Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Tara Bennett

Summary

Nurturing preschool assistant teacher committed to encouraging intellectual, social and emotional development in children, while passionately sharing a love of science. Knowledgeable in microbiology, wildlife biology and research, allow for a creative approach to develop engaging activities and unique learning experiences. Dedicated to fostering supportive and enriching educational environment while consistently maintaining high standards of safety and care.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

Preschool Assistant Teacher

Prospect Christian Preschool
08.2024 - Current
  • Contribute to the development of each child in preparation for the next level of education.
  • Develop strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child's progress and addressing any concerns proactively.
  • Maintain organized, fun and engaging classroom to help children feel safe.
  • Design creative hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.

Consultant

Freelance
01.2017 - 12.2017
  • Evaluated, reviewed, and revised curriculum and associated documents designed for wildlife courses to further the development of students in conservation leadership.

African Wildlife and Conservation Research Intern

Wildlife ACT & Okavango Research Institute
05.2016 - 07.2016
  • Conducted research for wildlife conservation and management projects that contributed towards the development of
    biodiversity conservation in Botswana.
  • Devised advanced field research techniques; collected and analyzed data, performed predator spoor and dung transects, large herbivore transects, bird surveys, and camera trap studies to determine species richness.
  • Examined current challenges facing wildlife conservation in the dynamic ecosystems of northern Botswana, and
    the socio-economic impact wildlife crop-raiding and predation on livestock is having in the local communities.

QC Scientist II

Pfizer Pharmaceutical (formerly Wyeth)
01.2006 - 05.2016
  • Performed immunochemical assays for Biotech and Laboratory Operations in the Microbiology department for Quality Control in addition to assuming responsibilities as Project Manager.
  • Coordinated test samples; managed sample drop-off, verified sample data, organized change of location and sample receipt of test samples for environmental monitoring, microbiology and chemistry assays.
  • Reviewed and approved assay results for LAL Endotoxin, TAC, Bioburden, Sterility, Growth Promotion, and Microbial and Mycology Identification testing.
  • Developed the implementation plan of Lean Labs as Continuous Improvement Coordinator using Operational
    Excellence tools to standardize laboratory work. Improved sustainability using Kaizens, Gemba Walks and Key
    Performance Indicators.
  • Pioneered and employed Mycology Identification testing in-house at Pfizer Pearl River through collaboration
    across Pfizer network, resulting in a cost savings of $12,000 per year.
  • Managed numerous projects in compliance with Hoshin, Continuous Improvement and Decommissioning.
  • Dedicated off-shift analyst, selected by upper management. Worked independently while responsible for all
    critical testing and essential laboratory tasks on weekends.
  • Facilitated testing as Subject Matter Expert on numerous occasions for regulatory audits and inspections.
  • Administered instructor-led training for skill checks, meth codes, test procedures and hands-on training.
  • Managed departmental training sessions, performed presentations, and coordinated meetings.


QC Scientist I

Wyeth Pharmaceutical (acquired by Pfizer)
01.2004 - 01.2005
  • Conducted assays for release and stability testing of Prevnar vaccine production for Microbiology department in
    Quality Control. Left to pursue Master of Science degree at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.
  • Executed testing of intermediate, in-process and final fill materials associated with Prevnar following established
    standard test methods and operating procedures in compliance with FDA regulations.
  • Authored and revised standard operating procedures, analytical protocols/reports, prepared quarterly and annual laboratory trend reports, and authored laboratory and manufacturing investigations.

Education

Master of Science - African Mammalogy

University of Pretoria
Pretoria, South Africa
12-2005

Bachelor of Arts - Biology

Malone University
Canton, OH
12-2003

Skills

  • Classroom management
  • Classroom organization
  • Child development
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Activity planning
  • Age-appropriate assessment
  • Parent-teacher communication
  • Lesson implementation

Timeline

Preschool Assistant Teacher

Prospect Christian Preschool
08.2024 - Current

Consultant

Freelance
01.2017 - 12.2017

African Wildlife and Conservation Research Intern

Wildlife ACT & Okavango Research Institute
05.2016 - 07.2016

QC Scientist II

Pfizer Pharmaceutical (formerly Wyeth)
01.2006 - 05.2016

QC Scientist I

Wyeth Pharmaceutical (acquired by Pfizer)
01.2004 - 01.2005

Master of Science - African Mammalogy

University of Pretoria

Bachelor of Arts - Biology

Malone University
Tara Bennett