Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Cover Letter
Generic

Paris K. McClellan

Durham,NC

Summary

Dedicated Early Childhood Educator with extensive experience supporting social, emotional, and cognitive development in diverse classroom settings. Proficient in creating inclusive lesson plans and implementing effective classroom management techniques to foster positive learning environments. Currently advancing knowledge in Child Development through coursework at Durham Tech, including EDU 119. Strong background in communication, safety training, and organizational skills from prior experience as a Dental Assistant.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Lead Teacher – One-Year-Old Classroom

New Life Child Development Center
06.2024 - Current
  • Developed and implemented routines focusing on sensory exploration, motor skills, and communication.
  • Created weekly lesson plans aligned with developmental milestones.
  • Ensured safe and nurturing environments through consistent supervision and sanitation practices.
  • Communicated daily with families regarding developmental updates and classroom activities.
  • 6 months

Lead Teacher – Four-Year-Old Classroom

New Life Child Development Center
06.2023 - 06.2024
  • Enhanced early literacy and math skills through engaging lesson planning.
  • Facilitated kindergarten readiness via hands-on learning centers and group activities.
  • Applied effective classroom management and positive behavior guidance strategies.
  • Fostered strong family relationships through clear, consistent communication efforts.
  • One year of experience in early childhood education.
  • Designed and implemented engaging curriculum tailored to children's developmental needs.
  • Facilitated professional development workshops for staff, enhancing teaching methodologies.

Emergency Childcare Substitute Teacher

Childcare Staffing Temp Service
03.2023 - 06.2023
  • Ensured safety and engagement in classrooms for infants and toddlers.
  • Adapted quickly to new routines, enhancing developmental experiences for children.
  • Supported teachers with meal prep, diapering, and activity transitions efficiently.
  • Managed classroom environments to foster engagement and learning.
  • Developed and implemented lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs.

Lead Dental Assistant (Career Background)

Various Practices
01.2020 - 01.2024
  • Ensured clean, safe, organized environments following strict health protocols.
  • Built trust with families through clear communication and supportive guidance.
  • Executed strong organizational skills for efficient documentation and multitasking.

Education

Child Development Coursework - Foundations of Early Childhood Education

Durham Technical Community College
Durham, NC
08-2026

High School Diploma - undefined

Malverne High School
Malverne, NY
06.2019

Dental Assisting Certification - Dental Assistant

Nassau BOCES Career & Technical Education Center
Westbury, NY
06.2019

Skills

  • Child development expertise
  • Curriculum development for young children
  • Proficient in developmentally appropriate practices
  • Implementation of structured routines
  • Positive behavior reinforcement
  • Sensory, language, and social-emotional development support
  • Observation, documentation, and daily reports
  • Ensuring optimal supervision and safe classroom environments
  • Health, Safety & Certification Skills
  • SIDS Training (Safe Sleep Practices)
  • CPR & First Aid Certified
  • NC Health & Safety Training
  • Sanitation, diapering, infection control
  • Emergency response & classroom safety checks
  • Professional & Transferable Skills
  • Strong family communication
  • Team collaboration & adaptability
  • Multitasking in fast-paced environments
  • Organization and attention to detail
  • Familiarity with licensing guidelines

Certification

Certifications in SIDS, CPR & First Aid, and NC Health & Safety

Timeline

Lead Teacher – One-Year-Old Classroom

New Life Child Development Center
06.2024 - Current

Lead Teacher – Four-Year-Old Classroom

New Life Child Development Center
06.2023 - 06.2024

Emergency Childcare Substitute Teacher

Childcare Staffing Temp Service
03.2023 - 06.2023

Lead Dental Assistant (Career Background)

Various Practices
01.2020 - 01.2024

High School Diploma - undefined

Malverne High School

Child Development Coursework - Foundations of Early Childhood Education

Durham Technical Community College

Dental Assisting Certification - Dental Assistant

Nassau BOCES Career & Technical Education Center

Cover Letter

Paris K. McClellan

Durham, NC 27703

929-603-6238

Parispeele5741@gmail.com

Dear Hiring Manager

I am thrilled to express my interest in the Lead Teacher position . Working with young children has become more than a career shift for me — it has become a true passion. After transitioning from healthcare into early childhood education, I found my calling in creating warm, engaging, and developmentally meaningful experiences for children of all ages. My time as a 4-year-old and 1-year-old lead teacher confirmed how much I love helping children learn, feel safe, and grow confidently each day.

At New Life Child Development Center, I designed hands-on lessons that encouraged curiosity, independence, and social-emotional development. Whether guiding toddlers through sensory play or preparing preschoolers for kindergarten, I approach every child with patience, energy, and genuine care. I build strong relationships with families through open communication, daily updates, and a supportive classroom environment where every child feels seen and valued.

My background in emergency childcare strengthened my adaptability and taught me how to step into any classroom — infants, toddlers, or preschool — and quickly create structure, comfort, and fun. Combined with my certifications in SIDS, CPR & First Aid, and NC Health & Safety, I bring a strong understanding of what it takes to maintain a safe and thriving learning environment.

What excites me most  is your commitment to high-quality early learning and nurturing children as whole individuals. I would be honored to bring my creativity, strong work ethic, and love for early childhood education to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you and share how my experience and passion can contribute to your classrooms and your center’s mission.

Warm regards

Paris McClellan

Paris K. McClellan