Jayla Harris
Macon
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated childcare professional with extensive experience supporting individuals of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—through creativity, patience, and genuine care. I bring years of hands-on work in early childhood education, activity planning, resident engagement, dance instruction, and customer-facing roles. My passion is creating safe, structured, and nurturing environments where children can grow emotionally, socially, and academically. I am committed to using my skills, energy, and heart to positively impact every child, family, and organization I serve.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
2020
2020
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Teacher, Two-Year-Olds Classroom
Apple Tree Prep
Macon
02.2025 - Current
- Lead a nurturing, structured classroom for toddlers ages 1–2, supporting early learning milestones and emotional development
- Create and daily lesson plans focused on sensory exploration, language development, motor skills, and social interaction
- Earned recognition as the first Employee of the Month
- Communicate with parents regarding progress, behavior, and important updates.
- Maintain a safe, clean classroom while following all state regulations, center policies, and best childcare practices.
- Foster a positive, loving environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and confidence.
- Collaborate with staff to ensure consistency, safety, and high-quality care.
Dance Instructor
Kali Dance Studios for the Art
Macon
08.2012 - Current
- Teach multiple dance genres to toddlers through adults in group and individual settings.
- Choreograph dances for community events, weddings, school programs, competitions, parades, and professional showcases.
- Inspire students through encouragement, creativity, and disciplined training.
- Mentor dancers in performance readiness, confidence-building, and teamwork
Activity Director
Carlyle Place, Navicent Health
Macon
01.2023 - 10.2024
- Plan and facilitate engaging activities for residents in assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.
- Develop programs promoting cognitive stimulation, physical health, emotional support, and social connection.
- Build meaningful relationships with residents by creating joyful, therapeutic experiences.
- Work closely with interdisciplinary teams to tailor activities to individual needs.
ERS Representative/Salvage Specialist
GEICO
Macon
09.2021 - 12.2022
- Managed total-loss salvage claims, coordinated auction schedules, and ensured timely lien holder documentation.
- Assisted customers experiencing vehicle disablements by dispatching service providers and reviewing insurance coverage.
- Delivered compassionate and efficient support during urgent situations.
- Achieved and maintained qualifications for full-time remote work.
Hostess/Server
Juicy Crab
Macon
06.2020 - 08.2021
- Greeted, seated, and assisted customers while maintaining smooth server rotations.
- Took orders with accuracy, ensuring a positive and welcoming dining experience.
- Provided friendly service that supported customer satisfaction and retention.
Manager on Duty/Key Holder
Plato's Closet
Macon
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Managed store operations, supervised team members, and handled opening/closing procedures.
- Assisted customers, maintained merchandising standards, and ensured a safe, positive shopping environment.
- Created social media content that increased customer engagement and boosted sales.
- Earned recognition as the first Employee of the Month for outstanding performance
Sandwich Artist/Manager on Duty/Key Holder
SUBWAY®Restaurants
Columbia
04.2019 - 10.2019
- Prepared orders with consistency and strong attention to presentation and accuracy.
- Provided fast, friendly service and maintained a clean, organized environment.
- Assisted with catering, inventory, and daily store operations.
Education
Psychology
Benedict College
Columbia, South Carolina, SC 08.2018 - 12.2019
Central High School
Macon, GASkills
Early Childhood Education
Lesson Planning & Classroom Management
Child Safety & Development
Creativity & Activity Planning
Patience, Compassion, and Positive Discipline
Leadership & Team Collaboration
Communication & Parent Engagement
Customer Service Excellence
Time Management
Problem Solving
Flexible & Adaptable
Certified in CPR, BLS, Fire Safety and Dementia Care
Certification
• BLS Provider
• CPR Certified
• Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care Certification
• State-Approved Activity Director Certification
• First Aid Certified
Affiliations
• Volunteer Work
• Praise & Worship Leader
• Dance Ministry and Youth Support
• Community Outreach and Nursing Home Visits
• Hairstylist (Braiding)
• Babysitting & Childcare Assistance
• Feeding Homeless (Nonprofit Church Organization)
• President of Youth Ministries for Church
Timeline
Lead Teacher, Two-Year-Olds Classroom
Apple Tree Prep
02.2025 - Current
Activity Director
Carlyle Place, Navicent Health
01.2023 - 10.2024
ERS Representative/Salvage Specialist
GEICO
09.2021 - 12.2022
Hostess/Server
Juicy Crab
06.2020 - 08.2021
Manager on Duty/Key Holder
Plato's Closet
01.2020 - 01.2021
Sandwich Artist/Manager on Duty/Key Holder
SUBWAY®Restaurants
04.2019 - 10.2019
Psychology
Benedict College
08.2018 - 12.2019
Dance Instructor
Kali Dance Studios for the Art
08.2012 - Current
Central High School