Tracy Baxter
Shiremanstown,Pennsylvania
Summary
Dynamic and accomplished Early Childhood Director with over 16 years of leadership experience and more than 30 years in the early childhood sector. Expertise in directing high-quality programs that consistently achieve Keystone STARS Level 4 standards while fostering staff development, enhancing family partnerships, and ensuring full regulatory compliance. A strong commitment to child development and community engagement drives a passion for creating nurturing environments that support both children and educators. Proven ability to mentor staff effectively, cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in early childhood education.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Early Childhood Director
The Children's Garden of St. John’s Lutheran Church
01.2006 - 01.2025
- Led a multi-program center including Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and School-Age.
- Maintained Keystone STARS Level 4 status for over seven years through continuous quality improvement.
- Supervised, mentored, and evaluated over staff; created a supportive and positive organizational culture.
- Implemented curriculum, assessment systems (Lillio, Pearson), and professional development initiatives.
- Ensured 100% regulatory compliance for DHS, CACFP (if applicable), health & safety, and emergency protocols.
- Coordinated community outreach, service projects, and long-standing partnerships with families and agencies.
- Oversaw hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and staff retention strategies.
- Managed budgets, enrollment, tuition processes, and program operations.
- Led special events such as family engagement nights, professional development days, and center-wide celebrations.
Preschool Teacher
The Children’s Garden
01.1993 - 01.2006
- Planned and implemented developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschool-aged children.
- Built strong relationships with families through effective communication and collaboration.
- Conducted child observations, assessments, and parent conferences.
- Created engaging learning environments aligned with early childhood best practices.
- Supported positive behaviors through developmentally appropriate guidance and classroom management.
Education
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Harrisburg Community College
01.2006
Skills
- Early Childhood Program Leadership
- Staff Supervision & Professional Development
- Keystone STARS Standards & DHS Compliance
- Curriculum Planning & Implementation
- Parent & Community Partnerships
- Classroom Quality Improvement (CLASS, ECERS-3, ITERS-3)
- Budgeting & Operational Management
- Conflict Resolution & Positive Staff Culture
- Child Development & Behavioral Support
- Health & Safety Oversight
Affiliations
- NAEYC
- PACCA
- Local early childhood networks
Certification
- PA Child Abuse Clearance
- FBI Fingerprint Clearance
- PA State Police Clearance
- CPR/First Aid
- Keystone STARS Professional Development (list major trainings)
- CLASS, ECERS-3, ITERS-3 training
- Conscious Discipline training
- Any additional credentials
Timeline
Early Childhood Director
The Children's Garden of St. John’s Lutheran Church
01.2006 - 01.2025
Preschool Teacher
The Children’s Garden
01.1993 - 01.2006
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Harrisburg Community College
Leadership & Accomplishments
- Successfully maintained STARS 4 rating for multiple renewal cycles.
- Developed leadership roles such as Team Leaders, Coaches, and Department Mentors.
- Implemented new communication systems (Lillio)
- Facilitated annual professional development days and staff appreciation programs.
- Strengthened staff morale through creative engagement, recognition systems, and team-building initiatives.
- Oversaw a long-standing center serving the community for 30+ years.