All staff have a child development certificate, current First Aid, Criminal Record Checks, and Child Intervention Checks within the first sixty days of employment and renew when required. You can get more information on Child Care Staff Certifications here.
Administrative Team
I first became apart of the Glenora Child Care community in 2001 when I did a practicum field placement and then became an Educator here the following year. During my time at GCCS I have worked in the OSC, chickadee, shark, Sunshine room and then moved into Program Director role in 2016 and Executive Director role In 2017. In 2015 GCCS became not only a place I work but also the centre that my daughter would also attend and be her community and early learning foundation. I have been very fortunate to find a workplace where I can incorporate my passion for working with children, families, and alongside an amazing group of Educators.
The thing I enjoy most about working with children is their curiosity and smile. Children have this natural sense of curiosity that can make adults stop and look at things from a different perspective, and through them giving us a new lense, perspective and understanding of the world. Children’s smile, no matter what could be happening in a day, is contagious; there is nothing more pure, funny, sweet, and mischievous than a child’s smile, and you can’t help but smile and laugh in return.
What is your favourite thing to do as a child /and now?
As a child one of my favourite things to do was swimming, I love being in the water. As an adult my love of water is still strong, but now it incorporates swimming with my daughter, paddle boarding and a love for the ocean (and some lakes). Maybe one day I will paddle board in the ocean!
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Growing up I always loved caring littles. I would often take care of my cousins and started babysitting in grade 6. As I got older I wanted to become a teacher, which was the path I was only in college and then I did a practicum in a child care. After that I knew I wanted to continue working in early years as it’s one of the most important stages of growth. To this day my passion and happy place still remains with children, they fill my bucket and continue to keep me on my toes!
My favourite quote:
Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember… Involve me and I learn (Benjamin Franklin)
Team member since June 2008
Hi My name is Eva. I was covering the director position for a maternity leave. Since Leen has not return, I am continuing in this position. My two boys have been lovingly cared for at this center, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various rooms as an educator. The Chicks and Shark Rooms were my favorite before transitioning to a team lead role, and now I’m stepping in for the program director. While I still have a lot of things to learn in this role, I am excited to grow and co-learn with you.
Team member since October 2012
What is your favorite thing to do as a child /and now?
As a child I enjoyed being in the wild, this includes mushroom picking, frogs catching, collecting bettles, splashing in the river, playing in the rain and many more. As an adult I still love being with nature .This time with my children, going for nature walks on weekend and camping on summer and gardening.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Growing up in a small village, where the school was an extension of our home I was inspired to be like my teachers who were like second parents to us and make a difference in the children's lives.This leads me to pursue career in education. Teaching young children for few years in my home country made me see where my passion is. Becoming a mom and having an opportunity to work with younger children in childcare settings inspired me even more to learn more about them. It's truly rewarding and fascinating to watch them learn and thrive . It's always something new to discover everyday plus you'll spend each day seeing the world through their eyes...all that possibility, positivity, and excitement on daily basis.
Favourite ECE quote
- The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. -Helen Keller
Team member since October 2012
What is your favourite thing to do as a child and now?
I loved playing outside with neighbourhood kids all day! Now I enjoy gardening, reading, and going to
concerts.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
When I was a teenager and in my 20’s, I worked at a summer camp as a counselor. That sparked my
interest in working with kids. While I was in University taking general studies, I worked at an Out of
School care for the summer and had a great experience. I switched my studies to Early Childhood
Development that led me to my career today.
Favourite Quote:
Working mothers are guinea pigs in the scientific experiment to show that sleep is not necessary to
human life.
Team member since March 2014
Melissa (D) here! I am here in Edmonton all the way from the north shore of Quebec, where I was born and raised and spent every day of my childhood on the beach! I studied at Bishop’s University there, where I got a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts. In my spare time I like to spend quality time with my family and my pets. I also volunteer for a local animal rescue, where I help with social media and fostering rabbits and other critters! I’ve been working in childcare for nearly a decade, and I love how every day is something different and new. I enjoy getting to see the world through the child’s eye, and getting to laugh and play every day!
What is your favorite thing to do as a child/now?
As a child I lived on the east coast and loved playing outside, running into the ocean even though it was way too cold, sledding in winter, going on bike rides with my friends, and being sneaky and playing Gameboy with a flashlight way past bedtime. Now I enjoy picking up and learning new crafting hobbies and learning how to cook different cuisines from around the world! … and might still enjoy the occasional video game.
What inspired my interest in ECE?
Growing up, I loved reading and writing and when choosing my university path I wanted to dive into literature. Choosing to double major with education, I started my journey also working as an ECE and fell in love with the way each day was so interesting, so playful and filled with the wonder of children. I never looked back!
Favourite quote
“Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” - Winnie the Pooh
Team member since September 2018
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
As a child, my favorite activity was going to the boys and girls club in Ottawa and hanging out with my friends. We loved running around in the neighborhood park, playing games like basketball, soccer, and tag. Nowadays, my favorite pastimes include painting, watching Korean dramas, traveling, and learning new languages.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
What sparked my passion for being an Early Childhood Educator is the fact that each day brings something different. The intrinsic rewards of influencing young minds, nurturing a love for learning, and participating in their developmental journey, all while creating an environment that allows us to incorporate their interests, truly inspire me.
Favourite quote.
My favourite quote as an ECE is
“Let the child be the scriptwriter, the director and the actor in their own play.”
— Magda Gerber
Team member since July 2019
Educator Team
What is your favorite thing to do as a child /and now?
Growing up in Jamaica can be an exciting cultural experience. With all the many wonderful attractions and vibrant lifestyle of the people, children growing up on the island will never be bored. Grand Market is an island-wide Christmas Eve shopping experience in Jamaica. Children on the island look forward to going out with their parents on Christmas Eve in hopes of finding their favorite toys among the grand
market deals and sales. Also participating in ring games, such as Dandy Shandy, Brown Girl in the Ring, and Bull Inna Pen. My favorite thing to do now is making new memories with my family by teaching them some of our traditions. Whether it is food, music, songs, games, or stories.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
After so many years working in the hospitality industry, it was time for a change. I have always been passionate about young children and their inquisitive minds and authenticity. I want to create a safe and interactive learning environment where children can be their authentic self, where we can become lifelong learners together.
Favourite quote.
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Martin Luther King J
Team member since November 2019
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
Growing up in a big family, I enjoyed some quiet time by myself and read. Meanwhile, hanging out with my friends in the neighborhood playing scavenger hunt was our favourite time. We even found a chick and raised them together!
Travelling has been my biggest passion to expand my view and value by knowing this world. Studying in England gave me the chance to travel around Europe and I really hope I can go visit somewhere soon!
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Having my own child really humbled me as how much it takes as a parent, and living abroad without any families and friends certainly makes it more challenging. Therefore, I am hoping to become the partner of the families and a proud member of the “village”.
Favourite quote
"Not all those who wander are lost". J.R. R Tolkien
Team member since May 2021
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
I liked dancing and being a part of dramatic plays when I was a child. I loved to act in front of people and bring out emotions needed. Now as an adult, I love listening to music whenever I can. I love to organize and clean my area because it helps me be at peace. As you can tell, I am on my calmer side now.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
While I was growing up, I was always inspired by the metamorphosis of butterflies. I, too, wanted to grow, transform, and become hope for the people around me. For that reason I took up teaching as my chosen degree when I was still living in the Philippines. I became a licensed teacher for high school students and taught for 2 years back in my home country. When I was planning to move to Canada, my parents asked me what career I wanted to explore this time. And I told them I want to keep doing what I have been doing. To become an epitome of change. And so I stumbled upon ECE as I was looking for a career that matches my vision and mission as a person. I hope to learn more in this field and bring more knowledge to the children under my care.
Favourite quote
One mistake is fine, but don't make it two for people are not born perfect, but everyone must try their best to become close to perfection.
Team member since August 2022
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
MUSIC!!! I’ve always had a great desire and interest in music. As a child I took every opportunity possible, to be exposed and participate in experiences associated with music. Whether it be participating in music class, joining choir, learning to play the clarinet in band class, saving my allowance to purchase the next sought after CD, which expand my extensive collection, going to concerts; creating a treasured collection of ticket stubs, or those simple times when I laid listening, and reflecting to my favorite song on repeat, until I knew every lyric by heart.
As an adult, I still have a great love for music. I do not sing in a choir or play the clarinet anymore. However, you will find me listening and dancing to music at any opportunity I can find, (when I drive, when I clean, even when I shower.) I also just enjoy spending quality time with my family, seizing the meaningful and novel moments.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
was the eldest child in my family, by a 10 and 12 year age gap. This enabled me to learn the skills and gain the confidence to work with young children from my early teenage years. It was only natural that I began working with children as soon as I graduated from high school. I worked for over a decade in the field in community centers, daycare centers, and my personal dayhome. After taking a break from the field, I decided to return, and go back to school. This was a major pivoting point in my career, my life and my family's life. I was now a mother of two young children going back to university. I am proud to say that I received my Early Learning and Childcare Diploma from Grant Macewan; class of 2021.
Favourite quote
Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s sole”
Friedrich Froebel
Team member since January 2022
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
As a child I liked to read, climb trees, and go swimming.
As an adult and new parent, I enjoy napping, going on walks, and playing board games.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
I grew up with my mom running a dayhome. She had a diploma in early childhood education and to see what she could do to help families and children really inspired me as I grew.
Favourite quote
But the wild things cried, “Oh please don't go- We'll eat you up- we love you so!"
Maurice Sendak, Where the Wild Things Are
Team member since September 2012
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
I grew up in Muskoka Ontario so swimming was one of my favourite childhood activities! Along with that was riding my bike through the trails around my house.
I still enjoy swimming and riding my bike! They are the two hobbies that feed my inner child the most.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
I became an ECE because I feel strongly about children’s rights! I want to advocate for children to have high-quality environments that foster their needs. I also have a very playful side and enjoy running and using my imagination alongside the children.
Favourite quote
“If you have the choice between being kind or being right, chose being kind.” - Dr. Wayne W Dyer
Team member since May 2023
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
As a child I love going to the beach and creating sandcastles with my siblings. As an adult, I like going for walks and spending time with family whenever I can. Also, I like to cook and create new recipes.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
I became interested in ECE when I decided to volunteer at the school where my children were attending and assisted them on field trips and read books to children during school hours. I always wanted to work with children for as long as I can remember and enjoy watching them grow and master new skills. I used to babysit my siblings and help them with their homework when I was younger. but I think my interest grow when I decided to volunteer at the school where my children were attending and assisted children on field trips and read books to them during school hours.
Favourite quote
“THE BEST TEACHERS ARE THOSE WHO SHOW YOU WHERE TO LOOK BUT DON'T TELL YOU WHAT TO SEE
Team member since January 2023
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
- I loved to do pretend play with my siblings and cousins. Playing with dolls and making mud houses. I also liked to go to farms with my dad. As a grown-up up listening to music while going on a walk is one of my favourite things to do. I also love to watch Netflix on my days off and go shopping.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
I came as an international student in Canada and i took ELCC as my diploma. It was all new to me as there were no childcare centres in my hometown. I developed my interest to learn about children and how early childhood educators play an important role in helping them develop their skills in life. I love to play with the children and i like the challenges it brings some time. I feel like working with the children is a huge learning experience and everyday is a new day. I learn from the children while helping them to grow and nourish. I am grateful for the opportunity and for being part of their learning journey.
Favourite quote
You’re only as
Okay as the people
Who hold you.”
Dr. Jody Carrington
Team member sincee May 2023
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
My favourite thing to do when I was a child was being in the water either in a pool or at the beach. Growing up my parents would always make time to bring me and my younger brother to our local public swimming pool or visit the beach. Now, I’d say I enjoy hiking but I haven’t hiked here in Canada yet but when I was back home in Hong Kong I would hike every weekend. If I’m not hiking, you can find me watching TV series or movies on my phone - I’m a big Survivor and Grey’s Anatomy fan.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
think it’s the children! I find children's honesty and sincerity in everything they do and say very true and they taught me to be unapologetic in being honest and sincere about myself to others. And I find it such an honour to be part of their journey of growth in becoming more confident and seeing their eagerness in wanting to accomplish whatever they set their mind to do very fulfilling.
Favourite quote
You can’t stop the waves but you can learn how to surf.” It keeps me humble and grounded, I guess. It reminds me that no matter what it is that I face in life - whether it’s positive or negative, it will pass, and that nothing is permanent. I just have to accept it, learn from it and process it the best way that I can, and not be so hard on myself.
Team member since October 2023
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
Growing up in a beautiful tropical province of Ilocos Norte, Philippines, during my childhood days, I was always outside, exploring and nurturing my curiosity. As a child, I loved playing dramatic play, hide and seek, tag game, as well as some Filipino traditional games like luksong tinik/baka (hurdles), patintero (Blocking games), and sungka (stones and wooden board game). Nowadays, if I'm not working, I keep myself busy by reading novels, inspirational books or any articles that pique my interest. I also love watching korean drama series, cooking, and cleaning every corner of our apartment 🙂
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Moving to Australia, I made a drastic change to my profession by taking up Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. At first it was challenging but as time goes by, I saw the beauty of being an ECE. Being able to observe, nurture and be a part of children's learning journey in achieving their developmental milestones and, holistic development are the reasons why I find ECE rewarding. Every child is unique and the combination of these unique children in one room makes it exciting to come to work every day.
Favourite quote.
"In order to grow, you must give up the struggle to remain the same and learn to embrace change at all times" - The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
Team member since November 2022
What is your favorite thing to do as a child and/ now?
When I was younger I like playing outside without supervision in a 3 block radius, at the park, or at my friend's house or my yard. I enjoyed playing Barbies and going camping. My parents made winter fun and I was outside a lot playing in the snow or skating, tobogganing or cross country skiing. When I was little I enjoyed music and to this day when I hear music it goes through my veins and I move to the groove. I also still enjoy watching movies but miss the Drive-in movie theatre. I belong to a bowling league, love camping and traveling around the world.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Being around younger children and cousins and at the age of 12 I took a babysitting course and started babysitting. I found it so much fun. I was told by a child they liked me taking care of them because I did things with them instead of watching TV. I enjoy the variety that each child brings when you are with them and the excitement they have when the learn something new.
Favorite Quote
Play teaches Us that Obstacles are Part of the Path Forward
Author Unknown
Team member since October 2014
What is your favorite thing to do as a child /and now?
During my childhood, I played mostly by myself or with my cousins. My grandfather had a curfew, so I could not play outside for so long. That’s why I have to make the most of my time with my playmates when I am outside. I love playing with a Chinese garter, where we hold the garter up and other children jump over it. I love playing with cards and limbo rock. As an adult, I love travelling to new places, dancing and watching movies.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Before I moved to Canada, I was a teacher in the Philippines with a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Physical Education. During that time, I was able to make really good connections with my students. It inspired me a lot because I can see how I helped all the children. I helped them not only in academics but being an inspiration for them to strive hard, not lose hope and aim always aim to be a better human being.
Favourite ECE quote
“Being happy never goes out of style.” Lily Pulitzeer
Team member since August 2017
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
As a child, my favorite activities were reading books, writing, and engaging in imaginative pretend play. I would spend hours lost in stories, creating worlds of my own, or pretending to be different characters in make-believe scenarios. Those experiences fueled my creativity and nurtured my love for storytelling.
Even now, that love for reading and writing remains a significant part of who I am. I still enjoy getting lost in a good book or expressing myself through writing. In addition to these passions, I’ve recently started exploring a variety of new hobbies. Baking has become a creative outlet for me. I’ve also taken up crocheting, which allows me to relax and focus while creating something tangible.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
My interest in Early Childhood Education (ECE) has been driven by my lifelong love for the wonder and potential of early childhood. I’ve always believed that there is so much to learn and unlearn during those formative years. What excites me most about working in ECE is the opportunity to create an environment where children are encouraged to explore their capabilities and develop at their own pace. Every child should be given the chance to grow through play, discovery, and meaningful challenges that support their learning journey.I find immense joy in providing children with a world filled with wonder, hope, dreams, and fun. My goal is to inspire curiosity and foster an environment where children feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and grow into confident, capable individuals. There is something truly magical about watching young children learn and grow, and I feel privileged to be part of that journey.
Favourite quote
One of my favorite quotes comes from BTS, a group whose messages of self-love, resilience, and hope have deeply resonated with me. Their quote, “Love yourself, speak yourself,” is a powerful reminder to embrace who we are and express ourselves authentically without fear or hesitation. It’s a message that has guided me in my personal growth and in how I approach my work with children—encouraging them to be proud of who they are and to always find their voice.
Team member since October 2024
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
Young Maju loves outdoor activities like picking up fresh fruits from our backyard and catching tadpoles and small crabs in the stream. As I grow, I still love doing mostly outdoors such as going for a walk, hiking and traveling. I also like taking photos of nature and collecting reef magnets, stones and leaves to press of places I visit.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
My passion with children ignited my interest to be an ECE. I feel fulfilled when I'm part of children’s milestones and holistic development. I believe that one of my purpose of living is to work with children and families to teach them values and characters that will build them to be an asset of the society in the future.
Favourite quote
“Grateful heart is the best kind to have.”
Team member since October 2024
Team member since September 2025
What is your favorite thing to do as a child /and now?
As a child, I loved playing dodgeball and pretending to cook, activities that fueled my imagination and love for fun. Nowadays, I enjoy juicing, working out at the gym, listening to music, and meditating to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, reading as much as I can.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
What drew me to early childhood education is the opportunity to be part of shaping the future by supporting children during their most formative years.
Favourite quote.
“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt
Team member since January 2025
Team member since November 2025
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
My favorite thing to do as a child is to sing and annoy my mom and sister. I love singing still. I sing with my family all the time.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
12 years ago I have had miscarriages with my 3 angels. I never had the chance to care for them and even see them grow. I got pregnant and fortunately been blessed with a son. I have always been so passionate with children and still loving to be an ECE everytime I play with children. My kids inspired me to be one.
Team member since January 2024
Favourite quote
“The cost of failure is… learning.”
What is your favorite thing to do as a child / and now?
I love music, especially singing. Karaoke is my type of party.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
I’ve always wanted to be a teacher/educator ever since I was young. I was inspired by my teachers in the past.
Favourite quote
“It is better to start small than not doing it at all.’’
Team member since August 2024
What is your favorite thing to do as a child /and now?
As a child I really enjoyed building forts outside, now I enjoy game nights with family and binging to shows.
What inspired your interest in ECE?
Watching children learn new things/skills and master them.
Favourite Quote:
“ A person is a person, no matter how small.” Dr. Seuss
Team member since May 2024