Staff Profiles 2016-2017 Ms. Sharon Gretzinger - Casa Ms. Sharon Gretzinger joined Rotherglen in February of 2007. She has been teaching for over 20 years. Ms. Gretzinger earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics from Brock University (St. Catharines), her American Montessori Society diploma in Montessori education (ages 3-6) from the Centre for Montessori Teacher Education (White Plains, New York) and music diplomas from Musik Garten and Yamaha Music. Ms. Gretzinger taught at the Casa level at Grey Gables School (St. Catharines) for 13 years. In addition to her teaching duties there, she also acted as Coordinator for the Casa and Toddler programs at both the St. Catharines and Niagara Falls campuses of Grey Gables School. .Ms. Gretzinger has enjoyed her contributions to our extra-curricular activities through her participation in the running of the Casa Reading Club and Arts and Crafts Club. As well as a representative of the Rotherglen teaching staff, Ms. Gretzinger acts as a member of the Health and Safety Committee, Assembly Committee and Grade 8 Legacy Committee. Mrs. Tatiana Ilic - Casa Mrs. Tatiana Ilic is beginning her nineteenth year of teaching Casa, all of which have been with Rotherglen School. Mrs. Ilic became a member of the Rotherglen Staff after successfully completing her Montessori training in 1998. She enjoyed teaching both the Half Day and Full Day Programs at Rotherglen's Oakville Primary Campus. Mrs. Ilic transferred to the Oakville Elementary campus for the 2015-16 school year, and teaches in our Casa class. Mrs. Ilic earned her Honours Bachelor of Education from the M.B.B.B. University in Slovakia, as well as a Masters of Education and School Psychology from the U.M.B.B.B. in Slovakia. Mrs. Ilic has also obtained her post-graduate diploma in Primary Montessori Education from the A.M.I. Institute in Toronto. Mrs. Ilic is a proud mother of three young children, two of whom are presently attending Rotherglen's Elementary Campus. Mrs. Ilic has enjoyed her contributions to our extra-curricular activities and committees through her participation in the Volunteer Strawberry Social, the French Cafe, the School Play Production and the Art Show Committees, as well as the United Way campaigns, Coordinator of Thanksgiving Food Drive, Staff Mentor to new teachers, School Ambassador for Open Houses, and her work with the Christmas Concert Planning Committee.

Ms. Carolyn MacLachlan - Class 1A Ms. MacLachlan is beginning her 13th year of teaching at Rotherglen School. Ms. MacLachlan earned her diploma with honours in Child and Youth Work from George Brown College and holds her American Montessori Society diploma with honours in Montessori Casa education as well as a North American Montessori Center Elementary diploma with honours to teach grades 1 to 3. Ms. MacLachlan started her teaching career at Rotherglen's Oakville Primary Campus (2004-2008), Ms. MacLachlan taught in both the half-day and full-day Casa programs, as well she provided specialized individual and small group support in both the reading and printing programs. In September of 2008 Ms. MacLachlan was invited to join the Neyagawa campus in the Full Day Casa program where she taught until 2011. During the 2011-2012 school year, Ms. MacLachlan was called upon to work in Rotherglen’s Learning Success Centre. As a Learning Resource Teacher she provided one to one academic support to students from Casa to Grade 7. In 2015 Ms. MacLachlan earned her N.A.M.C Elementary Diploma with honours to teach in Rotherglen's Lower Elementary Division where she currently teaches Grade 1. Prior to joining Rotherglen School, Ms. MacLachlan enjoyed a twenty-year career working with children in organizations such as the Adolescent Treatment DepartmentSyl Apps Youth Centre, the Ministry of Health's Whitby Psychiatric Hospital Children and Adolescent Department, and the Peel Children's Aid Society's Emergency Receiving Department. Ms. MacLachlan has enjoyed her many contributions to our extra-curricular activities and committees through her participation in the Learning Strategies Committee, as Staff Educator of Dr. Ross Greene’s Collaborative Problem Solving method, Leader of the Grade 7 & 8 Model Untied Nations Club, Staff Mentor to new teachers, School Ambassador for Open Houses, Facilitator of the Casa Reading Club, two School Musical Productions, United Way campaigns and her work with the Graduation Planning Committee. She is a member of the Health and Safety Committee and most recently colead the Grade 1 Smartboard Club as well as the Grade 1 Gardening Club. Ms. Sarah Hume – Class 1B Ms. Sarah Hume is beginning her seventeenth year of teaching at Rotherglen and has taught Grades 1 to 3. This will be her fifteenth year of teaching Grade One at the Oakville Elementary Campus. Prior to teaching at the Oakville Elementary Campus, Ms. Hume taught a Grade 2/3 class at our Meadowvale Estate Campus (Mississauga) for one year. As well, she taught a Grade 1 to 3 class at Dearcroft Montessori School (Oakville) for three years and was a Casa and elementary teacher assistant at Hillfield Strathallan College (Hamilton) for one year. Ms. Hume earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from McMaster University, a Post Graduate Certificate in Education in primary/junior education from the University College of St. Martin's (Lancaster, England), and an AMS diploma in elementary (ages 6-9) Montessori education from the Centre for Montessori Teacher Education (New York). She has also completed part one of the Special Education Additional Qualification course from Brock University. Her involvement in the school community includes coaching kick baseball and floor hockey and she acted as Stage Manager for our annual Musical productions for many years. As well, she is an avid equestrian and for many years her Pony Club has been extremely popular with students. Ms. Hume is the mother of a son who graduated from Rotherglen in 2015. Her sister, Ms. Alix Hume, teaches Grade 2 at the Oakville Elementary Campus.

Mrs. Sharmila Pal – Class 2A Mrs. Sharmila Pal is beginning her twenty-sixth year of teaching, her eighteenth at Rotherglen. Mrs. Pal holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree with a major in English Literature. She has a diploma in Early Childhood Education from Sheridan College. She received her diploma in Montessori primary education (ages 3-6) from the London Montessori Centre (London, England). She also earned her diploma in elementary Montessori education (ages 6-9) from the Toronto Montessori Institute. Mrs. Pal has taught both Casa and Grade One at Rotherglen. After many years of teaching Grade One, Mrs. Pal began teaching Grade Two in September 2007. Mrs. Pal has enjoyed running many clubs at Rotherglen including cooking, knitting, outdoor games, friendship bracelet-making, chess, puppet club, Reader’s theatre and kickball in addition to assisting with Reach Week, Peer tutoring and the Inter-school chess tournament. Ms. Incia Zaffar – Class 2B I am a Certified Teacher with a Master of Science in Elementary Education with a thesis on Culturally Responsive Teaching. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. I have worked in the Non-Profit Sector for 9 years with Children and Youth educational programming. I am also a certified Kids Yoga teacher with a specialization in Yoga for differently abled kids. I have completed a Reading Part 1 Additional Qualification. In 2016, I will be a Special Education Specialist having completed Special Education Part 1, 2 and 3. At Rotherglen, I have been involved with afterschool programming, musical camp and production team of the musical Into the Woods, Grade 1 and 2 Yoga Clubs, Grade 2 Gardening Club and the REACH International Committee. This will be my 4th year of teaching and my 2nd year of teaching grade two at Rotherglen. I enjoy travelling, reading, exploring new cuisines and yoga! The most fun job I have had has been working at the Toronto zoo! Ms. A. Hume – Class 2C Ms. Alix Hume is in her eighteenth year of teaching, her fifteenth year with Rotherglen. She worked for four years at our Burlington Campus, teaching a Grade 1/2 class. She joined the faculty of the Oakville Elementary Campus in the fall of 2006 as a Grade 2 teacher. Prior to joining Rotherglen's Burlington Campus, Ms. Hume taught at Dearcroft Montessori School (Oakville) and Grey Gables Montessori School (Niagara Falls Campus), both at the lower elementary level. Ms. Hume holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from McMaster University and a diploma in elementary Montessori education (ages 6-9) from the Center for Montessori Teacher Education in New York. Ms. Hume helps organize our annual musical production as well as the REACH International Club.

Ms. Shaila Rao – Class 3A Ms. Shaila Rao is beginning her sixteenth year in education, her thirteenth at Rotherglen. Ms. Rao has taught Grades 1, 2 and 3 at Rotherglen School. Ms. Rao has also been an Academic Resource Teacher and Coordinator with the Learning Success Centre. Prior to coming to Rotherglen, Ms. Rao taught at the Willowdale and Thornhill campuses of Central Montessori Schools where she gained experience teaching at various grade levels from Casa to Grade 6. She also provided ESL and academic learning support to individual students. She has attended several workshops and seminars relating to differentiated learners and children with learning difficulties. Before beginning her career in education, Ms. Rao worked as a lawyer. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University with a minor in psychology, a Bachelor of Laws degree from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University and a diploma in elementary Montessori education (ages 6-9) from the Toronto Montessori Institute. Ms. Rao also holds a Master of Education degree in Applied Psychology and Human Development, with a focus on Special Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto. In previous years, Ms. Rao has enjoyed running the Cheer Squad, Poetry Club, the Public Speaking Workshop and the Grade 7/8 Math Contest Club. Ms. Tanya Mann - Class 3B Ms. Tanya Mann is beginning her fifteenth year of teaching, her twelfth at Rotherglen. Prior to beginning her career in education, Ms. Mann spent several years at one of Canada’s largest banks as a financial planner. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Administrative Management from Concordia University, as well as diplomas in primary (ages 2.5-6) and elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute. Ms. Mann has taught several grades, including Grades 4 to 6 when she worked at Westwind Montessori School (Oakville). She has been teaching Grade 2 and Grade 3 for the last twelve years. Ms. Mann also spent two years teaching in South Korea and is rejoining us after living in London, England for the past year. Ms. Mann’s hobbies include traveling, gardening, photography and running. She is the mother of two daughters. Mrs. Nancy Prpic – Class 3C Mrs. Nancy Prpic holds a Master of Education degree with a focus on Contemporary Literacy from Charles Sturt University. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (Honours) in Philosophy and Religion from McMaster University, as well as a diploma in elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute. In addition, she earned a certificate in Montessori Applied to Children at Risk, as well as ‘All Kinds of Minds’ training and approach, which embraces Differentiated Learning. Mrs. Prpic is beginning her fifteenth year of teaching, all of which have been at Rotherglen School. She has taught Grades 1, 2 and 3. Mrs. Prpic is very excited to be teaching Grade Three again beginning September 2016. She is the proud mother of twin girls who both graduated from Rotherglen School. Her involvement in the Rotherglen school community has included helping with the school musical production, Readers' Theatre and running clubs such as the Gardening club, SmartBoard club, Art club and Dance and Movement club.

Mrs. Melissa Fernald - Class 4A Mrs. Fernald is thrilled to be teaching Grade 4 for the 2016-17 school year. She is entering her seventh year in education; her fifth year at Rotherglen. Prior to this year, Mrs. Fernald was a Learning Resource Teacher in our Learning Success Centre. She joined Rotherglen as a Reading Reinforcement teacher in the Spring of 2012, planning and implementing guided reading lessons for students in Grades 1-3, as well as running the Readers' Theatre after school club. Mrs. Fernald began her teaching career in the United Kingdom where she taught Grade 3 in a small community in Yorkshire. Mrs. Fernald then had the opportunity to spend a summer in Kenya developing resources and teaching students with a variety of special needs, with a strong focus on autism. This experience led her to her work as a Behaviour Therapist for young children with autism prior to coming to Rotherglen. Mrs. Fernald attended Lakehead University where she obtained both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education degree with primary/junior qualifications. She holds additional qualifications in Religious Education and her Specialist designation in Special Education. Mrs. Fernald has enjoyed running a variety of clubs, including Brain Quest and the Math Contest Club. In her free time, she enjoys travelling, playing volleyball and spending time up north with family and friends. Mrs. Kendra Volpatti – Class 4B Mrs. Kendra Volpatti is in her thirteenth year of teaching, her fifth at Rotherglen School. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Human Nutrition degree from the University of Guelph. She earned her Bachelor of Education, Primary and Junior divisions, at Queen’s University and began her teaching career at Bayview Glen School, in Toronto. Mrs. Volpatti earned her diploma in Elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori training from the Montessori Teachers College in Toronto. She also holds additional qualifications in English as a Second Language. She is a proud mother of two children. Mrs.Volpatti is actively involved with the Rotherglen REACH International Club, the Cross Country Team and the Musical Production. She is excited to be teaching Grade 4 for the 2016/2017 academic year! Mrs. Allison Little – Class 4C Mrs. Allison Little is returning for her second year at Rotherglen and her ninth year of teaching. Prior to teaching at Rotherglen, Mrs. Little taught Grade 3 at Hong Kong International School in Hong Kong.She also taught kindergarten and Grade 2 for five years at Shekou International School in southern China. Mrs. Little graduated from the University of Guelph with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. She earned her Bachelor of Education from Brock University and holds an additional qualification in Special Education.

Ms. Sarah Maltby – Class 4D Ms. Maltby is excited to be teaching grade 4 for the 2016-2017 school year. Ms. Maltby holds a Master of Arts degree in Child Study and Education at the University of Toronto. Prior to pursuing studies at the graduate level, Ms. Maltby completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education. In addition to being qualified to teach at the Primary and Junior levels, Ms. Maltby also holds an additional qualification in Special Education. Her practice teaching experience was completed in multiple private schools in Toronto including Bishop Strachan School, Upper Canada College, and the Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study. Within these settings, Ms. Maltby participated in extracurricular activities including art club, gardening club, and also coached the Bishop Strachan soccer team. It has always been a passion of hers to engage students within the classroom and beyond. Ms. Claudia Marchessault – Class 5A Ms. Claudia Marchessault joined Rotherglen School in 2011 and is excited to be teaching Grade Five for the 2016-2017 academic year. In the past, Ms. Marchessault has taught Grades Four and Six, and she previously worked in the Learning Success Centre with a focus on providing enrichment and support to Rotherglen students. Ms. Marchessault holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from McGill University, as well as a Bachelor of Education degree in Primary/Junior Education from the University of Ottawa. She holds additional qualifications in Special Education and is working towards her Masters in Educational Technology at the University of British Columbia. Outside the classroom, Ms. Marchessault has coached several of Rotherglen's Cross Country, Floor Hockey, and Softball teams, and enjoys being a member of various school committees. Ms. Nancy Gibson – Class 5B I joined the Rotherglen Community in January of 2013 as a supply teacher in a variety of grades. I also worked at the Meadowvale Elementary campus in their Reading Reinforcement Program and Learning Success Centre. For the last 2 years I have taught Grade 5 at the Oakville campus and this year I am very excited to be teaching Grade 5 once again. Prior to joining Rotherglen, I taught overseas in Saudi Arabia and Dubai for a number of years. There I taught a variety of grades and also had the opportunity to help create and teach in the school’s Learning Support Program. I graduated from University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Then later obtained a Master of Arts in Education, with an emphasis in Special Education. This past year I had a great time supporting and supervising the school's REACH Program, the Chess Club and helping coach the Track and Field Team. In my spare time I enjoy running, reading and spending time at the cottage with my kids - I am the proud mother of 3 wonderful boys.

Mrs. Katie Rylance – Class 5C Mrs. Katie Rylance earned her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in English from McMaster University and a Master of Science in Education degree in Primary/Junior Elementary Education from Niagara University (Buffalo, New York). While completing her Masters of Science in Education degree, Mrs. Rylance travelled through Europe to learn about their educational systems. Many of the practices she was exposed to have been implemented into her classroom teachings. Mrs. Rylance joined Rotherglen in 2008 after working for three years at Sherwood Heights School, a private school in Mississauga, where she taught Grade 1. Mrs. Rylance has volunteered her time and energy for three Rotherglen musical productions and coaches soccer, basketball, floor hockey, track and field, and softball. Mrs. Rylance has been teaching for 11 years and this will mark her 9th year at Rotherglen. She has taught Grades 4 and 5 while at Rotherglen. Mrs. Rylance is the proud mother of three children, Grace, Taylor and Ty Thomas. Mrs. Jennifer Simoes – Class 6A Mrs. Jennifer Simoes is beginning her sixth year of teaching. This will mark Mrs. Simoes' second year teaching in the Grade 6 division. Prior to beginning her career in education, Mrs. Simoes spent several years at one of Australia's largest banks in the Institutional Equities Sales and Trading Department. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in French Language and Literature from the University of Toronto, as well as a Masters Degree in Education from Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. Mrs. Simoes also spent three years teaching in Portugal and Australia; taking time to travel extensively throughout both continents. Mrs. Simoes helps organize our annual musical production as well as the REACH International Club. Ms. Chelsea Jensen – Class 6B Ms. Chelsea Jensen is thrilled to be returning to Rotherglen School as a Grade 6 teacher for the 2016-2017 school year. Ms. Jensen will be entering her fourth year as a Grade 6 teacher, and has worked in many different capacities both in and out of the classroom over the past five years. Ms. Jensen holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in English (Queen’s University), as well as her Bachelor of Education (Queen’s University), specializing in working with gifted children. She has obtained additional qualifications in Special Education (Queen’s University) and is currently working towards her specialist designation in Special Education. Ms. Jensen has been involved in various extracurricular activities in her time at Rotherglen including track and field, basketball, floor hockey, softball and our annual school production. She is looking forward to an exciting year ahead!

Mrs. Mairi Sturch – Class 6C Mrs. Mairi Sturch is entering her seventh year at the Oakville Elementary campus of Rotherglen School. This will be her fourth year teaching Grade 6. In her first year at Rotherglen, Mrs. Sturch worked in the Learning Success Centre as an Academic Resource teacher. She then went on to teach Grade 5 for two years. Before joining Rotherglen, Mrs. Sturch was a classroom teacher for an elite SSAT preparation firm. She attended The University of Western Ontario where she graduated cum laude with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism. She received her Masters of Education, Elementary (Honours), from Medaille College, New York. Her published thesis specialized in gifted education. She has also obtained her full Specialist qualification in Special Education (Queen’s University). Mrs. Sturch is a true culinarian and in her free time she enjoys cooking, baking, and writing about food. She completed her Culinary Arts degree from George Brown College just for fun! Mr. Gord Coleman – Class 6D Mr. Gord Coleman is beginning his seventeenth year of teaching, his twelfth at Rotherglen School. Before joining Rotherglen, Mr. Coleman worked at another private school in Oakville for 5 years. Prior to teaching in Ontario, he spent two years traveling and teaching in Southeast Asia and expanded his coaching portfolio as a certified Field Hockey and Soccer Coach, to include Roller Hockey instructor and Rock Climbing guide. He is the father of three young children. Mr. Coleman is a graduate of Appleby College (Oakville). He completed his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Visual Arts with a minor in English at Bishop's University and his Bachelor of Education degree in junior/intermediate education at Brock University. He has continued with his education to include many conferences on child development. Mr. Coleman enjoys coaching multiple sports at Rotherglen. He has accompanied Grade 7 and 8 students on service trips to Ecuador and Nicaragua between 2011-2013 In 2011/2012, Mr. Coleman taught Visual Arts for Grades 4-8, and acted as a Facilitator allowing for further growth in our students' behavioural and social needs. Mr. Coleman is looking forward to returning to teach Grade 6 this year. Mrs. Jennifer Waechter – Class 6E Mrs. Jennifer Waechter is entering her sixth year with Rotherglen and is very excited to be teaching Grade 6 for the 2016/2017 school year. Mrs. Waechter holds a Specialized Honours Bachelor degree from York University with a focus on Developmental Psychology. She earned a Bachelor of Education with Distinction from the University of Western Ontario in the Primary/Junior division and holds additional qualifications in Special Education, English as a Second Language, and Teaching Children with Intellectual Needs (Giftedness). In addition, she holds her Montessori qualification in the Elementary I and II Programme from Toronto Montessori Institute. Mrs. Waechter has been a Math Resource teacher, a Grade 6 teacher, and a Grade 3 teacher at Rotherglen. She has enjoyed her extracurricular involvement in the school musical as an ensemble director for several years and is excited for this year's production. She is looking forward to another exciting school year at Rotherglen.

Ms. Karrie Cairns – Homeroom 7C, Gr. 7C Health, Gr. 7 Science, Gr. 8 Health Ms. Cairns is beginning her twelfth year, seventh in the Intermediate Division, at Rotherglen. She has taught several grades including Grades 5, 6, and 8 and also worked in our Learning Success Centre in 2008/09 as a Learning Specialist. She graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelors of Arts (Honours), Physical Education, and later completed her Certificate of Education in primary/junior education from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York. Ms. Cairns holds Specialist designations in Reading and Special Education, as well as additional qualifications in English as a Second Language and Intermediate Science. Ms. Cairns is active within the Rotherglen community as a coach for a variety of sports teams including cross country, floor hockey and track and field, coordinator for the Terry Fox Walk, teacher advisor for students attending Bay Area Science and Engineering Fair and committee member of various academic initiatives. She has also been a mentor for new staff joining Rotherglen. Ms. Cairns is a lifelong learner, attending workshops and enrolling in various curriculum related courses. Outside of school, Ms. Cairns enjoys hiking, golfing, gardening and skiing and tackling DIY projects in the areas of landscaping, furniture refinishing and home renovations. Ms. Teresa Tong – Homeroom 7T, Gr. 7C/T/R English, Gr. 7T Health, Gr. 8 His./Geo. Ms. Teresa Tong is beginning her thirteenth year of teaching, all of which have been with Rotherglen. Over the years, she has taught Grades 4 through 8, in addition to being an Academic Resource Teacher, as well as a Leadership Coordinator and Intermediate Division Coordinator. Ms. Tong was off on maternity leave with her daughter this past year, but is excited to return to the classroom as an intermediate division teacher. Ms. Tong holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child and Youth Studies, a Bachelor of Education degree in Primary/Junior Education, and a Master of Education degree in Teaching and Learning. Her published Master's project focused on the development of a unique Character Education Program teaching virtues such as kindness and respect in the everyday classroom. She also holds Additional Qualifications in Reading and ESL. In 2010, Ms. Tong spent her summer teaching English overseas in China where she had an opportunity to explore international education. Throughout her years at Rotherglen, Ms. Tong enjoyed being involved in many extra-curricular activities including peer tutoring, gardening club, and helping to organize fundraising events. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Tong is the mother to two beautiful children, Lucas and Leah. She loves spending time with them building sand castles on the beach, baking up a storm in the kitchen, and snuggling up on the couch with a good book. Ms. Tong also enjoys traveling, playing card games, and trying new foods.

Ms. Jennifer Ralph – Homeroom 7R, Gr. 7/8 His./Geo., Gr. 7R Health Ms. Jennifer Ralph joined Rotherglen School in December of 2009 as a Grade 5 teacher. Ms. Ralph holds a 4-year Bachelor of Education degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland, and she completed her Bachelor of Special Education degree through Memorial University’s UK campus in England, which included an extensive practicum as a SERT (Special Education Resource Teacher) in the Essex public board. A believer in life-long learning, she completed Part 2 and Part 3 Additional Qualifications in Special Education from York University, and she is now qualified as a Specialist. Ms. Ralph began her teaching career in Newfoundland in 1996 as a special education teacher. After moving to Ontario, Ms. Ralph was a Special Education Department Head for a private school in Toronto, working with students in Kindergarten through Grade Eight. She then taught in the Toronto District School Board in both a mixed Grade 5/6 class and a Grade 6 class. Ms. Ralph enjoys teaching drama and for several years she wrote and performed educational dramas for a local enrichment program, located in Oakville. She was a proud member of Rotherglen's production team for Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, High School Musical, and Beauty and The Beast. In April of 2013 Ms. Ralph was the proud recipient of the Golden Apple Award. This special award is given to Ontario teachers who display dedication towards their profession and serve as an inspiration to their students. Ms. Ralph has a passion for extracurricular activities at Rotherglen, and she also enjoys coaching. Ms. Ralph was honoured to be a participant in Rotherglen’s Free the Children service trip to Nicaragua. While there, she witnessed first hand how people can make a positive difference in the world, and she strives to implement these lessons in her teaching. In her free time she enjoys reading and hiking through the beautiful trails of Oakville. Ms. Ralph is excited to be teaching Grade 7/8 History and Geography for the 2016/17 academic year.

Ms. Allyson Rowe – Homeroom 7RO, Gr. 7 Mathematics, Gr. 9 Computers Ms. Allyson Rowe is very excited to enter third year at Rotherglen School. This year Ms. Rowe will teach Grade 7 math as well as a Grade 9 computer class. Prior to joining the Rotherglen community, Ms. Rowe previously completed two years of teaching in Manitoba, on a remote-fly-in Native Reserve. There she taught Grade 7 and 8 and was highly involved in many of the community and academic programs. Ms. Rowe travels during the summer to work with the Junior Canadian Rangers and Canadian Armed Forces at a summer camp to develop leadership skills in youth from around Western Canada. She attended Wilfrid Laurier University and obtained a Honours Degree in Contemporary Studies, a major in Geography, minor in Criminology while also obtaining her Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. Ms. Rowe has her Special Education Specialist, High School Geography, and part 1 of Guidance and Career Education. Ms. Rowe enjoys being active outdoors, continuing her education, and surrounding herself with family and friends. She is looking forward to another wonderful year at Rotherglen School with fantastic students and community.

Ms. Deanna Colgan – Homeroom 8C, Gr. 7RO English, Health, Gr. 8 English Ms. Deanna Colgan is beginning her eighteenth year of teaching, her twelfth at Rotherglen. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Ryerson University, a Bachelor of Education degree in primary/junior education from York University, and a Master of Education degree in Administration and Leadership from Brock University. Throughout her career, Ms. Colgan has enjoyed teaching all grade levels, from junior and senior kindergarten through to Grade 8. Ms. Colgan has also experienced teaching abroad where, through the Canadian Embassy, she both coordinated and implemented programming in two South Korean schools. Ms. Colgan has been teaching in the Upper School division since 2007, focusing her efforts toward programming pertaining to Language. This year Ms. Colgan looks forward to teaching Grade 7 and 8 English and helping to both contribute to and support the school's overall vision for literacy and Language instruction. Mr. John Kinnaird – Homeroom 8K, Gr. 8 & 9 Math, Gr. 8 His./Geo. Mr. John Kinnaird earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Economics from the University of Western Ontario and received his Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of Hull (U.K.). Mr. Kinnaird completed his Master of Education degree with Distinction in 2004, and Part One of the Ontario Principal's Qualification Program in 2007. During his career, he has taught various subjects from Grades 7 to 12, including history, geography, mathematics, accounting, and economics. Mr. Kinnaird is beginning his eighteenth year teaching at Rotherglen School and is currently teaching mathematics at the Grades 8 and 9 levels. He is also teaching Grade 8 geography and history. He is a Grade 8 homeroom teacher and coaches various sports teams. Mme. Shirley Nickorick – Homeroom 8N, Gr. 6A/B/C/D & 8 French Mme. Shirley Nickorick is beginning her twenty-forth year of teaching, her nineteenth at Rotherglen. She spent several years of study in Canada where she earned both a Bachelor and pursued a Master degree in Music Performance, in addition to performing in Europe, Canada and the U.S. Upon returning to Canada, she made the decision to return to teaching. She taught for several years at the high school level in Quebec City before moving to Ontario. Mme. Nickorick began teaching at Rotherglen School in 1997 at our Primary Campus, teaching both Music and French. She has continued her education in several areas, most recently with AIM French Language programming, Tribes, and Advanced Training in Collaborative Problem Solving. After 10 years of teaching Upper School French, Mme. Nickorick wrote, developed and coordinated the social growth and development programming at Rotherglen and the REAL Leadership Program. She developed and coordinated the Rotherglen Children's REACH Foundation, as well as the New Teacher Inception Mentor Program, as well as coordinated several Grade 8 trips. After developing these programs over a period of 5 years, Mme. Nickorick has returned full-time to the classroom, as an Upper School Homeroom teacher and to teach Core French. She is the mother of three children, one of whom attended Rotherglen, and is the proud grandmother to two grand daughters.

Mr. Rick Racioppo – Homeroom 8R, Gr. 8 Science, Gr. 9 Computers Mr. Rick Racioppo is beginning his seventeenth year at Rotherglen. Prior to joining us, Mr. Racioppo taught science at Upper Canada College and was an instructor at the Royal Ontario Museum. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto, majoring in Psychology and Biology. Mr. Racioppo received his Graduate Diploma in Child Study, and Certificate of Qualification in junior/intermediate education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto. He recently completed a Master of Science in Biology. He has been a leader in I.T. development within Rotherglen School, having been our Intranet/I.T. Coordinator, and has delivered several I.T. presentations to our faculty as part of our professional development workshops. Mr. Racioppo coordinates our middle school programming club, Science Fair, and designs our graduation video presentation each year. He also helps to coach Rotherglen's cross country team. Mr. Racioppo is the father of four boys. Mrs. Amy Gill - Learning Success Centre Assistant Head of Academics Mrs. Gill comes to Rotherglen School with more than 30 years of diverse experience in the field of education. She has held a variety of teaching and administrative positions in independent schools and colleges in the United States including: The Lovett School, Atlanta, GA, The Pike School, Andover, MA, The Whitby School, Greenwich, CT, Lake Forest College, Lake Forest, IL and Smith College, Northampton, MA. Prior to joining Rotherglen, Mrs. Gill ran an educational consulting business offering tutoring and academic advisement to students from a range of Oakville private and public schools. Mrs. Gill’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Geography (McGill University, Montreal), Ontario Certificate of Education, Bachelor of Education (York University, Toronto), Masters degree course work in Middle Grades Education (Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, GA) and Ontario Specialist – Part 1 (Special Education). Mrs. Gill completed the Diploma in Independent School Leadership in July 2013 which is offered by the Canadian Association of Independent Schools (CAIS). This program is completed over a three year period and prepares participants for senior leadership roles in private schools by providing an opportunity for exposure to all aspects of school management, as well as interactive dialogue with school leaders from independent schools across the country. Mrs. Gill has been a member of the Rotherglen leadership team for the past seven years. She is the mother of two daughters, both of whom have completed their post secondary education.

Ms. Daniela Montoni - Learning Success Centre Learning Resource Teacher

Ms. Daniela Montoni is proudly embarking upon her 19th year at Rotherglen School. She is very excited to be working with students in the Learning Success Centre this year. Prior to last year, she enjoyed working at the Meadowvale Elementary Campus teaching Computers, Art and Mathematics, as well as taking on the role of Learning Success Centre Coordinator. Ms. Montoni returned to the Oakville campus for the 2015-16 school year and taught Grade 3. Ms. Montoni holds a Master of Education degree in Integrated Studies from Brock University, a Bachelor of Science degree from York University, and Primary and Elementary diplomas in Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute. She is currently working to obtain a Bachelor of Education in Adult Learning. She is TRIBES trained and well versed in the Writing 6+1 Traits program, the ‘Handwriting without Tears’ program and Guided Reading practices at all grade levels. She has also completed the Orton-Gillingham Associate level training in reading instruction and has ‘All Kinds of Minds’ training, which embraces Differentiated Learning. Ms. Montoni’s son is entering his second year of the Casa program here at Rotherglen. Ms. Montoni embraces lifelong learning and hopes to instil the same love of learning in her students and peers. In her spare time, she enjoys running, drawing and following the real estate market.You can follow her on Twitter as Edu*Cate@dmontoni for some great educational links. Ms. Maddison Verlaan - Learning Success Centre Learning Resource Teacher Mrs. Maddison Verlaan is excited to be entering her second year at Rotherglen as an Academic Resource Teacher in the Learning Success Centre. Mrs.Verlaan attended Brock University for the Concurrent Education program, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Bachelor of Education with a Junior/Intermediate qualification and a teachable in math. She has also recently completed her Special Education credentials (Part 1). Prior to joining the faculty at Rotherglen, Mrs.Verlaan volunteered with our Grade 6 students in guided reading and helped to prepare Grade 7 students for their math examination. Mrs.Verlaan has also served as a tutor with multiple companies throughout her five years of University. She focuses mainly on making math enjoyable for all students.  Last year, she enjoyed running the Math Contest and Brain Quest clubs, as well as helping in the Grade 7 and 8 gym classes. When she is not in the classroom, Mrs.Verlaan enjoys travelling, watching sports, baking, and spending time with family. Mrs.Verlaan was married this past summer. Her former students will know her as Ms. Neate.. 

Ms. Martha Smith - Learning Success Centre Learning Resource Teacher Ms. Martha Smith joined Rotherglen in February of 2008, teaching Grade 2. In 2008, Ms. Smith began teaching Grade 3. She has been teaching for 25 years. Ms. Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto and diplomas in primary (ages 3-6) and elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute (Richmond Hill). Ms. Smith began her teaching career at Toronto Montessori School (Richmond Hill) in 1990, where she taught a mixed-age class of Grade 3 and 4 students for 4 years. More recently, she worked at Aurora Montessori School for 7 years, as Head Teacher, teaching Grades 5 to 8. In 2012, Ms. Smith developed the Character Education program for Casa to Grade 6 and in September 2013 she began working with the Grade 7 and 8 students as Leadership Coordinator. During this time, Ms. Smith also began her work with the Learning Success Centre, where she has furthered her training in phonemic awareness with courses in Spalding, Rosner and most recently Orton Gillingham. In September 2015, Ms. Smith will be teaching Health and Leadership to the Grade 8 students. Ms. Smith is the organizer of many of Rotherglen's community events. Ms. Smith is the mother of two children. Mr. Brandon Little - Learning Success Centre Learning Resource Teacher Mr. Brandon Little is excited to be joining the Rotherglen community. This is his tenth year of teaching. Prior to joining the faculty at Rotherglen, Mr. Little taught Grade 3 and 4 at Hong Kong International School in Hong Kong. He also taught Grade 2 and Grade 4 for five years at Shekou International School in southern China. Mr. Little graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities. He earned his Masters of Science in Education degree from Medaille College and holds an additional qualification in Special Education. Ms. Kelly Abols Gr. 4-8 Visual Arts Ms. Kelly Abols, a graduate student from the University of Queen's with a Concurrent Education Degree and a specialization in Art Education, is thrilled to be joining the Faculty at Rotherglen School’s Oakville Elementary campus. "My favourite part of teaching is that I'm part of the creative process. My objective is to rouse the artist in children without discouraging their creative impulses". Ms. Abols also holds qualifications in Outdoor Education, and Montessori Teaching. She has taught Visual Arts at the Elementary level in Italy, several private schools in the GTA, as well as at some of Canada's renowned art galleries. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Abols is an artist who works in various mediums. This year, she will begin her Masters in Art Education.

Mrs. Tennielle Carter Athletics Coordinator Gr. 2-8 Physical Education Mrs. Carter is very excited to begin her first year at Rotherglen School, as our Grades 2 to 8 Physical Education teacher and the Athletic Coordinator for the Oakville Elementary Campus. Mrs. Carter joins Rotherglen with 5 years experience as a Physical Education teacher and Science teacher, having worked at two reputable private schools in the Toronto area. Mrs. Carter holds a Bachelor Degree in Health and Physical Education, and a Masters in Teaching degree. Mrs. Carter has a passion for fitness, and is highly active herself in running marathons, playing basketball and volleyball, and yoga, to name a few. Mrs. Carter is a yoga teacher herself, and looks forward to brining yoga into the programming at Rotherglen. Outside of teaching, Mrs. Carter is actively involved in her community, which includes holding the position of Executive Director of Shaping Her Esteem (SHE), a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the health and wellbeing of young women. Mrs. Carter can’t wait to get started in her role at Rotherglen, and looks forward to working with and sharing her love for sport with the students of Rotherglen!

Mme. Teri Farano Gr. 3-5 French Mme. Teri Farano began teaching at Rotherglen School in April of 2008, as a supply teacher and became the Grade 2 French teacher in September 2008. Since then, she has enjoyed teaching the Grade 7 and 8 French programs and being involved in the intermediate division as a homeroom teacher. She was very excited to deliver the French program to Grades 4 through 6 for the past two years and is looking forward to working with the Grade 3 students this coming year as she teaches Grades 3, 4 and 5. Mme. Farano completed an Honours Business degree at Wilfrid Laurier University and worked in underwriting and marketing for a major insurance company in both Toronto and Vancouver. Prior to teaching at Rotherglen, Mme. Farano was a supply teacher for the Halton Catholic District School Board for 5 years. Mme. Farano has two wonderful children and enjoys being their best cheerleader while they play rep soccer and hockey. While at Rotherglen, she has enthusiastically become involved in coaching many of the sports teams at the junior and intermediate level and worked with the grad committee to prepare a memorable ceremony for the graduates. She thoroughly enjoys working with the students to create and deliver the annual French Cafe as part of our Evening of the Arts.

Mrs. Ann Marshall Gr. 1-6 Music Mrs. Ann Marshall is in her fourteenth year of teaching music at Rotherglen School. Mrs. Marshall received her Bachelor of Music degree (Hons) in Voice Performance from Queen's University in 1986. She then became a member of the Elmer Iseler Singers, a professional touring chamber choir based in Toronto. In 1992, Mrs. Marshall completed an Arts Administration course and later became the General Manager of the Canadian Children's Opera Chorus. Mrs. Marshall is a certified Orff Music Specialist and enjoys teaching Casa to Grade 6 Music at the Oakville Elementary Campus and Casa and Grade 1 Music at the Oakville Primary Campus. Mrs. Marshall directs all three Choirs (Grade 1/2, Grade 3/4 and Grade 5/6). She is also the Bucket Drumming and Orff Ensemble Director and the Music Director for the annual Rotherglen musical. Mrs. Marshall keeps busy outside of school with her husband and three boys. Mme. Elizabeth Maus Gr. 1B French, Grade 2 French, Learning Resource Teacher Mme. Elizabeth Maus joined Rotherglen this year, and she is very excited to be teaching in such a wonderful community. She comes to Rotherglen with five years of teaching experience at a reputable private school in the Greater Toronto Area. Mme. Maus graduated with an Honours degree in Sociology from Queen's University, and received her Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. She also holds additional qualifications in Reading and Special Education, and is trained in Handwriting Without Tears. Mme. Maus is experienced in working with an enriched curriculum, and within a range of elementary grade levels.  She has worked with a wide variety students, both one-on-one and in a classroom setting, instructing in such curricular areas as English, French, science, and mathematics. Mme. Maus has also coached a variety of sports and has run extra-curricular clubs in both art and dance. We look forward to the skills she brings to Rotherglen, both in and out of the classroom. Ms. Theresa McKay Teacher-Librarian Ms. Theresa McKay is pleased to be entering her fifth year as Teacher-Librarian at Rotherglen. Ms. McKay holds an Honours degree in Cultural Studies, with a focus on children's literature from Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario. She earned her B.Ed from Trent School of Education. Ms. McKay holds additional teaching qualifications in Special Education, Music and Kindergarten, as well as being a Librarianship Specialist. Ms. McKay began her teaching career with The Toronto District School Board. Prior to joining the Rotherglen faculty, Ms. McKay worked with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board for twelve years, primarily in the role of Teacher-Librarian. Ms. McKay also taught additional qualifications in Librarianship Studies to teachers. Ms. McKay is a published author, with her picture book, "Pet Bee." She continues to look forward to bringing her love of literacy, research skills and language to the Rotherglen community. Ms. McKay is looking forward to creating an extra curricular choir group this year, who will perform a variety of songs, some of which will be in acapella style!

Mrs. Diane Nasu Gr. 1-6 Computers, Gr. 1 Phys. Ed. Mrs. Diane Nasu is beginning her fifteenth year of teaching Computers at Rotherglen School. After graduating from York University with a combined Honours B.A. in psychology and sociology, she was offered the opportunity to learn computer programming with the Ministry of Revenue. Mrs. Nasu later became a system analyst and developed a variety of computer systems. While staying home with her children, Mrs. Nasu was an active volunteer at Lorne Skuce School where she chaired the School Council and parent group. She participated in literacy and math programs for ESL students and was an educational assistant for learning disabled children. Mrs. Nasu was also a computer consultant in her spare time. She enjoys cooking, reading and travelling. Ms. Demetra Papagianis – Gr. 1A French, Gr. 7/8 Music, Gr. 7/8 Computers Ms. Demetra Papagianis is beginning her thirteenth year of teaching, her tenth at Rotherglen. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Music degree with a minor in History from McMaster University, and a Bachelor of Education degree from Nipissing University, in the Intermediate/Senior Divisions. Ms. Papagianis also holds her Specialist designation in Special Education and Junior level Additional Qualification. She was a church organist, performing at wedding ceremonies for 14 years and had been a piano teacher for 5 years. Since arriving at Rotherglen in 2007, Ms. Papagianis has taught Grade 7/8 Music, Grade 7/8 Health, Grade 7/8 Computers, and has also been a Grade 7 and 8 homeroom teacher. Ms. Papagianis has been the director of the grade 7 and 8 Guitar Ensemble and assisted in the Rock Band. As an avid photographer, you'll most likely see her taking pictures around the school for different events, news letters, and for the yearbook. She also has been in charge of the Photography Club. Ms. Papagianis has also been involved in the annual school musical. She has coached the Cross Country,Volleyball, Track and Field, and Softball teams. She is the mother of a two year old son named Nikolas. Ms. Papagianis is looking forward to another great year of teaching at Rotherglen! Mme. Susanne Toito Grade 6D and Grade 7 French Mme. Susanne Toito joined the Rotherglen faculty in 2014, as a French teacher for students in Grades 1, 2 and 7. Prior to joining Rotherglen, Mme. Toito taught French as a second language at another privately owned school here in Oakville for five years. She returned to teaching full time in 2013, after spending 7 wonderful years raising her 3 children. Mme. Toito completed a double major in French and English language and literature during her time in Europe. Upon her return, Mme. Toito completed her Bachelor of Education in Ontario at the francophone Université Laurentienne in Sudbury, completing her practicum with the 'Conseil scolaire de district catholique centre-sud' in Ontario. Mme. Toito enjoys working with children of all ages and teaching them the love of languages. She believes strongly that language should not be a barrier to creating connections in the world, but can be a step toward understanding, especially in modern times when the world is at our fingertips. Learning a language opens one up to learning more languages, uses parts of our brains that otherwise would remain dormant and opens up the world for us professionally, culturally and socially. Mme. Toito is looking forward to the exciting year ahead.

Mme. Wahiba Zanzana Casa French
 Madame Wahiba Zanzana began teaching French to Grade 4, 5 and 6 students at our Elementary Campus in 2003. This year Mme. Zanzana will be teaching French to the Casa and Grade One students at the Oakville Primary Campus, as well as to the Casa students at the Oakville Elementary Campus. Madame Zanzana is fluent in French, English, and Arabic. She was a top ten graduate from the "Ecole Normale Nationale d'Etudes Technologiques" where she was awarded a Science and Biology degree. She was the head of the "Sciences Naturelles" department for 6 years and taught Biology to Grade 7, 8 and 9 students for six years before coming to Canada. After arriving in Canada, Mme Zanzana attended "College des Grands Lacs" where she achieved a French Studies Certificate. Madame Zanzana has been trained in the Accelerative Integrated Method Program (AIM) and IPAD, and holds a certificate for the WHMIS program. Mme. Zanzana volunteered at Les Coccinelles d'Oakville and at Ecole Patricia Picknell for several years. She also worked for one year at Northstar Montessori School in Mississauga, where she taught French to children aged three to twelve. Mme. Zanzana worked for five years as a full time French teacher at l'Alliance Française in Mississauga and continues to teach on Saturdays as a D.E.L.F, D.A.L.F and International Baccalaureat (IB) program French teacher at the Oakville location. When Madame Wahiba Zanzana is not teaching, she is a dedicated mom to her three children; two boys, the oldest in his third year at university, the middle one on first year at McMaster University, and a daughter in Grade 9. Mme. Zanzana enjoys being their best cheerleader while they all play rep soccer. Mme. Zanzana loves reading French and Canadian history books, playing tennis, swimming and travelling abroad with her husband and children. Ms. Laura Crumb Head of School Ms. Crumb is beginning her twenty-first year at Rotherglen School. She began her teaching career at Rotherglen, teaching a Grade 2 class at the River Oaks Campus. Following this year, Ms. Crumb transferred to the school's Lanfield Campus on Dundas Street where she taught a Grade 3/4 class and then a Grade 4/5 class. Following her two years at the Lanfield Campus, the new Oakville Elementary Campus was constructed. Ms. Crumb joined the administrative team at the Elementary Campus as the Assistant Head of School. In September 2000, Ms. Crumb became the Head of School at the Elementary Campus. Ms. Crumb attended Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree. She also holds diplomas in primary (ages 2.5 - 6) and elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute. Ms. Crumb has a passion for learning herself. She recently returned to school and holds a Master of Education degree in Theory and Policy Studies in Education, with a specialization in Educational Administration from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto. During her studies, Ms. Crumb found a particular interest in Educational Law, Educational Change and School Leadership. In her time at Rotherglen, Ms. Crumb has been involved in developing policy, curriculum development and creating programming that makes our students' learning experience at Rotherglen both unique and engaging. Each year brings new opportunities and Ms. Crumb is looking forward 2015/2016 school year!

Mr. Patrick Lanigan Assistant Head of School Mr. Patrick Lanigan has been with Rotherglen since 1997, when he began his teaching career assisting with elementary classes at the Lanfield Campus on Dundas St. in Oakville, his family's former farm property. With just 45 students in three classrooms, it was the original location of the Oakville Elementary Campus, before relocating to its current site on Neyagawa Blvd., in September 1998. Mr. Lanigan then taught Grades 2 and 3, eventually becoming the Assistant Head of School in September 2001.  Mr. Lanigan is a graduate of Appleby College. He then attended both the University of Western Ontario (Huron College) and the University of Guelph. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Sociology and diplomas in primary (ages 2.5-6) and elementary (ages 6-12) Montessori education from the Toronto Montessori Institute (Richmond Hill, ON). In 2008,  Mr. Lanigan earned a Master of Education degree in human development and applied psychology, with a specialization in developmental psychology and education, from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) of the University of Toronto. Mrs. Tracey DuPreez Admissions Coordinator Ms. Tracey is entering her seventeenth year with Rotherglen School. She immigrated from South Africa nineteen years ago. While in South Africa, she obtained a diploma in Office Administration. She worked in the Insurance Industry for eight years. After leaving the Insurance Industry she worked for three years in a private company that imported Human Resource books from overseas. Before immigrating to Canada, she worked for an elementary school for three and a half years as the personal assistant to the School Principal where she developed her love of working with children. Upon arriving in Canada, Ms. Tracey worked for the Halton Education Board for one year prior to joining Rotherglen School. Ms. Tracey has two sons, both of whom have graduated from Rotherglen. Mrs. Gemma Alatsas School Secretary Mrs. Gemma Alatsas is beginning her tenth year as School Secretary at the Oakville Elementary campus. Prior to joining Rotherglen, Mrs. Alatsas had extensive experience with children, running a childcare centre for 15 years. Previous to this, Mrs. Alatsas was the Administrative Assistant to the Director of French Translation at the Workers' Compensation Board. Mrs. Alatsas is a graduate of the Administrative Assistant program at Sheridan College. She is gradually working towards an undergraduate degree in English, with a minor in French, at the University of Toronto. She is the sister of Ms. Jacinta Snyder, Head of School at the Meadowvale Elementary campus. Mrs. Alatsas is the proud mother of four children, one of whom is a teacher at our Meadowvale Elementary campus.