Back-to-school is right around the corner, and we’re very happy to introduce our newest faculty members! These outstanding humans will be joining our team next week, bringing their own wisdom, passion, and expertise to their classrooms.
Lauren Ackhurst – Cub Care Co-Leader; Early Years Learning Support Staff Member
Ms Lauren Ackhurst immigrated to Canada from South Africa in 1994. She has been a BC-registered Early Childhood Educator (ECE) since 1996, and has taught at a Montessori preschool for the last 18 years. In addition to helping out in daycares and other preschools, Lauren specializes in supporting young children with special needs. Mrs. Ackhurst feels that love and passion for supporting young learners is a gift that she has been given, and it is a pleasure for her to use this gift effectively.
Kyana Boily – MYP French Teacher
Born and raised in Vancouver BC, Ms Kyana Boily spent much of her life outdoors with her French Canadian parents. Having a love for academia, she earned her Bachelors of Arts with a focus in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, and a Masters of Science in Social Cultural Anthropology at the University of Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. Kyana’s research and publication on topics of intercultural student wellness has honed her teaching style to be holistic and student-focused. Kyana has worked in a wide range of roles, including as a bilingual teacher developing Indigenous Studies curriculum for the Surrey School District. She enjoys travel and time in nature.
Simon Crowley – Physical Health and Education Teacher, Senior School; Grade 8 French Teacher
Mr Simon Crowley is an Ontario-trained teacher who specializes in French language, Health and Physical Education, and Outdoor Experiential Education. His first teaching experience was in New Zealand, where he enjoyed becoming acquainted with Māori and South Pacific cultures in the classroom. Upon his return to Canada, Mr. Crowley has taught in Ontario and BC. He also has a passion for athletics of all kinds. Mr. Crowley has coached school Track and Field, Cross Country running, Alpine Skiing, Basketball, and Volleyball teams. At Wilfrid Laurier University, he played on the Varsity Men’s Soccer team and ran Varsity Cross-Country, winning the Most Valuable Athlete award in 2018. Mr. Crowley is an enthusiastic convert to life in BC and and to the IB educational method.
Bret Garef – POD English and Humanities Teacher
Mr Bret Garef is a BC-certified teacher and registered Early Childhood Educator (ECE). He shares his birthday with William Shakespeare, so was destined to musical theatre, plays and poetry from the start! He loves to write, produce, direct, and choreograph comedic school plays that are inspired by popular fairy tales from books, films, and television shows. For fun and to stay true to his roots in the performing arts, Bret occasionally does stand-up comedy and DJ/MC gigs for special family events. He was at one time a sponsored inline skater, and continues to enjoy playing basketball, baseball/softball, beach/indoor volleyball, tennis, and badminton. Bret is also a keen card and board games player, although he especially excels in word-based brainteasers.
Stephanie Loewen – Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher
Ms Stephanie Loewen is a compassionate, caring, and dedicated teacher with extensive experience teaching students from Kindergarten to Grade 7. She has degrees in Nursing and in Teaching, specializing in IB and Outdoor Education. Her previous career as a nurse and working abroad have been instrumental in creating her calm, positive, and global mindset. Her goal is to make learning fun, engaging, safe, and inclusive to all unique learning needs, while nourishing and inspiring students to reach their full potential. Stephanie grew up on the North Shore with a love for trail running, skiing, backpacking, and anything that involves adventure!
Sarah Parker – Junior School ADST Teacher; Ed Tech Specialist
Ms Sarah Parker has served as a primary school teacher, middle school teacher, and college instructor, and fosters an environment where trust flourishes, curiosity is valued, and connections deepen. Throughout her career, Sarah has held numerous leadership positions, always trying to lead with compassion and honour each individual’s inherent worth. Sarah holds a Master of Education Technology degree from the University of British Columbia, as well as bachelor’s degrees in History and Education Curriculum and Design from Simon Fraser University. She enjoys a wholehearted and active life, which includes running and spending time with her family, including her two sons.
Lucy Ripman – Kindergarten Homeroom Teacher
Ms Lucy Ripman is originally from Norwich, in the UK. She earned her undergraduate degree in Education and Psychology at the University of Bath, and her Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of East Anglia. Lucy worked for two years in South London, and then taught at the British International School of Boston from 2020 to 2024, where she held the role of Head of Kindergarten and Early Years. It was during her time in Boston that Lucy fell in love with the IB curriculum. She enjoys the great outdoors and immersing herself in all that Vancouver has to offer, including contributing to the vibrant school community here at Brockton.
Mimi Tsirkin – Mathematics Teacher, Senior School
Ms Mimi Tsirkin is an energetic and passionate educator specializing in math and science. She earned her Bachelor’s degrees from Queen’s University and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership at McGill University. Mimi has taught in Ontario, Quebec, and even abroad—literally on a tall ship—before making her way to beautiful British Columbia. She is a firm believer that every student is capable of success in mathematics and strives to engage her students through hands-on learning that fosters inquiry. With extensive training and experience in the IB program, Mimi encourages her students to delve deeper into their understanding of course content with creativity and critical thinking.
We’re so excited that these educators are joining us, and we can’t wait to see what their first year at Brockton brings! You can check out all of our staff in our staff directory.
See you on campus soon, Brockton!