"As an owner/director of an early learning center, I am so happy with the commitment that The Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program has to its staff, its clients and to the early education field as a whole. I have been impressed with the well-trained, professional staff that I make contact with. I have also had the opportunity of hiring several of their substitutes. The Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program has provided professional and efficient customer service staff that have been able to fill most of my substitute staffing requests. On a number of occasions in the past, this program has provided us with long term substitutes, which helped us maintain continuity in the care we provided to the children. Two of those long-term subs turned into Direct Hire placements. I really appreciate the convenience of The Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program. I would highly recommend this program any center or school that uses substitutes."
–Felicia Conn-Payton, Little Scholars Academy

"I attended the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program training in Athens, GA during the week of January 26-30, 2009. I wanted to say thank you so much for the opportunity and the chance to attended in Athens, even though I was from Atlanta. I enjoyed everything that was offered, especially Trudy Friar, one of the program's trainers. I found a job and will start next week. Thanks so much. Your program was great!!"
–Alisha Brown

"I attended the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program in January 2008. I am happy to say that I have been employed full time at Eagle Springs Children Center in Centerville, GA for the past year thanks to your program. "
–Program Graduate

"It was a blessing to actually get into the program and I don't take it lightly. Thanks to Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program I was able to get a substitute teacher position from Oct. through May with Coastal Plain Headstart. Prayerfully, I will be hired as a permanent teacher for the '09-'10 school year. I love my job so much, I have decided to go back to school for my Associates in Early Childhood Education. Thanks for making this possible!!!Demetria Waters"
–Program Graduate

"I graduated from the Smart Start Georgia Early Care and Education Program in August of 2007. One month later I was hired by Bright Horizons as a Subsitute. The experience has provided me with a vast amount of knowledge as too what it takes to provide quality child care. I've had a very positive experience and I have worked pretty regularly. However, my daughter started Pre-K this year and I am unable to work within the scheduled hours. I have referred other women that I know to the program, who do not have the restricted hours that I have. I just wanted to provide some sort of feedback on the outcome of participating in the program. Thank you."
–Program Graduate

"I wanted you to know that I was able to obtain a full-time job at a daycare center after taking your training which is what I was hoping and praying for. Thanks so much for this wonderful class!! "
–Program Graduate

"Thank you for allowing me to participate in the Smart Start Early Care and Education Substitute Teacher Program. You have an impeccable training program enlisting top notch trainers in the field of Early Childhood Education. The professional development certificate coupled with the wealth of resources provided is priceless! The program further enhanced my previous knowledge of ECE. The trainers were dynamic, each having their own teaching style, which made this a most memorable learning experience. I am encouraged and hopeful that I will be able to utilize the resources provided to assist me in navigating my professional and educational pursuits here in the state of Georgia."
–Program Graduate

"I just wanted to say that I absolutely loved the Smart Start program and I think anyone who has any desire to work with children should take this course! Including expectant mothers!! I have received a phone call and/or email every day for substitute jobs! I have just taken a lead teacher position in the mobile infant room in a church preschool. Thank you again! I have already recommended this class to several people! "
–Program Graduate

"Thank you for putting on this program. I've learned a lot of useful information that I can use in the future when I continue my career as an early childhood educator. Keep up the good work, you are providing a much needed service in the community."
–Program Graduate

"Unlike any other service, the teachers come prepared to work, with all their documentation and lots of ideas. The Smart Start Early Care and Education Substitute Teacher Program is not only the best substitute program available. It also provides the highest quality training for entry level teachers. As a NAEYC accredited program, quality and consistency is very important to us. Smart Start Georgia substitute teachers help us maintain our high standards for our children."
–Vanessa Johnson, Northside Drive Baptist Church Preschool

"I wanted to keep you updated on how much the Smart Start Program has proved to be a blessing! :-) The qualifications that Smart Start provided assisted in making it possible for me to get hired the day I went in for an interview. I just wanted to share the wonderful news! Plus, I've come to realize I have a passion in advancing the opportunities for children from such a tender age. Therefore, if there is ever anything I can do to assist in this program, or any other, It would be my pleasure!"
–Program Graduate

"First, I would like to say thank you for the opportunity. It was a pleasure meeting our trainers, Dr. Penny Elkins and Ms. Shelia Lewis. They were exceptional. This program is excellent and should be a requirement before working in a childcare facility. The training was intense but overall very informative. I feel very comfortable going back into a classroom with the knowledge you provided through this free program. Again, thank you for the opportunity. "
–Program Graduate

"I just finished your Smart Start program and I just have to say that it was awesome! Thank you so much for that wonderful opportunity."
–Program Graduate

"As a Smart Start Georgia Substitute Teacher graduate, I must say I am impressed with the quality of the professors/instructors and their presentation of the program. I feel that I have acquired important information to enhance my previous knowledge and experience in the career of Continuing Childcare Education as a substitute or permanent employee. The results of the program are encouraging and the referrals are an added bonus as part of completing the program. I appreciate the opportunity to participate in such an extraordinary program."
–Program Graduate

"Thank you! I am subbing on a regular basis four days a week. I have found out a lot about 3 and 4 year old children, and I am glad that the opportunity has come to me. The program was a surprise and has been a delight to know how things have changed over the past 30 years."
–Program Graduate

"I have benefited so much from this program. It helped me to discover my natural abilities and it is very satisfying knowing that at the end of the day you have made a difference in a child's life. I would like to share this with everybody and encourage people to give it a try. I am glad that I had this training and I can walk into any classroom very confident."
–Program Graduate

"I enjoyed the training classes provided at Mercer. The information was very detailed and comprehensive. I look forward to assignments and hope to enter this area as a permanent childcare professional."
–Linda Pearson

"This was a wonderful opportunity for education and employment! I was unemployed for eleven months. I completed the classes. Five weeks later I was employed full time. I have been working now for 2 years and I have obtained the CDA credential. I am now seeking a degree in early childhood education. Many thanks to Smart Start,UWMA, Dr.Penny Elkins, Sheila Lewis and Holly Pavloff"
–Belinda Daniels

"I have received an exceptional amount of volunteer offers with some of the best childcare facilities around. I have no complaints!!! "
–Ashley Randolph-Bennett

"I really enjoyed and learned so much last week at the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program training course. Thank you for putting together a really powerful week of great trainers and topics. I now feel that I have a great foundation for taking my career in Early Childhood Education in the right direction."
–Cynthia N. Collier

"Just wanted you to know that I was able to obtain a full-time job at a daycare center after taking your training, which is what I was hoping and praying for. Thanks so much for this wonderful class!! "
–Kim Parrish

"I am writing you personally to say hello, and let you know that I am very happy that I went through the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Training Program. I am gainfully employed with a great company, which is striving for excellence. I had the opportunity to meet you and receive training from you and I am very ecstatic about what lies ahead in my career path. The spirit that you give off to people is remarkable and profound. Through you, I learned that I can take my job seriously. Childcare is the core of me, and I enjoy every moment of it. Thank you so much for inspiring young women to love the next generation. God Bless."
–LaStadie Taylor

"A week after the completion of the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program class, I updated my resume and cover sheet. The following Tuesday, I went to five childcare facilities and dropped off my resume packet. The next morning I received a telephone call from one of the facilities asking for an interview that day. I was hired on the spot full-time as a floater. I start off in the baby room! All because of my certification from The Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program. I am so excited, I really did not expect to get hired this soon. They were very impressed with the certification. The Director stated that she wished that she had known about the training because she would have sent some of her staff to the class."
–Vicky Y. Pasley

"I hope you remember me from the "Substitute Teacher" group of last year. Fairly soon after that training, I was hired by Gwinnett County Public Schools as a Parent Outreach Liaison at Norcross Elementary, and I enjoy it a lot! Part of my job is to provide training and resources to the non-English proficient parents as well as assisting them by bridging the gap of communication between them and the school, so parents can get involved in their children's education and academic success. I truly enjoy working with the Hispanic community and providing them with education programs. Muchas Gracias!"
–Milena Fuentes, Spanish program graduate

"I, Monique Perrin-Machado, would like to give my testimonial regarding my experience as a graduate of the Smart Start Early Education Substitute teacher Program. My experience was not only extremely gratifying but highly appreciated. After completion of the program, I was placed on a log for schools to draw from, and the contacts were pouring in within 7 days after placement as a substitute teacher on the directory. However, the one phone call that excelled my career was from a highly internationally accredited Montessori school. I was interviewed and offered a position as a permanent substitute teaching faculty staff member. From there, my credentials as a corporate manager from my previous career manifested into a position customized for me to accommodate this school's expectations. I accepted the offer as an Office Administrator/ Substitute Teacher; the combination was a great fit for this school. My hat goes off to all the hard-working supporters of this program. "
–Monique Perrin-Machado

"The Smart Start training was beneficial and informative. I felt that it was an excellent refresher course for me and the instruction was professional and well presented. I look forward to working as a substitute with the Smart Start program and I highly recommend the training to those who are interested in childcare positions. "
–Beverly Donaldson

"The Smart Start Early Education Substitute Program training has been the most powerful enlightment in my life's path! I learned a lot and feel that I am in a career direction that is most effective to my lifestyle more than before this training! The training, the trainees, and the individuals that I was pleased to have met were enriching!"
–Sunita McGlen

"I must state that the March 2010 training was phenomenal and a great experience! Having had the opportunity to work in an Assistant and Lead Teacher position prior to the training allowed me to understand everything that I had done according to the standards and those things that were done that were inaccurate. The most important statement for me, during the training, was when Dr Bisa stated that "you are told what to do, and what not to do, but never how to do it". It was the most prolific statement made. This training told you the “what and how” to function in a classroom setting, whether it was for infants, toddlers or preschoolers. The training met my expectations and much more – with each trainer bringing their personal touch and being an inspiration as well. During one point of the training, I wished I had taken this course before working in childcare. This training has increased my passion to be an educator and to pursue this field. Again thank you for this program. "
–Courtney D. Taylor

"I recently completed the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program in Columbus, GA. Thank you for the opportunity to study and learn from a first class organization. I enjoyed the program immensely and the chance to observe the curriculum of the early learning center during the tour and practicum experience. This program has sparked my interest in early education and working with children again. I have recommended the Smart Start program to a couple of my friends. Thanks again for the opportunity to participate in the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program."
–Annie Holt

"After completing the week long training with the Smart Start Substitute program 6/7 - 6/11/ 2010 in Marietta. I am bursting with JOY!!! This program spelled E-X-C-E-L-L-E-N-C-E from the FACILITY, to the LUNCHES, to the COURSE CONTENT, to the SMART START Resource book to the PRACTICUM, to the Excellent TRAINERS and most importantly to the vision of Ms Hollie Pavloff to care enough about children to put together a program of "this" magnitude. I have VOLUNTEERED teaching children ages 3 to 5 for over 20 years in Bible Study, Childrens Church, Vacation Bible School and Sunday School as a Teacher and Director never tiring and revitalized with every class. I LOVE and am very PASSIONATE about working with children that so many parents thought that I was already a TEACHER!!! This class has made me realize that and I am on my way to make a life changing career to do what I am so passionate about and that is to become an Early Childhood Professional. I have the rapport, creativity, innovation, animation, desire and passion and I will be on my way to get the EDUCATION to make it official. I look forward to substituting as I successfully obtain this goal. This program left me with 4 E's Empowered to change my career choice, Encouraged that I will be making a difference, Enlightened that I finally have decided to pursue my passion and Especially grateful to Smart Start for igniting the flame of desire that is sending me to pursue me passion as an Early Childhood Education Professional. Thank you, Greta M Samuels "
–Greta Samuels

"I attended Smart Start training in December of last year. I must say the teachers were great. And as a student of Early Childhood Education, I find what I learnt very useful! Keep up the good work! I am currently working as a floater with Bright Horizons."
–Winnie Acoff

"Thank You! And GOD BLESS YOU ALL! I just completed the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program. I have received valuable knowledge that has enhanced my understanding in working with birth to 5 years olds. Each Instructor was very knowledgeable, passionate and professional. I will be referring others to this program. "
–Tonja P.

"SMART START, has jumped started my second career. The information that was shared with the class, will stay with me forever. I would recommend this class to anyone with children or works or owns a childcare facility. I believe this class is a stepping stone towards making things better for the children and the people that care for them. The teachers were all AWESOME, Thanks Hollie! Sylvia Smith"
–Sylvia Smith

"The Smart Start Program was excellent!! The instructors were very knowledgeable and I learned a lot from them. I think anyone that is interested in pursing a profession in the childcare industry should take this course. In a week's time I had all the basic knowledge I needed to be able to compete in the Early Childhood arena. Graduating from this course rekindled my passion for teaching children and furthering my education. More importantly, this program gives unemployed Georgians a new skill to utilize in the workforce.....Thank You United Way!! -Natasha Alleyne"
–Natasha Alleyne

"I enjoyed the Early Education Substitute Teacher Program training sessions and learned a lot. The instructors were well-informed and fun. I have been offered a part-time position three weeks later!! I would recommend this training to anyone..........it is respected. "
–Mary Campbell

"United Way has the best sub teacher program in Georgia! I absolutely enjoyed every day of training and the instructors were awesome. I highly recommend this program to anyone who enjoys teaching children."
–Pleasant Lucas

"I have had the most enjoyable and educational week participating in the Smart Start Program. The United Way has educated my mind and has gained tremendous credibility with this program. I worked for GreenPoint Mortgage for over 26 years. The doors closed a little over two years ago leaving me in my fifties and unemployed. I have never worked so hard in all my life as I have the last few years trying to find a job. There are no Mortgage Servicing Shops in Columbus and this is what I had done most of my adult life. I felt forlorn and frustrated, almost losing hope of being able to train for a new career. Then I signed up for the Smart Start Program not really knowing what to expect. The program exceeded all my expectations. I never knew there was so much to learn about early childhood education, as my perception of childcare was that it was merely babysitting. After this course, I am now looking into furthering my education in this field. My hope has been restored and I have a positive outlook for my future. I have not had this feeling in a long while. I never thought I would enjoy learning about this field but after taking this course I am amazed at how much I did enjoy it and how much I learned. The instructors were patient, knowledgeable, and made learning an enjoyable experience. This was the most organized and well taught program I have been involved in. Please extend my most heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this program. This has given me renewed energy and hope for a productive future. Thank you and everyone involved."
–Kathy Kamar

"United Way Smart Start Substitute Teaching Team : I had the most amazing opportunity to attend United Way Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program, February 21-25, 2011. I had a vague idea of what to expect but I was "blown away" by the program and its content and I was truly impressed by the talent, passion and commitment of the facilitators. It was a great networking opportunity in McDonough. Once I completed the class, I was prepared to go out and market myself, however instead the Early Learning Centers were calling me. This was very refreshing that one week of training could cause employers to call instead of the the other way around. I am excited to report that after substitute teaching for eight days at one center I had an interview at another Early Learning Center, she reviewed all my credential, she made a phone call and I was offered an Assistant Director position at another Early Learning Center. I am truly thankful for this opportunity and now I have many friends that are waiting for training opportunities. Thanks United Way, I am "Off to Work!" "
–Wendy McCalmon

"I just want to start by saying what an amazing program the Smart Start Early Education Substitute Teacher Program is. I was in awe over each and every day we completed. The training manual was a big help and I know I will refer to it always. (I also took lots of notes) All of the guests and instructors knew their subjects whole heartedly and passionately. I know the training program prepared me to be a Substitute Teacher, because I am referring to things I learned in the program and I am already changing how I teach my son on behavior and listening. I graduated from this program on April 29th, 2011; it was a five day course with hours of 8:30am-3:30pm with lunch provided. They picked a good commuting distance to serve each student and the facilities were adequate. I have not yet acquired a position in Early Childhood Education, but I had already started a job lead base before I started the class and I left the class with references and job leads as well. I have also applied to two teaching positions near my home. I would love to see this program grow and maybe even other classes forming in the future. This program is a benefit to anyone who completes it and the children who are taught by the values of it. Thank you, Hollie, for creating such a wonderful program and I look forward to working with you in the future. You have taught me how to give kids the nurturing and understanding that they deserve, how to help someone in need in an emergency situation, but most of all how to creatively educate and be educated creatively by our trainers. I look forward to furthering my education in Early Childhood Education. Sincerely, Leslie Norman April 29th, 2011 Fayetteville "
–Leslie Norman

"I am thrilled to have the list of substitutes provided through United Way. The young lady was very professional, polite and skilled in early learning. It is refreshing to know that these resources exists. An added benefit is the level of training that the substitutes have received. I highly recommend this program for all childcare facilities when the need arises for substitutes. "
–Stacy Brundage, Literacy Link Learning Center Literacy Link Learning Center Owner/Director Literacy Link Learning Center Stacy Brundage, Owner/Director, Literacy Link Learning Center

"I recently completed the Substitute Teacher Program and I am looking forward to my first opportunity to put my knowledge to use. During our tour of the daycare facility, I had so much fun with the 4 and 5 year olds. One thing I love about children is that they are so friendly even when they don't know you. They all acted as if I have worked with them before. Adults should be more accepting this way. This progam is a great opportunity for anyone, especially those who are interested in the childcare field and who cannot afford to pay for training."
–Vickie Horton

"I am a recent graduate of the Smart Start Substitute Teacher Program. I graduated on June 28, 2011. This program is a great opportunity for all, whether you are a professional or a high school graduate. If you are in school to become a teacher or educator, then this program gives you vital, current and detailed information needed to help and support your choice. Some of the best instructors in the education field prepared and presented the lesson plan daily. At the end of the program an opportunity to get hands on experience was provided. Today I have so much information on how children learn and the different ways that influence learning. I also got certified for CPR & First Aid through this program. I can't express enough how amazing this program is; and how crucial it is for the continued success of this program. The unbelievable fact is this program is free to everyone who is qualified. I am truly grateful, that I was able to be a part of this terrific community effort. I strongly suggest to all, take advantage of this opportunity, it can be the answer that will change your life. To everyone who made it possible, donors, directors, coordinating staff and the instructors, I THANK YOU. Therese"
–Therese Mullings

"When I signed up for the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta / Smart Start Early Education Substitute Training, I expected a watered down review of what happens in a day care center and maybe a First Aide Course. Wow, was I ever wrong. The week long class was the most intense and thorough introduction to Child Care Education I could have hoped for. This is definitely one everyone interested in a second career should look into. "
–Ann Roesinger