TONI NELSON

Glenoma,WA

Summary

Engaging and passionate Teacher/Guide with over 20 years of experience working with students from ages 3 years to 18 years old in a variety of different educational settings. I am motivated, reliable and dedicated to fostering positive outcomes for children and families. Strive to implement learning opportunities that nurture cognitive, social and physical development in children of all ages. I enjoy creating nurturing experiences and opportunities for students and families. Reliable Area Manager successful at operating in high-volume, fast-paced environment. Skilled in leading teams to meet objectives on stringent timelines. Empowering leader with superior communication and collaboration abilities demonstrated over 15 years of management performance.

Overview

years of professional experience

Certification

Work History

Early Learning Program Center Manager

Lewis County Head Start

08.2016 - 12.2024

Coordinated, planned and facilitated team meetings, home visits and Parent-Teacher conferences
Advocated services for children and families by building partnerships with organizations to provide accurate and updated information and opportunities
Collaborated with co-workers to provide nurturing learning opportunities and activities that were open ended and allowed for individualized outcomes for children 3-5 years of age.
Met individually with families to increase their knowledge and access to resources and opportunities both locally and across the county/state.
Assisted to advocate effectively for services to be provided, resulting in enhanced partnerships and increased resource availability for individualized family needs and goals.
Managed children and staff files ensuring accuracy and compliance with licensing and program guidelines.
Maintained educational continuity and supported student progress by fill in for site educators and cooks in their absence.
Directed daily operations at 2 early learning centers
Managed work and performance of more than 6 employees.

Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Advocate/Social Services

White Pass Community Services Coalition

03.2003 - 06.2023

Partnered with local organizations to deliver educational programs, raising community awareness and setting up strategies to decrease violence.
Facilitated and implemented domestic violence and sexual assault support groups for children, adolescents and adults.
Conducted case management for clients, facilitating access to housing assistance and ensuring sustainable support through grant funding.
Maintained accurate confidential records of client contacts and services provided, ensuring compliance with agency policies and enhancing service delivery.
Developed outreach strategies to engage underserved populations and increasing program participation to foster a stronger support network.
Collaborated with law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys, to improve services for sexual assault victims.
Helped clients obtain outside specialist services by coordinating referrals and advising on options.
Wrote reports on clients and maintained required paperwork.
Exercised quick judgment in chaotic environments to keep patients safe.

Family Assistance Specialist

Fresh Start/Family Connections

04.2012 - 12.2015

Developed partnerships with individuals, adolescents, ages 12 years to 17 years, and families in the substance use disorder program at Fresh Start, addressing short- term and long-term goals/needs, and making available local, county and state resources to meet those goals.
Assisted and supported adolescents and individuals to access opportunities and services with safe sustainable housing, schools/educational opportunities, family services, courts, protective services, medical and dental services and other services to help each person that may be facing disabilities, abuse and/or poverty.
Resolved barriers, improving service delivery and family outcomes.
Contributed to court proceedings, advocating for family's best interests and recommending balanced solutions.
Assisted families in navigating the social services system, including applying for benefits, accessing resources and connecting with other family support services.
Intervened in crisis situations and counseled children experiencing emergencies and disruptive incidents.
Built solid and trusting rapport with children and families, fostering trust and communication to meet case needs.
Collaborated with families to assist in growth, development, and education to increase potential.

Education

Associates of Science - Early Childhood Education

Endicott College

Beverly, MA

05.1982

Skills

Building professional relationships
Collaborative teamwork
Facilitated team meetings and parent conferences
Facilitate enriched learning environments for young students

Partnership development
Developed nurturing learning experiences through teamwork
Community partnership development
Maintained licensing and program guideline adherence