Hi there! I’m Shay and I graduated from Mohawk College in 1999 from the Child and Youth Worker program and have dedicated my career to supporting children and families. I’ve worked in education for 22 years as an Educational Assistant, where I’ve had the opportunity to support students’ learning, growth, and well-being. I also spent time working with the Children’s Aid Society as a Family Management Worker and later as a Supervisor for family visits, helping to create safe and supportive environments during difficult times. Outside of my professional life, I love being outdoors. Sea kayaking in the middle of Georgian Bay brings me peace and adventure. I also enjoy hiking, camping, and spending time in nature—especially when I’m with my dog, Stewart. These experiences keep me grounded and recharged. Whether in the classroom or out in nature, I bring compassion, patience, and a genuine love for helping others to everything I do.

Hi, I’m Lori Marcoccia, a proud mother, grandmother, and lifelong learner. After returning to school in 2024, I’m now completing my Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Specialization and Bachelor of Education. I will begin my Master of Education at Niagara University this August (2025).

With years of experience as a Registered Early Childhood Educator in kindergarten settings, I’m passionate about creating inclusive, nurturing spaces where all students can thrive. I believe in the power of persistence, the joy of learning, and the importance of building strong, supportive relationships.

My teaching philosophy blends theory with hands-on experience, focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, and meeting the diverse needs of learners. I’m excited to continue growing and to inspire young minds to embrace challenges, believe in themselves, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Hi. I am Shinell McCalla, an instructional designer and a full-time learner at Ontario Tech University. I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Education Studies with a Specialization in Adult Learning and Technology. At work, I have taken part in designing and refining learning materials like software participant workbooks, instructor guides, and presentations for different categories of adult learners about navigating, using, and operating a software. Through this, I have gained hands-on experience designing learning materials for workplace training, enhancing my desire to continue pursuing my current studies and career path.

Through my studies and experience, I have cultivated a strong desire and passion to create engaging, inclusive, and transformative learning experiences. I strive to achieve this through learning about my audiences and their needs, creating materials addressing these needs and enhancing their knowledge, providing constructive feedback and using the feedback I receive to enhance my designs.

My name is Krishani Shanthamoorthy, I have successfully completed three diploma programs: Office Administration – Medical (2015) and Early Childhood Education (2020) at Centennial College, as well as Educational Assistant (2022) at Toronto International Business College. I am currently in my fourth year of the Educational Studies program at Ontario Tech University specializing in Early Childhood Education.

Over the years, I’ve gained hands-on experience working with children in a variety of educational settings. I worked in a daycare from June 2019 to March 2020, as a lunch supervisor in late 2021, as a before-and-after school program supervisor from September 2022 to March 2023, and most recently as an assistant teacher floater from April to December 2023. These roles have allowed me to work with children of diverse ages and needs, deepening my understanding of how to support their social, emotional, and academic development.

As an educator, I believe in creating a warm, inclusive, and respectful environment where all children feel seen, heard, and valued. I am committed to fostering curiosity, empathy, and confidence in my students through hands-on learning, clear communication, and consistent support. I believe that every child has the right to an equitable education and the opportunity to thrive regardless of background, ability, or learning style. With a blend of compassion, structure, and a love of lifelong learning, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of students and contribute meaningfully to the field of education.