Susan Bardwell
Stafford,VA
Summary
Accomplished early childhood educator with a proven track record in managing large teams and fostering professional development. Skilled in implementing effective communication strategies to optimize enrollment and retention, ensuring compliance with quality standards and regulations. Committed to enhancing educational outcomes and curriculum development. Proven track record in developing a program where each student thrives physically, mentally, socially and spiritually.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Preschool Administrator
Grace Children's Learning Center at Grace United Methodist Church
1999.08 - 2021.08
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with state regulations and quality standards.
- Developed and implemented curriculum enhancements to improve educational outcomes for students.
- Coordinated staff training programs, fostering professional development and team cohesion.
- Managed enrollment processes, optimizing student retention through effective communication strategies.
- Responsible for fiscal management and reporting to include; payroll, accounts payable and receivables.
- Provided testing, evaluation, counseling and therapy for children and families.
- Responsible for hiring, supporting and managing a staff of 50+ teachers
- Represented the school to the Church Governing Body and attended monthly meetings to ensure open communication and integrated efforts
- Collaborated with parents and staff to address student needs and improve communication strategies.
Preschool Director
Prince William County
1990.03 - 1999.05
- Directed daily operations of preschool programs, ensuring compliance with state regulations and educational standards.
- Developed and implemented curriculum enhancements to promote child development and learning outcomes.
- Mentored staff through professional development workshops, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Collaborated with families to address concerns and support children's individual needs effectively.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through regular assessments, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Managed budgets and resources efficiently, optimizing operational costs while maintaining quality services.
- Established community partnerships to enhance educational resources and support for families.
- Led strategic planning efforts to align program goals with organizational mission and community needs.
- Supervised teaching staff and resolved issues.
Preschool Teacher
Prince William County
1983.08 - 1990.03
- Developed age-appropriate lesson plans that fostered cognitive and emotional growth in preschool children.
- Implemented classroom management strategies that promoted a positive learning environment.
- Collaborated with parents to support children's developmental milestones and address concerns.
- Mentored new teachers on effective teaching practices and classroom organization techniques.
- Led professional development workshops for staff to improve educational methodologies and best practices.
- Evaluated student progress through regular assessments and tailored instruction to individual needs.
- Designed engaging activities that enhanced children's social skills and creativity through play-based learning.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Education
University of Mary Washington
Fredericksburg, VAPh.D. - Clinical Psychology
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VAMaster of Arts - Psychology
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VASkills
- Classroom organization
- Budget planning
- Early childhood education
- Special needs support
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Organizational skills
- Effective communication
- Child development
- Emotional intelligence
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Programs, Quick Books, Peach Tree, ProCare
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 50+ staff members with average tenure 15 years.
- VA State Certified Presenter for Eduacation
- Successfully started a program for At-Risk-Youth in conjunction with Georgetown South.
- Worked with Department of Social Services Licensing Division to Mentor and support schools open during COVID Crisis.
Affiliations
Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children (VAAEYC)
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS)
Timeline
Preschool Administrator
Grace Children's Learning Center at Grace United Methodist Church
1999.08 - 2021.08
Preschool Director
Prince William County
1990.03 - 1999.05
Preschool Teacher
Prince William County
1983.08 - 1990.03
Bachelor of Arts - Education
University of Mary Washington
Ph.D. - Clinical Psychology
University of Virginia
Master of Arts - Psychology
University of Virginia