McVicar Montessori Staff
Manager
Ms. Leah
Hi Parents and Guardians!
My name is Leah and I am the manager here at Westwood Montessori. I have been part of the Westwood Montessori family since 2002 when I started working part time as an out of school care teacher while going to school. In 2005 I graduated from Western Montessori Teachers College with an Associates in Montessori Studies and shortly after that completed my Early Childhood Education program and received my license. From 2005-2012 I taught in the Montessori full day program with children between the ages of 3-5. Being able to watch each child learn and grow throughout my years as a teacher has brought a lot of joy to my life. In January 2013 I took over as the manager and I really enjoy working closely together with the teachers and parents to provide the best possible childcare environment. Although I miss teaching, I’m glad I still get to see all the children’s smiling faces when they pass my office and when I visit them in their classrooms.
Junior Toddler Staff
Ms. Judy
Hi, my name is Judy Nam. I received my Early Childhood Education in 2011, and I received my Infant and toddler Certificate in 2017. I started as an ECE back in Korea in 2003. Throughout the several centers I’ve worked at my passion for caring for young friends has been fulfilled. I have experienced various approaches to guide and nurture children included from play-based learning to Montessori. I have always felt happier when I am with younger friends. I am also extremely excited to join Westwood Montessori and see the children grow.
Ms. Julia
Ms. Sandy (on maternity leave)
My name is Sandy Hon, I am an educator at Westwood Montessori in the Junior Toddler room. I obtained my Early Childhood Care Education from Capilano University and Montessori Diploma from North America Montessori Center (NAMC). For the past 10 years, I had been with SFU childcare society as an Early Childhood Educator and have gained a lot of experience working there. I am excited to be working with this age group and to be part of the Westwood Montessori team.
Senior Toddler Staff
Ms. Dana
My name is Dana. I look forward to working with each child and helping them succeed in their education and participation during their school year. I have been teaching for 15 years. I am an AMI Montessori teacher and taught preschool for fourteen years in West Vancouver. I came from Taiwan when I was a teenager and I love being here in Canada. Before my son was born, I decided to become a Montessori teacher and then take my Infant Toddler training afterwards. I look forward to each school year, meeting new children and families.
Ms. Josie
Hello! I am Josie from Taiwan. I have more than four years of experience working with children in my country. I have graduated from Vancouver Career college here in Coquitlam and have obtained my ECE certificate at the same time I’m working here at Westwood Montessori McVicar. I love working with children so I am very happy and fortunate to have this opportunity. I am looking forward to meeting you all!
Daycare I Staff
Ms. Rainbow
Ms. Bailey
Ms. Samantha
Daycare II Staff
Ms. Phoebe
Ms. Emily
Ms. Ruby
My name is Ruby. I was born in Taiwan but I lived in many places. From Taiwan, the USA, Korea, to now in Canada. “Children Learn What They Live” is the poem that encouraged me to become a preschool teacher. It guided me and motivated me to study Early Childhood Education at Vancouver Career College, and the Montessori program through NAMC. Now I am also pursuing an AMS affiliated Montessori Teacher Education program. I have worked in the childcare field for 14 years and have 2 children of my own. I have found myself happy, fulfilled, and rewarded by the time I work with children. I am devoted to caring for the well-being of all the children in my life!
Preschool Staff
Ms. Joanne
My name is Joanne. I received my Montessori Early Childhood Teacher Training Diploma from Capital College in 2004. Since receiving my ECE in 2006, I have been working in preschool, daycare and infant/toddler programs at couple of different facilities. I withdrew from my work after I had my first child in 2010. After both of my kids settled into elementary school, I decided that it’s time for me to go back to something I enjoy. I can’t wait to see those cute, innocent and eager to learn faces. I am also looking forward to meet you and your families too.
Ms. Thushara
My name is Thushara. I am the proud mother of 3 beautiful children. I achieved my ECE from Sprott Shaw College in 2021. I started my carrier as a preschool teacher back in Sri Lanka in 2003, after completing Diploma of Montessori Education. I completed the Diploma of Government teachers in 2008 and started as a government teacher for Grade 01 to 05 from 2008 to till I moved to Canada in 2012. As a teacher, I understand the importance of developing a caring, nurturing environment for all young children and I work to make all children and their families feel special at Westwood Montessori.
