Sarah Leece
South Lyon,MI
Summary
Accomplished early childhood educator, mentor, advocate and life-long learner! I've mastered team leadership and operational management, significantly enhancing staff development and curriculum implementation across 9 child care centers. My expertise in recruiting and mentoring, coupled with a proven track record in fostering positive employee engagement, and improving educational standards amongst the organizations in which I have been a part of.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President of Talent & Curriculum
Smart Start Corporation/ The Learning Experience
02.2023 - Current
- Oversee recruitment processes, including sourcing, interviewing, and onboarding staff over 9 child care centers.
- Ensure all child care centers are adequately staffed.
- Ensure new center leaders are onboarded, trained and are ready to effectively carry out position.
- Oversee evaluation and professional development processes for all center leaders and their staff.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning and employee engagement.
- Lead the implementation and refinement of age-appropriate curriculum in all child care centers within our franchise.
- Collaborate with center leaders and staff to ensure curriculum is implemented, is aligning with corporate standards and follows developmental milestones and learning objectives.
- Introduce innovative teaching methodologies and learning resources to enhance educational experiences.
Program Director
The Learning Experience
02.2016 - 01.2023
- Ensure compliance with all state and federal child care regulations, licensing requirements, and safety standards.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and curriculum to support early childhood education goals and franchise guidelines.
- Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff utilizing professional development and coaching sessions while fostering a positive and productive work environment.
- Monitor and maintain facility cleanliness, safety, and security.
- Manage budgets, oversee financial operations, and ensure cost-effective operations while not sacrificing quality.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, addressing concerns and providing regular updates on children's progress.
- Plan and coordinate events (families and staff), programs, and activities that enhance learning and community engagement.
- Handle administrative duties such as enrollment, scheduling, and record-keeping, child and staff file management.
- Stay informed about current trends and best practices in early childhood education.
- Promote the center through digital marketing within the community to increase enrollment and build partnerships.
Assistant Center Director
The Learning Experience
04.2013 - 02.2016
- Assist in the management of daily operations, ensuring compliance with licensing regulations and company policies.
- Support the recruitment, training, and supervision of child care staff.
- Oversee curriculum implementation and ensure educational standards are met.
- Maintain a safe and engaging environment for children, addressing any issues promptly.
- Communicate effectively with parents, staff, and stakeholders to foster positive relationships.
- Monitor and manage enrollment, attendance, and scheduling to optimize center capacity.
- Assist with budget management, ordering supplies, and ensuring financial efficiency.
- Support in conducting staff evaluations and providing professional development opportunities.
- Address parent concerns and inquiries, providing timely resolutions.
- Ensure health and safety protocols are strictly followed, including emergency preparedness.
- Collaborate with the Director to develop and implement strategic goals for the center.
Lead Pre-K Teacher
The Learning Experience
03.2007 - 03.2013
- Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that align with educational standards, developmental milestones, and corporate guidelines.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment where children feel safe and encouraged to learn.
- Supervise and guide assistant teachers and support staff, providing mentorship and ensuring adherence to classroom policies.
- Assess and document children's progress, communicating effectively with parents and guardians regarding developmental milestones and areas for growth.
- Ensure compliance with licensing regulations, health and safety policies, and school standards.
- Establish and maintain effective communication with parents, staff, and administration.
- Organize and lead parent-teacher conferences, special events, and classroom activities.
- Encourage positive social interactions and conflict resolution skills among children.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
- Stay informed about best practices in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development.
Assistant Preschool Teacher
Bright Horizons Childcare
03.2006 - 03.2007
- Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing age-appropriate activities and lesson plans.
- Supervise and ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times.
- Support children in their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment.
- Assist with meal times, restroom breaks, and nap schedules.
- Encourage positive behavior and help manage classroom discipline following established guidelines.
- Foster strong communication with parents, updating them on their child's progress and well-being.
- Observe and document children's behaviors and development to report to the lead teacher.
- Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
- Adhere to all school policies, health, and safety regulations.
Office Assitant/Receptionist
Varsity Lincoln
07.1996 - 02.2004
- Processed state/work titles
- Processed cash/automotive transactions
- Assisted in accounts receivables
- Answered phones on main switchboard
- Greeted customers
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI12-2002
Skills
- Team leadership
- Relationship building
- Decision-making
- Critical thinking
- Coaching, training and mentoring
- Operations management
- Customer service
- Staff development
- Performance monitoring
- Corporate branding
Timeline
Vice President of Talent & Curriculum
Smart Start Corporation/ The Learning Experience
02.2023 - Current
Program Director
The Learning Experience
02.2016 - 01.2023
Assistant Center Director
The Learning Experience
04.2013 - 02.2016
Lead Pre-K Teacher
The Learning Experience
03.2007 - 03.2013
Assistant Preschool Teacher
Bright Horizons Childcare
03.2006 - 03.2007
Office Assitant/Receptionist
Varsity Lincoln
07.1996 - 02.2004
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Eastern Michigan University
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