Shahista Somani
Edmonton,Canada
Summary
Proven ability to lead diverse teams, foster family connections, and enhance staff motivation. Skilled in crisis management and maintaining high standards of service. Possesses a strong background in both childcare and religious education. Accomplished professional with advanced education and extensive experience. Decisive in making operational, hiring and learning decisions. Clear and consistent in enforcing rules and discipline.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Principal
Baitul Ilm
Edmonton, Alberta
09.2024 - Current
- Volunteer position
- Lead operations, including , volunteer management, and student welfare for a religious studies school serving students from kindergarten through grade 6
- fostering a balanced learning environment
- Worked closely with teachers to develop and maintain a positive, inclusive culture
- Established open communication with parents and the community to ensure alignment with the mission and values
- Oversaw student safety, and performance to ensure a supportive and productive learning environment
- Religious Studies School, Grades KG-6
Director
Kristopher Robyn's Childcare Centre
09.2016 - 03.2025
- Lead all aspects of project management, including planning, staffing, scheduling, and monitoring progress
- Set and oversee long-term objectives while ensuring the smooth daily operation of the center
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines were consistently met
- Worked directly with children to ensure their safety and well-being
- Built and nurtured positive relationships with families, ensuring their satisfaction and trust in the services provided
- Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations, policies and procedures.
- Developed and implemented strategic plans to ensure organizational goals were met.
Assistant Principal for Operations
Baitul Ilm
Edmonton, Alberta
09.2023 - 06.2024
- Volunteer Position
- Assisted in the management of daily operations
- Supported the Principal in implementing strategic plans aimed at improving both educational and operational performance
- Ensured adherence to regulations and policies, with a focus on religious studies integration
- Religious Studies School, Grades KG-6
- Provided guidance and support to teachers, families and students
Assistant Director
Devonshire YMCA Childcare Centre
04.2014 - 09.2016
- Fostered open and collaborative relationships with both employees and families
- Organized and directed the activities of a 15-member staff team to maintain efficient operations
- Led recruitment, interviews, hiring, and training for new staff members, adhering to company policies and best practices
Room Supervisor (Early Childhood Educator)
St. Gabriel YMCA Childcare Centre
09.2012 - 04.2015
- Developed and implemented age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that promoted the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children
- Ensured a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for children, fostering positive interactions and healthy relationships
- Monitored children's progress, providing individualized support where necessary and maintaining accurate records
- Collaborated with other educators and staff to ensure a holistic approach to child development
- Communicated with parents about their child's progress and addressed any concerns or questions in a professional manner
Education
Early Childhood Development Diploma -
CDI College
EdmontonSkills
- Time Management
- Adaptability & Flexibility
- Employee Motivation & Retention
- Team Building & Leadership
- Staff Scheduling & Delegation
- Organizational Skills & Problem Solving
- Customer Service Excellence
- Performance Evaluation & Team Management
- Communication skills
- Meeting Deadlines
Certification
- Exploring Early Childhood Curriculum: Play, Possibilities, and Participation, MacEwan University, 2024
- Childcare First Aid Certificate
- Valid Police Clearance Check
Languages
- English, Fluent
- Gujarati, Fluent
- Hindi, Fluent
References
Available upon request.
Timeline
Principal
Baitul Ilm
09.2024 - Current
Assistant Principal for Operations
Baitul Ilm
09.2023 - 06.2024
Director
Kristopher Robyn's Childcare Centre
09.2016 - 03.2025
Assistant Director
Devonshire YMCA Childcare Centre
04.2014 - 09.2016
Room Supervisor (Early Childhood Educator)
St. Gabriel YMCA Childcare Centre
09.2012 - 04.2015
Early Childhood Development Diploma -
CDI College
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