Mrs. Virginia Ramirez - Head Supervisor/Principal

I am a graduate from Sheridan College, Ryerson Polytechnic University and Toronto Montessori Institute (TMI). Earning a diploma and degree in Early Childhood, a diploma in Montessori, my education has qualified me to teach students from 18 months to 12 years of age in many different educational settings, but I have chosen the Montessori path. I have completed a Management Course from the CCMA (Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators) that helped me see the business aspect of running a Montessori program. In 1998, I became involved in CCMA to advocate for Montessori education and was elected a member of the executive board for a few years and continue to be an active member. I also served as one of the PAC (Program Advisory Committee) members at Sheridan College for their Montessori program and was invited yearly to participate as one of the administrators in their panel discussions. I was also a field examiner for TMI and is currently an examiner for their oral examinations. I am also currently a Visiting Team member for Accreditation for CCMA.

My goal to own and operate a Montessori school was achieved and realized in 1996 and I have enjoyed every minute of it, even through all of the challenges, obstacles and growing pains of running a school. I am very proud to have had my three boys begin their education experience at Northstar. I was confident that they were in a caring and nurturing environment. They loved going to school, learning and interacting with the other students.

I am continuously grateful and appreciative of how the dynamic staff upholds the vision we have had for Northstar from the beginning. We are successful because of everyone’s tireless efforts and dedication to the students we care for. The close-knit staff of Northstar makes my job easier and rewarding as they share the same passion and commitment in providing the best possible Montessori education.

Mrs. Sherry Gosal - Casa Supervisor/Vice-Principal

After completing my Montessori training (AMI), I joined Northstar Montessori School as the Casa Directress. We started with a small group of students whose parents believed in the vision of the school and took a chance to enroll their child into a class with a newly graduated teacher and into a school that was still being built. I am forever grateful to those parents as they and their children helped me to become the educator that I am today. I have had many fulfilling years of watching students develop and become independent thinkers that explore with confidence and with a need “to know”. After teaching for 6 years, I was promoted to the position of Vice Principal. I am proud to be a part of Northstar Montessori Private School as it truly promotes the development of the whole child and is interested in seeing each child succeed. As the Vice Principal, I have a deeper commitment to staff, parents, and students to see that their needs, concerns, and questions are always addressed and that we are providing a true Montessori experience. As a mother of 3, I have a deeper commitment to ensuring that there is a place where children can grow, be respected, and be safe.

Mrs. Balvinder Delill - Elementary Supervisor

I am honoured to be a part of the Northstar Montessori team. I have worked with Northstar since 2002, first in the Upper Elementary and now in the Lower Elementary classroom. More recently, I have taken on the role as the elementary staff supervisor. I appreciate being given this opportunity to help support our exceptional school community. I enjoy watching students and teachers grow both socially and academically in the school environment.

I am a graduate of York University and have obtained my Elementary Teaching Certificate from Toronto Montessori Institute. I have two adorable children who remind me everyday the importance of having exemplary role models, both at home and school. I continuously work towards being a prime role model for both the students and staff at Northstar Montessori. I thank the Northstar families for trusting and supporting us in guiding your children in the right direction!

Mr. Rick Ramirez - Business Manager

I graduated from Ryerson University with a degree in Graphic Communications Management, a program that combined Business, Advertising, and Marketing Media. I enjoy playing a variety of sports, but lately, basketball and pickleball have been my favourites for staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Inspired by Virginia Ramirez, I became a strong believer in the Montessori Philosophy—not only because it is scientifically based and widely recognized, but also because it aligns with my personal learning style. I have always struggled with textbook-based learning, finding that I learn best through observation and hands-on experiences.

I have been involved with Northstar Montessori since its inception, contributing the name 'Northstar,' its slogan, and the associated artwork, with input and support from all of the owners. It was exhilarating when we opened our first location in 1996, behind Highland Farms on Hurontario Road. When I officially joined eight years later, in February 2004, I felt anxious about changing careers and unsure of how I would fit in. However, the support of the staff over the years gave me the confidence to tackle challenges and motivated me to contribute to the school’s ongoing success.

In addition to teaching my class, media and promotions, and facility maintenance, I step in wherever needed to ensure the school year runs smoothly. Over the years, I have taught physical education and computer classes, relishing those moments when students put forth their best efforts. Organizing sports tournaments with other schools for fun and friendly competition was especially rewarding. In 2015, I earned my Adolescent Montessori Teacher Certificate and began assisting in the Junior High Program, focusing on the Odyssey trip, Micro-Economics, and advanced media courses. These years hold cherished memories, and the gratitude and thanks from students have been my greatest reward.

As we approach our 29th school anniversary, I am stepping down from teaching and assuming my primary role as Facility Manager for Northstar Montessori School, the Operations of Northstar Aquatics, and the Hot Meals Program. I look forward to many more successful years at Northstar Montessori!

Mrs. Rose Sta. Ana - Office Administrator

I graduated from George Brown College receiving a diploma in Office Administration for the medical field. I had 12 years of experience working in a dental office as an administrator. Thereafter, I pursued a change of career and I have been working at Northstar Montessori since 2007. I really enjoy working in this environment and love working with students of all ages. I especially enjoy seeing them develop academically and socially throughout the school year. Northstar has pleasant staff members and administrators who are very helpful, supportive, and friendly. I have two children who attend Northstar, and watching them grow from the toddler age group to elementary has shown me the importance of education. I am really happy to be part of the Northstar family.