Melisa Garcia
Perris
Summary
Dedicated early childhood educator with over five years of experience supporting children and families in both Head Start and childcare settings. Current Instructional Assistant with RCOE, experienced in implementing developmentally appropriate activities, maintaining structured and safe classroom environments, and building strong relationships with students, families, and staff. Displays strong communication, and a commitment to fostering positive learning experiences for infant, toddler, and preschool-aged children.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Instructional Assistant Head Start
Riverside County Office of Education
08.2023 - Current
- Supported classroom teachers in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate lessons and activities for preschool-aged children.
- Assisted with small-group instruction, individualized support, and monitoring student progress.
- Communicated effectively with parents and guardians to support family engagement and student success.
- Supported daily routines including transitions, attendance, meal times, and supervision during indoor and outdoor activities.
Instructional Assistant Early Head Start
Riverside County Office of Education
10.2025 - 01.2026
- Provide nurturing, responsive care to infants and toddlers while supporting their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Assist with daily routines including diapering, feeding, bottle preparation, handwashing, and safe sleep practices in accordance with Early Head Start guidelines.
- Model positive interactions and responsive caregiving to promote secure attachments and healthy emotional development.
Substitute I/A and Community Assistant
Riverside County Office of Education
12.2022 - Current
- I/A: Maintained a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment in alignment with Head Start performance standards. Supported classroom teachers in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate lessons and activities for preschool-aged children.
- Community Assistant: Assisted with documentation, filing, data entry, and organization of program records in alignment with RCOE procedures. Supported family service workers in distributing resources, verifying forms, and communicating important program information to parents.
Infant / Toddler Teacher
KinderCare Learning Centers
09.2020 - 05.2023
- Planned and implemented age-appropriate, developmentally focused activities that promoted sensory exploration, fine and gross motor skills, and early language development.
- Built strong, trusting relationships with families through daily communication, updates, and partnership in supporting each child’s individual needs.
- Managed daily routines including diapering, feeding, bottle preparation, nap schedules, and hygiene practices in accordance with state licensing and center policies.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Child Development
California State University
San Bernardino01.2023
Certification
- Child Development Teacher Permit
- Valid From 09/19/25 to 10/01/30
Timeline
Instructional Assistant Early Head Start
Riverside County Office of Education
10.2025 - 01.2026
Instructional Assistant Head Start
Riverside County Office of Education
08.2023 - Current
Substitute I/A and Community Assistant
Riverside County Office of Education
12.2022 - Current
Infant / Toddler Teacher
KinderCare Learning Centers
09.2020 - 05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Child Development
California State University