Ivana Zorica
East Saint Paul,MB
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Educational Assistant with extensive experience supporting children with diverse developmental, behavioural, and learning needs. I bring a strong foundation in early childhood education, special needs respite work, and over a decade of leadership within my church and cultural community. I strive to create a Christ-centered, nurturing, and structured environment where every child feels valued, supported, and confident in their abilities. Known for my patience, strong communication skills, and genuine love for working with children, I am committed to helping students grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
For 5-year-old Girl With Developmental Delays
Respite Worker — Private Families
03.2023 - Current
- Provide one-on-one support in play, speech, and emotional regulation.
- Assist with daily routines, fine-motor activities, and developmental goals set by the family and specialists.
- Use age-appropriate strategies to encourage communication, independence, and confidence.
- Maintain a warm, nurturing environment rooted in patience and positive reinforcement.
For 25-year-old Young Adult With Autism
Respite Worker — Private Families
02.2020 - Current
- Provide respite care supporting emotional, social, and everyday-life skills.
- Use calm, patient communication strategies to encourage independence and routine.
- Assist with community outings, safety awareness, and structured activities.
- Build trusting relationships and support sensory needs with understanding and consistency.
Child Care Assistant — Daycare
St. Andrews Child Care
06.2018 - Current
- Provide daily care for children ages 2–12, supporting emotional, social, and physical development.
- Maintain a safe, engaging, and inclusive play environment.
- Communicate professionally with parents about daily activities, behaviors, and developmental progress.
- Assist with program planning, transitions, and implementing age-appropriate activities.
Switchboard / Reception
St. Benedict’s Monastery
04.2016 - 12.2021
- Managed a high-volume switchboard by receiving and transferring calls for Sisters and residents.
- Assisted guests, maintained a welcoming environment, and supported administrative needs.
- Performed cleaning, organizing, and general support tasks to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
Restaurant — Server
Chicken Chef - Restaurant & Lounge
03.2017 - 08.2017
- Provided excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment.
- Handled cash, debit, and credit transactions with accuracy.
- Maintained clean dining areas and ensured guests received timely, friendly service.
Education
Associate of Arts - Education
University of Winnipeg
Winnipeg04-2028
Bachelor of Arts - English
University of Winnipeg
Winnipeg04-2026
High School Diploma -
River East Transcona School Division
Winnipeg, MB06-2017
Skills
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Flexible and adaptable
- Dependable and responsible
- Multitasking
- Critical thinking
- Organizational skills
- Calm under pressure
- Organization and time management
Languages
Croatian
Native or Bilingual
Certification
- CPR/First Aid Level C - Available upon request
- Child Abuse Registry Check — available upon request
- Criminal Record Check — available upon request
Timeline
For 5-year-old Girl With Developmental Delays
Respite Worker — Private Families
03.2023 - Current
For 25-year-old Young Adult With Autism
Respite Worker — Private Families
02.2020 - Current
Child Care Assistant — Daycare
St. Andrews Child Care
06.2018 - Current
Restaurant — Server
Chicken Chef - Restaurant & Lounge
03.2017 - 08.2017
Switchboard / Reception
St. Benedict’s Monastery
04.2016 - 12.2021
Associate of Arts - Education
University of Winnipeg
Bachelor of Arts - English
University of Winnipeg
High School Diploma -
River East Transcona School Division