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 Semmaoui (Madame Zaina)

I graduated from Laval University, Quebec, obtaining a master’s degree in education and a Certificate of Aptitude for Specialized Teaching of a Second Language. I also hold a B.A. degree majoring in English Language. I have experience working with different grade levels from 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 of 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. I am excited to rejoin and once again be a part of the fabulous Northstar team.

Ms. Tanya Kakkar (Mademoiselle or Mlle Tanya)

Bonjour! My love for the French language began in school and blossomed into a lifelong passion, leading me to study French professionally while earning a master’s degree in accounting. For the past few years, I've had the joy of teaching French, where every day is a new adventure filled with cultural discoveries and language fun. I truly enjoy interacting with my students, watching their confidence grow as they explore the beauty of French. My goal is to make each lesson as charming as a French café experience, where learning is both delightful and memorable. Let's embark on this exciting journey together and turn every French lesson into a wonderful adventure! I'm thrilled to a part of Northstar Montessori. Let's work together to create a warm space where everyone can learn, grow, and shine brightly!

Art

Ms. Amrita Virdi

I studied Studio Arts and Art History at the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, earning my Bachelor of Arts. In my teaching, I love to bring the fine arts experience into the classroom by introducing students to a variety of high-quality materials and techniques. We explore painting, drawing, and sculpture using traditional methods, while also incorporating contemporary approaches and lessons drawn from art history to spark curiosity and creativity.

My teaching style is supportive and dynamic. I encourage students to trust their ideas, experiment freely, and take pride in their work. I value the process of making just as much as the final piece and strive to create an environment where students feel inspired, confident, and excited to express their own artistic voice.

At Northstar Montessori, I’m excited to continue fostering creativity and imagination while building a space where art feels meaningful, joyful, and accessible to everyone.

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.

Computer

Mr. Ekam Singh

I will be teaching Communications Technology. My teaching philosophy is simple: technology should never replace human connection — it should strengthen it. In my classroom, I use coding, AI, UX design, and digital storytelling not just as skills to learn, but as tools for students to collaborate, express themselves, and see technology as something that connects people rather than divides them.

I believe learning should feel hands-on, creative, and meaningful. Students in my class are encouraged to experiment, ask questions, and see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators. Role-play activities, design challenges, and real-world projects help bring abstract ideas to life in ways that are both fun and empowering.

Outside the classroom, I am active in the community through philosophy clubs and reflective dialogue groups, where people of all ages come together for deep conversations about life, meaning, and connection. I bring that same spirit of curiosity and reflection into my teaching — encouraging the community not only to build technical skills, but also to think critically and introspectively about the world they are helping to shape.

Above all, I want students and families to know that my classroom is a place of trust, exploration, and connection. Technology is the medium, but people are always at the heart of the learning.

Physical Education

Mr. Tramar Sutherland

Hi, I am Mr. Sutherland, your new Phys. Ed teacher! I have always had a passion for sports and a competitive drive that pushes me to be my best—and I love bringing that same energy to my students. For me, sports are more than just games; they build community, character, and lifelong skills. I went into teaching to give back to the next generation of athletes and to make a positive impact in the community that helped shape me.

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.

(Currently on leave.)

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!