French

Mrs. Kani Matobo-Mackita (Madame Kani)

I grew up in Paris, France, where I did most of my education. I have been teaching for the past 15 years. I taught at French Immersion for two years, a French School for nine years and three years at a Montessori school, teaching PK to Grade 8.

I went to Tower Hamlets University in London, UK where I lived for 8 years. And this led to my career in education. I obtained my (MEEF French) with a diploma and Certificate of Pre-School Practice which led to my educational credentials of teaching. I studied at Humber College and received a Certificate of Children’s Mental Health, and also obtained a RECE diploma. I have a passion for traveling and spending time with my family. I love watching movies, going on long walks, and reading French authors.

I have the privilege of working in a profession that makes a difference in the lives of children of all ages. It is a pleasure to be working with an amazing and welcoming team. It is my goal to provide all students with a welcoming, fun, empowering environment full of learning.

Mrs. Zaina Semaaoui (Madame Zaina)

I received my Certificate in Second-language Teaching and a master’s degree in education & technology at Laval University, Québec. I also hold a BA degree majoring in English Language. I have experience working with different levels JK to Grade 10 in public and private schools.

I am passionate about positive motivation in the classroom, as well as in life. Positivity can help children reach their full potential. I am excited about working with your children at Northstar Montessori school. I believe that every student is capable of learning and growing. I see the value in allowing students the opportunity to see mistakes and imperfections as part of the process in growing. There are various types of learners and keeping every student excited and engaged about learning is essential. Creating an environment that students feel a part of, safe, welcomed, and supported involves students in their own learning. I cannot wait to see what all my students will teach me and grow alongside them.

Elementary Art

Ms. Amrita Virdi

I specialized in Studio Arts and Art History. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from a bridge program at University of Toronto and Sheridan College. I have worked as an Arts Instructor in my community for the past nine years, teaching painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and online digital softwares. I work with people of all ages to create a positive and encouraging environment that helps everyone feel confident and comfortable to make art that truly reflects their own artistic genius. I value the process of art making and assist others to create art that they feel is important and impactful.

I am excited to exchange ideas with all the students and teachers at Northstar Montessori. Let’s work together to make an inclusive place for all to learn and grow.

Music

Mr. Guillermo D’Acosta

I was born in Caracas, Venezuela and have lived in Venezuela, Canada and Brazil. I speak Spanish, Portuguese, and English. I have studied at York University, Faculdade de Musica do Esprito Santo, Brazil, Royal Conservatory, Ontario College of TCM, Henan University China, and Universidad Simon Bolivar, Venezuela. I have completed my BA, DTCM, Bed. Music Education, AMI (Montessori) assistant certificate, certified Kodaly I, and Orff certification II. Advanced Early Childhood Education at Royal Conservatory (in progress). I have taught for over 10 years.

Recently, I have been teaching Music at another Montessori School in Toronto and I am looking forward to continuing my teaching at Northstar. If you knew me really well, you would know that I am a family man as well as an emotional and empathetic person. As a result, I have a strong sense of justice. I am also really good at working with neuro diverse children. I have four children and a dog (Kevin), he is a hound dog. I am a multi- instrumentalist. When I am not at school, I like composing and performing. My childhood memories are all of the Caribbean sea. My favourite book is La Vida es Sueño by Pedro Calderon de la Barca. I love soccer and my passion is teaching music.

Casa and Elementary Physical Education

Mr. Gaelen Sydney

I received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the Graceland University, Iowa, USA on a scholarship playing basketball. I pride myself in being a multi-dimensional athlete who has achieved a multitude of accolades in a variety of sporting events.

I have been an advocate for youth development and youth programming for ten years. I have worked with the City of Mississauga Coordinating and Programing Children and Youth programs and sporting events for the past seven years.

My constant passion in youth development and success has led me to my commitment in being a role model in the community and serves as a community coach in the Mississauga area. I look forward to add to the continued growth and opportunities while teaching the students of Northstar Montessori. My main goal will be to make this school a safe, fun and comfortable place in which your child to learn and grow.

Computer

Mr. Rick Ramirez

I graduated from Ryerson University in Graphic Communications Management, comprised of Business and Advertising in the Marketing Media and worked for over 10 years before joining Northstar Montessori in 2004. Aside from being the Business Manager, I also taught Casa and Elementary students Physical Education and Art for several years. As an educator, I find great satisfaction watching the students grasp new skills, achieve a new level or take new interests with vigour.

Since then, I have focused my strengths in teaching Micro-Economy and Computers, providing experiences to be leaders in the 21st century. I currently teach all the elementary students (Gr. 1 - 8) all aspects of using the Computer, using various programs, introducing them to current Technology. In addition, I also teach Micro-Economy to the Junior High students where they fully participate in running the school milk program as their business and other experiences that involves the concept of business and market planning.

I am compelled to make my classes engaging and challenging for each student My goal is to provide them the necessary skills to be fully independent when they move on to high school and later, post-secondary, able to make wise decisions and having the initiative and knowledge to tackle any project.

Aquatics Supervisor

Miss Anastasiia Medvedieva

My name is Anastasiia Medvedieva, but my students know me as Miss Ana.

I have been swimming all my life, started synchronize swimming at 6 years of age and competed for 9 years. I currently hold my First Aid, Freediving AIDA level 3, PADI rescue diver certificates. I am also an experienced, trained and certified diver and freediver.

I consider myself to be very kind, empathetic, and understanding. I like to think I’m quite responsible, nurturing and patient, but stern when needed. My method of teaching is about building relationships with my swimmers. I really enjoy having fun in the water while still ensuring all my students are learning and safe. I feel that trust is the most important foundation with any relationship, and I prioritize gaining that with each and every student I meet! I like to motivate children through encouraging words and giving them something to look forward to, such as swim-related games at the end of a lesson.

I have visited and lived in different countries around the world, and I enjoy learning about their cultures. I speak four languages: English, Ukraine, Russian and Chinese (Mandarin).

My Life is one exciting adventure, and I want to know more about yours!

Aquatics Supervisor

Ms. Emily Pratt

I am excited to join Northstar Montessori and will work to ensure that Northstar Aquatics continues to offer high-quality programs and services to our students and visitors.

Growing up I have always enjoyed sports such as gymnastics, dance, volleyball, and flag football. Nonetheless, my true love has always been swimming, which started at a very young age. I have recently graduated from York University, Glendon College with a Specialized Honours BA in Sociology and a French Bilingual Certificate.

I have wealth of experience in aquatics supervision and administration for a large municipality as well as the private sector and for many years I have taught both the Red Cross and the Lifesaving swim programs. I am currently an Advanced Instructor/Examiner, First Aid Instructor/Examiner, and an Instructor Trainer. However, my favourite qualifications that I hold is a swim instructor because it allows me to find fun and creative ways to educate children while working on their individual swim abilities. I believe it is essential for children to know how to swim; as it is a great life skill and lifesaving tool.

I am highly motivated and dedicated to provide an educational and enjoyable learning swim experience to all students. I look forward to growing with Northstar Aquatics and cannot wait to see what the future holds.

(Currently on maternity leave)