Mrs. Sandra Figueiredo - Directress

I completed my Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Zoology and Chemistry from the University of Bombay. I completed my Montessori training at London Montessori Centre, U.K. and graduated in Early Childhood Education from St Joseph’s College, Halifax. I joined the Northstar Montessori School in September 2006. I have two daughters. The oldest one is presently studying Optometry at the University of Waterloo. My youngest daughter is in grade five. Teaching has been my profession for the last 26 years and I have enjoyed every moment of it as I love imparting education and nurturing young minds. It gives me a sense of purpose and brings me fulfillment when I observe the knowledge that my children acquire as they grow. I am happy to be at Northstar because it is well reputed for its high standards of excellence. The Northstar team is diverse and supportive and I find the atmosphere fun and stimulating.

Mrs. Ligaya Velasco - Directress

I graduated from Araneta University in the Philippines with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science hoping to become a Veterinarian. When I came to Canada, I took an Administrative Assistant course at Sheridan College. After I obtained my certificate I enrolled in Early Childhood Education. I graduated in 1996 with high honours. I stayed home for a couple of years while raising my young children who are now in high school. Later on I worked in a daycare, before and after school programs, summer camps and various child care settings.

I am proud to belong to a school that offers quality Montessori education from toddlers to elementary.  I have been with Northstar Montessori since September 2005. I started as a teacher assistant in the Toddler room, and when they offered me to take the Infant and Toddler Program at Toronto Montessori Institute I was more than happy to take the course. I graduated in 2007 and earned a Montessori Diploma to teach children from birth to three years old. Being a Toddler teacher is a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on a young child’s life. It allows me to prepare the classroom environment that will support their natural curiosity and desire for independent learning and exploration according to each individual child. It gives me the feeling of satisfaction and sense of success being involved in all aspect of their development and growth. Through my experience I can help prepare the child for life and encourage them to reach their full potential. Each child I care for is an accomplishment and each day is a rewarding experience as I learn from each of them.  It is a great privilege to be part of the Northstar team whose goal is to guide and help the student succeed in life by upholding the genuine Montessori Method of teaching. I believe in the values and virtues that we promote in our school. I am grateful and inspired by the wonderful support of the school administration, staff and families of Northstar students thus helping me overcome the everyday challenges in guiding these young children.

Mrs. Linet Panganiban - Assistant

I graduated from the Philippine Christian University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I also received my Montessori Assistant’s training at the Foundation for Montessori Education in Toronto which is an AMI Certification. I started teaching at Northstar in September 2001. I have two children ages 7 & 2 and they both attend Northstar. I chose teaching as I enjoy working with children and it is very rewarding. I chose Northstar Montessori as it has a great philosophy of teaching. The staff members are very dedicated in what they do. I have learned a lot since I started and I love to share my ideas to all of the students, staff and parents.