Meet our Staff

Certified Teachers (OCT)

Mr. Michael | Principal
Mr. Michael Principal

It is my sincere pleasure to be a part of the OVS team. Working alongside experienced teachers and support staff who are all committed to providing a thriving educational environment for our students is a distinct honour.

I started in education as a mathematics teacher after graduating from the Faculty of Education. After years of teaching high school math, I became a Department Head of Mathematics, Vice-Principal and Principal in the York Region DSB.

My passion turned to eLearning when it became clear that there are many students whose needs cannot be met in a day school. After a year of planning, I implemented eLearning in York Region with great success and was appointed Principal of its Virtual Schooling program.

Beyond education, I have spent many years as a volunteer with the Canadian Diabetes Association at the local, provincial, and national levels. In my spare time, I love to golf, camp, garden and do woodworking.

Let us all remember the quote by Carl W. Buechner:

They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

Mr. Russell | Vice Principal
Mr. Russell Vice PrincipalRead More
Dwayne Matthews | Educational Consultant
Dwayne Matthews Educational ConsultantRead More
Ms. Lisa Liu | Regional Co-Director for OVS China
Ms. Lisa Liu Regional Co-Director for OVS ChinaRead More
Ms. Sunny Sang | Regional C0-Director of OVS China
Ms. Sunny Sang Regional C0-Director of OVS ChinaRead More
Ms. Riyo Whitney | Regional Director of Japan
Ms. Riyo Whitney Regional Director of JapanRead More
Mr. Goodman | Media Studies Teacher
Mr. Goodman Media Studies TeacherRead More
Mrs. Lakhani | Business Teacher
Mrs. Lakhani Business TeacherRead More
Ms. Chiara Bertolo| English Teacher
Ms. Chiara Bertolo English TeacherRead More
Ms. Humphreys | English Teacher
Ms. Humphreys English TeacherRead More
Ms. Leitch | Arts Teacher
Ms. Leitch Arts TeacherRead More
Mr. Lewis | Business & Social Science Teacher
Mr. Lewis Business & Social Science TeacherRead More
Msr. MacDonald | French Teacher
Msr. MacDonald French TeacherRead More
Mme. Veneruz | French Teacher
Mme. Veneruz French TeacherRead More
Mr. Dyck | Math Teacher
Mr. Dyck Math TeacherRead More
Ms. Kennedy | Math Teacher
Ms. Kennedy Math TeacherRead More
Mr. May | Math Teacher
Mr. May Math TeacherRead More
Ms. Milburn | Math Teacher
Ms. Milburn Math TeacherRead More
Mr. Simonitto | Physics Teacher
Mr. Simonitto Physics TeacherRead More
Ms. Farooq | Science Teacher
Ms. Farooq Science TeacherRead More
Mr. Wiebe | Science Teacher
Mr. Wiebe Science TeacherRead More
Ms. West | Science Teacher
Ms. West Science TeacherRead More
Ms. Kocheff | History Teacher
Ms. Kocheff History TeacherRead More
Ms. Cuzner | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Cuzner Social Science TeacherRead More
Ms. Lacina | Arts Teacher
Ms. Lacina Arts Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, watching Brit Box, doing puzzles, and creating! I am also an avid reader. 

Ms. Hawkes | Arts Teacher
Ms. Hawkes Arts Teacher

Hobbies: You can usually find me taking my Aussiedoodle Flora to the dog park or on a jog along the Waterfront Trail. When I have a free afternoon, I spend it baking bread, my specialty is Challah, and cooking a three-course whole-food meal.

 

Ms. Mackenzie | Arts Teacher
Ms. Mackenzie Arts Teacher

Hobbies: I love to cook, especially Italian food, but am all for experimenting in the kitchen even if the results are disastrous! I love to read good fiction. Out of all media in the world of art, I  love to paint, with my favorite medium being acrylic and my favorite style being modern.

Mr. Bates | Arts Teacher
Mr. Bates Arts Teacher

Hobbies: I'm an artist everywhere. From the kitchen to the gardens and back to my painting easel, I enjoy being creative in all aspects of my life. I like to bike, go hiking, and spend time at the beach in the summer. Reading is a favourite escape on the weekends, as well as catching up with friends at the cinema. 

"No dress rehearsal, this is our life." – Gord Downie
Ms. Atkinson | Arts Teacher
Ms. Atkinson Arts Teacher
Hobbies: You can usually find me in my studio painting, photographing and playing around with ideas on my iPad. I am an avid traveller and love exploring art and cultures around the world. I also enjoy hot yoga, writing, hanging out in cafes and chatting with my art students around the world.
You are the artist of your life. Don’t give the paintbrush to anyone else. – Chriag Arora
Mr. Hila | Arts Teacher
Mr. Hila Arts Teacher
Hobbies: When I’m not at work, I love being outdoors in nature, meditating, reading, running, writing, playing sports, and being with friends and family.
“In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” — Shunryu Suzuki
Ms. Alelhi Bengoa | Regional Director of OVS Mexico
Ms. Alelhi Bengoa Regional Director of OVS Mexico

For Mexican students looking to inquire about registering with OVS, please contact [email protected]

 

Mr. Guzzo | Business Teacher
Mr. Guzzo Business Teacher

Hobbies:I love to spend my time away from the classroom hiking in the great outdoors, kayak fishing in northern lake, and playing tennis with old friends.  When at home one of my favourite pastimes is watching the Toronto Raptors Basketball team.

“Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity" - Roman philosopher Seneca

Ms. Harrington | Business Teacher
Ms. Harrington Business Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I enjoy being active, taking my dog for lots of walks, spending time with family and friends, country music, and traveling. In the summer I love spending time boating on Lake Huron and in the winter you will often find me skiing up north

"Be kind to one another" - Ellen DeGeneres

Ms. Tomicic | Business Teacher
Ms. Tomicic Business Teacher

Hobbies: When I'm not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, swimming, going for very long walks, and travelling. 

“There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind," - Fred Rogers

Ms. Morton| Business Teacher
Ms. Morton Business Teacher

Hobbies: In addition to teaching, inspiring, and motivating youth I love sports! My favorite sports are basketball, tennis, swimming, and soccer. I enjoy spending time outdoors going for walks.

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou 

Mr. McIntyre | Business Teacher
Mr. McIntyre Business Teacher

Hobbies: When I'm not teaching, I am very much into sports including hockey, baseball and basketball. I like reading and games as a pastime. 

 

Mr. Baechler | Business and Law Teacher
Mr. Baechler Business and Law Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy watching sports, travelling, reading non-fiction or listening to music. My favourite sports are Football and Basketball and my favourite country I have travelled to is Greece. 

"No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care" - Theodore Roosevelt.
Mr. Kirk | Business Teacher
Mr. Kirk Business Teacher

Hobbies: I love to play hockey and get outdoors. I also love to travel, meet interesting people, and most importantly, eat delicious foods from all around the world. I also enjoy reading and spending time with friends and family.

"If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough.” -- Albert Einstein
Ms. Allonby | Business Teacher
Ms. Allonby Business Teacher
Hobbies: I love being immersed in nature and I adore animals. I love walking my two pugs in the nearby forest and basking in the beauty of creation. I also enjoy travelling and experimenting with new foods.
"In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” - Unknown
Ms. Eleveld | Business Teacher
Ms. Eleveld Business Teacher
Hobbies: I love to travel anywhere and everywhere and I have many hobbies to keep myself busy. I love to read, sew, paint, and binge watch Netflix. To stay active, I like to go for long walks with my family, stand-up paddleboard, and play hockey.
"It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” - Albus Dumbledore
Ms. Pe | Business Teacher
Ms. Pe Business Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I love to travel and explore new places, as well as experience a variety of different cuisines from all over the world. I love to cook and bake, and it would be my ultimate dream to one day travel and stay in different places while learning the culinary arts of those regions.
And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it. –Paulo Coelho
Ms. Pegg | Business Teacher
Ms. Pegg Business Teacher
Hobbies: I love nature, spending time with my family, and entrepreneurship. You'll often find me out riding bikes and hiking in the mountains! For inspirational fun, I watch Dragons Den and listen to Guy Raz’s “How I Built This” podcast.
There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it. - Edith Wharton
Ms. Polsinelli | Business Teacher
Ms. Polsinelli Business Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of the classroom, I enjoy getting outdoors, swimming and doing crafts.
You can only become accomplished at something you love. - Maya Angelou
Ms. Cooke | Communications Technology Teacher
Ms. Cooke Communications Technology Teacher

Hobbies: I'm passionate about the outdoors and love spending time hiking mountains or camping in the forest. At home, I'm surrounded by books and spend time reading and watching movies. I'm also constantly being bothered by my two cats!

"Failure is not the outcome, failure is not trying. Don't be afraid to fail." -- Sara Blakely
Ms. McAllan | English Teacher
Ms. McAllan English Teacher

Hobbies: As an avid traveler and outdoors person, you will often find me hiking, canoeing or seeking solace under a tree to read! Outside of teaching and coaching I love spending time with my family and being active!

"All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney 

Ms. Szpyrka | English Teacher
Ms. Szpyrka English Teacher

Hobbies: I am, who I am because of the love, guidance and support of my family. I love to travel and feel my best when I am by the water. I can also be found taking long walks and enjoying the great outdoors during all four seasons.

"Do all things, with kindness, compassion and integrity"

Ms. Gervasi | English Teacher
Ms. Gervasi English Teacher

Hobbies: I absolutely adore to read, I am constantly reading or talking about books that I love. When I am not reading, I am enjoying long walks with my dog, going to the beach, and spending time with family and friends. 

"Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier". -Mother Teresa

Ms. Hunt| English Teacher
Ms. Hunt English Teacher

Hobbies: I've been teaching English, French, and ESL for many years. I've lived off and on in Japan over the years but am based in Toronto. I love playing sports, especially Ultimate Frisbee, and I spend as much time as I can outdoors. I also read a lot of books and recently am especially loving audiobooks

"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." ~Maya Angelou
Ms. Spada | English Teacher
Ms. Spada English Teacher

Hobbies: I am a true literary explorer whom does not confine themselves to a single genre or author. I am an advocate for literacy and believe in the transformative power of books!

“Knowledge itself is power” - Sir Francis Bacon

Mr. Raven | English Teacher
Mr. Raven English Teacher

 As a passionate musician, performer and film maker, I see it as my sacred trust to dovetail my stage and media experience with my teaching strategies resulting in a creative teaching approach, what I would like to call edutainment.

Come and dream with me!

 

Mr. Peltenburg| English Teacher
Mr. Peltenburg English Teacher

Hobbies: Exercise is very important to me (cycling, resistance training, calisthenics). I also play guitar and create music, and produce creative writing in forms of prose and poetry.

 

Ms. Rush | English Teacher
Ms. Rush English Teacher

I have been a high school English and Drama teacher for over 25 years in York Region, and I am looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to OVS.

“A fool thinks himself to be wise, but a wise man knows himself to be a fool. “ William Shakespeare 

Ms. Izquierdo | English Teacher
Ms. Izquierdo English Teacher

Hobbies: You will often find me travelling, reading, watching the latest true crime documentary or a quirky dramedy, baking, and enjoying all things soccer.

“You can tell the deepest truths with the lies of fiction”- Isabel Allende

Ms. Jensen | English Teacher
Ms. Jensen English Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, biking and camping with my family.  I also enjoy eating good food and reading great books.  

To Thine Own Self Be True" - Shakespeare 

Ms. Fraser | English Teacher
Ms. Fraser English Teacher

Hobbies: When I make time to play, I love to read, journal, meditate, spend time outdoors, and be with my family and animals. 

"When you give joy to other people, you get more joy in return."  Eleanor Roosevelt

Mr. Balboa | English Teacher
Mr. Balboa English Teacher

Hobbies: Beyond education, I enjoy travelling, photography, the arts, and relaxing among nature. Literary genres that I like are: drama, poetry, and fiction. 

"Today or never!" - Author Unknown 
Ms. Dever | English Teacher
Ms. Dever English Teacher
Hobbies: I love playing all sports and spending my summers at the cottage!
"Hustle beats talent when talent doesn't hustle"
Ms. Di Sebastiano | English Teacher
Ms. Di Sebastiano English Teacher
Hobbies: In addition to being an avid reader, I also love painting, hiking, travelling and most importantly playing with my cat. When I'm not enjoying one of these hobbies you can find me cooking up a storm in the kitchen... mostly Italian cuisine!
There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid. - L. Frank Baum
Mr. Escobar | English Teacher
Mr. Escobar English Teacher
Hobbies: If I’m not exploring nature and learning about local wildlife, I’m probably getting lost in a comic book or manga.
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” ~ Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Mr. Ford | English Teacher
Mr. Ford English Teacher
Hobbies: As a certified Trainer and Coach for Baseball Canada, I have come to realize the importance of putting the needs of others first. In my free time, I love hiking, keeping fit and all outdoor activities.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. – Nelson Mandela
Ms. Kavcic | English Teacher
Ms. Kavcic English Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling the world and immersing myself in different cultures. When I'm not travelling, you can find me cycling or hiking with my four-legged friend, Buddy. I can also be found curled up on the couch reading a good book.
Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory. - Dr. Seuss
Ms. Mathieu | English Teacher
Ms. Mathieu English Teacher
Hobbies: Besides my adoration for teaching English, I love spending time with my family, gardening, and hiking with my doodle dogs. I also enjoy reading all types of novels on the beach hence I am passionate for travelling. My favourite destinations so far have been Japan, Spain, and Scotland. Hopefully, I will continue to discover many other travel destinations soon.
Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom. - Oprah Winfrey
Mr. Murphy | English Teacher
Mr. Murphy English Teacher
Hobbies: In my spare time, you will find me in the gym improving my strength and physique, or in the pool going for a swim. People say I live at the gym. Living a healthy lifestyle is a big part of my life. I also like to read, play video games, and watch retro movies.
Never, never, never give up. – Winston Churchill
Mr. Persad | English Teacher
Mr. Persad English Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy teaching English and reading.
Failure is my enemy. – Pundit Hari Prashad
Ms. Ironside | English Teacher
Ms. Ironside English Teacher
If I am not cuddled up reading a good book in front of a fire -- I am hiking a mountain and taking in the marvels of the world. Life is short: Carpe Diem
"I want to be in the arena. I want to be brave with my life. And when we make the choice to dare greatly, we sign up to get our a***s kicked. We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can’t have both. Not at the same time.” - Brene Brown
Ms. Mackenzie | English Teacher
Ms. Mackenzie English Teacher

I really enjoy reading, drawing, and hiking with my dog! I love taking pictures while I’m out in nature, especially during the summer and fall. My favourite way to relax is by re-watching beloved sitcoms or seeing a scary movie.

"Fiction and essays can create empathy for the theoretical stranger” - Barbara Kingsolver
Ms. Keenan | English Teacher
Ms. Keenan English Teacher
Some of my hobbies include reading, video games, and dance! Along with teaching humans, I am also very passionate about dog training. Willow, the light of my life, is my rescue dog from Mexico, she is very afraid of the world, and when I'm not teaching I am working with her to help her become confident and successful in this big world!
"Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” - Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Mr. Rita | English Teacher
Mr. Rita English Teacher
I enjoy travelling, reading, and spending time with friends and family. When I am not learning and teaching, you will find me playing piano or learning new instruments, going on hikes, or directing my local community theatre’s newest productions.
“The purpose of a good education is to show you that there are three sides to a two-sided story” – Stanley Fish
Ms. Sturino | English Teacher
Ms. Sturino English Teacher
Hobbies: My hobbies include travelling the world, cooking and baking – I try at least 3 new recipes a month; fitness and health are passions of mine, and I love to learn. Family and friends are dear to my heart.
The journey of a thousand miles begin with one step. – Lao Tzu
Mme. Chankseliani | French Teacher
Mme. Chankseliani French Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, baking, bouldering/climbing, and going on adventures with my golden retriever. I also love going to comedy shows, doing escape rooms, watching movies, and reading books.

“On ne voit bien qu’avec le coeur. L’essentiel est invisible pour les yeux.” - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Ms. Elliott | Spanish Teacher
Ms. Elliott Spanish Teacher

Hobbies: I am very active and I love to exercise and occasionally play sports. I love spending time with loved ones and visiting new countries as much as I can.

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” – Dr. Mae Jamison

Ms. Saghian | Farsi Teacher
Ms. Saghian Farsi Teacher

Hobbies: My hobbies include outdoor activities, gardening, designing, playing the piano, cooking, walking, biking, reading books, watching movies, travelling and sightseeing, and playing with my nephews.

 

Mme. Franco | French Teacher
Mme. Franco French Teacher

Hobbies: I love to travel whenever I get the opportunity. I’ve travelled to eleven countries and hope to get to Japan in the next few years. I enjoy swimming, camping and hiking. In my free time, my favourite thing to do is read and play with my miniature dachshund Sasha.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” St. Augustine
Msr. Bello | French Teacher
Msr. Bello French Teacher

Hobbies: During my free time, I like to follow the world news, travel and share my skills with others in different domains.

"The school should always aim to give its students a harmonious personality" - Albert Einstein.
Msr. Ballestin | French Teacher
Msr. Ballestin French Teacher
Hobbies: In my free time, I like hiking and fishing with my family.
"Children don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." John C Maxwell
Mme. Whelan | French Teacher
Mme. Whelan French Teacher

Hobbies: I love to take long bicycle rides in nature. I challenge myself too long extended daily walks with our Goldendoodle whenever I can and if I’m not on a walk you will often find me meditating or relaxing with good soul music. I also enjoy immersing myself with the latest tech news and gadgets as a way to keep up with current and latest technology trends.

“There's always a way - if you're committed.” ― Tony Robbins
Mme. Brooks | French Teacher
Mme. Brooks French Teacher
Hobbies: In my free time, I love reading, hiking, cooking and spending time with loved ones. I also love traveling and learning about other cultures.
“Sometimes it is the people no one can imagine anything of who do the things no one can imagine.” ― Alan Turing
Msr. Gauthier | French Teacher
Msr. Gauthier French Teacher
Mon passe-temps favori est le piano. Écouter du classique, spécialement Bach, ou d'en jouer calme mon hyperactivité! Aider les élèves dans ce domaine m'apporte beaucoup et quand une personne me dit: "Merci Monsieur, vous m'avez vraiment aidé'', c'est comme une forme de salaire.
Mme. Jimenez | French Teacher
Mme. Jimenez French Teacher
Hobbies: I love reading, watching TV and traveling. There is always so much to learn from others. To stay active I like to go on long walk with my family, especially now that the weather is getting warmer.
“You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” - A.A. Mine
Ms. Dionne| French Teacher
Ms. Dionne French Teacher
I am passionate about sharing my skills in different domains. I enjoy the outdoors and cabin life with my two sons, coaching hockey and downhill skiing, singing in a choir and learning new graphic design tricks.

"Be bold and courageous. When you look back on your life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the ones you did."
-H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Mme. Shea | French Teacher
Mme. Shea French Teacher
Hobbies: When I am not teaching, I am spending time with my kids, travelling, and quilting.
One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world. - Malala Yousafzai
Ms. Choi | Korean Teacher
Ms. Choi Korean Teacher
Hobbies: I love dancing, watching movies, learning about diverse cultures/languages, and traveling (I’ve been to 15 countries around the world!)
“All students can learn and succeed, but not in the same way and not in the same day.” - William G. Spady
Ms. Li | Mandarin Teacher
Ms. Li Mandarin Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of classroom, I love spending time with my daughters. Our garage got changed to an art studio. We do paintings, crafts and creative all types of home decorations there. In addition, I enjoy outdoor activities, swimming and playing accordion.
“You will either step forward into growth, or you will step backward into safety.” Abraham Maslow
Ms. Aggarwal | Punjabi Teacher
Ms. Aggarwal Punjabi Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, reading books and spending time with my friends and family. In my free time I also like to cook different types of food. “Education must not simply teach work - it must teach life” - W.E.B. Du Bois
Mrs. Brown | Math Teacher
Mrs. Brown Math Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I enjoy a good book and a bonfire. Some of my favourite hobbies are
golfing, biking and skiing. Any chance I get, I like watching live professional sporting events.

 

Ms. Sayegh | Math Teacher
Ms. Sayegh Math Teacher

Hobbies: Some of my hobbies include cooking and walking. I also enjoy travelling and listening to classical music.

"Life is a game board. Time is your opponent. If you procrastinate, you will lose the game. You must make a move to be victorious." - Napoleon Hill.

Ms. Tartaglia | Math Teacher
Ms. Tartaglia Math Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I love traveling and learning about different cultures. I also enjoy reading, hiking, swimming, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I love to cook and to experiment new foods.

"I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better." - Maya Angelou

Mr. Grozelle | Math Teacher
Mr. Grozelle Math Teacher

Hobbies: When I’m not teaching, I like to stay active.  I’ve always loved playing basketball and a few years ago I took up boxing.  I also like to jog and try to break a sweat every day!  When it’s time to wind down at the end of the day I love to read, especially anything by J.R.R. Tolkien.

 

Ms. Nemes | Math Teacher
Ms. Nemes Math Teacher

About Me: Prior to becoming a teacher I was very involved with youth activities such a being a camp counsellor, running after school programs and leading youth groups. It seemed only natural to pursue teaching as a career. I constantly experience moments that make me think "I love this job" and am genuinely interested in education, curriculum and school systems. 

 

Ms. Greene | Math Teacher
Ms. Greene Math Teacher

Hobbies: When I am not working, I am often spending time with friends and family, catching up on the latest Netflix release, watching the Blue Jays game, or visiting my favourite Mexican or Italian restaurant. 

 

Mr. Johnson | Math Teacher
Mr. Johnson Math Teacher

Hobbies: When I am not teaching, my hobbies include reading, cooking, gardening and sewing, as well as playing video games.

"Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers." - Shakuntala Devi

Ms. Edwards | Math Teacher
Ms. Edwards Math Teacher

Hobbies:My passion is teaching and mathematics. I’m very creative and when time allows, I enjoy painting and drawing. I’m a tea connoisseur and love dinosaurs.

“The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics.” – Paul R. Halmos

Ms. Woo| Math Teacher
Ms. Woo Math Teacher

Hobbies:I love playing games like Valorant and League of Legends while drawing and making anime-themed stickers on Procreate in my free time. I look forward to selling my stickers on Etsy one day!

"Strive for progress, not perfection"

Ms. Hargraves| Math Teacher
Ms. Hargraves Math Teacher

Hobbies: I love travelling, reading, and going on long walks with my family. These days I spend most of my time chasing around my 1 year old son. 

 

"One dreamed of becoming, the other woke up and became"

Mr. Dastoor| Math Teacher
Mr. Dastoor Math Teacher

Hobbies: Aside from teaching, I have three children and we are all very active. I have been running and racing triathlon for over 20 years, and my own kids are now getting into the sport. We rock climb often, but sometimes we can also enjoy a lazy day at the beach. 

 

Ms. Fisher| Math Teacher
Ms. Fisher Math Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of school I swim for fitness and practice yoga. During the warmer months I enjoy golfing and going for long walks.  Whenever I am not driving my three boys to their various activities, I like to sit down with a cup of tea and read a book.

 

Ms. Cassidy| Math Teacher
Ms. Cassidy Math Teacher

Hobbies: My hobbies include travelling, teaching math, coaching volleyball and reading on Sunday morning with a warm cup of coffee. 

"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do" - John Wooden

Mr. Small| Math Teacher
Mr. Small Math Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with family, travelling, and watching and playing sports. Most recently, I have challenged myself in the sport of OCR (Obstacle Course Racing). 

“Perspective is everything when you are experiencing the challenges of life” - Joni Eareckson Tada

Mr. Ramkeesoon| Math Teacher
Mr. Ramkeesoon Math Teacher

Hobbies: I love spending with my family and at the gym working on my physical fitness and strength training. Additionally,  I enjoy watching any and all genres of movies/TV shows and am a comic book fan. I also enjoy being outdoors especially in the summer time.

 

Mr. Strzelczyk| Math Teacher
Mr. Strzelczyk Math Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, concerts, reading and restaurants. When my son allows me, I do enjoy watching some football (aka soccer).

"Do not worry too much about your difficulties in mathematics, I can assure you that mine are still greater."  Albert Einstein (allegedly)

Ms. Thompson | Math Teacher
Ms. Thompson Math Teacher

Hobbies: I can’t go a day without coffee and spicy foods! My hobbies consist of spending time with my son, traveling, playing my Nintendo switch or playing a board game. 

Sometimes I’ll start a sentence and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way.” - Michael Scott

Ms. Panacci | Math Teacher
Ms. Panacci Math Teacher

Hobbies: I love cats and I have three of my own. I practice yoga and I love its ability to heal the body and mind. I embrace my creative self by learning new crafts, such as knitting, crochet, quilting, and so many more!

"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination." - Albert Einstein

Ms. Kurukulasooriya | Math Teacher
Ms. Kurukulasooriya Math Teacher

Hobbies:  I love to go on long hikes, kayaking and travelling to hidden places! I play the piano and enjoy reading Murder Mystery/Thriller books. I also enjoy baking and cooking foods from different cuisines!

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” —Benjamin Franklin 

Ms. Dempsey | Math Teacher
Ms. Dempsey Math Teacher

Hobbies: I am inspired by nature and can always be found in the mountains hiking and backpacking with my dog, Groovy or planning travel adventures- we love a good road trip! 

“What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of a difference you want to make.” —Jane Goodall

Ms. Maestra | Math Teacher
Ms. Maestra Math Teacher

Hobbies:  In my spare time I love to bake, cook, and go for hikes. I enjoy spending time with friends and family and working on math problems.

"Just because we can’t find a solution, it doesn’t mean there isn’t one.” – Andrew Wiles
Mr. Bates | Math Teacher
Mr. Bates Math Teacher

Hobbies: I have enjoyed teaching for 30 years. In my spare time, I enjoy working on renovation projects.

“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.” Mark Van Doren
Mr. Connor | Math Teacher
Mr. Connor Math Teacher

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids, playing and watching sports, wrestling (amateur and professional), camping, going on road trips, and coaching.

“Be curious, not judgmental”-Walt Whitman
Ms. Liu | Math Teacher
Ms. Liu Math Teacher

Hobbies: As much as I love spending time in the lab doing experiments, I love connecting science with everything I see in nature. So you'll find me walking on trails, planning the next camping trip, and bouldering during my spare time. 

“Think like a proton and stay positive!"
Mr. Berardi | Math Teacher
Mr. Berardi Math Teacher
Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy playing/watching hockey, soccer, listening to music, fishing, and spending time with friends and family.
If you don’t sacrifice for what you want. What you want becomes the sacrifice – Jay Shetty
Ms. Reddy | Math Teacher
Ms. Reddy Math Teacher

Hobbies: Listening to music, spending time with family, travelling and reading inspiring books

Ms. Cockburn | Math Teacher
Ms. Cockburn Math Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy being active, camping and the outdoors. I play hockey, volleyball, golf and tennis. I love adventures and being a teacher.

“The meaning of life is to find your gift, the purpose of life is to give it away.” Pablo Picasso 
Ms. Bertolo | Math Teacher
Ms. Bertolo Math Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy teaching yoga, mathematics and mindfulness meditation.
“All of man’s problems stem from his inability to sit quietly in a room by himself.” - Blaise Pascal
Mr. Bolt | Math Teacher
Mr. Bolt Math Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy woodworking projects and walking my dogs in the woods.
“Mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.” – Albert Einstein
Ms. Chaudhari | Math Teacher
Ms. Chaudhari Math Teacher
Hobbies: I love travelling and learning about other cultures. I speak 4 languages and have visited 7 countries and counting! I also enjoy jogging, hiking, and kayaking.
Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think. – Albert Einstein
Mr. Currie | Math Teacher
Mr. Currie Math Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy golfing, reading and watching sports on TV.  I have officiated basketball for over 40 years at various levels of competition. 
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. – John Wooden
Mrs. Williams | Math Teacher
Mrs. Williams Math Teacher

Hobbies: I love to break mathematics down and make it easier for students to understand. My passions outside of teaching are my 6 children, working out, water skiing, windsurfing, and advocating for those with physical disabilities.

Follow your dreams and passions! Never give up or let anyone squash your
spirit, and fight for what you believe in!"
Ms. Dhillon | Math Teacher
Ms. Dhillon Math Teacher
Hobbies: As much as I love travel and adventure, I also enjoy simple things like a hot cup of coffee and a great book!
Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.
Ms. Hansen | Math Teacher
Ms. Hansen Math Teacher
Hobbies: I love to travel and spent two years living in China and travelling all over Asia at the start of my teaching career. Thailand has been my favourite place so far.
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. – C.S. Lewis
Ms. Lai | Math Teacher
Ms. Lai Math Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I enjoy cooking. Collecting and trying out different tasty recipes is one of my favorite things to do in my leisure time. Until now, I have tried recipes for Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, Dutch cuisines and, of course, Canadian cuisines!
"Whether you think you can or you can't, you are right - Henry Ford"
Mr. Luu | Math Teacher
Mr. Luu Math Teacher
Hobbies: I love Tiny Home design and builds, travelling, and culinary experiences.
Change your thoughts and you change your world.- Norman Vincent
Ms. Madukayil | Math Teacher
Ms. Madukayil Math Teacher
Hobbies: I love going on walks outdoors, and travelling.
Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care – John C Maxwell
Ms. O’Neil | Math Teacher
Ms. O’Neil Math Teacher
Hobbies: I love to travel, I spent a lot of time travelling around Europe when I taught in England for two years. I enjoy board games and paddle boarding.
Why worry? If you’ve done the very best you can, worrying won’t make it any better - Walt Disney
Mr. Ruth | Math Teacher
Mr. Ruth Math Teacher
Hobbies: I play hockey in my free time and enjoy being in the outdoors.
‘Success isn’t overnight. It’s when everyday you get a little bit better than the day before. It all adds up.’ - Dwayne Johnson
Ms. Neelands | Math Teacher
Ms. Neelands Math Teacher
Hobbies: I really don’t enjoy cooking meals…but I love to bake cakes and cookies. I find that it allows me to be creative. I also enjoy sewing, scrapbooking, and floral arranging.
‘Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.’ - Thomas A.Edison
Mr. Hughes | Math Teacher
Mr. Hughes Math Teacher
‘There's always magic in the air. ’ - Peter Gabriel
Ms. Gul | Math Teacher
Ms. Gul Math Teacher
My hobbies are painting, reading and watching movies.
‘I want to leave the world as a better place than I found it’ - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ms. Shpit | Math/IT Teacher
Ms. Shpit Math/IT Teacher
Hobbies: Math is both my major and my passion. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy running engineering, robotics and math help clubs. In my spare time, hiking, skiing and spending time with friends make my life complete.
Mr. Brewin | Computer Science Teacher
Mr. Brewin Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: I really enjoy woodworking, gardening, and music. I also love traveling with my family on adventures to new places

Lao Tzu: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

Mr. Frattaroli | Computer Science Teacher
Mr. Frattaroli Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching I enjoy playing volleyball, reading the newest books, and travelling the world! I've been to a total of 24 countries and counting! 

"Iron rusts from disuse; water loses its purity from stagnation...even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind." - Leonardo da Vinci

Ms. Postma | Computer Science Teacher
Ms. Postma Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching Math and Computer Science, I enjoy playing board games, travelling, and walking my two dogs: Sine and Cosine. 

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” - Albert Einstein.
Ms. Gheorghiade | Computer Science Teacher
Ms. Gheorghiade Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: While not teaching and taking a break from technology, I like playing scrabble and tennis.

“Obvious’ is the most dangerous word in mathematics.” - Eric Temple Bell.
Mr. Reid | Computer Science Teacher
Mr. Reid Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: A few of the things I enjoy doing, outside of teaching Computer Science, are photography, playing chess (both online and over the board), reading Science Fiction / Fantasy (Wheel of Time Series), scuba diving (PADI certified), the occasional fishing trip (catch and release), and world travel (whenever possible).

Anything worth learning is usually hard, and therefore worth giving it your all.
Mr. Kee | Computer Science Teacher
Mr. Kee Computer Science Teacher

Hobbies: I play Apex Legends, Dungeons and Dragons, and complicated miniature board games. I used to work in engineering but I'm still passionate about it. I own many 3D printers, a ton of Lego and a wide range of robotics and microcontrollers.

Do. Or do not. There is no try. – Yoda
Ms. Rakic | Physics Teacher
Ms. Rakic Physics Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy summer morning bike rides with my kids. 

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” Albert Einstein 

 

Ms. Tahat | Physics Teacher
Ms. Tahat Physics Teacher

Hobbies: I love to spend time with my family and travel. I am starting to get the hang of reading. From a math/physics person, all I knew were numbers. Now I am starting a journey of reading. 

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela

 

Mr. Gahnoog | Physics Teacher
Mr. Gahnoog Physics Teacher

Hobbies: Outside school, I like to do community outreach activities, catch up on news and tv shows, spend time with my 5-year-old, and occasionally read a book. Every year I try to visit at least one place

 

 

Mr. Richmond | Physics Teacher
Mr. Richmond Physics Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy playing team sports, board games, and weight lifting. I'm usually enrolled in at least 2 sports leagues at any given point in time, have created my own board game, and recently hit 1000lbs total on the big 3 lifts. 

 

 

Mr. Neave | Physics Teacher
Mr. Neave Physics Teacher

Hobbies: I entered teaching after a 13 year career working as an engineer in the automotive industry. I am now in my 17th  year of teaching. Outside of the classroom I enjoy travelling and spending time with my family, walking my dog Stevie, and watching the Detroit Lions. 

 

 

Mr. Chevalier | Physics Teacher
Mr. Chevalier Physics Teacher

Hobbies:  I have always been passionate in athletics playing many different sports but my love has always been basketball.  I currently coach my 12 year old son in basketball and baseball, and previously coached him last year in hockey.  

 

 

 

Mr. Baird | Physics Teacher
Mr. Baird Physics Teacher

Hobbies: I have been a teacher of physics, grade 10 science, and physical education for over 25 years. My passions are travelling with my family where we have travelled to over 30 countries together (including two trips of approximately 6-month duration to both South America and Asia). I also coach my daughters on their club basketball teams. And lastly, I love all sports but currently I really have the golf bug!

 

Ms. Mylvaganam | Physics Teacher
Ms. Mylvaganam Physics Teacher

Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy training for marathons, being outdoors, reading and knitting. I love exploring new places and spending time with my family and friends.

 

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” ― Albert Einstein

Mr. Culbert | Physics Teacher
Mr. Culbert Physics Teacher

Hobbies: When not in the classroom I enjoy spending time with my children by going on walks, having lightsaber battles or reading stories. I also enjoy playing video games and Dungeons and Dragons in one of several long term groups I am a part of. I am a fantasy and science fiction fan at heart, and can be easily distracted by discussions on these topics!

Mr. Liska | Physics Teacher
Mr. Liska Physics Teacher

Hobbies: My hobbies include scuba diving, fixing old muscle cars, archery and building computers.

Mr. Susi | Science Teacher
Mr. Susi Science Teacher

Hobbies: My favourite hobbies are teaching, sports and hiking outdoors. Outside of teaching, I stay active by playing golf, basketball, and going for hikes. I also enjoy travelling, my favourite place that I have visited so far is Italy.

"I believe that education is all about being passionate about something in your life" - Steve Irwin

Mr. Brady | Physics Teacher
Mr. Brady Physics Teacher

Hobbies: Beyond the classroom I spend a lot of time chasing a little white ball around a golf course, cooking, watching the  Detroit Tigers,  Red Wings and Lions, and traveling on adventures with my family.

There’s a lot of beauty in ordinary things. Isn’t that kind of the point?” – Pam Beesly, Season 9, “Finale”

Ms. Laylo | Science Teacher
Ms. Laylo Science Teacher

Hobbies: I love playing piano, singing in the shower, organizing my desk, traveling, home gardening, and trying out new recipes in the kitchen. 

"If I have seen further [than others], it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." - Bernard of Chartres

Ms. Faiola | Science Teacher
Ms. Faiola Science Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, music, art, and spending time with friends and family. When I am not teaching or learning, you will find me playing the piano, painting, baking, or doing something active outdoors. 

Ms. Orzel | Science Teacher
Ms. Orzel Science Teacher

Hobbies: When I am not teaching, I love being outdoors! Hiking, cycling, camping, and swimming are a few of my favourite ways to spend my free time. 

"Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mr. Crozier | Kinesiology Teacher
Mr. Crozier Kinesiology Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy many different sports but most often, you can find me playing, coaching or watching Rugby. I also enjoy spending my spare time working on my physical activity and always have daily walks by the lake with my dog.

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" -Wayne Gretzky

Mr. Lau | Biology Teacher
Mr. Lau Biology Teacher

Hobbies: I spend most of my time coaching and playing sports, specifically basketball! When I'm not coaching or playing, I am hiking and being active enjoying the outdoors with my family! 

"Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out." - John Wooden

Ms. Elliot | Science Teacher
Ms. Elliot Science Teacher

Hobbies: I am an avid reader, traveler and yogi! I have previously taught in Guyana, South America, and in the Northwest Territories here in Canada. I also love to cook and stay active!

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela 

Ms. Simmons | Kinesiology Teacher
Ms. Simmons Kinesiology Teacher

Hobbies: Some of my hobbies include playing sports, staying active, camping, baking, and hiking with my dogs.

"We rise by lifting others" - Unknown

Ms. Whitton | Biology Teacher
Ms. Whitton Biology Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy biking and running, and walks along the beaches of Prince Edward Island.

“Going in one more round when you don’t think you can – that’s what makes all the difference in your life.” – Rocky Balboa

Ms. Bauer | Biology Teacher
Ms. Bauer Biology Teacher

Hobbies: In my spare time I love being outside!  You can find me playing with my kids or pets, working in my vegetable garden, hiking trails by the river, or off on a camping trip.  In the winter weather, I also add reading a good book with a warm mug of tea beside me.  I also love playing board games or going out with friends to hear a live music performances.

Ms. Matin | Environmental Science Teacher
Ms. Matin Environmental Science Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy running, weight lifting, swimming, carving wooden spoons and writing poetry. I love exploring nature’s beauty on foot by partaking in multi-day hiking trips. You can also find me tending to my dozens of indoor plants and outdoor vegetable garden.

“Adversity is like a strong wind. It tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that we see ourselves as we really are.”      -Arthur Golden

Mr. Magno | Biology Teacher
Mr. Magno Biology Teacher

Hobbies: When I'm not teaching I enjoy travelling as well as playing hockey recreationally. Likewise, I also really enjoy coaching hockey, lacrosse, football, basketball, and many other sports.

Ms. Alzeiq | Biology Teacher
Ms. Alzeiq Biology Teacher

Hobbies: I love sunny days, the beach, spending time with people I cherish, listening to music, and travelling! Learning more about how to support and advocate for others is also a strong passion of mine, so I spend lots of time reading

"Existence is Resistance" - Unknown

Ms. McQuade| Biology Teacher
Ms. McQuade Biology Teacher

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking, reading, baking, and spending quality time with family and friends!

"Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow" - Anthony J. D’Angelo

Ms. Talbot | Biology Teacher
Ms. Talbot Biology Teacher

Hobbies: My favourite part about being a teacher is seeing my students achieve their goals and progress over time. My favourite things to do outside of the classroom are hike, rock climb, and travel! 

Mr. Idzenga | Biology Teacher
Mr. Idzenga Biology Teacher

Hobbies: My wife and I always find ways to add more music to our home. Apart from being a huge fan of all things Science, you can find me playing Spikeball, curling, ultimate, or any type of board game.

"If you want to build a ship, don't collect wood and assign tasks and work. Instead, teach people to long for the endless immensity of the sea." -Antoine de Saint Exupery

Ms. Herdman | Chemistry Teacher
Ms. Herdman Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: I have been teaching for 26 years and have loved every minute of it. When not teaching you will find me outdoors. I enjoy going for walks, swimming, fishing and boating with  my family. In addition, I love reading a good book and doing puzzles

 

Ms. Ulicny | Chemistry Teacher
Ms. Ulicny Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: I grew up playing sports, so I enjoy being active. I participate in CrossFit and enjoy running and playing basketball. I ran my first half-marathon last year! My hobbies include coaching, spending time with family and friends. My dog keeps me busy too!

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Mya Angelou

Ms. Clarkson | Chemistry Teacher
Ms. Clarkson Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: When I am not teaching I am normally lined up to get a nice coffee before walking around my city or cooking trying to make new recipes. During the summer time you can catch me traveling around Europe trying different cuisines.

 

Mr. Campagna | Chemistry Teacher
Mr. Campagna Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: I am passionate about being physically active. I enjoy lifting weights at the gym, playing soccer and playing pickleball whenever I can. Otherwise, I have fun playing video games in my spare time. 

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

Ms. McGartland | Chemistry Teacher
Ms. McGartland Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies:I love to travel and photograph new and interesting places. I enjoy learning about the culture and history of each new location, and then writing about it to share with family and friends. I also enjoy walking, cycling, swimming and playing volleyball.

"Attitude is the little thing that makes a big difference" - Winston Churchill

Mr. Nasseri | Chemistry Teacher
Mr. Nasseri Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: When I am not playing rugby in the summer, I am coaching it either at school or at my club.

"A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything" - Malcolm X

Mr. Yang | Chemistry Teacher
Mr. Yang Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies:In my spare time, I love to play or watch tennis, basketball as well as going on long hikes. I love the outdoors and I also particularly enjoy learning about different languages.

"One repays a teacher badly if one always remains nothing but a pupil." - Friedrich Nietzsche

Mrs. Ahmad | Chemistry Teacher
Mrs. Ahmad Chemistry Teacher

Hobbies: If I am not teaching or running after my two little ones, you can find me curled up with a good book and a warm cup of coffee. I am an avid reader and love getting lost in the alternate worlds. I also love to bake as I find it very therapeutic.

“Working hard is important but there is something that matters even more; believing in yourself.” -Harry Potter
Mr. Buchok | Chemistry Teacher Copy
Mr. Buchok Chemistry Teacher Copy

Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy fishing, hiking, camping, staying fit, watching hockey and football, playing the ukulele, and gaming!

“Be who you are meant to be, and you will set the world on fire.” – Catherine of Siena

Ms. Altenhof | Science Teacher
Ms. Altenhof Science Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of the classroom, I enjoy running, playing tennis, gardening and working out with my husband and twin sons. I love spending time outdoors whether it is at a beach or in the woods.
My favourite quote is Theodore Roosevelt’s 'Man in the Arena' Speech
Ms. Aggarwal | Science Teacher
Ms. Aggarwal Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love animals, traveling and learning new things!
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela
Ms. Archer | Science Teacher
Ms. Archer Science Teacher
Hobbies: Inspired by the outdoors, you can always find me planning my next travel adventure or hiking with my sidekick (dog), Bruce! In my spare time I love candle making and spending time with friends!
Mr. Beaumont | Science Teacher
Mr. Beaumont Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love to garden, game, tinker and create
“Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.” - Francis de Sales
Ms. Colpitts | Science Teacher
Ms. Colpitts Science Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, crochet, travelling, and watching movies. I also enjoy spending quality time with my family in the great outdoors.
"Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful." - Joshua J. Marine
Mr. Cornwall | Science Teacher
Mr. Cornwall Science Teacher

Hobbies: When I'm not teaching I spend my time playing sports, exercising, reading, and watching good movies. I enjoy getting outside for a long run or bike ride and playing tennis with friends. I love to travel, meet new people, and learn new things!

"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." - Steve Prefontaine
Ms. Darku | Science Teacher
Ms. Darku Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love photography, travelling and learning about new cultures, and cooking!
"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today" - Malcolm X
Ms. Eshaque | Science Teacher
Ms. Eshaque Science Teacher
I love to cook and I try to explore different cuisines. I also love to be with nature. As a person, I am very simple and love to learn about others!
The test of a good teacher is not how many questions she can ask her pupils that they will answer readily, but how many questions she inspires them to ask which she finds it hard to answer. ― Alice Wellington Rollins
Mr.Samai| Science Teacher
Mr.Samai Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love travelling and exploring new places. My favourite place so far is Tortola (BVI). The serenity and feeling of landing in a new country, enjoying the cuisine and immersing in their traditions and culture are all very exciting, enticing, and breathtaking.

"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."
Malcolm X.
Ms. Samai | Science Teacher
Ms. Samai Science Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy teaching Chemistry and French and in my free time, I enjoy shopping,  cruising to different countries,  exploring nature and doing interior decorating.

"For a valiant heart nothing is impossible"
"À vaillant coeur rien d’impossible" - Jacques Cœur
Ms. Gupta | Science Teacher
Ms. Gupta Science Teacher
The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery each day. - Albert Einstein
Ms. James Selvaratnam | Science Teacher
Ms. James Selvaratnam Science Teacher
Hobbies: I like to say that picking up new hobbies is my hobby! I enjoy trying all kinds of new things, but some interests that have stuck long term are hiking/being outdoors, reading, and watching movies!
"Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world"
-Desmond Tutu
Ms. Halchuk | Science Teacher
Ms. Halchuk Science Teacher
Hobbies: During my free time, I enjoy watching a Netflix series or one my favourite You-tubers (preferably with my hedgehog or one of my two cats with me!)
It matters not what someone is born, but what they will grow to be. – Albus Dumbledore
Mr. Sakher | Science Teacher
Mr. Sakher Science Teacher
Hobbies: Outside of the classroom, I try to spend as much time as I can outdoors… especially in the summer! I also love to travel the world and experience different cultures… my next stop will hopefully be Italy!
"We are stardust brought to life, then empowered by the universe to figure itself out - and we have only just begun"
-Neil Degrasse Tyson
Ms. Johnson | Science Teacher
Ms. Johnson Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love to cook and spend time outdoors with my son. I am also an avid reader, enjoy bingeing a good Netflix show, and love to travel, especially in Europe where I hope to take my son soon!
"You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." Winnie the Pooh
Ms. Kelly | Science Teacher
Ms. Kelly Science Teacher
Hobbies: If I'm not teaching, I'm either travelling the world to immerse myself in other cultures or i'm outdoors - hiking, canoeing, snowboarding. Another hobby of mine is going to various antique stores around Ontario, to collect antique items and wood to repurpose them into something new.
Fear kills more dreams than failure ever will. - Suzy Kassem
Mr. Kassouf | Science Teacher
Mr. Kassouf Science Teacher
Hobbies: I have a wide range of hobbies from studying the history of television and theater to studying plants, insects and any wildlife I can find around me. Most of all, I like to spend time away from the internet and making strong connections with my friends and family and enjoying the beautiful world that surrounds me.
"Inclusion is not simply about physical proximity. It is about intentionally planning for the success of all students." - Anonymous
Ms. Lewis | Science Teacher
Ms. Lewis Science Teacher
Hobbies: I am a coffee enthusiast, proud cat person and music fanatic. I love travelling and enjoy hiking or skiing the mountains on the west coast. You can often find me on my laptop in a coffee shop, and I'm almost always wearing a turtleneck.
Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. - Michael Jordan
Ms. Montesano | Science Teacher
Ms. Montesano Science Teacher
Hobbies: A few of the things I enjoy doing in my spare time are travelling, reading and hiking. My goal in life is to travel and experience as many different cultures as possible!
"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose." - Dr. Seuss
Ms. Moulick | Science Teacher
Ms. Moulick Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love to read! I love words. I think they have an amazing power to transform the world around us, instantly. My favourite authors are Haruki Murakami and Jack Kerouac. I also enjoy gardening! I find it absolutely fascinating to be a “plant-mom” as my “green babies” inspire me everyday!
“If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need” - Marcus Tullius Cicero
Ms. Pansar | Science Teacher
Ms. Pansar Science Teacher

Hobbies: I love travelling, trying different foods and spending time with my dog!

"The more that you read, the more things you will know; the more that you learn, the more places you'll go" - Dr. Seuss
Ms. Singh | Science Teacher
Ms. Singh Science Teacher
Hobbies: If you don’t see me baking up some tasty treats, you will see me teaching myself something new! Right now I am very invested in learning more about data science, but when I am relaxing it is all about board games for me. My current favourite game is Risk Legacy.
“Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered” – Michelle Obama
Ms. Sridhar | Science Teacher
Ms. Sridhar Science Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy learning and making art and crafts like calligraphy, painting and embroidery. I have 3 dogs and love walking them and spending time with them.
The important thing is to not stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing – Albert Einstein
Ms. Stockwell | Science Teacher
Ms. Stockwell Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love doing puzzles and participating in any kind of escape room experience. I also enjoy curling up with a good book, taking the dog for a walk, and spending time with my family and friends.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. – Nelson Mandela
Ms. Tariq | Science Teacher
Ms. Tariq Science Teacher
Hobbies: Travelling, baking, reading
Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. – Thomas Edison
Mr. Tonelli | Science Teacher
Mr. Tonelli Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love studying the stars, playing board games, and painting in my spare time.
When first things are put first, second things don't diminish, they increase. – C.S. Lewis
Ms. Vanderkamp | Science Teacher
Ms. Vanderkamp Science Teacher
Hobbies: In my spare time I love to read, cook, and spend time outdoors gardening and hiking. I also enjoy travelling to new places in the world.
"The important thing is to never stop questioning." - Albert Einstein
Ms. Hunt | Careers Teacher
Ms. Hunt Careers Teacher

Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, learning about new cultures and their history. I’m very musical, I enjoy listening to music but I also play the guitar, ukulele and piano and I used to sing for my hometown for different events.
 

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” Dr. Seuss

Ms. Guenther | Social Sciences
Ms. Guenther Social Sciences

Hobbies: I have a passion for Social Justice and Equity work, for which I  earned several teaching awards, including the Peel District School Board’s Award of Teaching Excellent and OSSTF’s Human Rights Award. As the mother of competitive athletes, when I'm not teaching, I spend most days in the rink or the gym, and understand well the difficulty in balancing school and life.

 

Ms. Lees | Geography Teacher
Ms. Lees Geography Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of my passion and love for teaching, I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy reading and the outdoors. I have an appreciation and passion for the performing arts and love watching hockey! Go Leafs Go!

"Dance Like No One's Watching. Love Like You've Never Been Hurt. Sing Like No One can Hear You. Live Like Heaven is On Earth."

Mr. Tozer| History Teacher
Mr. Tozer History Teacher

Hobbies: I have many interests, but history, sci-fi, and motorcycle travel top the list. I’m happiest away from the crowd, riding my Adventure bike on a seldom traveled road. 

“There are no secrets to success.  It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” Colin Powell

 

Ms. Johnston | Civics/Careers Teacher
Ms. Johnston Civics/Careers Teacher

Hobbies: My favourite hobby is to travel.  I love to experience other cultures and learn new ways of life.  I enjoy exercise, walking my dog and spending any time I can with family and of course my dog Rosie.

"The Road to success is always under construction"   - Author unknown
Ms. Paquette | Civics Teacher
Ms. Paquette Civics Teacher

Hobbies: I absolutely love travelling and discovering new restaurants and coffee shops. I also enjoy hiking, which has been a great way to immerse myself with nature. When I'm not outdoors you can find me in the kitchen trying new recipes and baking new treats! 

What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Jane Goodall 

Ms. Tsang| History Teacher
Ms. Tsang History Teacher

Travelling is an integral part of my life as it allows me to immerse myself in different cultures, discover captivating landscapes and meet fascinating people along the way. When I'm not on the move, I find solace in the pages of a good book. 

"Success is not the key to happiness.  Happiness is the key to success.  If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer

 

Ms. Correia | Geography Teacher
Ms. Correia Geography Teacher

Hobbies: I love to read (just about anything from WWII non-fiction to thrillers), try new recipes, travel, and jog. I recently started playing tennis as well!

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world" - Nelson Mandela

Ms Carone | Social Science Teacher
Ms Carone Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, reading books, watching movies and television as well as taking my dog for walks.
Success belongs to those who dare to achieve it.
Ms. Broz | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Broz Social Science Teacher

Hobbies: Yin Yoga, swimming, listening to nutrition podcasts, and gluten free baking.

"Don't waste a good mistake; learn from it" - Robert T. Kiyosaki
Ms. Morelli | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Morelli Social Science Teacher

Hobbies: I love to travel, cook, exercise and spend time with my family and friends! When I am not teaching you can catch me planning a new travel adventure or trying out a new recipe.

"Embrace the journey and favour the moments" - Unknown
Mr. Nanes | Social Science Teacher
Mr. Nanes Social Science Teacher

Hobbies: Outside of teaching, I coach high school and university basketball. I love spending time with my family and traveling the world. 

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." -Paul the Apostle
Mr. Barr| History Teacher
Mr. Barr History Teacher

Hobbies: The world is our classroom and my hobbies in that way are endless. And while I love academics, I took a year off to read between high school and university, I have spent much of my life in the outdoors and it is there where I truly find peace.

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence …” Calvin Coolidge

Ms. DaCruz | Social Science Teacher
Ms. DaCruz Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I like to cook and can usually be found with my nose in a book. I also enjoy being outdoors with my daughter, especially in the warmer weather.
You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. - Zig Ziglar
Ms. DeSouza | Social Science Teacher
Ms. DeSouza Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love to travel the world, immersing myself in different cultures by exploring their cities, eating their foods and engaging in their communities. In my spare time, I love to hike, read, and binge on Netflix.
The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you. -B.B. King
Ms. Dore | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Dore Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: When I am not teaching online, I enjoy travelling, reading, cooking, baking cookies, and learning Mandarin.
The expert in anything was once a beginner. – Helen Hayes
Ms. Galli | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Galli Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: Aside from reading historical fiction books you can find me playing with my dog. When I’m not with my pup, I love travelling, exploring new places, cooking, watching reality TV and learning about new cultures. I’m a huge hockey and football fan and enjoy watching games with friends!
Let your smile change the world, but don’t let the world change your smile. - Anonymous
Ms. MacDonald | Social Science Teacher
Ms. MacDonald Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I play piano and sing in a choir. I also love to read and home school my kids!
Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference. – Winston Churchill
Ms. Milano | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Milano Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love calligraphy and lettering! I’ve recently learned how to engrave calligraphy on different kinds of surfaces. I’m also interested in video editing and animation. I also play the guitar and ukulele just for fun! I love the Harry Potter books and films, and my most favourite HP book is Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
“Tell me, and I forget. Teach me, and I remember. Involve me, and I learn.” - Anne with an E
Ms. Neale | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Neale Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: My hobbies include long-distance running, sewing and spending time with my family.
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. – Eleanor Roosevelt
Ms. Singh | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Singh Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: My hobbies include learning about the world and current events, playing with my dogs, reading comics and playing video games!
The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. – Amelia Earhart
Ms. Smith | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Smith Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love a good movie. I have probably seen the Harry Potter series, Lord of the Rings, and the Godfather each about 10 times. I also love all things chocolate. And of course, I am passionate about the social sciences and I hope to instill this feeling in all my students!
You are always free to make decisions, but you are never free of the decisions you make – a variation of a quote by Ezra Taft Benson
Ms. Thompson | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Thompson Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, exploring nature and reading a good book! I am always seeking new opportunities to experience and learn from.
Keep your face always toward the sunshine- and shadows will fall behind you." - Walt Whitman
Mr. Maringola | Social Science Teacher
Mr. Maringola Social Science Teacher

Hobbies: You can usually find me either watching sports or reading. I am deeply passionate about travel and being able to immerse myself in diverse cultures and experiences

"Traveling, it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller" - Ibn Battuta
Ms. Forlani | Social Science Teacher
Ms. Forlani Social Science Teacher
Hobbies: I love travelling, hiking, paddle boarding, watching hockey and movies.
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” - Wayne Gretzky
Simone Thorne | Administrative Assistant
Simone Thorne Administrative Assistant

I enjoy spending time with my partner visiting different cities in Ontario. I will never turn down the opportunity to see a musical. I enjoy long walks and hikes, baking and cooking, watching tv shows and movies and spending time with my friends and family. My favourite movie of all time is The Greatest Showman.

“Just keep swimming ” – Dory, Finding Nemo
Charlyn Cerdan | Administrative Assistant
Charlyn Cerdan Administrative Assistant

I enjoy painting with gouache, playing pickleball in the summer, and watching Netflix.

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there” – Theodore Roosevelt
Pamela Tugade | Administrative Assistant
Pamela Tugade Administrative Assistant

Hobbies: I enjoy travelling and exploring different parts of the world with my husband. Aside from that, I’m a musical theatre enthusiast who also enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pets, watching TV, and reading a good book.

“Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Beth O’Rourke | Administrative Assistant
Beth O’Rourke Administrative Assistant

I love reading, especially Urban Fantasy and High Fantasy. When I’m not reading or writing stories, I enjoy watching tv and playing video games. I am hoping someday to be a published novelist and I work towards that dream everyday.

Andrea Felstead | Office Manager
Andrea Felstead Office Manager

Hobbies: I love to play a fun video game or watch a suspenseful tv show. I write poetry and short stories when I’m in a creative mood. I will never refuse an opportunity to see a musical.

Don’t dream it, be it!
Marly Hanna | Administrative Assistant
Marly Hanna Administrative Assistant

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, travelling, watching television and spending time with my family.

Kindness is one thing you can’t give away. It always comes back. - George Skolsky
Mr. Lozier | Senior Software Engineer
Mr. Lozier Senior Software Engineer
Hobbies: I enjoy running, skating, and magic tricks.
Life is the hardest teacher. It gives you the test first, and the lesson afterward.
Mr. Rosales | Software Developer
Mr. Rosales Software Developer

Hobbies: Video games, movies, playing music.

"A problem cannot be solved with the same level of thinking that created it in the first place" - Einstein
Mr. Farhez Lakhani | Head Administrator
Mr. Farhez Lakhani Head Administrator
In addition to my lengthy experience as a teacher, I am personally committed to lifelong learning. Currently, I am pursuing my Masters of Science in Chemistry. I look forward to working with students to share my passion for learning, as we embrace the online learning model as a means to shape our youth towards building a technologically literate world community!
“Don’t be an electron, always stay positive”
Mr. Vinay Aggarwal | Senior Administrator
Mr. Vinay Aggarwal Senior Administrator

I've been a teacher and administrator for over 25 years and am extremely enthusiastic about eLearning and the crucial role it plays in education. In my spare time I coach youth baseball and basketball, and love spending time with my family, travelling and exploring different cultures.

“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”  Mahatma Gandhi
Mr. Borzou (Sal) Salavati | School General Manager
Mr. Borzou (Sal) Salavati School General Manager
Hobbies: I am passionate about education and lifelong learning. I also love to travel the world and experience what it has to offer.
“Every student can learn, just not on the same day, or the same way.”— George Evans