Who We Are
Our philosophy to early childhood education centralizes the child as an active agent in their learning. In our award winning inclusive preschool program, we view each child as being capable, curious, competent and creative. At Okotoks Preschool Academy, we value their interests and strive to give children the opportunity to explore, learn and discover through play each and every day.
Your Teachers
Ms. Monica
I have always known I was meant to teach children. I have a passion for Fine arts, being creative and working with little ones. I graduated from Mount Royal University with a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education in 2004 and I have an extensive background in fine arts including Art therapy. I love sharing my love of Art and creativity with others.I worked with children with learning difficulties and I strongly believe in inclusion. I have had the honor to mentor up and coming Early Childhood Educators through Bow Valley College and Mount Royal University in the past.
Throughout my extensive Early Childhood Education career, I was able to work in many different settings and programs. About 10 years ago, I discovered the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education. It is a child-centered philosophy, that respects children as collaborators in their own learning. The aim of the Reggio approach is to teach children to use art and creativity to express themselves, as another language. A lot of loose part play, discovery, art and nature based learning. It is all about the PROCESS and not the finished product. A combination made in heaven, in my opinion!
At OPA, we aspire to create an environment where every child belongs and is welcome. I hope we inspire children to love life and learning, to be able to grow and become kind, well rounded members of our society. It has been an absolute joy to teach, learn and discover along so many little ones in the last 17 years. And I look forward to continue to do so for many years to come.
Ms. Carly
Since a young age I have always known I wanted to work with children. As a young adult I started working with children with disabilities; leading me to Mt. Royal University where I took Disability Studies. Following school, I spent a few years working as an aid within the private school system in Calgary. In 2007 I took time away to start a family and spend time with my young children. During this time, I was fortunate enough to be able volunteer in my children’s classrooms; reaffirming my enjoyment to work with kids. After my youngest entered school full time, I was happy to become part of the OPA steaching team. I have been here for the past 4 years.Through my experiences, I believe that children should be nurtured with care, kindness and empathy. I like to create an environment where every child feels they belong, can develop and will be successful in the classroom. I love spending time outside in nature as it creates a unique environment for children to further explore and discover. The best part of my job is meeting new faces every year, but also seeing past students grow up with in the community.