FACULTY AND STAFF
FACULTY
Haily Augustin
Gayethree Bojnauth
Ms. Gayethree Bojnauth hails from Mauritius, a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, where she has served as a qualified senior educator in high school Sciences and Mathematics. Gayethree’s previous roles have been at an independent IB World School and she has had extensive experience in teaching Biology at MYP and DP level. With 21 years’ experience in the IB domain, Gayethree has also been involved in the supervision of Extended Essay, Personal Project and has undertaken the role of an IB workshop leader, as well as authoring textbooks for DP Biology students. In her free time, she has been an active member of the Lions Club in Mauritius, with a strong involvement in community projects.
Hayley Bongard
Ms. Hayley Bongard was born and raised in Toronto, and moved to Vancouver after falling in love with the salty air and mountainous coast. Hayley joins Brockton after teaching intermediate math and science over the last few years. She is a passionate learner, who encourages students to think critically, creatively and independently, in order to develop the skills they need in today’s world of constant change. Outside of school, you can find Hayley running the seawall, swimming at Kits Pool or looking for a new coffee shop to try.
Jasmine Bryan
Jasmine holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education degree from Capilano University, and a Bachelor of Education degree from UBC (specializing in Primary Years). As a teacher, she strives towards creating a positive, fun, and engaging learning environment for her students. Jasmine is a strong advocate for outdoor education, Reggio Emilia approach, and inquiry-based learning. When Jasmine isn’t in the classroom she enjoys outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing. She is new to Brockton this year and is excited to be joining the Brockton community and team!
Nikki Burge
Kathleen Carbert
Kathleen Carbert has been teaching Junior Kindergarten since 2008. Kathleen enjoys supporting the development and discoveries of young learners. Kathleen grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba completing a French Immersion Diploma, a History Degree from the University of Manitoba followed by a Certificate in Early Childhood Education. Prior to moving to Vancouver, Kathleen taught in Auckland, New Zealand as well as Palo Alto, California. Kathleen lives on Eagle Island in West Vancouver with her husband, son Luke, and daughter Summer. Eagle Island allows them to enjoy the delights of the ocean and also the challenges that come with island life.
Rojia Dadashzadeh
Ms. Rojia Dadashzadeh is Brockton’s Senior School Visual Arts teacher who specializes in teaching MYP and DP Art. She holds an Honours degree in Fine Arts from the University of Waterloo, a postgraduate degree in New Media Design from Sheridan, Le Grand Diploma in cuisine and pastry from Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, and Bachelor of Education from UBC in Art Education. In addition to her role as a teacher, Rojia is a practicing artist who is represented by Art Interiors Gallery in Toronto and other various exhibits. Her work has been published in various media outlets such as Preview magazine, Vancouver Sun, Ellele and Georgia Straight. Her teaching and artistic practice are closely intertwined in ways that one is informative of the other. Rojia’s training in “clownology” and performance art have also guided and informed her artistic and pedagogical approach in the classroom, by incorporating playful and imaginative approaches with her students as a portal to narrate their personal and intercultural understandings, and to engage their audience in the narratives. Rojia incorporates the works of many contemporary artists in her teaching to emphasis the importance and responsibility of artists in 21st century and she hopes that through collaboration with her colleagues, she will engage and involve Brockton students in representing international-mindedness through the arts at an international level.
Matt Dochniak
Mr Matt Dochniak is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Physical and Health educator. Having achieved a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Bath, in England, Matt gained his teaching qualification through the University of Exeter. He began his teaching career in Bath, England, before going on to lead the Physical Education department there for 3.5 years. After relocating to Vancouver in 2018, Matt joined the Brockton community and brought fresh ideas to the school and in his position as Athletic Director. He values the importance of Physical and Health Education and believes that every student should have the opportunity to create memorable and positive experiences through athletics.
Bryony Drought
Ms. Bryony Drought is passionate about creating an inclusive classroom community where students feel represented and are motivated to take risks, play, explore and question the world around them. Bryony holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from Curtin University in Western Australia and is currently completing a Graduate Diploma in “Inquiry and Learning in the Early Years” at Simon Fraser University. Originally from Perth, Western Australia, Bryony’s two passions, travelling and teaching, have taken her across the world. She has taught in Australia, Cambodia, England and Canada. Bryony’s most memorable teaching position was at a remote Aboriginal community school in rural Australia – ask her about the snakes in her bathtub and crocodiles at the beach! Bryony came to Brockton after teaching Kindergarten at Urban Academy in New Westminster for the past two years. In her free time, Bryony loves to get out in nature, try vegan restaurants and train her rescue dog.
Adrian Dyck
Mr. Adrian Dyck is a passionate educator who enjoys working with students to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes which will allow them to be positive contributors within their communities. Since Brockton School’s founding in 2004, Adrian Dyck has worked alongside his wife and co-director, Paige Freeborn, to create and develop Brockton’s “World Music Program” (WMP) into an internationally-celebrated educational program. The WMP’s highest aspiration is to foster a compassionate, global consciousness through the development of musical skills, and the act of creating and performing music in multicultural and multigenerational contexts. Students in the WMP develop self-awareness, prosocial skills, and leadership skills, and contribute significantly to the communities they engage with. WMP ensembles have been invited to tour and perform in China, Greece, Scotland, England, Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Vancouver Island. In 2017, the WMP’s Specialized Ensembles won a Gold medal at the “Sounds of Spring International Music Festival” at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mr. Dyck co-teaches, along with Ms. Freeborn, a “Greater Good” course to Middle Years Programme students; this course supports students’ social-emotional learning through activities that are based on the most up-to-date research on mindfulness, prosocial development, restorative practices, and character education. In addition, Mr. Dyck teaches a Film and Television course to senior students, and teaches violin and guitar. Mr. Dyck earned his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Alberta and a Master of Music degree from the University of British Columbia, specializing in Violin Performance. Since graduating in 2001, Mr. Dyck has performed with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the Vancouver Film Orchestra, the Vancouver Opera Orchestra, and has studied and performed throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Mr. Dyck continues to work with Lions Gate Sinfonia, the North Shore’s professional chamber orchestra.
Rex Eng
After graduating from the University of Guelph, Rex conducted research in horticulture, with a focus on forest seedling production and medicinal plants. He designed experiments to improve plant growth and production, collected and analysed data, and wrote research reports. After 10 years, he changed profession to become a teacher. He has been teaching mathematics for more than 20 years, having taught at Collingwood School, Kwantlen Polytechnical University, and Crofton House School. Along the way, he was also doing financial calculations as a mortgage broker. Having applied mathematics in the real world, he incorporates his science and financial experiences into his classes.
Paige Freeborn
Throughout a teaching career that has spanned more than two decades, Ms. Freeborn has aspired to create spaces for students and colleagues to emerge as compassionate collaborators. Ms. Freeborn is a founding faculty member of Brockton School, and over the years, she has worked alongside her husband (Adrian Dyck) to create the school’s World Music Program (WMP), which has been recognized internationally. The WMP’s highest aspiration is to foster a compassionate, global consciousness, and students in the program regularly perform in multicultural and multigenerational community contexts. WMP ensembles have performed in China, Greece, Scotland, England, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Vancouver Island, and throughout the Vancouver area, and students in the program were awarded a gold standing at an international music festival held at Carnegie Hall (New York City). Ms. Freeborn is the school’s Community Engagement Coordinator. In this capacity, she works with students to help them develop a deeper sense of ethics, reflexivity, compassionate systems thinking; central to this process is developing an understanding of the importance and urgency of decolonization. Ms. Freeborn enjoys organizing the school’s Community Action Team (CAT) program, and seeing the creativity and innovation that arise in students as they are supported by their teacher sponsors. Ms. Freeborn teaches the Greater Good course to middle school students, which focuses on social, emotional, and ethical learning. Ms. Freeborn earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Alberta, and her Master of Music degree in Piano Performance from the University of British Columbia. While completing her graduate studies, Ms. Freeborn furthered her studies in Central and Eastern Europe, and spent five years as a teaching assistant at UBC, where she was awarded a Graduate Fellowship. She has performed in North America, Europe, and Asia, and she is currently completing her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership (Social Justice, Ethics, and Equity) at Western University. Ms. Freeborn enjoys volunteering in her local community, and has a background in community arts governance. She is a certified yoga and meditation teacher, and enjoys spending time with family and friends, and getting out on the North Shore’s hiking trails as often as possible.
Thea Gow-Jarrett
Ms. Thea Gow-Jarrett’s love of community and education led her to obtain a Bachelor of Arts Honours in English from Trent University, and a Bachelor of Education in primary and junior levels from Queen’s University. Thea began her teaching career at independent schools in Montreal and Toronto. In 2007, Thea’s desire to expand her education portfolio brought her to London, England, where she taught at various elementary schools. As a teacher, Thea strives to address emotional needs and development within the classroom. She values communication, personal development, and fun! Thea is passionate about yoga, dance, and performance as a form of self-expression and self-discovery. She is committed to creating a space for children to explore ideas, take risks, and develop both their academic and interpersonal skills. As a parent to two young children herself, Thea has a deep awareness that each student’s relationship to learning is based on the foundation she is providing for them today.
Jill Hird
Mrs. Jill Hird joined Brockton School in October 2014 as Brockton’s Junior School Visual Art Specialist. She enjoys creating art with young people because they are so full of natural curiosity and creativity. Her passion for art started as a child and was particularly sparked during her term abroad in Italy studying Art History. She graduated from UBC with a Fine Arts and Family Studies degree and went on to complete her B.Ed in the Fine Arts and Media cohort. Prior to being at Brockton, Jill worked at various independent schools around Vancouver, which is where she was first introduced to the IB Program. She enjoys many things outside of school, including spending time with her two sons, dancing, hiking, and of course creating art whenever she can!
Angus Johnston
Having grown up in B.C. and with a first job as a ski instructor at the age of 16, Mr. Angus Johnston has a firmly established love of outdoors and teaching. Having completed a Diploma in Outdoor Leadership and spent a few years guiding in rafting, sea kayaking, hiking, biking, and team building, Angus turned his sights to the University of Victoria for their Earth and Ocean Science program. He graduated from the program with a major in physics and minor in math and continued into the post-degree teacher education program for those specialties. Now as a growing teacher with a few years experience in Outdoor Experiential Education, Design, Math and the IB program, he continues to enjoy teaching and loves combining technology with inquiry and student creativity. His focus while teaching is helping students feel able to perform, comfortable to challenge, and interested to pursue no matter what the topic. He recently moved back to the coast and is looking forward to skiing, year-round running, and becoming a part of the Brockton community!
Tovah Kay
Ms. Tovah Kay holds Bachelor degrees in Anthropology and Education from UBC, and a Masters in Teaching from the University of Alcala (Spain). She has secured multiple levels of IB PYP training. This will be Tovah’s 3rd year as a part of the Brockton community, and is entering her 9th year of teaching, including international posts in Vietnam, Spain, and Ukraine. Tovah has a true appreciation for international-mindedness and embraces the concepts of global citizenship, critical thinking, and a growth mindset. Tovah looks forward to inspiring curiosity, open-mindedness, and responsibility in each of her students. She enjoys teaching with a hands on approach and loves to integrate literacy and art into everyday lessons. When not in the classroom, Tovah enjoys exploring cultural festivals, cooking, and spending time with friends.
Noble Kelly
Mr. Noble Kelly has been a BC high school educator since 1991 specifically in business, computer science and ICT courses. His passion for global and lifelong learning is evident in his education, work experience and interests. Noble’s education started in the Honours Computer Science program at University of Manitoba, then he completed his Commerce degree at the University of Texas, and his Secondary Teaching and Masters of Adult Learning and Global Change degrees at UBC. In 2006, he founded the NGO, Education Beyond Borders, that trains and mentors teachers in under resourced regions internationally in global best practices in teaching and learning. As an avid traveler (66 countries and counting) and amateur photographer, he believes you never stop learning. Noble advocates for learning in real-world contexts whether local or global, which is an integral part of the courses he teaches, and inspires risk-taking and agency in his students.
Lauren Klein
Marcha Koren
Marcha grew up in Ontario and is a first-year teacher who is excited to start her teaching career at Brockton. She recently graduated from Queen’s University with her Bachelor of Science (psychology major and math minor) and Bachelor of Education (international education specialization). Marcha has completed 7 practicum placements as well as a co-op at a private school in which she taught using many different teaching strategies such as inquiry-based learning. As a teacher, Marcha always puts students at the center of her teaching and believes that student safety, wellness and mental health should be one of the main priorities in the classroom. She believes every child matters and has something unique to bring. Marcha has used her passion for teaching in the past through being a camp director, teaching swimming lessons, tutoring through her own math tutoring business, being a psychology teaching assistant and being an educational assistant in Australia. She also holds a global mindset obtained through her exchange in Australia and immigration from the Netherlands. Marcha is known for being active in the outdoors through hiking, camping, rock climbing and swimming as well as her optimism and friendly personality.
Shannon Leggett
Shannon Leggett has been an educator for 30 years, at public and independent schools on the North Shore, and abroad at the International School of Prague, CZ. Her objective is to teach and collaborate with students in authentic, innovative ways that try to be interactive and relevant to students’ lives. Shannon is a DP History examiner, teacher training workshop leader, and one of the co-authors of one of the companion textbooks to the course. She is a co-author and contributor to the new BC SS6, SS7, and SS9 textbooks and course companion materials. She also works with CIVIX to organize the Student Vote at Brockton, and develop digital media literacy tools to be used by Brockton, schools across Canada, and internationally. Shannon has played a large role in the communities of the schools she has worked at including being a sports and improv coach, MUN sponsor, and developing various new activities and courses, such as starting film programs at two schools. She looks forward to continuing to learn from and with those in Brockton’s community.
June Marshall
June Marshall holds a BA (Hons) degree in Teaching English as a Second Language and an MA in Mandarin education. She has taught Mandarin at international schools in Hong Kong, Beijing and Seoul. Through her international experience she has become familiar with both the MYP and IB DP curricula. At the Diploma Level she has taught both the Mandarin ab initio and Mandarin B courses. June believes that learning Mandarin is greatly enhanced when students become better acquainted with Chinese culture. She grew up in Taiwan and has experienced a number of diverse cultures, having lived in Turkey, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong SAR, China, and Korea. In her free time June enjoys travelling, hiking, practicing yoga and mindfulness meditation, reading, and listening to jazz and classical music.
Stephanie Loewen
Stephanie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education specializing in IB PYP and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. She has experience in Nutritional Sciences and also holds a certificate in Outdoor Learning. She has lived overseas in Bermuda and Luxembourg, which has contributed to her global perspective. She is a dedicated and passionate elementary school teacher with experience in the North and West Vancouver School District and at Brockton School. She embraces an inquiry-based teaching/learning model and thrives to provide a holistic and unique education to all her students. If not at school, Stephanie can be found running on the local mountain trails, telemark skiing, or backpacking with her 4 children.
Abbie Lu-Grahn
Mrs. Abbie Lu-Grahn is a graduate of UBC where she attained a Bachelor of Music in piano performance. She furthered her studies later with a Bachelor of Education with a concentration in fine arts integration (media art, drama and dance) and Orff methodology. Prior to her university studies, Abbie received her ARCT Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto. Her music journey has taken her to Bratislava, Salzburg and Vienna. Abbie strongly believes in the guiding principles of Orff Schulwerk and is eager to share her passion and enthusiasm with children of all ages.
Dana MacRae
Ms. Dana MacRae hails from Sydney, Nova Scotia and has been an educator for the past 28 years. Her extensive teaching experiences range from grades 3 to 8 in both the independent and the public school systems. In addition to her classroom experience, she has provided leadership as Acting Vice-Principal and Middle Years Coordinator. Dana’s objective is to teach and learn in a growth-oriented environment as a qualified educator who can inspire students to reach their true potential. She is a team-player and is attentive to the unique needs of her students and their parents. This is Dana’s 6th year at Brockton School and is the co-coordinator and teacher leader of the Brockton POD Program.
Read Marlatte
Read Marlatte is excited to be starting his first year at Brockton School. Before finishing his teacher training, Read completed a BA Hons in Classics at UBC, as well as a Master’s in Judaism and Christianity in the Greco-Roman World and Doctorate in Theology and Religion, both at the University of Oxford. His focus was on ancient languages and history, metaphor theory, and the philosophy of interpretation. He also worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Oxford where he designed and delivered programs to undergraduate students in preparation for their exams. This role involved working in university admissions, both reviewing applications and interviewing applicants. Read is passionate about language and text and how reading literature helps us to read the world around us.
Andrew Mathie
Mr Andrew Mathie has always been fascinated with how and why things work, and this led him to pursue science and math in University. Andrew holds a BSc in Life Science from UBC, a Physics and Astronomy BSc from UVic, a BEd degree in secondary education from UBC and is currently enrolled in the MEd program for science education at UBC. He is returning to Canada after 9 years of teaching internationally in South Korea, Brazil, Vietnam, and China, and is excited to help guide students along their learning journey and strives to make challenging concepts accessible. Outside of the classroom you can find Andrew golfing, spending time with friends, family, his 3 cats, and keeping current with the greatest hockey team in the multiverse, the Edmonton Oilers.
Nicole McDonnell
Nicole did her undergraduate degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis and holds a diploma in Special Education. As an educator, Nicole strives to form strong connections with her students to help create a welcoming and inclusive environment. When she is not working Nicole enjoys hiking, biking, and travelling. She is new to Brockton this year and is excited to be a part of the community.
Heleen McMullan
Ms. Heleen McMullan was born and raised in The Netherlands and came to Canada in 2002. For over 10 years, she has worked in a wide range of early childhood teaching environments where she’s practiced different approaches including Reggio Emilia, High Scope, Outdoor education and for the last several years, the IB curriculum. Her teaching experience at the Green School in Bali, Indonesia was particularly memorable as her outdoor bamboo classroom was situated in the heart of a tropical jungle. Heleen’s focus is on experiential, play-based learning and she believes that every child is unique. She is committed to individual student development and establishing productive, child centered learning environments where inquiry-based learning happens through play. She comes to Brockton from Mulgrave where she was the JK teacher for the 4 years. Heleen is excited to combine her passion for outdoor and environmental learning with her love for young students. She hopes to spark children’s natural curiosity and instill a joy of life-long learning.
Christina Miller
Mrs. Christina Miller grew up in Squamish, BC and graduated with her BEd from Vancouver Island University. Her passion for teaching literacy stems from her studies in Queensland, Australia where she graduated with her BA in English Literature from Griffith University (QLD). After several practicums in West Vancouver and Bangkok, Mrs. Miller knew she wanted to teach the IB programme and went on to work as an intern and a Grade 1 teacher at a local PYP school. Christina loves to teach hands-on lessons and help foster curiosity by guiding students through their own personalized learning/journey. She looks forward to teaching outdoors whenever possible and creating a variety of opportunities for exploration and discovery. She loves to be outside (rain or shine) and in her free time loves to hike, camp, rock-climb, play squash, and garden. Christina is thrilled to be a part of the Brockton family!
Megan Miller (On Leave)
As Coordinator of Outdoor Education Megan Miller oversees the outdoor education curriculum across all grade levels and provides structure for students to pursue their passion for leadership and the outdoors. Megan’s career in school-based education came after many years of leading, managing, and guiding in experiential, leadership, and adventure education programs. Her passion for outdoor recreation and travel have brought her hiking in Nepal, surfing in Sri Lanka and Indonesia, backcountry splitboarding in our own Garibaldi Mountain ranges, mountain biking along the Sea to Sky Corridor, rock climbing in Red Rocks Nevada, and extended paddling trips down the Yukon and Fraser River. In the world of teaching Megan has been teaching and coordinating Outdoor Education and Adventure programs in an independent school environment for 10 years with a special commitment and passion for student leadership development. Megan obtained her Bachelor of Education from University of British Columbia and her Master of Arts in Leadership from Royal Roads.
Dina Moinian
Dina Moinian is a dedicated and responsive teacher with proven skills in classroom management, behavior modification and individualized support. With nearly a decade of experience teaching in the upper primary and middle school years at independent schools both locally and internationally, she has the tools to work with students of all skill levels to promote learning and boost educational success. Having taught in an IB setting for most of her teaching career, Dina considers herself a lifelong learner, always keeping her knowledge and practice up to date in order to serve students in the best way possible. Dina strives to be a role model by using a growth mindset to develop young minds and inspire a love of learning. In her spare time Dina enjoys hiking, cycling, doing yoga and reading.
Liam Montgomery
Lindsay Mowat
As the Associate Coordinator of Outdoor Education, Lindsay Mowat supports the Outdoor Education Department primarily in, but not limited to, the Junior School. At 3 years-old, Lindsay experienced her first multi-day canoe trip in Northern Ontario with her family. She developed a love and passion for Outdoor Learning very early on and spent summer months attending Summer Camp and participating in canoe and sea kayaking trips in Georgian Bay. She has led experiential, leadership, and adventure education programs across Canada for over 10 years. Before joining the Brockton Community, Lindsay spent 3 years traveling and teaching in Southeast Asia. She worked with children and families from around the world. Lindsay will be joining the world of Forest School Practitioners this year as she is currently completing a year-long Forest School Program through the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada.
Karly O'Connor
Karly is a motivated, enthusiastic educator with a passion for lifelong learning. Her degrees in Environmental Biology, Urban Planning and Education reflect her diverse interests and rich life experiences that she brings to the classroom. Inspired by her own children’s natural curiosity and sense of wonder, Karly’s goal is to foster independent, motivated learners through relevant, inquiry-based learning in a safe and supportive class environment. Karly has an athletic background as a NCAA Division 1 field hockey player and has coached children and youth. She shares her passion for movement, teamwork and a growth mindset in the classroom and helps young learners develop confidence in their own unique strengths and abilities.
Gareth Pritchard
Mr Gareth Pritchard completed the IB DP program at the British School of Houston, before heading to Texas State University where he completed his degree with a major in Mathematics and a minor in Education. After teaching for approximately 2 years in Texas, Gareth went back to Scotland where he grew up to do a Master’s in Applied Math at the University of Dundee (where he focused on the magnetic fields of the sun) with the intention of becoming an engineer. However, his passion for teaching drew him back to Texas where he continued to teach for 3 more years. During this time Gareth was scouted by the Canadian Rugby 7’s coach Damian McGrath to play for the Canadian Maple Leafs in Langford in 2017. In 2019 Gareth moved to Canada on a permanent basis and attended VIU where he received his B.Ed and BC teaching certificate in Feb 2021. He was then hired by VIU to teach math in their adult education program before moving to North Vancouver to teach at Brockton.
Triston Sargeant
Tanja Scott
Tanja Scott has been teaching in the Humanities for over fifteen. Whether in English or Social Studies courses, Tanja prioritizes diversity, critical approaches to learning, and student “voice and choice”. She is passionate about creative writing, water sports, and her children. Tanja is currently pursuing a Masters of Education through the University of British Columbia.
Darhen Sing
Ms. Darhen Sing joined the Brockton community in January 2019. This year she is teaching MYP Language and Literature courses while also providing in-house coverage in the Senior School. She received her Bachelor of Arts (double major in English and History conjoint with a Diploma in Performance and Communications Media) and her Bachelor of Education (Intermediate/Secondary) from the Memorial University of Newfoundland before moving to the United Kingdom for work and to study Creative Writing at Cambridge University. Growing up on the rugged coast of Newfoundland gave her love and respect for the great outdoors and she constantly seeks ways to incorporate critical eco-pedagogies into her practice, getting outside as much as possible. Passionate about helping young people grow, she strives to build connections with her students and to help them, in turn, build connections with/in the local community so they have the opportunity to become conscientious, critical, responsible, active members of our global community. While working at Brockton, Darhen will be studying full time, pursuing a Masters of Arts in Language and Literacy Education at UBC and doing research on “the impact of social distancing on community” at Brockton. She loves exploring – especially if her adventures take her to the sea – as well as reading fantasy novels, writing poetry and sharing stories.
Kendle Sohier
Ms. Kendle Sohier is an experienced, passionate IB educator, teaching and learning in independent IB schools in Toronto, Melbourne Australia, Frankfurt Germany, and Singapore. Always teaching through a lens of inquiry and play, she aims to make learning FUN, and embeds math into all aspects of learning. She has recently moved to beautiful North Vancouver with her husband and two children and she is so excited to be part of the strong Brockton community. In her spare time, she plans on hiking, biking and/or skiing in the mountains with her family.
Micah Stern
Ms. Micah Stern joined Brockton School after 4 years of teaching at Crofton House School in Vancouver. Micah prides herself on creating a welcoming, safe and inclusive classroom environment where students can show up everyday as their true selves. Micah is passionate about Indigenous Education and the SOGI (Sexual Orientation Gender Identity) curriculum and naturally weaves it into her teaching practices. Outside of the classroom you can ask Micah about her favourite vegan recipes and best spots in the city for ice cream!
Cheryl Taylor Lee
Cheryl Taylor Lee is a mom of two amazing boys, Nico (age 15) and Oliver (age 12), and has enjoyed being an Early Childhood Educator for over 20 years. Cheryl graduated from Capilano University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Care program and completed the Professional Development Program, Imagination Education module at Simon Fraser University in the spring of 2021. Cheryl loves hiking, biking, yoga, cooking, gardening, walking her dog Griff. Her family’s happy place is exploring the beautiful outdoors. Cheryl really enjoys finding out what interests the learners and following their lead to discover what possibilities can be created.
Alizé Thiercelin
Alizé holds a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages from France. During her degree, she spent a year in Spain where she finished her studies and learned to speak Spanish. After moving to Canada, she graduated from UQAM in Montréal with a Bachelor of Education degree specializing in teaching French as a second language. She began instructing in Québec to children from different countries with diverse backgrounds. However, Alizé’s desire to discover other ways to teach and expand her knowledge brought her to the other side of Canada. She enjoys educating through games, literature, music and activities that create good memories for the students and give them the confidence to speak in French. She looks forward to inspiring the love of French to her students. As a new teacher, she is excited to work with the IB program and to make her contribution to Brockton School. When Alizé is not teaching, she is somewhere in the mountains, climbing a multi-pitch or walking a highline above a canyon!
Natalia Trotman
Natalia, who has come to us from Colorado, has been teaching French and Spanish for over ten years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Boston College specializing in French and secondary education, as well as a Master’s Degree in French from Columbia University. She will be defending her Doctoral thesis in language acquisition next summer at Middlebury College. In addition to teaching French and Spanish, Natalia has coached teachers, led district-wide training sessions around effective and engaging classroom instruction, and co-developed curriculum in language instruction. She grew up in a bi-lingual French/English household. She has lived in the US, France, London, Argentina and is thrilled to now call Canada home. Natalia believes that language and effective communication is the gateway to collaboration and understanding on a global level. She pushes her students to find their voice and become leaders in their own way. Outside of the classroom Natalia is very passionate about running, cycling, soccer, and linguistics.
Julia Wellman
Ms Julia Wellman comes originally from Saskatchewan where she completed her BSc in Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina. Julia loved learning about health and wellness and how the body moves, however she felt something was still missing. Julia went back to school and completed her Education degree in Calgary, AB, before moving to Vancouver in 2018. Julia is passionate about creating a safe and inclusive classroom space that fosters movement, curiosity, and a joy for learning. Julia loves living in BC, spending time in nature, travelling and good coffee.
Adam Wilson
Adam Wilson grew up in North Vancouver and is a first-year teacher with a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in psychology from Simon Fraser Univerity. Prior to becoming a teacher, Adam was an Education Assistant in both the public and independent school systems for eight years. Adam believes learning is a lifelong endeavour, and wants to inspire and encourage young learners to develop a sense of creativity that will help them think critically in their learning explorations. Adam is a team player and collaborates well with his colleagues and mentors. He has played sports throughout his life and has coached school sports throughout his time working as an educator. Adam believes social-emotional and physical health and activity are foundational elements to children’s successful development. Adam believes providing diverse learning opportunities to inspire personal, social and cultural awarenesses creates a healthy environment for children to enhance their social-emotional health, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
Christopher Woodward
Chris Woodward grew up in Beautiful British Columbia. As a young boy he spent his time playing soccer in the fall, skiing in the winter, playing T-ball in the spring, and summers spent exploring the beaches of Desolation Sound. Chris was raised by an avid outdoorsman, with a large family and spent many trips fishing, skiing, and riding. Chris has traveled for work, school and just for fun all over the world to places such as China, India, Australia, Turkey, Israel, Russia, Japan, the United States, and most of western Europe. He spent 12 years as the Athletic Director and teaching at an IB school in mid-town Toronto and has three daughters ages 11-18. He brings not only a huge wealth of knowledge to Brockton, but also a Master’s in Imaginative Educational Leadership at Simon Fraser University, as well as a wide variety of specialized coaching licences in Soccer, Basketball, Rugby, and Track and Field, just to name a few.
Jeff Yeo
Mr Jeff Yeo has had a lifelong passion for the sciences as a way to help explain and appreciate the beautiful world around us. Jeff holds a BSc from the University of Michigan (leaders and best), and a MSc in Environmental Engineering from the National University of Singapore. Before rediscovering the path to teaching, Jeff has explored multiple careers from science journalism, to managing projects in the energy industry, to research in sedimentology and paleoclimatology. Now Jeff hopes to inject his real world experience into his classes, where he aims to help his students grow confident about their abilities on their path to pursue their own passions. Beyond the classroom, Jeff plays hockey and tennis, and follows Michigan football and the actual greatest hockey team in the multiverses, the Detroit Red Wings.
Laila Zandi
Helen Zhai
Ms. Helen Zhai has been working as an educator in both private and public schools focusing on learning resources for over 7 years. She graduated from the University of British Columbia with her Masters in Special Education (with a concentration in learning disabilities). Helen has a passion for supporting students with diverse learning needs as well as a strong mathematics and science background. Helen brings her abundance of expertise and experience to the Brockton Student Services – Learning Resource program.
STUDENT SERVICES
Brianna Bishop
Mrs Bri Bishop has joined the Brockton team this year from Calgary AB, but is a born and raised British Columbian! Teaching in the junior and senior high levels, Bri joins the resource team with a background of gifted education, specifically working with English and Social Studies curriculum. Bri will complete her Master’s degree this April, with a concentration in gifted education, focusing on this field through the lens of school and counselling psychology and mental health.
As an avid hiker, road biker, skier, and camper, she is excited to make the most out of the beautiful North Vancouver mountains, along with her husband and puppy! Bri is excited and enthusiastic to begin this new adventure with the Brockton team.
Yuko Keane
Ms. Yuko Keane is a positive, patient, and dedicated teacher. She is a graduate of the University of British Columbia where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology before continuing her studies to complete a Bachelor of Education degree. Her experience in schools inspired her to learn more about supporting students with diverse needs. She has completed coursework in Special Education at Simon Fraser University, and Orton-Gillingham training to teach multi-sensory language and math. Yuko is committed to collaboratively working with students, teachers, and families to provide an inclusive learning environment.
Hannah McCormack
Hannah McCormack had been at Brockton since 2019 and is one of our two School Counsellors serving the JK-12 continuum. Hannah is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and has been serving children, youth and their families in counselling roles since 2007, including 9 years as a Personal Counsellor and Team Lead of Post-Secondary Planning at Fraser Academy. Hannah feels fortunate to work in a school with an atmosphere of connectedness and positivity. Hannah is dedicated to helping students feel included, supported and cared for each day they are at school.
Hannah has a MA in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, a Diploma of Professional Counselling from the Vancouver College of Counsellor Training, and a BA from the University of British Columbia. She is also a graduate of Crofton House School. Hannah is a member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and she holds a non-expiring Independent School Teaching Certificate.
Hannah is a proud resident of Lynn Valley and is the mother of twin boys in elementary school.
Julie Payne
Mrs. Jules (Julie) Payne is in her 6th year at Brockton. Mrs. Payne has a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and a Bachelor of Education from McGill University. She has been a school counsellor for 11 years, after teaching for over a decade in both the independent and public school systems in BC. Mrs. Payne is enthusiastic to support the personal development, mental health and wellbeing of all of the children, families, and teachers in our Brockton community. Mrs. Payne has been living in Lynn Valley for over 20 years with her family, and loves playing tennis, hiking in the beautiful local trails, and watching her boys play hockey.
Jessica Silberg
Mrs. Jessica Silberg has been a part of the Junior Kindergarten programme at Brockton School since its inaugural year in 2016 and in 2019/20 is taking on an extended role with Student Services (Learning Resources). Originally from Ottawa, Jessica moved westward in 2012 and is happy to now call North Vancouver her home. She earned a Bachelor of Education from Nippising University, and completed a B.A. (honours) in Child Studies at Carleton University. Jessica is certified in Early Childhood Education and has completed Special Education training in Ontario. Over the past 14 years, Jessica has taught in independent schools, public schools, daycares, as well as provided individualized educational support to students with special needs. When she is not teaching, Jessica enjoys crafting, hiking, and going on adventures with her family and dog Jack. Jessica loves teaching and strives to build a warm, welcoming classroom community that provides each student the opportunity to reach their full potential. Her hope is to inspire her students to follow their passions and introduce them to the joys of learning. Jessica is looking forward to continuing to build positive relationships with colleagues, students, and their families at Brockton School.
ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT STAFF
Karen McCulla
Ms. Karen McCulla began her teaching career in the classrooms of New York City before making her way back to her home province of BC and taking on appointments in the Okanagan Valley and then the Lower Mainland. As a varsity basketball player in her university years, Karen dedicated much of her time outside of the classroom to supporting student-athletes and several provincial sport associations. Karen moved into the leadership realm early in her career and took on roles of Department Head and Athletic Director; Karen was the first female basketball coach and Athletic Director of Vancouver College (all boys school). Following Vancouver College, Karen embraced an opportunity to work for Shanghai Teachers’ University (through Douglas College), educating aspiring teachers in practical, technical, and theoretical coursework. Prior to joining Brockton, Karen spent 12 years at Crofton House School. As Director of Crofton House Senior School, Karen was responsible for the visioning and operations of the senior school community and launched several initiatives including service programming (international and local) and the Ivy/Compass program. Karen joined Brockton in 2014/2015 and has embraced the opportunity to grow and guide this extraordinary community. Despite her busy role, Karen continues to serve where she can and presently sits on the board of the ISABC (Independent School Association of BC) and maintains involvement in several youth sporting programs. Karen is passionate about much in life and is blessed with amazing friends and family (including her two children).
Stuart Allester
Stuart Allester has spent the past twelve years guiding staff and students within the ISABC community as a teacher and vice principal. He values the holistic growth of students and the role a strong academic foundation can play in that development. His guiding principles are rooted in attachment theory and relationship building. Stuart comes to Brockton with experience in curriculum design and implementation, technology integration and cultivating leaders. He is also a Registered Clinical Counsellor with his Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is a consultant with the Ministry of Education’s assessment team. Stuart is father to three young children and is an active member of the Lynn Valley community, volunteering with both the Lynn Valley Little League and the North Vancouver Football Club. He is excited to bring his passion for education and the development of humans to Brockton.
Svetlana Catia
Ms. Svetlana Catia was born in Slovakia where she completed her Masters in Education with a focus on teaching Mathematics and Physics from Charles University in Prague. With this background, Svetlana was recruited and found herself working in Los Angeles engaging in research/publications/presentations with The National Association for Research on Science Teaching and the American Educational Research Association. Svetlana then ventured to Vancouver and was welcomed to Canadian classrooms. Among other postings, Svetlana most recently served as the senior physics teacher at Crofton House School. Indeed, Svetlana comes to Brockton School with many years of experience including teaching of a variety of subjects: Advanced Placement Physics, Physics 11/12, Sciences, and Mathematics. In 2012, Svetlana also completed her Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology. Svetlana is an authentic individual who values the learning about her students, their families, and their dreams/aspirations. Svetlana encourages her students to love and value their studies, to be curious about the world around them, and to actively search for answers to all questions that arise. She has a passion for, and a commitment to, education, as she believes it plays an essential role in the lives of every individual and in every society worldwide. Svetlana was a former president of the BC Association of Physics Teachers, where she was committed to promoting excellence in the teaching of physics across BC. As a mother to her young daughter, Svetlana spends most of her free time exploring outdoor parks, swimming, playing tennis, or skiing. She loves to travel, explore different cultures, and spend quality time with friends and family.
Nichole Carrigan
Ms. Nichole Carrigan is passionate about inspiring teachers and students to be curious and critical thinkers, to face challenges and take action, and to act with compassion and integrity. She is a graduate from Trent University (Ontario) and Griffith University (Australia) where she gained her Masters of Primary Teaching. She is a qualified Montessori teacher and IB Academy teacher. Having taught in Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and Canada has offered incredible opportunities to learn from other cultures, as well as different approaches to teaching and learning.
Amanda Jordens
Karen Keech
Ms. Keech is a graduate of McMaster University and the University of Windsor and has been teaching and working within the IB framework for the past 16 years. She is passionate about Brockton and in sharing this enthusiasm with others. She wholeheartedly cares about the welfare of each child and family at Brockton School. Supporting and getting to know all of Brockton’s new students and their families with their transition into the Brockton community brings her joy.
Jamie Morris
Ms. Jamie Morris has been working in the field of education in both public and independent schools, within Canada and internationally, for 10 years. She graduated with her Masters in Child Study and Education (with a specialization in Special Education) from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. Jamie is passionate about working with students with diverse learning needs and appreciates how each child has their own unique educational, psychological, social, and emotional needs and strengths that bring value to the school community.
Kailee Deacon
Ms. Kailee Deacon completed her Master’s degree in Education at the University of Toronto (Ontario Institute for Studies in Education), and has since been teaching and learning in independent schools both within Canada and overseas (including most recently at Rundle College in Calgary and Havergal College in Toronto). Kailee creates a classroom environment that is fun and engaging for each of her students, and enjoys discovering alongside the children as they explore their life/learning toolkit. Kailee is a strong advocate for athletics and has loved coaching many sports teams and clubs over the past 14 years. In past summers, Kailee worked as the Program Coordinator at the International American School in Lugano, Switzerland. Working with children from all over the world has instilled a passion for global citizenship, which is of course an important theme in the IB classroom. When away from school, you’ll find Kailee with a backpack on and ready to travel to a new part of the world.
Madeleine Costanza
After working and living around the world, Madeleine is happy to have found a home in beautiful North Vancouver and a warm and engaging community at Brockton School.
Sonia Chao
Kathy Findlay
Kathy joined Brockton in 2017 and has been an invaluable support ever since. Kathy’s main areas of responsibility are in the learning commons (library technician), within the New to You uniform shop, and in support of Advancement efforts and general administration. Kathy has a diverse set of skills including a background in early childhood education and a number of years within the business sector in insurance. Kathy’s creative and engaging ways are ever present in her work.
Hooman Ghassemi
Hart Gilbert
Jessica Johnston
Ms Jess Johnston hails from Aotearoa New Zealand, where she was born and raised in Ōtautahi Christchurch before moving to Pōneke Wellington where she completed a Bachelor of Design Innovation. After her studies, Jess moved to BC on a two year working visa in 2019, before securing her Permanent Residency in 2021. She enjoys exploring with her dog Grass, who is much more interesting than she is.
Ms Grass Johnston came to Canada from Texas where she was found alone on the side of the highway in April 2021. Her full story is a mystery, but since arriving in Canada she has completed Puppy Preschool and explored many BC forests and parks. She loves carrots, hates racoons, and enjoys playing an absurd amount of fetch.
Deb Kryczkowski
Anita Lee
Angela Sali
Ms. Angela Sali completed her AMI Montessori and Early Childhood Education training in 2001, beginning her career at Westside Montessori and later as Head of Junior Kindergarten at WPGA for many years. She is a lifelong learner herself and has taken additional training and workshops in IB, the Reggio Emilia approach, Nature Based learning, and the Attachment Theory, to enhance her understanding of how to best serve and connect with each child as a community member. When Angie isn’t in a school connecting with families and joyfully serving children, she writes children’s books and music, designs children’s gardens, gives parenting workshops, and has consulted both locally and internationally for such organizations as imagine1day to build schools in Ethiopia, and for the CBC Kids show, ‘Scout and the Gumboot Kids’. Angie is also a very proud mom of her daughter Dante (McGill ‘19) and they love to go on mother daughter adventures around the world.
Brooke Taylor
Ms Brooke Taylor was raised in northern BC and on Vancouver Island, where she developed an appreciation for the beauty of nature. Her love for Canadian literature, especially feminist, diasporic and postcolonial stories, lead her to complete a Masters in English Literature at the University of Calgary. Brooke enjoyed learning about other cultures while working in Korea, Mexico, east Africa, before returning to the west coast where she taught literature, composition, speech and debate in several local private schools. Now in an administrative role for over six years, she is proud to continue to support students and families in their academic goals.
Brooke ensures that all Ministry of Education reports are completed according to regulations and is responsible for school records. She registers new students, publishes term report cards, audits graduation plans to ensure grade 12 students meet all requirements and verifies transcripts for university applications. When not working, she enjoys traveling, snowshoeing, stand up paddle boarding on both warm and glacial lakes, gardening, and North Shore dog hikes.
