Cierra Smith
District Heights
Summary
Passionate educator with diverse experience across various learning environments, including specialized and mainstream settings. Skilled in creating engaging curricula tailored to individual student needs, fostering inclusive classroom atmospheres that inspire curiosity and learning. Demonstrated ability to adapt teaching methodologies to enhance student understanding and achievement. Successfully implemented innovative teaching strategies that improved learner engagement and academic performance.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Educator
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Washington
09.2018 - Current
- Led classroom instruction for early childhood learners, fostering literacy, math, and social-emotional development.
- Implement individualized instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with developmental delays and special needs.
- Create and maintain individualized learning plans based on each child's strengths, needs, and developmental progress.
- Use ongoing observations and student performance data to adapt instruction, plan reteach opportunities, and support individualized learning goals.
- Supervised and coached team of 4 associate teachers, enhancing lesson planning, classroom delivery, and student engagement.
- Partner with families to communicate student progress, provide feedback, and support learning at home.
- Prepared and led parent-teacher conferences, sharing insights on student growth and development based on performance data.
Associate Teacher
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Washington
11.2016 - 09.2018
- Prepared materials and facilitated engaging, age-appropriate learning activities to enhance student participation.
- Took on more responsibility over time, including leading activities and working with small groups of students.
- Assisted lead teacher with lesson preparation, organized classroom environment, and managed daily operational tasks.
- Substituted for absent teachers and collaborated with staff to share ideas.
Teacher's Aide Intern
Rising Generations Early Learning Center
Largo
02.2012 - 08.2012
- Supported children's daily care, ensuring meals, health, and overall well-being.
- Assisted teacher with classroom activities and lesson support to enhance learning.
- Created and led fun, engaging activities to encourage learning through play.
- Kept the classroom clean, safe, and calm for a positive environment.
- Supervised children during playtime and nap time, promoting a safe environment.
- Communicated with parents about their child's day and any concerns.
Education
Bachelors - Psychology
University of Maryland Global Campus
MarylandAssociate - Human Services
Prince George's Community College
Largo, MDHigh school diploma -
Suitland High School
District Heights, MDSkills
- Teaching
- Classroom Management
- Curriculum Development
- Early Childhood Education
- Special Education
- Special Needs
- Developmental Disabilities Experience
- Experience with Children
- Parent Communication
Certification
- First Aid Certification, 09/01/24, 09/01/26
- CPR Certification, 09/01/24, 09/01/26
Timeline
Lead Educator
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
09.2018 - Current
Associate Teacher
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
11.2016 - 09.2018
Teacher's Aide Intern
Rising Generations Early Learning Center
02.2012 - 08.2012
Bachelors - Psychology
University of Maryland Global Campus
Associate - Human Services
Prince George's Community College
High school diploma -
Suitland High School