- Perform room inspections, contraband searches, and safety checks in accordance with policy
- Support medical oversight by assisting with medication administration and providing first aid when needed
- Coordinate and supervise safe transportation of youth within facility grounds
- Apply approved restraint techniques when necessary, ensuring compliance with safety regulations
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to address behavioral concerns and support youth development
- Maintain facility security by managing keys, equipment, and emergency response protocols
Education
Douglas High School
Minden, NVSkills
- Group Facilitation (Expert)
- Aggression Replacement Training certification
- Girl’s Circle certification
- Thinking for a Change certification
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Youth Mentoring & Behavior Management
- Secure Facility Operations
- Staff Training
- Conflict Resolution
- Report Writing & Documentation
- Safety & Compliance Procedures
- Emergency Response & Preparedness
Timeline
Youth Program Officer 2
China Springs Youth Camp
08.2016 - Current
Douglas High School