Our Team

Owner

I am incredibly proud to be the owner of Early Achievers Montessori School + Educational Centre. Over the past two years, it has been such a privilege to continue growing a school and community that has been near and dear to my heart.

My journey with Early Achievers began first as a parent. When I became a mom, I went in search of programs and experiences that would enrich my children’s early years, and that is when I discovered Early Achievers. I immediately connected with its strong commitment to early education, meaningful learning experiences and creating an environment where children can truly thrive.

My three boys, Vincent, Charlie and Louie, have been part of the Early Achievers community since they were just four months old and began attending full-time at 18 months. Watching them learn, grow and flourish here has made my connection to Early Achievers even more meaningful.

My own educational background has also shaped my passion for learning and child development. I studied Physical Education at Memorial University of Newfoundland and French as a Second Language at Université de Montréal. I have also been a local business owner for more than 10 years and have always placed tremendous value on early childhood education.

I am a strong believer in the Montessori philosophy and its respect for each child as an individual, following their own unique path of development. As both a mother and the owner of Early Achievers, I see the value of this approach every day.

One of the things I value most is the community we have built among our children, families and staff. My door is always open, and I truly welcome conversations, questions, ideas and feedback from our families.

I am so grateful to be part of the Early Achievers community and look forward to continuing to make our school a beautiful, happy and enriching place for our children to learn, grow and belong.

Vice Principal

Hello, my name is Krista Murray, and I am thrilled to be a part of the Early Achievers family and to continue growing in my role as Vice Principal. I have also completed my Montessori Training for children ages 3–6, which has further strengthened my passion for creating meaningful, child-centred learning experiences.

I hold a Master of Education in Early Childhood Studies from the University of British Columbia and have received my Level 4 Early Childhood Educator certification through AECENL. Born and raised in St. John’s, my love of learning began at an early age and ultimately led me to a career in education.

I graduated from Memorial University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Education (Elementary) and began my career as a substitute teacher, during which time I also held replacement positions in both Grade 2 and Special Education. In 2003, I transitioned into the role of Director of Education at Sylvan Learning Centre, where I remained until 2006 before returning to teaching in the St. John’s area.

I am also a very proud mom to a wonderful son, and in my downtime you can often find me enjoying a movie with him or curled up with a good book.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Early Achievers community and look forward to continuing to support our educators, students, and families while sharing in the joy and love of learning each and every day.

Office Administrator

Hi, my name is Wannetta Hynes, I have a combined 20 years of experience working and volunteering in the field of early learning. I have worked as a preschool teacher, daycare worker, Inclusion worker, and student assistant, ensuring all children are included and cared for regardless of their challenges in life.

I have taken courses at Keyano College, Fort McMurray, and distance education through CNA. I am trained and experienced in using Applied Behavior Analysis methods that help children improve their learning, teach positive behavior, and help them make good choices. I have completed my Montessori Training for children ages 3-6 and completed an Administrative Assistant certificate program.

I am a mom of two wonderful girls, who are now grown but still keep me busy! My family and I moved back to Newfoundland in 2012 to be closer to family. When I am not working, I love to keep busy volunteering, and I enjoy reading, walking, baking, and camping in summer.

Program Director

My name is Anne Louise Campbell and I am originally from, Sydney, Cape Breton Island. I have been working in the field of child care since 2003 and hold a Level 4 certification. I hold my ECE diploma from The Institute for Human Services Education and my BACS Degree from Cape Breton University. I am honoured and excited to be continuing my role as Program Director. I am certified in Montessori Education for children ages 0-3 recently completed my Montessori Training for children ages 3-6.

In my spare time I enjoy going on adventures with my Foster dog, Otis!

Program Director

My name is Lisa Rees. Along with being Program Director, I teach Math Pre-Abacus, Math Abacus and Reading/Writing classes to the school age children! I have a Bachelor of Education (Primary) degree and a Level 3 Early Childhood Education certification. I have completed my Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy training. I’ve also received extensive training in Montessori Education for children ages 2-6 and am a Certified Montessori Teacher in ages 3 – 6. Before I came to Early Achievers in 2008, I worked in a daycare setting in the 4/5 year old room and with the after school children. While I enjoyed my time at the daycare, I wanted an opportunity to teach in a setting conducive to learning while still having fun. I thoroughly enjoy all the classes I teach and seeing the pride on the children’s faces when they learn something new is one of my greatest joys. I have a wonderful husband and teenage son. When not teaching, you can find me out and about with my husband and son or reading and researching new, fun things to do with my students.

Operations Manager | Social Media Manager | Fitness Instructor

I began my career as a fitness instructor in 2012 before transitioning into and specializing in mom and baby fitness classes. I have always had a passion for health and wellness, and I especially enjoyed being part of a supportive and engaging community for parents and their little ones.

My role at Early Achievers has continued to grow. As Operations Manager, I help oversee our day-to-day operations and contribute to our Child + Caregiver programs. I am also the Social Media Manager, where I get to share all of the wonderful things happening at Early Achievers and help keep our families connected to our community.

I am excited to bring my fitness background into the classroom as the Fitness Instructor for our Balanced Montessori program, encouraging children to develop a love of movement, physical activity, and healthy habits from an early age.

I look forward to continuing to help create a welcoming and supportive environment where our children and families can connect, grow, and thrive.

Early Childhood Educator

Hello, my name is Brandon Strong. I’m from a small town called Harcourt, just outside Clarenville. I graduated from Clarenville high in 2011, then became an ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) Home Therapist, working with children who have Autism. 

In 2015, I moved to St. John’s and started my Diploma in Human and Health Science; Therapeutic Recreation, Disability Support and Geriatric profession. Upon completion in 2017, I started working as a Child and Youth care worker with Key Assets, which works with children and youth in the residential, community and foster care settings. 

I continued this work until November 2019, but started my ECE career in January 2019. I worked as an ECE in a few different centres and organizations, until December 2020. In 2021, I became a Recreation coordinator with a seniors home in Mount Pearl, planning and implicating programs tailored around the needs of the residents. Most recently, I was accepted into the Early Childhood Education Program with the College of North Atlantic, where I’m looking forward to completing my Level 1 ECE. I became an ECE because of my passion to work with children and watch them grow, learn and achieve personal goals. I look forward to continuing this journey at Early Achievers. 

Early Childhood Educator

Hello, my name is Carly Stratton. I am excited to begin my career as an Early Childhood Educator at Early Achievers!! I’ve graduated from the College of the North Atlantic with my Level 1 in Early Childhood Education. I recently completed the Montessori Toddler training (ages 0-3 years) through North American Montessori Center.
I’m so excited to contiune exploring and learning in this field and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
In my spare time I enjoy camping, volleyball, and taking walks with my dog Millie!

Early Childhood Educator

I am very excited to join the Early Achievers staff.  Through babysitting, tutoring, and teaching I have been working with children since I was 14 years old, so I have always known that teaching and caring for children was where my heart would lead me. I currently hold a Bachelors of Arts and a teaching degree for Intermediate and High school. It was during a replacement for a kindergarten teacher that I discovered how much I enjoy teaching younger kids, which ultimately led me to working here at Early Achievers. I’ve also completed my Montessori Training and am now certified in Montessori Education for children ages 3-6. I am currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program at CNA. I have a deep love for art and literature which guides my life both inside the classroom and out!

Early Childhood Educator

Hi, my name is Chelsea Thomas I am a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator from Torbay. I have completed my Montessori Training and am now certified in Montessori Education for children ages 3-6.

In the past I have worked as the administrator of two child care centers as well as an educator in a preschool and school aged classroom. Both myself and my fiancé found our love of children when our son was born in 2014. Soon after, I switched from my business administration program to early childhood education and haven’t looked back since! Shortly after my fiancé joined me in the field of early childhood education and we have been an early learning family ever since. I cannot imagine working in any other field as nothing makes me happier than watching children learn and grow! I strongly believe in life long learning and broadening my horizons, being an early childhood educator has helped me achieve the perfect balance of teaching and learning as each day is a brand new adventure full of learning opportunities when you work with children. One of my favourite quotes is “While we try to teach our children about life, our children teach us what life is all about.” This is a sentiment I hold dear. I have had many students in the past, and I have had the same amount of teachers.

I am very excited to be a part of the Early Achievers team to teach and learn with your children.

Early Childhood Educator

Hi, my name is Coady, I’m a father and early childhood educator in training. My fiancé and our son inspired me to join the field. I could see how much he was growing and changing every day, and how much of a positive influence his teachers were having. I am from St. John’s, and jumped into the rewarding field of early childhood education in 2018.

I’m excited to be here at Early Achievers as a member of their passionate and creative team, where I believe we can make a real difference. As Maria Montessori put it herself, “Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of society”.

Early Childhood Educator

My name is Maria Kavanagh and I have been a part of the Early Achievers team since 2015. I am a level 3 ECE and hold certification in Montessori Education for children ages 3-6. I completed my ECE certificate through Lethbridge College and my Bachelor of Arts from Memorial University. During my final year of university in 2014, I completed training in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). For several years I worked in the field of early intervention, a path which eventually lead me to Early Achievers. I began my role as a Montessori teacher in 2016 and have loved doing so ever since!

I have two young children of my own and when I am not at EA I enjoy spending time with my amazing little family.

Early Childhood Educator

Hello, my name is Lorrie Winsor and I am pleased to be a part of the wonderful team at Early Achievers. In 1991, I completed the Early Childhood Education diploma program and I currently hold a valid Level 1 ECE certification through AECENL. I have had a passion for nurturing and helping to develop young children’s lives from a very young age and I am still very passionate about it today. I have been working in the early childhood education field since the birth of my son, who is now in his twenties. During my ECE career I have worked in several child care centres including 10 years with Memorial University’s Campus Childcare. A few years ago I took 2 years away from childcare but soon realized I missed the challenges and fulfillment of ECE work which is when I was given the opportunity to join the Early Achievers team.

In my leisure time, I love to spend time with my family and friends, camping as well as staying active in the gym. I also love to read new books and I enjoy finding and even creating new recipes to cook at home!

Early Childhood Educator

Hello, my name is Victoria Marshall and I am a Level IV Early Childhood Educator. Since beginning with Early Achievers, I’ve completed my Montessori Training in Early Learning (ages 3-6 years) and have recently completed the Toddler Montessori training (ages 0-3 years). I graduated from the College of the North Atlantic in 2014 with an ECE diploma, and in 2024 with a Bachelors of applied arts in Early Childhood Education. Since graduating, I have worked in various childcare settings with children ranging from 12 months – 12 years of age.

My favourite part of working in childcare is being able to work closely with children and their families, and helping each child develop to their full potential. I am excited to be a part of the Early Achievers team and to be joining this community of educators and families.

Early Childhood Educator

Hello! My name is Amanda Crowley, I am delighted to be part of the Early Achievers family. I graduated with a diploma in Child & Youth Care from Eastern Academy in 2017 and accepted a position with the City of St. John’s as a Recreation Supervisor. Within a year of working with the city of St. John’s, I started teaching their preschool program and absolutely loved every moment of being a preschool teacher, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else! I recently graduated from the College of the North Atlantic with my Level 1 in Early Childhood Education and hold a Level 2 certification for school age. I recently completed the Montessori Toddler training (ages 0-3 years) through North American Montessori Center. I am looking forward to this exciting career and am thankful to work with such an amazing team of talented Early Childhood Educators. I like to spend my free time taking road trips, hiking, camping & enjoying the outdoors.

Early Childhood Educator

Hi, my name is Melissa Synard and I am so excited to be starting a new endeavor. I studied Psychology and Linguistics at Memorial University and recently graduated from the College of the North Atlantic with my Level 1 in Early Childhood Education. I just recently completed my Montessori Training in Early Learning (ages 3 – 6 years) through North American Montessori Center.  I owned and operated a day home for many years before deciding I wanted to make a change and am so happy to have become a member of the Early Achievers team. I love working with children as no day is ever the same and their energy and zest for life is so contagious.

I have three little girls that I spend every minute I can with and any other free time I do have,  I love to read.

Music & French Teacher

Hello! My name is Katherine Shipley, and I am so happy to be part of the Early Achievers family as a Music Teacher and French Teacher.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Trent University in Ontario, where I focused my studies on Child Development and Special Education. After completing my degree, I had the wonderful opportunity to live in Japan and teach English as a Second Language before eventually settling with my family in Newfoundland.

My journey in Newfoundland introduced me to the world of Montessori education, and I quickly developed a deep appreciation for the Montessori philosophy and its approach to supporting children during their most important early years. I have since completed Montessori training for Infants and Toddlers.

Music has been a lifelong passion of mine. I studied piano with The Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto and have more than 20 years of experience teaching music, including group music, cello, violin, and piano. Since 2009, I have also had the privilege of performing as a cellist with the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra.

For the past five years, I have had the joy of bringing together two things I love most—music and Montessori education. I love creating meaningful musical experiences that encourage children to explore, express themselves, build confidence, and experience the joy that music can bring.

I feel very fortunate to share my love of music and language with the children at Early Achievers and to be part of their learning and growth.

Early Childhood Educator

Hi my name is Emma Brennan and I am so excited for this new opportunity to join the Early Achievers team! Ever since being a young girl I have known I wanted to work with children and watch them learn and grow. I have recently completed the Child and Youth Care with Addiction Support Worker program and currently hold a trainee preschool and Level 2 certification through AECENL! Some of my favourite things about working in this field is building relationships and helping overcome challenges and learn new skills!

At home I have two sweet puppies Macie and Maya who I adore. I enjoy being outdoors and watching sports while spending time with family and friends!

Early Childhood Educator

Hello! I’m Hailey, and I’m a Level II Early Childhood Educator. I graduated from Keyin College in May. Currently, I’m pursuing my studies at College of the North Atlantic for Early Childhood Education Administrative Leadership Program, which I’m really excited about! I reside with my boyfriend, 2 younger sisters, and 2 adorable kitties. In my leisure time, I enjoy various outdoor activities and journaling. Being the oldest of 4, I’ve always had a passion for caring for children! Last year, I worked at a Day Care in Labrador as Lead Staff in a toddler room. I’m thrilled to start at Early Achievers and eager to see what this year holds!

Early Childhood Educator

Hi, my name is Trina Kwasny. I am a level 4 Early Childhood Educator. I have my Bachelor of Education in primary/junior education. I moved to Newfoundland after living in the UK for 4 years working as an Early Years teacher. I am continually learning and growing as an educator and look for new ways to learn and grow. I have always been interested in learning more about the Montessori philosophy since graduating from the Early Childhood Education program in 2014. I am looking forward to working at Early Achievers and continuing my learning journey as an educator and teacher. When I am not working I can be found on the hiking trails or curling in the winter. I am also an avid traveler and plan adventures whenever possible! 

Early Childhood Educator
Rosemond Boachie is my name. I have three lovely children, a girl and two boys. I am a licensed professional teacher from my home country (Ghana) and currently hold AECENL Training level certification. I am a holder of a Diploma in Education and BEd Psychology and Foundation of Education (English Language). I have taught at all levels of pre-school and basic school  education, and recently resigned as a part-time teacher in a Montessori School in my home country to join my lovely husband in St. John’s, Newfoundland. 

I find it a privilege to be part of  Early Achievers’ Montessori, as I believe the experience I will gain working with children and staff will help shape my future aspirations. I enjoy reading and listening to gospel music during my leisure time. I am very passionate about kids and love to guide them to bring out the best in them.

Early Childhood Educator

Hello everyone! I’m Katie, and I’m a level II Early Childhood Educator. I’ve recently graduated from Keyin College in May. I am very excited to start my career here at Early Achievers. I’m originally from Clarenville but moved to St. John’s to pursue my studies in Early Childhood Education. In my spare time I enjoy traveling, playing volleyball, going on hikes, watching hockey, and walking my dog, Izzy!

Early Childhood Educator

My name is Kayla McCarthy. I am a Trainee Level ECE and a Level 2 school age. I have a certificate in Child and Youth with Addictions Support Worker and am currently completing the Level 1 ECE course through college of the North Atlantic. I always knew I wanted to work with children, it’s amazing to be able to be a part of their growth and learning journey.  I began my role as a teacher at Early Achievers in 2023 and have been loving it. When I’m not at Early Achievers, I enjoying spending time with my daughter. 

Early Childhood Educator

Hello my name is Holly Boxer, and I am so excited for this opportunity to join the Early Achievers team! In 2019 I graduated from Sheridan College with a diploma in Early Childhood education and currently hold a Level II Certification with the AECENL. I moved here from Ontario two years ago, with my boyfriend and our sweet cat Lucy. In my spare time, I love reading, baking, and various outdoor activities! 

Early Childhood Educator

My name is Mackenzie Thompson and I am originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia. I recently graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Youth Studies and received my Level 4 certification from ACENL. I have been working alongside children throughout my entire degree and my passion for learning and development continues to grow! I am very excited for this opportunity to work alongside the amazing educators at Early Achievers and I look forward to learning more about the Montessori philosophy. In my spare time I enjoy road trips, craft markets, and spending time with family!

After School Instructor

My name is Jami and I am currently a Bachelor of Science student at Memorial University studying biology and biochemistry. Upon completing this degree, I hope to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in education to become a teacher. I have always had a passion for teaching and learning from a young age and love working with children. In the past, I have worked as a tutor, a counsellor at a summer recreation program, an instructor at a softball and tee ball camp, and volunteered as a program assistant with after-school recreation programs. I am so excited to continue pursuing the things I love as a part of the Early Achievers team!

After School Instructor

Hi, my name is Jennifer Frisina-Cooze. I have my diploma in Social Work and Entry Level in ECE through AECENL. I have worked with children with Special Needs for a number of years and was an Inclusion Coordinator for a few years before becoming a Preschool teacher. My passion has always been working with children and advocating on behalf of children with Special Needs. I believe all children have the potential to learn and deserve the opportunity to achieve their individual goals. I am excited about what I will learn and experience working here at Early Achievers. 

When I am not working, my down time is spent outdoors and with my boys. I am optimistic and love life. My motto is “In this house we live, love, laugh, learn, move on and never stop learning.”

Early Childhood Educator

Hello! My name is Fatemeh Abedinpour, I’m proud to be part of the Early Achievers team as an Early Childhood Educator.
From the bustling classrooms of Tehran to the warm, playful spaces of Early Achievers, I bring a heart full of passion and over 16 years of experience in early education. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Planning and a Master’s Degree in Educational Sciences from Allameh Tabataba’i University.

Over the years, I’ve come to deeply believe that working with children isn’t just a profession—it’s a passion. Their curiosity, creativity, and honesty constantly inspire me. I love creating nurturing, engaging spaces where children feel safe, valued, and eager to learn. It brings me great joy to witness their small achievements and big discoveries every single day.

I’m so excited to continue this journey in early childhood education, and I look forward to all the beautiful moments this path will bring. I believe in planting the seeds of curiosity, kindness, and confidence—values that will grow with them for life. Beyond the classroom, you might find me experimenting in the kitchen, enjoying a quiet walk, diving into a good book, or simply cherishing time with my family. I also enjoy the occasional shopping spree and cozy movie nights!

Early Childhood Educator

Hello, my name is Ireland Wells, and I am a Level 2 ECE. I was born in Corner Brook, NL but spent most of my life in Vancouver, BC. I come from a large family with six siblings and have spent much of my life volunteering with children through various Boys and Girls Clubs programs.

From a young age, I always knew I wanted to work in the field of Education in some capacity. When I discovered the ECE program, I immediately applied. Now that I have graduated with as a Level II ECE,  I can confidently say I am very happy with the career path I chose, and am excited to begin this next chapter with Early Achievers Montessori School.