DESIRAY TAYLOR
Hemet,CA
Summary
Accomplished early education professional with 15 years of diverse experience; I am passionate about fostering a love for learning in young children. I specialize in developing early childhood programs that meet the needs of diverse learners, collaborating effectively with agencies and districts to secure resources and support. My expertise includes designing and implementing innovative curricula and mentoring educators to enhance their teaching practices. With hands-on experience in programs such as Head Start, California State Preschool Program, and Child Care and Development Fund, I am committed to creating enriching educational experiences. I am eager to leverage my extensive background in early childhood education to contribute to a progressive institution dedicated to excellence and student growth.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
TK Teacher
The Journey School
01.2023 - Current
- As a TK teacher at the Journey School, I created a nurturing classroom environment that promoted active learning through effective management
- I developed and implemented a developmentally appropriate curriculum, using assessments to track student progress and adjust instruction as needed
- In my role as a community connections leader, I engaged families and organized events such as Black History Month, the Winter Showcase, and the Harvest Festival
- These initiatives fostered community, celebrated diversity, and strengthened relationships among students, families, and staff
- Enhanced classroom engagement through the use of interactive teaching methods, such as group projects and hands-on activities.
Adjunct Professor for Early Childhood Education
Mt. San Jacinto College
01.2021 - Current
- As a professor of child development education, I have focused on developing new teachers by presenting material in engaging and interactive ways that foster active learning
- My teaching approach encourages students to apply concepts in real-world scenarios, preparing them to be effective educators
- In my role as the Strong Workforce Grant Coordinator, I plan and organize early childhood workshops, collaborating with presenters on critical topics such as nutrition, UPK, navigating challenging behaviors, and trauma-informed care
- This initiative ensures that educators receive up-to-date information and practical strategies to support young children and their families effectively
- Built relationships with students, mentoring on personal, professional and academic goals while providing coaching on effective study habits.
TK Teacher
Ridgecrest Elementary
01.2022 - 01.2023
- I cultivated a vibrant classroom that encouraged exploration and creativity
- I focused on creating a welcoming and inclusive space where children felt safe and valued
- By utilizing the DRDP, I conducted regular assessments and observations to monitor student progress
- This approach allowed me to tailor instruction to meet individual needs, fostering growth in essential areas such as social-emotional skills, language development, and cognitive abilities
- Maintained accurate records of student progress, attendance, and behavior to facilitate ongoing communication with parents about their child's educational journey.
Permit Teacher
Riverside County Office of Education
01.2021 - 01.2022
- In my role as a Permit Teacher at RCOE, I created child-led, hands-on learning opportunities to ignite student interest while adapting teaching methods to address the diverse needs of learners
- I maintained a safe and organized classroom environment that supported whole-child development and fostered strong relationships with parents, regularly discussing student progress and areas for improvement
- Additionally, I collaborated with fellow teachers on assignments and projects, participated in professional development courses, and stayed informed about current educational policies
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Continuously pursued professional development opportunities such as workshops or conferences to stay current in educational trends.
Program Director
Temple Christian Preschool
01.2019 - 01.2021
- As a preschool teacher and program director at Temple Christian Preschool, I gained extensive experience in program management and teacher development
- I worked closely with various agencies to secure funding opportunities; ensuring resources were available for our programs and staff training
- I also played a key role in enrolling new families, providing tours of the facility, and creating a welcoming environment for both students and parents
- In addition to managing the educational program, I collaborated with a food program to monitor food temperatures and ensure compliance with health standards, including managing food handler cards
- I consistently adhered to all CCLD standards to maintain a safe and high-quality learning environment
- Furthermore, I planned and coordinated events and family gatherings throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community among families and staff
- Recruited and trained staff and volunteers to upgrade collective team skills.
- Scheduled and supervised staff meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on program details and milestones.
Education
Multiple Subject Credential - MA Elementary Education
Pacific Oaks College
Online01.2025
Master of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Brandman University
Online01.2020
Bachelor of Arts - Early & Adolescent Development
Union Institute & University
Riverside, CA01.2019
Skills
- Parent-teacher communication
- Lesson planning
- Student engagement
- Behavior management
- Classroom management
- Growth mindset
- Child development
- Curriculum implementation
- Student assessment
- Curriculum development
- Social-emotional learning training
Timeline
TK Teacher
The Journey School
01.2023 - Current
TK Teacher
Ridgecrest Elementary
01.2022 - 01.2023
Adjunct Professor for Early Childhood Education
Mt. San Jacinto College
01.2021 - Current
Permit Teacher
Riverside County Office of Education
01.2021 - 01.2022
Program Director
Temple Christian Preschool
01.2019 - 01.2021
Multiple Subject Credential - MA Elementary Education
Pacific Oaks College
Master of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Brandman University
Bachelor of Arts - Early & Adolescent Development
Union Institute & University
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