Leigha Maerten
Ottawa,Canada
Summary
Experience with early childhood education, focusing on creating inclusive and stimulating learning environments. Utilizes creative teaching methods and behavioral management strategies to engage young learners. Knowledge of developmental milestones and effective communication with parents and colleagues.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Early Childhood Educator
Andrew Fleck Childrens Services
2022 - Current
- Fostered a safe, nurturing environment to promote positive social interactions among children.
- Collaborated with parents to discuss child development progress and address individual needs.
- Mentored new educators on classroom management techniques and curriculum delivery methods.
- Observed children to identify individuals in need of additional support and developed strategies to improve assistance.
- Enhanced sensory and perceptual-motor skills, language, cognition, and memory development by employing both traditional and modern educational strategies and techniques.
Private Child Caregiver/Support Worker
Private Residence
2012 - Current
- Provided home care to individuals aged 9 months to 21 years.
- Provided attentive care and supervision for children and young adults with disabilities, ensuring safety and well-being.
- Established routines that fostered stability and security in children's lives.
- Assisted clients in developing and maintaining independent living skills.
- Established trusting relationships with clients and their families through empathetic communication and active listening.
Practicum Student Teacher
The Element Highschool
09.2022 - 03.2023
- Supported classroom management efforts, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Followed school and classroom policies, regulations, dress codes, and schedules
- Supported and observed students in grades 7-12 in Montessori learning.
- Assisted students in grades 7 and 8 with daily meal preparation.
Inclusion Counselor
City of Hamilton
06.2017 - 08.2021
- Worked with participants with intellectual and/or physical disabilities, ages 4-21.
- Ensured a routine with participants and assisted in daily tasks.
- Recognized and responded to behaviours to ensure safety and de-escalate situations.
- Developed a strong rapport with participants by demonstrating empathy, active listening skills, and a genuine interest in their well-being.
- Increased parental involvement by maintaining open lines of communication and regularly updating families on student progress.
- Promoted inclusivity by modifying activities and instructional materials to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
Temporary Door Attendant
Hintonburg Market
09.2020 - 12.2020
- Greeted customers warmly, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere at the entrance.
- Assisted customers with inquiries, providing exceptional service and support.
- Implemented efficient queue management strategies during peak hours.
Banquet Server
Chrissy's Catering
08.2014 - 06.2017
- Delivered exceptional customer service during high-volume events, ensuring guest satisfaction and comfort.
- Served appetizers, delivered entrées, and refilled beverages for banquet guests while maintaining composure in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated exceptional teamwork by collaborating with fellow servers to maintain a smooth flow of service during large-scale events.
- Adhered to all health and safety regulations while serving food and beverages.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Childhood And Youth Studies
Carleton University
Ottawa, Ontario06-2023
High School Diploma -
Ancaster High School
Ancaster, On06-2018
Skills
- Documentation and record keeping
- Classroom management
- Conflict resolution
- service oriented
- Safety awareness
- Certified in CPR/AED
- Organizational skills
- administrative software
- oral and written communication
- interpersonal skills
- 10 years customer service
- service oriented
Accomplishments
-Ontario Scholars Award
- Aramark Food Services Award for Outstanding Community Leadership
-Best Buddies Award
Certification
- Standard First Aid with CPR-C and AED
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training
- High Five Principles and Practice
- High Five Principles of Healthy Child Development
- WHIMIS
- Worker health and safety awareness
- AODA
Timeline
Practicum Student Teacher
The Element Highschool
09.2022 - 03.2023
Temporary Door Attendant
Hintonburg Market
09.2020 - 12.2020
Inclusion Counselor
City of Hamilton
06.2017 - 08.2021
Banquet Server
Chrissy's Catering
08.2014 - 06.2017
Early Childhood Educator
Andrew Fleck Childrens Services
2022 - Current
Private Child Caregiver/Support Worker
Private Residence
2012 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Childhood And Youth Studies
Carleton University
High School Diploma -
Ancaster High School