fbpx
Search
Close this search box.
exemplary leaders

Meet Urban Academy's Faculty and staff

Urban Academy faculty and staff are leaders in the education profession. Our diverse team is comprised of thinkers, innovators, movers and shakers. Their qualifications include all of the Ministry of Education requirements including undergraduate degrees in education; many of our staff also hold graduate degrees in specialty areas of instruction. Our faculty are experts in their own realm, each using their unique expertise for mentorship and multi-disciplinary projects that constantly challenge the way students understand the world. Teachers who learn continuously, inspire students to do the same — and that is exactly how we work at Urban Academy.

Executive staff and admin

Mike Slinger, Urban Academy Head of School

Mr. Mike Slinger

Head of School

Mr. Slinger stepped into the role of Head of School at Urban Academy in August 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience as an educator of more than two decades. Prior to joining the team at UA, Mr. Slinger was Head of School at Coast Mountain Academy in Squamish and has experience as an administrator in the Coquitlam School District where he worked at both the middle and high school levels. Having completed his undergraduate studies and teacher certification at Simon Fraser University, Mr. Slinger completed his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at the University of Oregon. Mr. Slinger is passionate about teaching and learning and thrives on working with students, staff and parents.

In his spare time, Mr. Slinger loves staying active in the great outdoors of beautiful BC with his wife and family. He can often be found hiking, skiing, golfing, or playing an occasional game of basketball. He is also a diehard Vancouver Canucks fan and a regular visitor to local live theatre and music events. Mr. Slinger has always been involved in his community taking on numerous roles coaching in soccer and swimming, as well as serving on different boards, from swim clubs to the NYIT Master of Science in Instructional Technology Advisory Board.

Mr. Slinger is passionate about the opportunity to impact the learning environment at UA for all students, families and staff.

Ms. Brenda Ball

Principal — Middle and Senior School

Ms. Ball has been an educator and curriculum developer for over 25 years, in both public and independent schools, and both locally and overseas. Her focus is on student engagement: cultivating curiosity so that students take ownership over their learning and become active, engaged citizens. Other educational interests include curriculum innovation, technology integration, intercultural understanding, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

When she is not working at school or on curriculum, you can usually find Ms. Ball hiking, biking, swimming, or paddling with her family and friends. Her interests outside of education and the outdoors usually revolve around language, culture, and movement: exploring languages through travel, listening to (and dancing to!) music from different places, and letting her tastebuds guide the way through a new location, near or far.

Ms. Ball loves working with the Urban Academy students and families to help foster and support growth mindsets, resilience, compassionate communication, and independent thinking and learning.

Khatereh Dadar

Ms. Khatereh Dadar

Associate Principal

Ms. Dadar has a BA in English Literature and a Masters in Media and Communication studies. She got her teaching degree from Lancaster University in 2005 and has worked as a homeroom teacher, Digital Learning Leader, Educational Coach, Learning Resource Teacher, and French Teacher throughout her teaching career. Ms. Dadar’s main focus has been early primary, mostly in IB PYP schools. She is passionate about learning and strives to put student agency at the core of teaching and learning.

In her free time, Ms. Dadar enjoys travelling, loves reading, is a movie buff, goes to the theatre and art galleries, as well as spending time out in nature.

Mrs. Sonja Kennedy

Director of Development

Mrs. Kennedy brings with her years of experience in the communications, marketing and management fields in the not-for-profit industry. With a both a Communications Degree and Certificate of Non-Profit Management from Simon Fraser University, she began her career in trade and technology education for youth and then moved on to leading one of Western Canada’s major trade associations. Leading strategic growth initiatives, empowering volunteers, building community and sharing the message of what Urban Academy is all about are elements that she brings to UA’s Senior Leadership Team.

Above all else, Mrs. Kennedy has a passion for working with people, growing organizations and sharing her enthusiasm about the value of quality education. She is passionate about supporting children and has spent many years volunteering in various initiatives that serve families.

Mr. Peter Thrower

Director of Finance

Mr. Thrower is a CA with over 35 years of financial experience including 10 years working in financial management leading BC independent schools. He came out of retirement to help Urban Academy through its transitional period, and his experience is invaluable to the school.

Ashleigh Bonifacio

Ms. Ashleigh Bonifacio

Administrative Assistant

Ms. Bonifacio’s background in customer service and her hospitable nature initially led her to become a part of Urban Academy’s Out of School care team. Subsequently, she transitioned into her current role as an Administrative Assistant. Beyond her work at UA, Ms. Bonifacio demonstrates her dance talents in film, TV, and live performances, and she actively contributes to a dance studio that caters to individuals of all ages. During her free time, she enjoys being outdoors spotting wildlife and volunteering at her local charitable organization for a girls’ self-confidence empowerment program.

Ms. Kelly Edwards

Executive Assistant, Registrar

With over 20 years of administrative experience, Ms. Edwards’ dedication greatly contributes to Urban Academy’s success and welcoming environment. Her dedicated 18-year career includes 10 years in ISABC schools. Kelly’s meticulous organizational skills and unwavering work ethic ensure smooth school operations. Beyond work, she enjoys family time, daily walks with her French Bulldogs, and creative crafts.

Mr. Dylan Hayden

IT & Infrastructure Manager

Mr. Hayden received a Bachelor of Applied Science with honours from the University of Waterloo; he also holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Ottawa. Mr. Hayden has a passion for robotics and programming. He believes that robotics provides students with dynamic challenges that allow them to develop new understanding while being creative and unique. In class, students will be given opportunities to extend their learning and differentiate their outcomes. In life outside of UA, Mr. Hayden appreciates music and plays the guitar. He enjoys staying active and learning about personal fitness.

Kristine Mathiasen

Ms. Kristine Mathiasen

Admissions Manager

Ms. Mathiasen is excited to join the team at Urban Academy. After moving from Ontario in 2008, she worked as the Admissions Officer at an independent school for 11 years, and then at SD43 before accepting the position at UA in August of 2023. She is a U of T alumnus with a BA in English Literature and a Certificate in Adult Education from OISE. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and extended family, planning future travel adventures and exploring the outdoors with her spouse and their dog.

Ms. Jeni McBride

Administrative Assistant

Ms. McBride strengthens the team with her expertise in non-profit administration, customer service as well as purchasing and IT service. Driven by a passion for seeing projects through, Ms. McBride is always ready with a smile and a helping hand. She can now be found working upstairs with Mrs.Twaites in the library. An avid animal lover she enjoys spending time outdoors with her two border collies.

Mrs. Miranda McNamara

Development Coordinator

Mrs. McNamara graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Law. She brings her talents and skills to the busy Urban Academy administration office, and her strengths in multitasking and customer service ensure that families and the rest of the staff are well supported. Mrs. McNamara enjoys the outdoors and has been taking part in Hawaiian outrigger canoe races in BC, Washington, Oregon, California and Hawaii. She also enjoys Polynesian dance classes.

Ms. Joëlle Régnier

Sr. Bookkeeper

Originally from Montréal, Ms. Régnier moved to Vancouver over 25 years ago after graduating with a degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo. Her background is in customer service, copy editing and translation, and she has studied in the fields of nutrition and herbalism. In her spare time, Ms. Régnier enjoys reading, playing recorder, hiking, kayaking and baking. Ms. Régnier is always happy to have the chance to speak French with our students!

Mr. Travis Salazar

Marketing & Events Manager

Mr. Salazar is an experienced web and digital media designer who has worked for local, provincial and global organizations in the for-profit and non-profit sectors. With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Management from Langara College and a Senior Management Certificate in New Media Design from BCIT, he brings a depth of creative, technical and marketing skills and expertise to Urban Academy. In his free time, Mr. Salazar relaxes by planning travel adventures with his wife, playing guitar, cooking and baking.

The Faculty Teaching Tomorrow's Leaders

Mrs. Aline Abrante

Support Teacher

Mrs. Abrante has worked in the educational field since the 1990s. Over the years, she has held a number of positions, such as English as a Second Language teacher, Portuguese instructor (in the US), and Education Coordinator. She also ran her own tutoring business in Brazil before relocating to Canada to pursue a Post Degree Diploma in Business Administration. Mrs. Abrante has a BA in Social Communication and a Post Degree Certificate in English. Mrs. Abrante devotes her personal time to volunteer work at a non-profit organization, as well as to her twins, husband, and friends. She believes each person has their set of skills, and the beauty of a community resides in putting all these pieces together to form a unique mosaic.

Scott-Ryan Abt

Mr. Scott-Ryan Abt

Teacher (English/Socials/PE)

Mr. Abt grew up in North Delta and completed a Bachelor of Arts in History at SFU, a Bachelor of Education at UBC and a Master of Arts at SFU. He’s been a teacher for 20 years and has spent the last seven of them abroad, teaching at international schools in Colombia, Tanzania and Jamaica. Mr. Abt is excited to be at Urban Academy and working closely with the young learners in his classroom. He speaks German and Spanish and in his spare time, he loves travelling, cooking, writing and going to concerts!

Dr. Riddhi Agrawal

Teacher (Science/Math/Lab Tech)

Dr. Agrawal is from India and her passion for science has encouraged her to do two Masters in Science with Genetics as majors, as well as a Masters and a Doctorate in Education. For greater contribution to the field of academics, she has completed 8 different pieces of training in core competencies from Cambridge University and has published 7 research papers. She has received Global Teacher Accreditation twice from the UK (British Council) and India. Coming with her multicultural and diverse teaching background, she believes that learning is a lifelong process and with this goal she provides all her students with an educationally challenging yet fun experience in her classroom. Also, Dr. Agrawal helps her students discover their individuality and works with them to maximize it. She has taught Biology in Middle and Senior School along with Psychology and Methodology at the University level.

Ms. Christine Albertson

Education Assistant

Ms. Albertson graduated with honours from Simon Fraser University, receiving a degree in General Studies in Education with two minors in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as Learning and Developmental Disabilities. She has also completed a Bachelor of Education degree. Through her experience working with children, Ms. Albertson has developed a passion for creating and sustaining inclusive environments where every individual is valued for the unique qualities they bring to the community. Ms. Albertson believes in combining democratic principles with educational practices as it provides an opening for students to have a voice and choice with regard to their own development. When not at school, Ms. Albertson loves going for nature walks, has a passion for photography and spending time with her friends and family.

Ms. Carol Almeida

Teacher

Ms. Almeida graduated from the University of Rio de Janeiro completing a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature. She is originally from Brazil but has taught in the US, Brazil, and Canada since 2009. Ms. Almeida is extremely passionate about teaching Middle school and enjoys empowering students to reach their best in all academic areas while also pursuing their interests. She loves spending her spare time with family and friends, reading, learning languages, hiking, and taking her cat on walks. Ms. Almeida is excited for the year that lies ahead and hopes to make the world a better place.

Ms. Ashley Bayles

Teacher (English/Ed Tech) | Team Leader: Humanities

Ms. Bayles earned a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s in Educational Technology from the University of British Columbia. She then moved to Bogota, Colombia, where she led an IB World School’s 1:1 iPad program deployment, implementation and training plan. From there, Ms. Bayles went to Brussels, Belgium, where she taught IB English Language and Literature, and helped the school transition to a Google Apps for Education environment. She returned to Vancouver in 2017 to be closer to her family. Ms. Bayles is committed to developing lessons that encourage her students to take risks and examine the world in new ways. Outside of all things related to educational technology, Ms. Bayles enjoys spending time with family and friends, being creative in her home studio, and exploring the city.

Mrs. Patricia Brooke

Teacher (Drama)

Mrs. Brooke attended Simon Fraser University where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre and History, followed by a Bachelor’s in Education from Brock University. She has always wanted to be a teacher for as long as she can remember, believing that it’s very rare to have a job that allows her to do all her favourite things every day while empowering her students to strive for confidence and courage in everything they do. Outside of school, Mrs. Brooke runs Shadows and Dreams Theatre company, which has performed Shakespeare productions in Queens Park for the last 12 years. Mrs. Brooke hopes to create joyful and critical thinkers who use their knowledge to make the world the best place it can be.

Ms. Debra Creighton

Support Teacher

Ms. Creighton holds a Bachelor of Education from UBC. In her role as a Learning Resource teacher, she has worked collaboratively alongside classroom teachers to support their students with a variety of programming and learning activities. Her primary focus throughout her teaching career has been in the area of Early Intervention. She has taught in literacy support programs such as the Provincial Early Intervention Resource Program and has training in both the Orton Gillingham method and Reading Recovery. In her work as a support teacher, she understands the importance of making meaningful connections with her students and their families. Her approach to children’s learning is individualized and strength-based. She strives to ensure learning experiences are child-centred, interactive, self-reflective, and fun! Outside of the classroom Ms. Creighton appreciates her wonderful community of family and friends, and enjoys biking, reading, and walking on the seawall.

Ms. Michelle Dall

Teacher

Ms. Dall earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Music and her Bachelor of Education from UBC. She has specialized in the early years and has enjoyed sharing her love of literacy, music and creativity with Kindergarten and Grade 1 students in Engish and French Immersion programs. She has worked in both public and independent schools in British Columbia and Germany as a classroom teacher, team lead, and administrator. Ms. Dall believes that the formative years in school are the foundation of a valuable and fulfilling educational experience for all children and loves inspiring joy for learning in all of her students and forming collaborative relationships with families. In her free time, Ms. Dall enjoys painting, gardening, caring for her many pets and playing her piano and harp.

Lauren Davies

Ms. Lauren Davies

Junior Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Davies was born and raised in Edinburgh, Scotland where she trained in Early Childhood Education. Since moving to Canada in 2014, Ms. Davies has worked as a Classroom Assistant and Kindergarten Resource Teacher at an independent IB World School and is currently completing a Double Minor in Early Education and Social Justice in Education at Simon Fraser University. Ms Davies is thrilled to be joining the Junior Kindergarten team at Urban Academy. She believes in fostering a lifelong love of learning by engaging children in work that is meaningful to them and striving to ensure every child feels as if they belong in her classroom. Outside of school, Ms. Davies is an avid reader and loves any and all things musical theatre!

Nicole DesLauriers

Ms. Nicole DesLauriers

Education Assistant

Ms. D. graduated from SFU with a degree in Theatre: Performance, and is working towards becoming a classroom teacher. Over the years, Ms. D. has worn many hats, including drama teacher, preschool teacher, theatre artist, EA, circus instructor, community support worker, and LARPing facilitator. Ms. D. has been the supervisor and coordinator of multiple after school and community programs across the lower mainland and has enjoyed working with children of all ages. Ms. D. believes in the importance of meeting students where they are, as individuals, and that collaborative creation is a wonderful tool for teaching flexibility, social skills and acceptance.

Ms. Jyoti Dhaliwal

Teacher

Ms. Dhaliwal earned her Bachelor of Education at UBC and is coming to Urban Academy with the experience of working in unique environments that have influenced her teaching style in many ways. She believes in giving differentiated individual lessons that allow students to explore their learning independently and specific to their needs, often through project-based and guided inquiry activities. She is passionate about bringing fun into the classroom and looks forward to creating a teamwork-based classroom structure. In her spare time, Ms. Dhaliwal focuses on home projects—whether that be small renovations or creating artistic pieces—and reading.

Mlle. Jeanella Dizon

Teacher (French)

Mlle. Dizon completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of British Columbia with a double major in Political Science and French. She then completed her Bachelor of Education at the same institution where she specialized in French and the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. Mlle. Dizon’s interests in lifelong learning and language acquisition are outcomes of her education and her experiences as an instructor in various environments. In addition to teaching French and English, she has worked as a rowing instructor for the Vancouver Rowing Club, Burnaby Lake Rowing Club, the Canucks Autism Network, and MOSAIC. As an educator, Mlle. Dizon strives to create a plurilingual environment that values diversity and encourages students to explore language acquisition as a whole. She loves the outdoors and enjoys spending her free time with her two dogs, friends, and family.

Cameron Douglas

Mr. Cameron Douglas

Teacher (ADST)

Mr. Douglas grew up in St. Thomas, Ontario and earned their Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo before moving to British Columbia to obtain their Bachelor of Education from UBC. Inside the classroom, he is excited about teaching students through project-based learning experiences that encourage a willingness to take risks and try new things. Outside of school, he likes to be active, running, bouldering, or playing at the hockey rink.

Ms. Déborah Dumortier

Teacher (French) | Team Leader: Languages

Ms. Dumortier has a Bachelor’s in English and a Master’s in Education from the University of Paris X Nanterre. She completed her teaching degree (PGCE) in London, UK. Ms. Dumortier comes to UA with experience teaching in independent schools in the UK, Canada (Delta District), and most recently Hong Kong. Since the start of her teaching career, Ms. Dumortier has taught French and Spanish to the Middle and Senior years. She relishes new challenges and opportunities to develop her skills and has taken on a few different roles across the years, such as Head of department or Assistant House Mistress. Ms. Dumortier has a passion for teaching, and endeavours to create a dynamic learning environment where the pupils are encouraged to get out of their comfort zone, take risks, and always have an open mind. In her free time, Ms. Dumorier enjoys being outdoors, running, hiking, reading, cooking, and looking for opportunities to try new things.

Mr. Devon Edmondson

Teacher

Mr. Edmondson completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre at the University of Victoria, and a Bachelor of Education at UBC. He has taught for the last three years at Urban Academy and is very honoured to call it home. Mr. Edmondson’s curiosity and pursuit of knowledge drive his teaching and he strives to create a supportive classroom environment where his students will explore what motivates them. Outside of school, Mr. Edmondson enjoys spending his spare time outdoors with his wife, his son, and their little dog, Tucker.

Ms. Torrie Fischer

Teacher

Ms. Fischer holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Graduate Certificate in TESOL from Missouri State University. Ms. Fischer enjoys traveling abroad and thus has taught in the United States and South Korea, as well as here at home in Canada. She strives to foster a genuine love and curiosity towards learning from her students and is inspired by what each child brings to her classroom community. When Ms. Fischer isn’t traveling to new countries and trying out all the local foods, she enjoys reading, getting out into nature, and spending time with her husband and cat.

Kieran Forry

Mr. Kieran Forry

Teacher (Socials)

Mr. Forrey is an experienced history teacher, having taught in both the private and public sectors of the English and Canadian education systems. After graduating from London Guildhall University in the UK with a BA Hons in History and Politics, Kieran undertook his postgraduate teacher training at the UCL Institute of Education. This was followed by a Master’s Degree in History Education in 2015, which was also from the IoE. In his spare time, he loves travelling, live music, and all things Star Wars! In addition, he has been active in Holocaust education in both the UK and Canada, which has included taking groups of students to visit Auschwitz as part of the “Lessons from Auschwitz” educational program.

Ms. Hillary Gallinger

Counsellor

Ms. Gallinger graduated from UBC with a Master’s in Social Work and a concentration in children and families. She is a registered clinical counsellor/registered social worker and has experience working as a child and family therapist since 2014. Ms. Gallinger has held positions as a family development worker, parent support group facilitator, anger management group facilitator, youth worker, and community mental health worker. She is dedicated to a person-centred approach which tailors support/strategies according to each child’s unique situation. Ms. Gallinger offers an inclusive, compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed space for reflection, learning, healing, and creating positive growth. Her other interests include travelling, camping, decorating, cooking and spending time with loved ones.

Mr. David Gow

Teacher | Academic & University Counsellor

Mr. Gow comes to Urban Academy with many years of experience teaching from the upper end of the elementary school to Grade 12. He completed a BA in History and Political Science from Mount Allison University, New Brunswick, as well as a teaching qualification with a focus in Social Studies education in the secondary school. Mr. Gow is currently completing an MA in International Education through the University of Bath in the U.K. He has taught in several international schools over the past decade including the British International School, Phuket, The Pan American School of Bahia in Brazil and most recently at the British School Jakarta in Indonesia where he was taught Middle School Social Studies as well as I.B. History and IGCSE Global Perspectives. In his free time, Mr. Gow enjoys running, surfing and walking his Indonesian rescue dog, Hugo.

Ms. Alyssa Han

Teacher

As an enthusiastic elementary teacher with a specialization in the primary years, Ms. Han is excited to pursue her passion for early learning at Urban Academy. After completing her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education at the University of British Columbia, she taught in various grade levels within the Lower Mainland. Ms. Han is a strong believer in giving children agency and voice in their own learning, and she puts her students’ socio-emotional growth at the forefront of her pedagogy. When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Han enjoys trying new restaurants, watching different movies, and visiting various art exhibits. Ms. Han is looking forward to creating a nurturing classroom community where her students can meaningfully develop their creativity and curiosity for the world around them.

Ms. Melissa Herman

Teacher (Math/Science) | Team Leader: Math

Ms. Herman completed a Bachelor of Science in Immunology at McGill University followed by a Baccalaureate of Education at the University of Ottawa. Following an initial teaching experience at a private school in Montreal, she moved to Vancouver to join the team at Urban Academy where she teaches senior Math and Science. Currently, Ms. Herman is pursuing a Master’s degree in Secondary Mathematics Education at Simon Fraser University. Ms. Herman teaches to share her love of learning with students, and to continually learn and grow. She strives to help her students develop their individual abilities to think critically and creatively problem solve in mathematics and the sciences. Ms. Herman hopes to intrigue her students with the beauty and ingenuity of these disciplines. Outside of her classroom, Ms. Herman can be found hiking the scenic mountains of Southwestern British Columbia.

Smita Karam

Ms. Smita Karam

Teacher

Ms. Karam has over 20 years of experience as an educator with a focus on inquiry and concept-based learning in the primary years. Having taught throughout the Lower Mainland, Ms. Karam is passionate about inspiring students to engage with the necessary skills and dispositions to have perspectives to share on global and local issues; and be the leaders of change. In her spare time, Ms. Karam enjoys hiking, tennis, running, and diving into a good book.

Mrs. Matlin Kilpatrick

Teacher (Music) | Team Leader: Fine & Performing Arts

Mrs. Kilpatrick attended the University of Guelph and Queen’s University where she studied Music Education and French as a Second Language, specializing at the intermediate/senior level. Mrs. Kilpatrick’s passion to inspire students to love learning and challenge themselves is what motivated her to become a teacher. Away from the classroom, she enjoys all things musical, spending time with her family, playing hockey and doing puzzles. Mrs. Kilpatrick hopes her students become passionate people who take responsibility for themselves and work hard to achieve their goals.

Ms. Esther Kim

Teacher

Ms. Kim graduated from Queen’s University, where she earned her Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education, specializing in Intermediate/Senior Education. She then completed her Master of Education degree in Curriculum Studies at the University of Toronto. From Toronto, Ms. Kim moved to Vancouver in 2017. Ms. Kim strives to provide a safe, positive, and nurturing environment where each student can have the opportunity to experience success and progress, as well as building strong, meaningful relationships. During her free time, Ms. Kim enjoys reading, skiing, and hiking.

Mrs. Cecilia Liddle

Early Childhood Education Manager

Mrs. Liddle has certificates in Early Childhood Education, Infant Toddler, and Special Needs. She has worked with infants and children since 2006: as an early childhood educator in a parent-participation preschool, as a kindergarten assistant, in before & after-school programs, and in respite care.

She is a compassionate individual, who takes each child’s unique needs, interests, and goals into account. She is a strong believer in inclusion; she believes that every child, regardless of their strengths or weaknesses can become a significant contributor to the school community. Teaching and supporting children gives her the opportunity to see the world through their eyes, use her imagination and be more creative!

Mrs. Liddle also enjoys continued learning, research and upgrading her own skills. When not working, Mrs. Liddle enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She especially loves weekends spent with her grandchildren.

Mrs. Liddle is very excited and delighted to be a part of the Urban Academy.

Mr. Jamie MacKay

Teacher (PE)

Mr. MacKay is a passionate, caring and experienced educator. He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in Human Kinetics and was awarded the Head Of Physical Education award before moving to Europe and becoming a professional athlete. Mr. MacKay spent 10 years living in Germany and travelling the world before returning to Canada to continue his education career. Mr. MacKay has specializations in primary school classroom teaching, sport and physical education for all grades, as well as experience in school administration and curriculum writing. Mr. MacKay wrote and designed an innovative and inclusive sports and physical education curriculum that he presents through his Sport Discovery programs. Mr. MacKay is an avid athlete and musician and enjoys engaging with students and parents in a collaborative learning process. Mr. MacKay’s students will be engaged and challenged while focusing on critical thinking, community and creativity. Mr. MacKay and his family are excited to be a part of the Urban Academy community!

Clare Manifold

Ms. Clare Manifold

Teacher

Ms. Manifold earned her Bachelor of Education at UBC and her Master’s in Education from the University of Ottawa. Prior to teaching at Urban Academy, Ms. Manifold worked for several years at an independent IB World School in BC, leading their Diploma Programme. As an educator, Ms. Manifold’s goal is to bring the real world into the classroom and prepare students for life as leading global citizens. When she is not in the classroom, Ms. Manifold can be found riding her bike around the Lower Mainland, skiing at Whistler, or cheering on her favourite sports teams.

Ms. Emily Marsh

Sr. School Teacher (Math/Science) | Team Leader: Science

Ms. Marsh attended Vancouver Island University where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Biology, and a Bachelor of Secondary Education. Following an initial teaching career on Vancouver Island, she moved to the lower mainland to join Urban Academy where she teaches Senior Math and Science. Ms. Marsh’s passion for learning is what drew her to a career in education. She hopes to share her love of STEM and inspire her students to become life-long learners. Outside the classroom, Ms. Marsh enjoys running, hiking, camping, and spending time with friends and family.

Ms. Julia McCarron

Counsellor

Ms. McCarron graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley with a BA in Child and Youth Care and a Master’s in Counselling from City University. Ms. McCarron has continued her passion for supporting children for over 20 years. Her experience includes working over 17 years for the New Westminster School district, an internship at Child and Youth Mental Health in Port Moody and as a Child and Family Therapist at Bright Star Counselling in Port Moody. Ms. McCarron’s therapeutic approach is attentive to being child-centred to establish a safe, compassionate, and supportive relationship to better support the social-emotional needs of students.

Ms. McCarron loves spending her spare time with family and friends, walking her dog, cooking, travelling, camping, biking, and generally anything outdoors.

Mr. Michael McDiarmid

Teacher (Music, PE)

Mr. McDiarmid completed his Bachelor of Music in Elementary Education Stream at the University of British Columbia, specializing in percussion. He also holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education. He came to Urban Academy eight years ago, and since then has transitioned to the Music & P.E. Specialist sharing his passion for music and sports with students from JK-Gr. 3. Mr. McDiarmid has always enjoyed and excelled at working with children and felt teaching was a great way to inspire positive change in the world. Outside of school, Mr. McDiarmid enjoys team sports, hiking, cycling and swimming. Mr. McDiarmid aims to inspire his students by introducing them to different forms of fitness and music to help enrich their lives. He prides himself on making personal connections with his students, providing a safe learning environment for them to thrive.

Ms. Lindsey McEwen

Teacher (Art)

Ms. McEwen holds a Bachelor of Elementary Education from the University of British Columbia where she specialized in Mathematics, Science and Technology. Her experience also includes two years of teaching in London, England. Ms. McEwen is a passionate learner and explorer of the world. As a primary teacher, she hopes to share this enthusiasm with her students. In her free time, Ms. McEwen enjoys baking, sculpting, and travelling. Ms. McEwen strives to create a supportive, engaging classroom environment in which her students can develop as creative risk takers and critical thinkers.

Doug McQuiggan

Mr. Doug McQuiggan

Teacher

Mr. McQuiggan grew up in Niagara, Ontario and obtained his H.B.Sc and Master of Teaching from the University of Toronto. During his education, he conducted independent research on teachers who use technology to promote real-world connections with the curriculum. Beyond teaching, Douglas is a published neuroscience researcher who investigated memory through novel and innovative imaging techniques. He has been a performing musician for over 15 years and is excited to share the same level of enthusiasm he demonstrates on stage with the students of Urban Academy.

Amy Morrell

Ms. Amy Morrell

Teacher

Ms. Morrell was born in Scotland and moved to Vancouver in 2013. She received her degree in Fine Arts & Fashion Design from Heriot Watt University before going on to Glasgow University to train as an educator. Ms. Morrell previously taught at an independent IB World School in BC as both a Visual Arts specialist teacher and then as a junior school homeroom teacher. She is very excited to work with the students and families at Urban Academy. Outside of school, Ms. Morrell loves to travel, spend time hiking or biking in the mountains, and drinking tea while reading a good book.

Mr. Kevin Neilson

Teacher

Mr. Neilson attended the University of Victoria and holds a Bachelor of Education specializing in Kindergarten to Grade 7, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in History. Through his international teaching experiences including South Korea and England, as well as IB-accredited schools in Victoria and Vancouver, Mr. Neilson comes to Urban Academy with a broad perspective on intentional and open-minded learning. Mr. Neilson—inspired by teachers who made a difference in his life—wishes to share that experience with other generations of learners. The individual relationship and connection to each child, parent and colleague are paramount to education and are first and foremost in his mind. In his free time, Mr. Neilson enjoys travelling, photography, playing soccer and anything and everything Harry Potter.

Hebaaq Pascal

Ms. Hebaaq Pascal

Support Teacher

Ms. Pascal enhances student learning through developing innovative learning environments in which all students can reach their full potential. She is certified in Orton Gillingham, holds a Masters of Educational Technology degree from UBC, and has over 20 years of teaching experience across a wide range of grade levels and abilities. In her spare time, she enjoys practicing yoga, being in nature, and spending time with family and friends.

Mrs. Layna Pohlod

Support Teacher | Team Leader: Student Services

Mrs. Pohlod believes that every student has a different learning style and strives to ensure that all students’ needs are being met so they can access their full potential. She has her Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and her Master of Education in Special Education from Vancouver Island University. Outside of teaching, she is a competitive curler. She also enjoys hiking, running, and rowing, really anything that involves exercise and the outdoors!

Mrs. Nyah Power

Junior Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Power has an Early Childhood Education Diploma from Ridge Meadows College. She has worked in ECE for over 10 years, gaining experience in various roles, working with children from infants to intermediate. Mrs. Power views each child as capable and curious and believes each child brings their own unique experiences to share. By following the children’s lead, Mrs. Power’s focus is providing an emergent curriculum that inspires curiosity and a love for learning. When not working, Mrs. Power enjoys spending time with her two children and husband and living an active lifestyle.

Ms. Zahra Remtulla

Teacher

Ms. Remtulla graduated with a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University and a Master of Education from the University of Toronto. Born and raised in Tanzania, Ms. Remtulla is passionate about teaching students to become inquiring, caring, and responsible young individuals who help create a better world through respect and intercultural understanding. She shares a passion for lifelong learning and hopes to instill the same love of learning she has in her students. Her teaching philosophy aligns with Urban Academy’s values of empowering the whole child and fostering active, compassionate, lifelong learners. In her free time, Ms. Remtulla enjoys travelling, going on dog walks, reading and spending time with her family.

Mrs. Tricia Jacques

Teacher

Ms. Reston has a Bachelor of Education from the University of Victoria, specializing in Elementary Education. Prior to teaching at Urban Academy, Ms. Reston taught at a Canadian International School in China and also gained Montessori experience. Surrounded by positive role models and inspirational educators as a child, Ms. Reston has always wanted to pursue a career in teaching children. When she is not teaching, Ms. Reston enjoys spending time at her family cabin on the Sunshine Coast, travelling to and exploring new places, and remaining active outdoors. In her classroom, Ms. Reston strives to foster a collaborative and supportive classroom community where students feel safe, captivated, and motivated to learn. Her hope is that through engaging, hands-on experiences, students develop a lifelong love of learning.

Ms. Melissa Rigatti

Teacher

Ms Rigatti is a dedicated and caring teacher who believes every child is an individual. Ms. Rigatti holds a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from the University of Vermont and a Bachelor of Education from Ontario Tech University. She spent the first part of her career as a consultant; however, she always had a love of teaching and children, so decided to teach at the elementary level. Ms. Rigatti strives to provide a safe and nurturing environment where every student has the opportunity to experience success and progress. It is her goal to encourage students to view the world around them as a place of learning and discovery and thus instill a lifelong love of learning in them. During her free time, you can find Ms. Rigatti swimming, hiking the North Shore trails, biking around the city, or whipping up a batch of cookies.

Ms. Elizabeth Scali

Health & Wellness Coordinator

Ms. Scali graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She has always been passionate about teaching her students with a global focus, inspiring them to be empathic and active citizens who understand the diversity that exists in the world around them. She completed her teacher education program at Simon Fraser University, specializing in International and Global Education, and has had the opportunity to teach overseas in Mexico, South Korea and in our own multicultural classrooms here in B.C. In her spare time, Ms. Scali enjoys hiking, swimming, boxing, yoga, art, cooking and volunteering both locally and abroad. She is a New West local and is thrilled to be part of a community dedicated to innovative and exploratory learning. Ms. Scali is excited to bring her creative energy to Urban Academy and foster a sense of acceptance and kindness among her students, helping them to be confident in who they are and celebrating all their successes along the way.

Ms. Stephanie Munro

Teacher (PE)

Ms. Munro graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor of Arts in History; afterwards, she completed her Bachelor of Education at the University of British Columbia. She has taught various grade levels and has worked closely with developmental teams assisting in Behaviour Intervention. She also worked as a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness instructor for five years, where coaching and goal setting was her focus. In her spare time, Ms. Munro continues to enjoy fitness and adventure whether it is exploring with food, running, or attending fitness classes. Her pedagogical philosophy stems from Aristotle’s quote, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” Her goal aligns closely with UA’s values of developing the whole child, advocating that learning should be deeply rooted in empathy and critical thinking.

Olan Sun

Ms. Olan Sun

Teacher

Ms. Sun graduated from the Master of Education program at the University of Toronto. She also holds a Bachelor of Education with an IB PYP certificate from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Simon Fraser University. Ms. Sun has taught various grade levels in both the public and private sectors in the Greater Vancouver Area. She loves to promote life-long learning in her classroom and instill a passion for students to be active and global citizens. During her spare time, she loves to spend time with her dog named Donut, read, hike, and explore local sushi restaurants. 

Ms. Fiona Szeto

Teacher

Ms. Szeto completed her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees from the University of British Columbia. Her motivation to become a teacher stems from her own curiosity of the world and a desire to share it with others around her. Ms. Szeto hopes to inspire her students to be inquisitive, creative thinkers and to embrace new challenges with open arms. In her spare time, Ms. Szeto enjoys staying active on her dodgeball and volleyball teams, journalling, traveling and finding new restaurants to try with her family and friends. She is passionate about fostering empathy within her classroom community, where everyone learns to make deep connections and build strong relationships.

Mr. Mike Twaites

Teacher (PE) | Student Life Coordinator | Athletic Director

Mr. Twaites graduated with a Bachelor of Physical Education and Coaching from Douglas College, and completed his teacher training at Simon Fraser University. His experience includes teaching at an IB-accredited school. Mr. Twaites was drawn to a career in education because he believes that students should learn to lead a healthy life while also experiencing new sports. When he is not teaching, Mr. Twaites is either coaching or playing hockey, going on adventures with his dog or spending down time with family and friends. Mr. Twaites’ hopes for his students are that they develop an interest in various sports and outdoor education pursuits that help them to grow in confidence and courage.

Ms. Lindsay Twaites

Associate Teacher | Library

Ms. Twaites graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in History. She also completed her teacher education program at UBC. Ms. Twaites has worked as a homeroom teacher teaching grades one, two and three for over a decade, with extensive experience and training in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years program. She values inquiry-based approaches to learning and is passionate about encouraging students to apply their learning to take action, connecting with and impacting their local and global communities wherever possible.

Ms. Twaites enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband Mike, and their young son Noah, as well as playing baseball, making jewellery, travelling and reading. She looks forward to supporting and nurturing students in the library this year, in a space where they feel safe, included, and inspired to think critically and creatively.

Ms. Tara Worth

Counsellor

Ms. Worth graduated from SFU with a BA in Psychology and a Minor in Theatre. She also holds a Master’s in Counselling from City University. Ms. Worth has a rich background in mental health, working in the Downtown Eastside, the New Westminster School District, SHARE Community Services and as a current Youth Counsellor at Bright Star Counselling in Port Moody. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in developing a warm and non-judgemental relationship with students to create opportunities for connection and validation.

Outside of school, Ms. Worth enjoys plant-based cooking, attending live theatre, reading, camping, and spending time with her family. She is currently teaching herself to sketch and draw and would love any lessons that students would like to teach her. Ms. Worth is excited to learn and grow alongside the students at Urban Academy.