About our StaffAdministration:
Evelyn Tsai
Director of Curriculum
- Early Childhood Educator (E.C.E.)
- B.A. (Communications)
- 10+ years childcare experience as an educator, manager and ECE program coordinator
Miss Evelyn is one half of the “Two PoCo Moms”, bringing her love of children and vast ECE experience to our centre. Circle time, curriculum development, management, teaching at post secondary colleges and evaluating other daycares • she has done it all. After cheering on her daughters at their various sporting events, Evelyn loves to “relax” at home with DIY home projects.
Carol Wiens
Director of Administration
As the other half of the “Two Poco Moms”, Miss Carol is also a mother of teens. She values the potential and uniqueness of all children and is excited about applying her business background to a childcare environment. Additionally, Carol is eager to finish off her last course for her ECE designation. Carol enjoys reading and photography in her spare time and has spent countless hours creating family memory books.
Director of Administration
- Early Childhood Educator (E.C.E.) (in-progress)
- B. Comm.
- 10+ years experience in childcare, school volunteer and small business management
As the other half of the “Two Poco Moms”, Miss Carol is also a mother of teens. She values the potential and uniqueness of all children and is excited about applying her business background to a childcare environment. Additionally, Carol is eager to finish off her last course for her ECE designation. Carol enjoys reading and photography in her spare time and has spent countless hours creating family memory books.
Cindy Carkner
Administrative Assistant
With her ever-present smile and "can do" spirt, Cindy answers phones, gives tours, answers every possible question and is also known to make the occasional "Starbuck's run". Cindy's willingness to solve problems and go the extra mile are appreciated by all. Cindy joins the "all girls club" with three daughters of her own; in fact the 8 daughters of Cindy, Carol & Evelyn were all school friends during their elementary & high school years.
Administrative Assistant
- Assocciate Arts (TWU) & Interior Design (BCIT)
- 10+ years experience in office management
With her ever-present smile and "can do" spirt, Cindy answers phones, gives tours, answers every possible question and is also known to make the occasional "Starbuck's run". Cindy's willingness to solve problems and go the extra mile are appreciated by all. Cindy joins the "all girls club" with three daughters of her own; in fact the 8 daughters of Cindy, Carol & Evelyn were all school friends during their elementary & high school years.
Riverwood Gate Campus
Veronika Sadowska
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant Program
Miss Veronika is a second generation childcare provider, bringing nine years of ECE experience to our centre, having worked with her mother in a family daycare. Veronika is well known for her warm, bubbly personality and that ever-present smile. Veronika’s passion is books and she enjoys passing that love to the children.
Veronika Sadowska
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant Program
Miss Veronika is a second generation childcare provider, bringing nine years of ECE experience to our centre, having worked with her mother in a family daycare. Veronika is well known for her warm, bubbly personality and that ever-present smile. Veronika’s passion is books and she enjoys passing that love to the children.
Heather Campbell
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Special Needs Educator (SNE)
3-5 yr old program
Miss Heather joins our 3-5 year old team as our fourth teacher in the room ?" contributing to the curriculum and classroom management. She brings 16 years of teaching experience from preschools and daycares in the Maple Ridge area. She has a real heart for children and desires to build into their lives. Miss Heather loves country dancing and is an advocate of alternative medicine. Her backyard has been turned into a vegetable garden and she enjoys eating the fruits of her labour (although the yams are not a hit with everyone). Mother of 4 and grandmother of 5 ?" Miss Heather brings caring, creativity, imagination and energy to the classroom
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Special Needs Educator (SNE)
3-5 yr old program
Miss Heather joins our 3-5 year old team as our fourth teacher in the room ?" contributing to the curriculum and classroom management. She brings 16 years of teaching experience from preschools and daycares in the Maple Ridge area. She has a real heart for children and desires to build into their lives. Miss Heather loves country dancing and is an advocate of alternative medicine. Her backyard has been turned into a vegetable garden and she enjoys eating the fruits of her labour (although the yams are not a hit with everyone). Mother of 4 and grandmother of 5 ?" Miss Heather brings caring, creativity, imagination and energy to the classroom
Jaqueline Hombrebueno
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Toddler Program
Miss Jacqui brings warmth and a quick smile to children and co-workers alike. Well loved for her motherly & nurturing ways - children love to come to Miss Jacquie for their hugs. As a mother of 4 children (from university age to kindergarten) Jacquie has always loved children and loves to see each and every child feel special. When she can, Jacqui loves to bake - especially a Filipino desert called biko (rice cake with coconut cream.)
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Toddler Program
Miss Jacqui brings warmth and a quick smile to children and co-workers alike. Well loved for her motherly & nurturing ways - children love to come to Miss Jacquie for their hugs. As a mother of 4 children (from university age to kindergarten) Jacquie has always loved children and loves to see each and every child feel special. When she can, Jacqui loves to bake - especially a Filipino desert called biko (rice cake with coconut cream.)
Adam Cornford
Before and After School Care
Mr. Adam joins our school aged program with his unique male perspective -adding his energy and ideas for our growing boys & girls. His 7+ years experience working with children and youth (as a youth leader, summer camp staff and coach) along with his qualifications in Youth Justice will contribute to the safe and fun environment that he loves to create for children. He is known for his keen sense of humour and his great ability to build bridges with children & parents. Welcome to our team!
Before and After School Care
Mr. Adam joins our school aged program with his unique male perspective -adding his energy and ideas for our growing boys & girls. His 7+ years experience working with children and youth (as a youth leader, summer camp staff and coach) along with his qualifications in Youth Justice will contribute to the safe and fun environment that he loves to create for children. He is known for his keen sense of humour and his great ability to build bridges with children & parents. Welcome to our team!
Amy Reid
Early Childhood Educator Assistant
Preschool
Miss Amy will be assisting with our AM & PM preschools. A natural with children, she is known for her calm and loving nature. Miss Amy has two daughters of her own, and along with the neighbourhood children, she has helped them with crafts, sewing and baking. Actually, ever since the birth of her girls, Miss Amy has been contributing back to the community starting with La Leche League (breastfeeding support for new moms), school volunteering and past coordinator for the Coquitlam Skating Club.
Early Childhood Educator Assistant
Preschool
Miss Amy will be assisting with our AM & PM preschools. A natural with children, she is known for her calm and loving nature. Miss Amy has two daughters of her own, and along with the neighbourhood children, she has helped them with crafts, sewing and baking. Actually, ever since the birth of her girls, Miss Amy has been contributing back to the community starting with La Leche League (breastfeeding support for new moms), school volunteering and past coordinator for the Coquitlam Skating Club.
Nila Habib
Infant and Toddler Educator(ITE )
Infant Program
Miss Nila, along with her sister, Rebeka, comes to us from Sweden, where she lived for 13 years, and worked with preschool aged children for 5 years. While living in Sweden, Nila bicycled everywhere. That’s a good thing, because Nila has a bit of a “lead” foot while driving her car and incurred stiff fines of 200 Swedish Kroner ($30) per kilometer over the posted limit! Nila loves all type of music, especially ABBA and Celine Dion. She is hoping to get in shape with some yoga and take some more time to explore Vancouver.
Infant and Toddler Educator(ITE )
Infant Program
Miss Nila, along with her sister, Rebeka, comes to us from Sweden, where she lived for 13 years, and worked with preschool aged children for 5 years. While living in Sweden, Nila bicycled everywhere. That’s a good thing, because Nila has a bit of a “lead” foot while driving her car and incurred stiff fines of 200 Swedish Kroner ($30) per kilometer over the posted limit! Nila loves all type of music, especially ABBA and Celine Dion. She is hoping to get in shape with some yoga and take some more time to explore Vancouver.
Isabel Jordan-Yassan
Before and After School Care, Program Assistant
Miss Isabel joins our team with 10+ years experience working with children of all ages. She has experience as a preschool teacher assistant, organizing volleyball for children and a special needs assistant. Her enthusiasm is infectious and she loves to share laughter and play with the children. She is an avid volleyball player (indoor or beach) and also enjoys yoga and oil painting. Isabel is very multicultural, born in Mexico, a citizen of both Iran and the USA and now a Canadian resident. We welcome Isabel and hope that our “liquid sunshine” will be as refreshing to her as the Arizona sun of the last 10 years..
Before and After School Care, Program Assistant
Miss Isabel joins our team with 10+ years experience working with children of all ages. She has experience as a preschool teacher assistant, organizing volleyball for children and a special needs assistant. Her enthusiasm is infectious and she loves to share laughter and play with the children. She is an avid volleyball player (indoor or beach) and also enjoys yoga and oil painting. Isabel is very multicultural, born in Mexico, a citizen of both Iran and the USA and now a Canadian resident. We welcome Isabel and hope that our “liquid sunshine” will be as refreshing to her as the Arizona sun of the last 10 years..
Jennifer Taylor
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
3-5yr & Toddler Programs
Miss Jen has worked with children for 4 years and absolutely loves them! Known for her sweet and patient ways, she loves to be on their level • on the floor playing with them or bending down to hear their excited words! She particularly enjoys developing the arts & crafts curriculum. Besides trying to stay in shape with regular exercise, Jen really enjoys sewing. She has sewn clothes for herself as well as her whole bedroom ensemble! Hawaii is a favourite vacation spot • aloha!
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
3-5yr & Toddler Programs
Miss Jen has worked with children for 4 years and absolutely loves them! Known for her sweet and patient ways, she loves to be on their level • on the floor playing with them or bending down to hear their excited words! She particularly enjoys developing the arts & crafts curriculum. Besides trying to stay in shape with regular exercise, Jen really enjoys sewing. She has sewn clothes for herself as well as her whole bedroom ensemble! Hawaii is a favourite vacation spot • aloha!
Christie-Lee McKee
Before and After School Care
An original Tri-City resident, Christie-Lee has been working with children for 11 years. The love of her life is her 4 year old daughter Mya; together they enjoy camping at Summerland, card games and crafts. Known for her spontaneity and energy, Christie-Lee loves to just “have a laugh” with the children. She is relaxed, patient and a very good listener/ problem solver. Growing up, she was involved with baseball for 8 years and all aspects of dance (jazz, tap & ballet).
Before and After School Care
An original Tri-City resident, Christie-Lee has been working with children for 11 years. The love of her life is her 4 year old daughter Mya; together they enjoy camping at Summerland, card games and crafts. Known for her spontaneity and energy, Christie-Lee loves to just “have a laugh” with the children. She is relaxed, patient and a very good listener/ problem solver. Growing up, she was involved with baseball for 8 years and all aspects of dance (jazz, tap & ballet).
Lesley Croze
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Preschool
Miss Lesley comes to us with 17 years experience as a preschool teacher, primarily in North Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. She is a certified High Scope Preschool Curriculum Specialist, which focuses on active participatory learning. She loves this profession because every day is new and exciting • especially when she is a part of a child’s joy in learning. Miss Lesley will always be remembered for the day that she came to preschool in her wedding dress! Her preschoolers were delighted and the idea of marriage & family was integrated into her curriculum. Yoga, running, gardening and reading are past-times that provide Miss Lesley with a lot of enjoyment. With a French Canadian connection through her husband, the whole family enjoys poutine and the Montreal Canadiens!
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Preschool
Miss Lesley comes to us with 17 years experience as a preschool teacher, primarily in North Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. She is a certified High Scope Preschool Curriculum Specialist, which focuses on active participatory learning. She loves this profession because every day is new and exciting • especially when she is a part of a child’s joy in learning. Miss Lesley will always be remembered for the day that she came to preschool in her wedding dress! Her preschoolers were delighted and the idea of marriage & family was integrated into her curriculum. Yoga, running, gardening and reading are past-times that provide Miss Lesley with a lot of enjoyment. With a French Canadian connection through her husband, the whole family enjoys poutine and the Montreal Canadiens!
Candace Sparling
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Toddler Program
Miss Candace is a natural with young children. She always felt she wanted to work with children, especially the younger ones, she enjoys the way they communicate and how quickly they learn. Miss Candace is a mother of two boys and rolls with the punches very easily. She brings to Brightstart many years of Childcare experience and has already learned to jump right in with the children and staff. Some of you may be surprised to know Miss Candice has taken up knitting in her spare time and also, loves to dance.
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Toddler Program
Miss Candace is a natural with young children. She always felt she wanted to work with children, especially the younger ones, she enjoys the way they communicate and how quickly they learn. Miss Candace is a mother of two boys and rolls with the punches very easily. She brings to Brightstart many years of Childcare experience and has already learned to jump right in with the children and staff. Some of you may be surprised to know Miss Candice has taken up knitting in her spare time and also, loves to dance.
Rebekah Habib
Infant and Toddler Educator(ITE)
Infant & Toddler Programs
Miss Rebeka, along with her sister Nila, comes to us from Sweden, where she lived for 13 years. There she worked for 5 years with preschool aged children in a Förskola. In Sweden, children of all ages are together in a smaller ”family” grouping. Besides her family and friends, Miss Rebeka misses the mid-summer celebration known as, Midsommardagen, a major holiday in Sweden. Rebeka enjoys the four seasons of Canada and appreciates the nice & hot summers. She would love to learn another language and learn to sing!
Infant and Toddler Educator(ITE)
Infant & Toddler Programs
Miss Rebeka, along with her sister Nila, comes to us from Sweden, where she lived for 13 years. There she worked for 5 years with preschool aged children in a Förskola. In Sweden, children of all ages are together in a smaller ”family” grouping. Besides her family and friends, Miss Rebeka misses the mid-summer celebration known as, Midsommardagen, a major holiday in Sweden. Rebeka enjoys the four seasons of Canada and appreciates the nice & hot summers. She would love to learn another language and learn to sing!
Neda Salari
Infant & Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator
Infant program
Miss Neda comes to us with 20 years of experience working with children. She raised two children of her own and also helped to raise her niece and nephew. At a young age she knew she wanted to teach children how to experience new things. She is always observing to see what children are interested in and then thinks of creative ways to engage their interests. You can often see her making big batches of colourful play dough for the children to play with. She loves all children but adores working with the infants. She is particularly good at telling stores and singing songs, she uses lots of action and movement to interest the children. Always with a smile on her face, Miss Neda often says that she gets her energy from the children.
Infant & Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator
Infant program
Miss Neda comes to us with 20 years of experience working with children. She raised two children of her own and also helped to raise her niece and nephew. At a young age she knew she wanted to teach children how to experience new things. She is always observing to see what children are interested in and then thinks of creative ways to engage their interests. You can often see her making big batches of colourful play dough for the children to play with. She loves all children but adores working with the infants. She is particularly good at telling stores and singing songs, she uses lots of action and movement to interest the children. Always with a smile on her face, Miss Neda often says that she gets her energy from the children.
Jayme Stanfield
Early Childhood Educator
3-5 Year Old program
Miss Jayme’s enthusiasm is contagious; children are naturally drawn to her. During circle time, she commands the children’s attention as her voice is very animated and she’s a creative story teller. Other staff have said that if Miss Jayme wasn’t teaching she should be acting. Miss Jayme has always loved children and spends a great deal of her spare time with her young nieces. Definitely a very creative person • she enjoys painting with acrylics, photography and scrapbooking. Camping at Allouette and making/eating S’Mores is her idea of summer fun!
Early Childhood Educator
3-5 Year Old program
Miss Jayme’s enthusiasm is contagious; children are naturally drawn to her. During circle time, she commands the children’s attention as her voice is very animated and she’s a creative story teller. Other staff have said that if Miss Jayme wasn’t teaching she should be acting. Miss Jayme has always loved children and spends a great deal of her spare time with her young nieces. Definitely a very creative person • she enjoys painting with acrylics, photography and scrapbooking. Camping at Allouette and making/eating S’Mores is her idea of summer fun!
Jacquie Steffen
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Jacquie joins us with three years’ experience with a multitude of age groups. She is well known for her spirit of adventure and curiosity and she enjoys inspiring young children to a world of discovery. She loves planning outdoor activities and is known for sensory activities in nature and science. Miss Jacquie has a sense of adventure and besides a relaxing afternoon of kayaking, she has gone sky-diving and hang-gliding. As a tea-lover, Miss Jacquie has experienced owning her own tea shop in the lower mainland. She is planning on furthering her qualifications by continuing with her post-basic training for infants and toddlers. At some point in time, she hopes to travel to Australia. G’day mate
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Jacquie joins us with three years’ experience with a multitude of age groups. She is well known for her spirit of adventure and curiosity and she enjoys inspiring young children to a world of discovery. She loves planning outdoor activities and is known for sensory activities in nature and science. Miss Jacquie has a sense of adventure and besides a relaxing afternoon of kayaking, she has gone sky-diving and hang-gliding. As a tea-lover, Miss Jacquie has experienced owning her own tea shop in the lower mainland. She is planning on furthering her qualifications by continuing with her post-basic training for infants and toddlers. At some point in time, she hopes to travel to Australia. G’day mate
Rowena Romero
ECE-Assistant
3-5 year old program
Miss Rowena brings dedication and commitment to the children of our 3-5 yr old program. She is a strong family advocate and, for numerous years, has volunteered with children and families. Originally from the Philippines, Miss Rowena moved with her family to Saudi Arabia for 7½ years before coming to Canada. Her work at the palace hospital was rewarding, but initially she experienced great culture shock, seeing all of the covered woman. She loves to cook; family favourites include traditional Filipino dishes along with Middle Eastern fare, including hummus, kabobs and roast lamb. She finds great satisfaction in being a part of a child’s growing years. Miss Rowena truly believes that “Children are a blessing."
ECE-Assistant
3-5 year old program
Miss Rowena brings dedication and commitment to the children of our 3-5 yr old program. She is a strong family advocate and, for numerous years, has volunteered with children and families. Originally from the Philippines, Miss Rowena moved with her family to Saudi Arabia for 7½ years before coming to Canada. Her work at the palace hospital was rewarding, but initially she experienced great culture shock, seeing all of the covered woman. She loves to cook; family favourites include traditional Filipino dishes along with Middle Eastern fare, including hummus, kabobs and roast lamb. She finds great satisfaction in being a part of a child’s growing years. Miss Rowena truly believes that “Children are a blessing."
Jessie Kriel
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Jessie joins our Infant and Toddler team with 6 years of experience. She has always known that she would be a teacher & decided to focus on the early years because she loves to see their milestones and development. As a mother to 1 year old Logan, she has a particular fondness for the infant & toddler age group • noting that they “just make me happy”. Miss Jessie is also trained in Baby Sign Language & uses signs with infants to give them communication skills. Miss Jessie also has Mother Goose Training - which gives her the skills to entertain and build relationships with children without the use of props • perfect for outdoor time or getting diapers changed. Miss Jessie loves all types of crafts including sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking and card-making. She loves a nice warm holiday as well with a little bit of R & R and a little bit of adventure.
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Jessie joins our Infant and Toddler team with 6 years of experience. She has always known that she would be a teacher & decided to focus on the early years because she loves to see their milestones and development. As a mother to 1 year old Logan, she has a particular fondness for the infant & toddler age group • noting that they “just make me happy”. Miss Jessie is also trained in Baby Sign Language & uses signs with infants to give them communication skills. Miss Jessie also has Mother Goose Training - which gives her the skills to entertain and build relationships with children without the use of props • perfect for outdoor time or getting diapers changed. Miss Jessie loves all types of crafts including sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking and card-making. She loves a nice warm holiday as well with a little bit of R & R and a little bit of adventure.
Eleonora Mah
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Full of life and energy, Miss Eleonora comes to us with over 20 years childcare experience. Initially she operated a home-based centre so that she could be with her children In time, Miss Eleonora branched out to larger Tri-City centres and decided to specialize with the infant and toddler age group. Known as an avid learner, Miss Eleonora keeps up-to-date with anything child related. Her current bedside material is "Potty Training" and "Are you Listening?". She loves to cross stitch and going for walks with her husband. They go to the park and pretend that they are dating - walking slowly, holding hands. Originally from tropical El Salvador, Miss Eleonora loves Lower Mainland rain. In fact, she says she sleeps better when it is raining - it reminds her of home.
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Full of life and energy, Miss Eleonora comes to us with over 20 years childcare experience. Initially she operated a home-based centre so that she could be with her children In time, Miss Eleonora branched out to larger Tri-City centres and decided to specialize with the infant and toddler age group. Known as an avid learner, Miss Eleonora keeps up-to-date with anything child related. Her current bedside material is "Potty Training" and "Are you Listening?". She loves to cross stitch and going for walks with her husband. They go to the park and pretend that they are dating - walking slowly, holding hands. Originally from tropical El Salvador, Miss Eleonora loves Lower Mainland rain. In fact, she says she sleeps better when it is raining - it reminds her of home.
Emma Gaciu
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
3 - 5 year old Program
With 4 years experience Miss Emma brings backgrounds in Montessori and play-based curriculums. She looks forward to integrating the best of both styles at BrightStart • allowing her to get on the floor with the children, as well as encouraging them in their early learning. As a sister to 5 brothers, Emma has always loved children and knew that working as an ECE teacher would give her a job that she loves coming to every day. Miss Emma loves to cook • especially cuisine from other cultures. She is currently discovering some of her Italian heritage, learning about different types of pasta dishes. Interestingly, Emma was born in Romania and moved to Canada at 2 years of age. She is looking forward to a large family reunion in Europe 2012 - meeting family in Romania for the first time. And, yes, the curls are natural!
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
3 - 5 year old Program
With 4 years experience Miss Emma brings backgrounds in Montessori and play-based curriculums. She looks forward to integrating the best of both styles at BrightStart • allowing her to get on the floor with the children, as well as encouraging them in their early learning. As a sister to 5 brothers, Emma has always loved children and knew that working as an ECE teacher would give her a job that she loves coming to every day. Miss Emma loves to cook • especially cuisine from other cultures. She is currently discovering some of her Italian heritage, learning about different types of pasta dishes. Interestingly, Emma was born in Romania and moved to Canada at 2 years of age. She is looking forward to a large family reunion in Europe 2012 - meeting family in Romania for the first time. And, yes, the curls are natural!
Christi Marks
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler program
Christi, mother of two children, comes to us with 6 years experience in the childcare field. Known for her bubbly personality, children and families are drawn to her happy personality. In addition to her love of science & art curriculums, Christi enjoys reading. A self-confessed “Twihard” she also enjoys a good crime book. Christi loves Rocky Point Park and goes there often with her children. Another enjoyable activity is taking the sea taxi at Granville Island. Christi likes to relax with some hobbies including scrapbooking and cross-stitch.
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler program
Christi, mother of two children, comes to us with 6 years experience in the childcare field. Known for her bubbly personality, children and families are drawn to her happy personality. In addition to her love of science & art curriculums, Christi enjoys reading. A self-confessed “Twihard” she also enjoys a good crime book. Christi loves Rocky Point Park and goes there often with her children. Another enjoyable activity is taking the sea taxi at Granville Island. Christi likes to relax with some hobbies including scrapbooking and cross-stitch.
Farzanah Hosnieh Sani
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
3 - 5 year old Program
Miss Sani joins our team with over 5 years of early childhood experience, including both Montessori and play-based curriculums. She loves children of all ages but really enjoys interacting with the preschoolers, listening to what they have to teach her. In her spare time she spends time with her four-year old niece, she says she is like a second mom to her. Farzaneh speaks 3 languages and loves cooking and baking. She likes finding new recipes from different cultures and using new spices. We all look forward to sampling some of her food.
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
3 - 5 year old Program
Miss Sani joins our team with over 5 years of early childhood experience, including both Montessori and play-based curriculums. She loves children of all ages but really enjoys interacting with the preschoolers, listening to what they have to teach her. In her spare time she spends time with her four-year old niece, she says she is like a second mom to her. Farzaneh speaks 3 languages and loves cooking and baking. She likes finding new recipes from different cultures and using new spices. We all look forward to sampling some of her food.
Andrea Yuill
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
AM/PM Preschool
Miss Andrea has been working with children for 10 years. She loves planning programs and implementing ideas that will help children learn and grow. She feels every child needs both individual and group attention in order to feel special and fit into a group and is also strongly influenced by the Reggio Emilia approach (emergent/responsive curriculum). Miss Andrea enjoys being outside and being active, she likes to spend time doing activities with her children. She also enjoys being inspired by a good recipe.
Early Childhood Educator(ECE)
AM/PM Preschool
Miss Andrea has been working with children for 10 years. She loves planning programs and implementing ideas that will help children learn and grow. She feels every child needs both individual and group attention in order to feel special and fit into a group and is also strongly influenced by the Reggio Emilia approach (emergent/responsive curriculum). Miss Andrea enjoys being outside and being active, she likes to spend time doing activities with her children. She also enjoys being inspired by a good recipe.
Mari-Ellen McCartney
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
AM/PM Preschool
Miss Mari-Ellen has been working with children for over 20 years. She still keeps her passion for teaching by always learning and getting her inspiration from the children. She has a wonderful sense of humour and a gentle spirit which works well with young children. One of the areas she loves to teach is reading and exploring different books with the children. She has studied some ESL and Phonics classes as well. Miss Mari-Ellen is a music enthusiast, everything from big band, hymns, rock, and some country music.When she has time she also enjoys cooking and baking.
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
AM/PM Preschool
Miss Mari-Ellen has been working with children for over 20 years. She still keeps her passion for teaching by always learning and getting her inspiration from the children. She has a wonderful sense of humour and a gentle spirit which works well with young children. One of the areas she loves to teach is reading and exploring different books with the children. She has studied some ESL and Phonics classes as well. Miss Mari-Ellen is a music enthusiast, everything from big band, hymns, rock, and some country music.When she has time she also enjoys cooking and baking.
Aliya Nurani
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler Educator (in-training)
Infant &Toddler Program
Miss Aliya is known for her love and commitment to children under her care. She has been working with children professionally for almost 12 years and was always told by others that “does so well” with children. Toddlers are her passion and she loves to share her love of books and music with them. She loves to visit large cities such as New York, Washington (DC) and London England and has been known to spend a whole week just visiting museums. Her smile is contagious as well as her obvious delight in children; we welcome her to the team!
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler Educator (in-training)
Infant &Toddler Program
Miss Aliya is known for her love and commitment to children under her care. She has been working with children professionally for almost 12 years and was always told by others that “does so well” with children. Toddlers are her passion and she loves to share her love of books and music with them. She loves to visit large cities such as New York, Washington (DC) and London England and has been known to spend a whole week just visiting museums. Her smile is contagious as well as her obvious delight in children; we welcome her to the team!
Ann Waring-Jones
ECE-Assistant
School Aged Care
Miss Ann is a busy mother of four children, She has had a diverse background and loves working with children of all ages. She just recently completed an on-line Teacher Assistant program and is eager to put her learning into practice. She is a great communicator and has a passion for kids. She loves crafting, colouring, painting and making projects. She will bring her creative side to our OOSC program. When Miss Ann is not working or caring for her family, she enjoys, reading a good book, walking her dog and visiting with family and friends
ECE-Assistant
School Aged Care
Miss Ann is a busy mother of four children, She has had a diverse background and loves working with children of all ages. She just recently completed an on-line Teacher Assistant program and is eager to put her learning into practice. She is a great communicator and has a passion for kids. She loves crafting, colouring, painting and making projects. She will bring her creative side to our OOSC program. When Miss Ann is not working or caring for her family, she enjoys, reading a good book, walking her dog and visiting with family and friends
Deborah Fowler
Eaarly Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler Program
Miss Deborah is a woman that successfully wears many different hats, she is a mother of two, runs a merchandising and mystery shopping business and has worked for over 10 years with children - teaching and care giving. She brings with her a love for children and lots on positive energy. We look forward to her contributions here at BrighStart
Eaarly Childhood Educator (ECE)
Infant & Toddler Program
Miss Deborah is a woman that successfully wears many different hats, she is a mother of two, runs a merchandising and mystery shopping business and has worked for over 10 years with children - teaching and care giving. She brings with her a love for children and lots on positive energy. We look forward to her contributions here at BrighStart
Connie Lee
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE), Special Needs
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Connie joins our team with many years of teaching experience. Miss Connie taught writing and literature in middle school and high school in Korea before moving with her husband and family to Canada six years ago. Miss Connie is often seen with a guitar in her hand, playing and singing with the children. She is a busy mom with two children of her own - a son in grade 3 and daughter in grade 6. Miss Connie’s gentle spirit and love for children will be a wonderful addition.
Infant Toddler Educator (ITE), Special Needs
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Connie joins our team with many years of teaching experience. Miss Connie taught writing and literature in middle school and high school in Korea before moving with her husband and family to Canada six years ago. Miss Connie is often seen with a guitar in her hand, playing and singing with the children. She is a busy mom with two children of her own - a son in grade 3 and daughter in grade 6. Miss Connie’s gentle spirit and love for children will be a wonderful addition.
Peachie Salonga
ECE-Assistant
3-5 year old Program
Miss Peachie joins our team with 5+ experience as a elementary school teacher in the Philippines. She loves to teach and watch a child’s character development - we look forward to her showing our little ones their Ps & Qs. Miss Peachie’s name is actually Eufrocina, which provided her with a nickname of "Peshie" however in Canada it slowly evolved into Peachie. Cooking is a passion including traditional Filipino as well as some international cuisine for her children. Meat filled empanadas are a favourite. In her spare time, Peachie loves to walk or run along the PoCo Trail with her husband. Interestingly, in addition to teaching elementary school, Peachie also studied Food Technology - maybe she will give some cooking lessons in the evening!
ECE-Assistant
3-5 year old Program
Miss Peachie joins our team with 5+ experience as a elementary school teacher in the Philippines. She loves to teach and watch a child’s character development - we look forward to her showing our little ones their Ps & Qs. Miss Peachie’s name is actually Eufrocina, which provided her with a nickname of "Peshie" however in Canada it slowly evolved into Peachie. Cooking is a passion including traditional Filipino as well as some international cuisine for her children. Meat filled empanadas are a favourite. In her spare time, Peachie loves to walk or run along the PoCo Trail with her husband. Interestingly, in addition to teaching elementary school, Peachie also studied Food Technology - maybe she will give some cooking lessons in the evening!
Rosa Shin
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Rosa joins us from North Van, bringing 5 years’ experience with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Originally from Korea, Rosa also enjoyed a 10 year career as teacher. Rosa enjoys camping with her son (just graduated high school) - in fact when they moved from Toronto to Vancouver; they took 8 days and camped all the way! Banff and the Rockies were a favourite. Rosa has always been captivated by the “Anne of Green Gables” books and hopes to go to PEI one day to see the home of the famous redhead! Rosa enjoys playing pop songs and Mozart on the piano. As a teacher and caregiver, it is Rosa’s desire to help the children under her care build a strong foundation - teaching them the skills that they need to flourish.
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Rosa joins us from North Van, bringing 5 years’ experience with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Originally from Korea, Rosa also enjoyed a 10 year career as teacher. Rosa enjoys camping with her son (just graduated high school) - in fact when they moved from Toronto to Vancouver; they took 8 days and camped all the way! Banff and the Rockies were a favourite. Rosa has always been captivated by the “Anne of Green Gables” books and hopes to go to PEI one day to see the home of the famous redhead! Rosa enjoys playing pop songs and Mozart on the piano. As a teacher and caregiver, it is Rosa’s desire to help the children under her care build a strong foundation - teaching them the skills that they need to flourish.
Bahareh Bahraminejad
ECE Assistant
Out of School Care, Program Assistant
Affectionately known as “Miss B”, Bahareh brings her warmth and smile to our facility. She was born in Tehran, the capital of Iran, and is the oldest of two girls; her younger sister is her best friend. (that’s wonderful) She has her Masters degree in English and has a natural gift of teaching. She continues to teach and help adults with English. Miss B also enjoys teaching young children, having one young child of her own - she has lots of patience. She says that the kids make her laugh and bring a young innocence to our lives that she finds inspiring. When she is not working, she relaxes at home with her family and may finding her watching reality T.V.
ECE Assistant
Out of School Care, Program Assistant
Affectionately known as “Miss B”, Bahareh brings her warmth and smile to our facility. She was born in Tehran, the capital of Iran, and is the oldest of two girls; her younger sister is her best friend. (that’s wonderful) She has her Masters degree in English and has a natural gift of teaching. She continues to teach and help adults with English. Miss B also enjoys teaching young children, having one young child of her own - she has lots of patience. She says that the kids make her laugh and bring a young innocence to our lives that she finds inspiring. When she is not working, she relaxes at home with her family and may finding her watching reality T.V.
Michelle Mullin
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)(ITE Pending)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Michelle brings 13 years of experience working with children of all ages. She is known for her warmth, compassion and great program ideas and she is a great supporter of responsive/emergent curriculum. Even as a young girl, she has always had that nurturing touch with children and was known as a “kid magnet” - children just seemed to be drawn to her. Michelle is an avid outdoors person - enjoying canoeing, kayaking and hiking with her family. She is a mother of two daughters and two pet dogs. Michelle enjoys baking and taking every opportunity to make a recipe nice and healthy.
Early Childhood Educator (ECE)(ITE Pending)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Michelle brings 13 years of experience working with children of all ages. She is known for her warmth, compassion and great program ideas and she is a great supporter of responsive/emergent curriculum. Even as a young girl, she has always had that nurturing touch with children and was known as a “kid magnet” - children just seemed to be drawn to her. Michelle is an avid outdoors person - enjoying canoeing, kayaking and hiking with her family. She is a mother of two daughters and two pet dogs. Michelle enjoys baking and taking every opportunity to make a recipe nice and healthy.
Ramona Hoogland
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Ramona joins us with 8 years of experience, with the majority of that time spent with infants and toddlers. Known for her loving and caring ways around children, she will often be seen on the floor, playing with them. She is a strong advocate of a responsive approach to childcare including the Reggio and Emergent philosophies. She believes that art should be process oriented - not product oriented - so children under her care will have lots of fun just creating and discovering. Miss Ramona’s other passion is ballroom and Latin dancing. She is a student at the intermediate level and she also teaches adult beginner level classes. She also enjoys performing at a dance showcase - cha-cha-cha!
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Ramona joins us with 8 years of experience, with the majority of that time spent with infants and toddlers. Known for her loving and caring ways around children, she will often be seen on the floor, playing with them. She is a strong advocate of a responsive approach to childcare including the Reggio and Emergent philosophies. She believes that art should be process oriented - not product oriented - so children under her care will have lots of fun just creating and discovering. Miss Ramona’s other passion is ballroom and Latin dancing. She is a student at the intermediate level and she also teaches adult beginner level classes. She also enjoys performing at a dance showcase - cha-cha-cha!
Laurie Shute
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator (SNE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Laurie joins our Toddler program with 11 years of experience as an infant and toddler educator - as a senior teacher within CEFA’s junior kindergarten as well as a play-based facility in Langley She is absolutely passionate about this age group and, as one parent says, “absolutely amazing with the kids.” When not working, scrapbooking is her passion - in fact she can be found at Precious Memories in Langley sharing her enthusiasm with others. Additional hobbies include cake decorating, card making and photography - great skills if she wants to branch out into children’s birthday parties. Commuting from Langley for now, we look forward to her eventual move into the Tri-Cities.
Infant and Toddler Educator (ITE)
Special Needs Educator (SNE)
Infant and Toddler Program
Miss Laurie joins our Toddler program with 11 years of experience as an infant and toddler educator - as a senior teacher within CEFA’s junior kindergarten as well as a play-based facility in Langley She is absolutely passionate about this age group and, as one parent says, “absolutely amazing with the kids.” When not working, scrapbooking is her passion - in fact she can be found at Precious Memories in Langley sharing her enthusiasm with others. Additional hobbies include cake decorating, card making and photography - great skills if she wants to branch out into children’s birthday parties. Commuting from Langley for now, we look forward to her eventual move into the Tri-Cities.
