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Nanaimo Innovation Academy
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A unique educational program to inspire life-long learning.
CHILD CARE FACULTY
At Nanaimo Innovation Academy, we hire professional, experienced ECE and ECEA teachers that are young at heart, excited about teaching and learning, and are creative with how they engage students. Our teachers imagine the future of our students and work with them through trusting relationships that bring out growth and achievement.
Please read more below about our current teachers and their passions...
If you are interested in joining our team, please email your cover letter and resume to admin@nanaimoinnovation.org
Wen - Pre-K Manager
prek@nanaimoinnovation.org
Hello, my name is Wen and I’m a registered early childhood educator in both BC and Ontario. I graduated in 2016 from Conestoga College in Ontario, and have been working in different childcare settings and kindergarten since then. I believe children are competent, capable of complex thinking, curious, rich in potential, and learn best when they construct their own knowledge through playing. As an educator, I enjoy being a lifelong learner and always open to different educational philosophies.
Chloe - IT Manager (on leave starting Feb 2023)
it@nanaimoinnovation.org
I been interested in child development all my life. I completed my ECE diploma at Vancouver Island University with a specialization in infant toddler/ diverse abilities. Previous to NIA, I ran a multi-aged classroom in a dual language culturally based Childcare Center in Port Alberni. I believe that children are much more capable than they are often given credit for, and I strive to help foster their own independence and learning through play, imagination, and exploration.
Katy - ECE Teacher
My name is Katy and I graduated from the Early Childhood Education and Care program at VIU in June of 2015. I feel that there is something unique and special about every child and it is important that we cherish and celebrate these qualities. Early childhood is a time for exploring and discovering the world around us. Children should have lots of opportunities to explore materials, their environments and get messy, whether it be mud or paint. The learning opportunities are endless!
Larissa - ECE Teacher
Hi, my name is Larissa. I graduated from the Early Childhood Education and Care program at Vancouver Island University in June 2020. I have always had a passion for working with children of all ages and have spent my high school years babysitting, teaching swimming lessons, life-guarding and teaching CanSkate through Skate Canada. I discovered that this was the right path for me when I began my work experience at the local Strong Start program in Gold River during my last year of high school.
Michael - HR and Family Support
I have been in many career paths since the 1970s, artist, musician, wildlife technician, and eventually by the 1980s began working in education as a primary and middle school teacher for a few years in Alberta, where I was born and raised. Eventually, I went into art as therapy, counseling with youth and families and ended up in higher education with a MA in Adult Education and Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (UBC). Over the years I have been part of several conscious learning communities and worked as an organizational consultant in various places of which mostly my experience is in the caring field. I've most enjoyed this new adventure with NIA and getting to know young children and the ways they create and learn, especially in the outdoor and nature-based settings. I delight in challenging children and others to 'think outside the box.' After doing a five month artist residency at NIA in July-Dec. 2021, I made a commitment to help out in the social building of a forest school and community in my semi-retirement years, here in Nanaimo. My special interest is helping staff, administration and parents in supportive ways so that they may continue to grow and develop a quality life-style and improve their knowledge and skills in being with children. I look forward to serving on the NIA leadership team and as HR and Family Support.
Alex - ECE Assistant
My name is Alex, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the NIA team! I’ve spent the past 15 years pursuing art, and am dedicated to this pursuit. I am in the midst of studying to receive my ECEA, and plan to work towards my ECE in the future. From southern Ontario, I moved to Nanaimo in 2007 to study Jazz at VIU, majoring in Voice. I am a voice teacher, and a co-creator of a comically crafted marionette show called, A Penny a Sketch. I also continue to build my yoga teaching certification for kids.
Tarena - ECE Teacher
Hi my name is Tarena and I am finishing my ECE certification at Vancouver Island University. I am excited to learn and grow with everyone at NIA! I come from Sri Lanka, where I did a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interior Design. I have over three years of experience co-heading my church’s Sunday School Teens group and volunteering at a Kindergarten in Sri Lanka. I also coordinated the child care program at Project OASIS, for war orphans affected by conflict in Northern Sri Lanka.
Keely - Executive Director
admin@nanaimoinnovation.org
Keely Freeman is the founder and Executive Director of Nanaimo Innovation Academy. Education has
long been a passion of hers. Keely is most interested in innovative teaching methods and practices,
especially those involving hands-on learning in nature.
After completing her degree in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia in 2004, she taught
overseas in Korea, Taiwan and throughout South America. She has visited and lived in over 50 countries
and can’t wait to explore more. When she first moved to Nanaimo in 2015, Keely worked supporting the
enrolment efforts at Island Oak High School, a Waldorf School in Duncan, BC. She also supported the
fundraising and community involvement efforts at the Nanaimo Women’s Centre (NWC). It is at the
NWC that she was able to hone her grant writing skills.
Before Keely moved to Nanaimo, she was one of the founding staff members who worked alongside Dr.
David Strangway to create Quest University Canada, in Squamish BC. During her 14 years at Quest, Keely
was responsible for admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and marketing. Prior to Quest, she worked at
an experimental high school in Burnaby, BC, a community elementary school in Whistler, BC and with
educational groups at the Delta Museum and Archives.
Throughout her career, she has been on the following boards:
• 2019-2023 Board of Directors for PacificCARE- Nanaimo, BC
• 2017-2020 Board of Directors for Cedar Beach Resort- Salt Spring Island, BC
• 2015-2019 Planning Committee Member for the NACAC Vancouver International Universities Fair-
Vancouver, BC
• 2012-2016 Board of Directors for Casa Guatemala- Orphanage in Río Dulce, Guatemala
long been a passion of hers. Keely is most interested in innovative teaching methods and practices,
especially those involving hands-on learning in nature.
After completing her degree in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia in 2004, she taught
overseas in Korea, Taiwan and throughout South America. She has visited and lived in over 50 countries
and can’t wait to explore more. When she first moved to Nanaimo in 2015, Keely worked supporting the
enrolment efforts at Island Oak High School, a Waldorf School in Duncan, BC. She also supported the
fundraising and community involvement efforts at the Nanaimo Women’s Centre (NWC). It is at the
NWC that she was able to hone her grant writing skills.
Before Keely moved to Nanaimo, she was one of the founding staff members who worked alongside Dr.
David Strangway to create Quest University Canada, in Squamish BC. During her 14 years at Quest, Keely
was responsible for admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and marketing. Prior to Quest, she worked at
an experimental high school in Burnaby, BC, a community elementary school in Whistler, BC and with
educational groups at the Delta Museum and Archives.
Throughout her career, she has been on the following boards:
• 2019-2023 Board of Directors for PacificCARE- Nanaimo, BC
• 2017-2020 Board of Directors for Cedar Beach Resort- Salt Spring Island, BC
• 2015-2019 Planning Committee Member for the NACAC Vancouver International Universities Fair-
Vancouver, BC
• 2012-2016 Board of Directors for Casa Guatemala- Orphanage in Río Dulce, Guatemala
Sarah - Kitchen and Nutrition Manager nutrition@nanaimoinnovation.org
As a long-time Nanaimo resident, I am still in awe of the bounty this island provides us. We truly live in one of the most beautiful places in the world! I believe that what we put in our body can either hinder or help us reach our full potential and help us live our happiest life. `I have been a Red Seal Chef for over 15 years and recently graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist. I am very passionate about sharing my knowledge of food.
Junko - ECE Teacher
Hello, my name is Junko. I feel very lucky to work with such amazing educators at NIA.
I was born and raised in Kawasaki, Japan and came to Canada as an exchange student in high
school. I loved the vast nature of Canada so much that I decided to stay permanently. I
obtained Environmental Science degree from Carleton University in Ottawa but did not pursue
a career in the field. Instead, I found my passion for early childhood education when I moved to
Vancouver Island in 2016.
I see children as capable and competent beings who have amazing curiosity, creativity, and
enthusiasm for life. They teach me how to be in the present moment and look at ordinary things with fresh eyes everyday. I have a genuine interest in helping children build confidence
and self-esteem by providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore, pursue their interests, and construct their own learning experience. I want them to love being who
they are while respecting and celebrating each other’s uniqueness. I also feel very passionate
about helping children cultivate curiosity and excitement in learning about our natural world
and develop appreciation and kindness towards all living things. I love being in nature. I feel the happiest and healthiest when I’m close to nature. I love
backcountry hiking and camping with my partner, playing with my dog, walking on the beach,
observing wildlife, meditating, swimming, stargazing, and cooking delicious meals. I also love
travelling and immersing myself in different cultures.
I was born and raised in Kawasaki, Japan and came to Canada as an exchange student in high
school. I loved the vast nature of Canada so much that I decided to stay permanently. I
obtained Environmental Science degree from Carleton University in Ottawa but did not pursue
a career in the field. Instead, I found my passion for early childhood education when I moved to
Vancouver Island in 2016.
I see children as capable and competent beings who have amazing curiosity, creativity, and
enthusiasm for life. They teach me how to be in the present moment and look at ordinary things with fresh eyes everyday. I have a genuine interest in helping children build confidence
and self-esteem by providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore, pursue their interests, and construct their own learning experience. I want them to love being who
they are while respecting and celebrating each other’s uniqueness. I also feel very passionate
about helping children cultivate curiosity and excitement in learning about our natural world
and develop appreciation and kindness towards all living things. I love being in nature. I feel the happiest and healthiest when I’m close to nature. I love
backcountry hiking and camping with my partner, playing with my dog, walking on the beach,
observing wildlife, meditating, swimming, stargazing, and cooking delicious meals. I also love
travelling and immersing myself in different cultures.
Noemie - ECE Teacher
Born and raised in France, I moved to Canada in 2009, originally to work for a year. I fell in love with the beautiful BC. Working through all the steps, I became a Canadian citizen in 2015. I graduated with my Early Childhood Education diploma in April after 3 years of part-time
studying with Northern Lights College. My family moved to Nanaimo in early January to build a
future closer to our family. I am so happy to have joined Nanaimo Innovation Academy team. I am a lucky mom of a 5-year-old boy. I am a self-motivated person who enjoys making a
difference and I feel that supporting, encouraging, and assisting children throughout their first
years is very important. I believe in supporting and encouraging children with the best of my
knowledge of their development, their culture, and their language. It is my belief that children,
educators, and families’ collaboration is essential to the well being of children. My philosophy is that children and educators work alongside each other and that children are the co-constructor of
their knowledge. Educators show the learning by documenting children’s happenings.
studying with Northern Lights College. My family moved to Nanaimo in early January to build a
future closer to our family. I am so happy to have joined Nanaimo Innovation Academy team. I am a lucky mom of a 5-year-old boy. I am a self-motivated person who enjoys making a
difference and I feel that supporting, encouraging, and assisting children throughout their first
years is very important. I believe in supporting and encouraging children with the best of my
knowledge of their development, their culture, and their language. It is my belief that children,
educators, and families’ collaboration is essential to the well being of children. My philosophy is that children and educators work alongside each other and that children are the co-constructor of
their knowledge. Educators show the learning by documenting children’s happenings.
Lisa - ECE Teacher
My name is Lisa, and I am thrilled to be a team member at Nanaimo Innovation Academy! I recently graduated from the North Island College ECE program and plan to continue my education in order to complete a child and youth care degree. Previously I have worked alongside children with diverse abilities as a behavioural support worker. I love to recognize and celebrate each child’s unique spirit and strengths. I value building positive and mutually respectful relationships with the children and families I work with.
I believe every child is a gift and that providing a quality environment for them to play, be curious, explore, problem solve and work in cooperation helps to build their sense of belonging and confidence in their own abilities. Children hold boundless potential and I feel honoured to work in collaboration with them and guide their learning and discovery.
I grew up in the Okanagan and New Zealand and moved to beautiful Nanaimo when I was a teenager. I feel so lucky to call this incredible island home and love to explore its endless opportunities for adventures alongside my husband and our daughter Emerson. I enjoy expressing my creativity through quilting, pottery, painting and gardening.
I believe every child is a gift and that providing a quality environment for them to play, be curious, explore, problem solve and work in cooperation helps to build their sense of belonging and confidence in their own abilities. Children hold boundless potential and I feel honoured to work in collaboration with them and guide their learning and discovery.
I grew up in the Okanagan and New Zealand and moved to beautiful Nanaimo when I was a teenager. I feel so lucky to call this incredible island home and love to explore its endless opportunities for adventures alongside my husband and our daughter Emerson. I enjoy expressing my creativity through quilting, pottery, painting and gardening.
Vanessa- IT Manager it@nanaimoinnovation.org
Hello my name is Vanessa and I graduated from the Early Childhood Education and Care program at VIU in 2017. Before coming to NIA, I worked on the floor and as a manager in a preschool program located in Lantzville. I have been working with children for most of my life; babysitting, working at summer and day camps, as well as being a behaviour interventionist, and working as a home caregiver. I love bringing the outside world inside and exploring and learning, while still playing through play. I am very excited to be a part of the NIA team.
Becky - Assistant Chef
Hi! My name is Becky.
I’m so glad to be a part of the community at Nanaimo Innovation Academy and to prepare healthy and wholesome foods for our little ones. Seeing their faces peek into the kitchen each morning with a warm welcome, is a highlight of my day.
In 2016, I graduated from the VIU Baking Program. My specialty and interests lie in heritage and European style breads. One of my fondest memories throughout my career was working for a coffee cart on Gabriola Island, where I grew up. I have also worked as a baker and cook in two local favorites, Bocca Café and Mon Petit Choux.
My adoration for children started years ago when I volunteered through 4H as a Junior Leader. I would teach six year olds how to practice safety around horses, and I also taught riding lessons.
In my spare time, I enjoy homesteading on my property where I have five ducks, a dog, a cat, and a new kitten that I rescued in the woods (every girls dream come true!)
I look forward to getting to know each of you
I’m so glad to be a part of the community at Nanaimo Innovation Academy and to prepare healthy and wholesome foods for our little ones. Seeing their faces peek into the kitchen each morning with a warm welcome, is a highlight of my day.
In 2016, I graduated from the VIU Baking Program. My specialty and interests lie in heritage and European style breads. One of my fondest memories throughout my career was working for a coffee cart on Gabriola Island, where I grew up. I have also worked as a baker and cook in two local favorites, Bocca Café and Mon Petit Choux.
My adoration for children started years ago when I volunteered through 4H as a Junior Leader. I would teach six year olds how to practice safety around horses, and I also taught riding lessons.
In my spare time, I enjoy homesteading on my property where I have five ducks, a dog, a cat, and a new kitten that I rescued in the woods (every girls dream come true!)
I look forward to getting to know each of you
Patti - Forest School Manager
forest@nanaimoinnovation.org
Hello, my start to working and playing in nature started at a young age. My formative years were spent exploring and playing in the wilds of Terrace BC followed by a move to Vancouver Island in 1981 where I grew up traipsing the green spaces and beaches of Ladysmith. My world makes the most sense when I am immersed in nature.
As an adult, I have been a Scout leader and Commissioner for 6 years, have founded my own childcare and outdoor education
programs and have been immersed in teaching nature exploration and play for close to 20
years. I am a certified Education Assistant and am close to completing my Early Childhood
Education Certification. I am delighted and thankful to come on board with Nanaimo
Innovation Academy to work and play in the unceded and traditional territories of the Coast
Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw Nation.
As an adult, I have been a Scout leader and Commissioner for 6 years, have founded my own childcare and outdoor education
programs and have been immersed in teaching nature exploration and play for close to 20
years. I am a certified Education Assistant and am close to completing my Early Childhood
Education Certification. I am delighted and thankful to come on board with Nanaimo
Innovation Academy to work and play in the unceded and traditional territories of the Coast
Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw Nation.
Louise - Artist in Residence
Louise started her piano career in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia at the age of eight. She accompanied her first operetta at the age of eleven and accompanied many school Choirs at festivals and concerts performing musical theatre programs. She also played in five dance bands during her teen years so got an all-around education. She began composing at 17 and her composition can be heard on her CD MOSAIC, her second CD
after THE BUTTERFLY SUITE and followed by CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS. She has co-written four children’s musicals, all performed in Victoria. Louise has performed in the US, Canada, Finland, Russia, Ukraine (Kiev and Odessa) and Hawaii, accompanying 33 children in the CANADIAN PEACE CHOIR TOUR TO THE SOVIET UNION. She also has produced many concerts and was Musical Director for two New Thought Churches
In Victoria, while performing at the Aerie and other well-known restaurant/hotels.
Louise is also a teacher and taught at Ecole Victor Brodeur in Victoria and at home. Louise now lives in Nanaimo and is excited to be volunteering at the Nanaimo Innovative Academy with these creative children, working on the piano with the singing chorus in concert.
after THE BUTTERFLY SUITE and followed by CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS. She has co-written four children’s musicals, all performed in Victoria. Louise has performed in the US, Canada, Finland, Russia, Ukraine (Kiev and Odessa) and Hawaii, accompanying 33 children in the CANADIAN PEACE CHOIR TOUR TO THE SOVIET UNION. She also has produced many concerts and was Musical Director for two New Thought Churches
In Victoria, while performing at the Aerie and other well-known restaurant/hotels.
Louise is also a teacher and taught at Ecole Victor Brodeur in Victoria and at home. Louise now lives in Nanaimo and is excited to be volunteering at the Nanaimo Innovative Academy with these creative children, working on the piano with the singing chorus in concert.
Charmaine - Administrative Assistant
info@nanaimoinnovation.org
I recently graduated from the Office Administration program at Vancouver Island University in June of 2022. Prior to my program, I was going to take the Early Childhood Education and Care program, I chose Office Admin, but I still plan to take the ECEC program in the future! I am happy to be able to work in an environment that truly makes me so happy and excited for work every morning.
A little bit about me- I was born and raised in Nanaimo. I was a member of the Nanaimo Youth Choir for 11 years, the best decision ever as a child. I love animals, I have one cat and one fish. I love the outdoors and everything plant related. I love Vancouver Island; I think we are all so lucky to live in such a beautiful place. During my free time I am usually at a beach, or on nature walks. My grandparents, partner and pets mean so much to me.
I am so thrilled to be a part of the team at NIA.
A little bit about me- I was born and raised in Nanaimo. I was a member of the Nanaimo Youth Choir for 11 years, the best decision ever as a child. I love animals, I have one cat and one fish. I love the outdoors and everything plant related. I love Vancouver Island; I think we are all so lucky to live in such a beautiful place. During my free time I am usually at a beach, or on nature walks. My grandparents, partner and pets mean so much to me.
I am so thrilled to be a part of the team at NIA.
Kayla - ECE Teacher
Hello, my name is Kayla.
I’m an Early Childhood Educator and currently finishing my diploma through online schooling to reach my professional and educational goals. I grew up in Northern Saskatchewan, and have accumulated 5 years working experience in child care facilities in both Saskatchewan and Alberta. I look forward to being a part of the NIA team. I am someone who values ongoing learning and am excited to see what the Nanaimo community and NIA will provide in my learning, interests and skill building. I believe children are capable, diverse and valued. My passion in this field provides me enjoyment in supporting children with their learning and well-being.
I’m an Early Childhood Educator and currently finishing my diploma through online schooling to reach my professional and educational goals. I grew up in Northern Saskatchewan, and have accumulated 5 years working experience in child care facilities in both Saskatchewan and Alberta. I look forward to being a part of the NIA team. I am someone who values ongoing learning and am excited to see what the Nanaimo community and NIA will provide in my learning, interests and skill building. I believe children are capable, diverse and valued. My passion in this field provides me enjoyment in supporting children with their learning and well-being.
Joana - ECE Teacher
Hi! My name is Joana and I'm currently a teacher on call. I've had the pleasure of being in the ECE field since 2015 and have had a variety of roles, from assistant to supervisor.
I love working with children and being able to marvel and rediscover the world trough their eyes! I hope to learn alongside them and to being able to facilitate meaningful discussions and projects!
In my free time I love to photograph, swim and hike with my cat.
I love working with children and being able to marvel and rediscover the world trough their eyes! I hope to learn alongside them and to being able to facilitate meaningful discussions and projects!
In my free time I love to photograph, swim and hike with my cat.
Lily - ECE Teacher
Hi! I’m Lily, and I am so honoured to be a part of the Nanaimo Innovation Academy team. My interest in child development started very early in my life. I grew up with a daycare in my family home since I was 8, so I have always been immersed in a child care environment. In my teens, I became a swim coach, working with children ages 3-10. Guiding these children to learn and grow became my passion quickly. Shortly after, I enrolled in an Early Childhood Education program. Once I completed my program, I worked in my mothers daycare as well as another centre in Nanaimo for over a year before beginning my journey with NIA. I was born and raised in Nanaimo, while also spending plenty of time on Gabriola Island. Some of my favourite things to do are painting, spending time in nature, and going to the beach at low tide to look for sea creatures.
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