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Child Development Center Laboratory

Center Staff

Our Center is enhanced by the quality of individuals hired to work as main staff. These individuals work closely with every child offering unique and exciting opportunities to learn and grow. They have experienced a wealth of training and education supports their qualifications to work in the Center. Please take every opportunity to become acquainted with these “special” dedicated professionals.

• Dr. Kim Madsen, Director
• Ms. Pam Leonard, Assistant Director
• Ms. Leah Janssen, Teacher

Dr. Kim Madsen has been the Director of the Child Development Center since the fall of 1989. She is also an associate professor of Family and Consumer Sciences. Her undergraduate work is in Family and Consumer Sciences and graduate work in Vocational Education. Her doctoral work is in Educational Administration/Curriculum and Instruction. She and her husband, John, farm and ranch southwest of Chadron in the Deadhorse community. They have three grown children and are grandparents.

Ms. Pam Leonard joined the center staff as head teacher in October 2004 and was hired to be assistant director for the Center in April 2005. Pam holds a BS degree in Vocational Education from UNK. She has numerous years of experience in a variety of occupations. Pam is married to Steve Leonard, has two daughters and comes to Chadron from North Platte, NE.

Ms. Leah Janssen– “Ms. Leah” joins the teaching staff July 1, 2011. She graduated from Chadron State College in December 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education and minor in Early Childhood Education. She was employed for 4 years at the Child Development Center at Grace Church. She is originally from Rushville, NE and was married to her husband, Jarred, in May 2011.

The Center also provides learning opportunities for workstudy students and students who are interested in the internship program. Other staff are hired or encouraged to volunteer their time gaining experience with young children. Whenever possible, Green Thumb, Foster Grandparents, volunteers from R.S.V.P. and the Chadron community, Job Corps students, Alliance Practical Nursing students, and high school students join our TEAM.

Department Structure

The CSC Child Development Center Laboratory employs the following individuals to insure a high quality program operates continuously.

Director:

• oversees the operation of the program
• manages budget and finances
• employs all staff and assists with staff development and training
• promotes community and state collaboration projects
• supervises curriculum, parent education and Advisory Board operations

Assistant Director:

• manages the day-to-day operation of the program and scheduling
• plans, develops and oversees the USDA food program, curriculum and educational components of the program
• assists with staff development and training
• offers support programs for families
• supervises and educates all personnel through on-going training
• promotes a high quality, healthy and safe environment

Head Teachers:

• assist with the development and implementation of daily curriculum and educational components both inside and outside
• supports the developmental needs of every child
• assists in the supervision of personnel and daily operations including child and family relationships
• assists with evaluation and assessment procedures
• supports community involvement activities

Workstudy students, Interns, Volunteer and Support staff:

• support daily routines and activities
• promotes positive health ahd safety practices
• willingness to learn, grow and develop through practical experience

A warm WELCOME to our developmentally appropriate, active learning environment. It is our pleasure to work with families and students, as well as to offer the highest of quality early childhood experience possible.