Kelly R. Thornton
Regina,Canada
Summary
Dedicated Early Childhood Educator with over 26 years of experience, including 10+ years in the classroom and 16 years in leadership as a Preschool Director. Passionate about the early years and committed to equity, inclusion, and developmentally appropriate practice. Known for mentoring educators, leading curriculum development, and fostering collaborative learning environments. Holds a B.Ed. from Minot State University with endorsements in Kindergarten and Remedial Reading, and Saskatchewan certification in Special Education.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Preschool Programming
Regina Early Learning Centre
01.2008 - Current
- - Lead a team of early childhood educators in delivering high-quality, inclusive preschool programming.
- - Oversaw curriculum planning grounded in emergent, play-based pedagogy.
- - Supported ongoing staff development through reflective supervision and mentoring.
- - Built strong relationships with families, fostering trust and engagement.
- - Ensured licensing compliance, implemented quality assurance practices, and contributed to advocacy efforts in the sector.
Early Childhood Educator / Classroom Teacher
Regina Early Learning Centre
09.1998 - Current
- - Provided direct instruction to children ages 3–5 in a culturally and socioeconomically diverse setting.
- - Designed inquiry-based, developmentally appropriate activities aligned with children's interests.
- - Supported children with exceptional needs through individualized strategies and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- - Modeled inclusive practice and promoted social-emotional growth.
Education
Bachelor of Education - Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education
Minot State University
Minot, North DakotaSkills
- Pedagogical leadership
- Curriculum development
- Reflective supervision and mentoring
- Inclusive, play-based learning
- Child development expertise
- Family and community engagement
- Program evaluation and quality improvement
- Digital learning platforms (eg, Brightspace – in progress or adaptable)
Certification
- Saskatchewan Professional Teaching Certificate (with Special Education Qualification)
- Early Childhood Educator Level III (Saskatchewan)
- Standard First Aid & CPR-C
- Child Protection Training
- Ongoing professional development in areas such as trauma-informed care, Reggio Emilia approach, and play-based learning
Languages
English
Full Professional
Affiliations
- Active working member with the Canadian Association for Young Children (CAYC) holding many internal positions including president.
- Active member and director of the Kiwanis Club of Regina and newly elected director
Interests
- Fundraising Events
- Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects
- Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
Timeline
Director of Preschool Programming
Regina Early Learning Centre
01.2008 - Current
Early Childhood Educator / Classroom Teacher
Regina Early Learning Centre
09.1998 - Current
Bachelor of Education - Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education
Minot State University
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