Leona Adams

GCDC Program Director

_{Photo credit: David Friedlander/NASA/GSFC}

I have been working in the field of early childhood education for over 25 years. I have always had a passion for children and their newly developed personalities. I believe that empowering our young is everyone’s responsibility. I am a recognized International Early Childhood Leader and Expert which was published in July of 2020 in the National Early Childhood Exchange Magazine. Currently, I am also a certified CLASS observer in infants, toddlers, and preschool-school age-specific age groups. In addition to my role here at GCDC, I conduct CLASS observations for Fairfax County Government, Office of Children. I also work as a consultant with ECE programs throughout the DMV on quality improvement and accreditation. I have been a certified trainer in the state of Maryland (MSDE) since 2017. In this capacity, I provide approved state training to Teachers, Directors, and Principals in the state of Maryland. I enjoy my role as a mother of two sons most of all. Family is an integral part of my life as I am the second oldest of 5 siblings so caring, advocating, and nurturing individuals has always been a large part of my upbringing.

I have an Associates of Applied Science (AAS) in Preschool Child Development from the University of the District of Columbia, a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Virginia State University, and a year completed towards my Master’s degree in Non-profit Management from Eastern University and a host of many other credentials specific to my field. Prior to my employment at GCDC, I managed multiple Head Start/Early Head Start, Nonprofit, and Private Sector Programs located throughout the Metropolitan area. I have had very diverse experiences with infants, toddlers, preschool, and school-age children. I have worked as a teacher and administrator in all age groups. I especially enjoy teaching adults. I have worked as a child development associate (CDA) instructor, CDA representative, and accreditation consultant for several early childhood programs.

I am a native New Yorker, from the Bronx. Currently, I reside in Upper Marlboro, MD. My hobbies include spending time with my family, volunteering with my community, advocating for early childhood professionals, cooking, and exercising. I am looking forward to another great year here at GCDC!

Credentials Include:
MSDE Child Care Credential: Administrative Level 2
Child Development Associate (CDA)
Bachelor of Science (BA)
MSDE Certified Coach and Mentor
Exchange International Early Childhood Expert
Certified CLASS Observer

Birthday: March 4
GCDC Anniversary: June 8, 2008