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Karen Smith joined the Grow NJ Kids (GNJK) Rating Team in 2026, bringing a strong background in early childhood education and quality improvement. Prior to this role, she served as a GNJK Quality Rating Coordinator (QRC) at a Technical Assistance Center for North Jersey, where she supported the implementation of New Jersey’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). In this role, she conducted documentation reviews, reviewed curriculum trainings, collaborated with statewide partners, and supported both English- and Spanish-speaking programs in meeting quality standards.

Prior to working at the Technical Assistance Center, Karen worked as a Project Specialist at the New Jersey Center for Quality Ratings at William Paterson University and has 3 years of experience as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher.

At CREEHS, Karen serves as a Portfolio Review Assistant supporting programs as they move through the GNJK Rating process.

Karen holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Learning in Early Childhood from William Paterson University, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from East Stroudsburg University. Additionally, she holds a School Supervisor Certificate and a Preschool through Grade 3 Teaching Certification.