Ms. Lia

IC Program Assistant Supervisor

Lia holds both AMI Primary and Assistants to Infancy Diplomas from the Montessori Training Centre of B.C., as well as a Master’s degree in Food Science. Her passion for supporting children’s development led her to become an Infant and Toddler Guide, and she now also supports the IC program team at WMA. Recently becoming a mom herself, Lia brings both professional and personal insight to her work with families and children.

Ms. Fang(Angela) Zhou

IC Program Trainer/Mandarin Manager

Angela is China’s first AMI 0–3 Trainer and holds AMI diplomas for both the 0–3 and 3–6 age groups, along with a Master’s in Education. Since 2003, she has shared her love of Montessori education around the world—as a classroom guide, trainer, and examiner.
Angela sees every child as a little explorer and delights in supporting their growth with gentle guidance and curiosity. At WMA, she serves as IC Guide, IC Program Trainer, and CASA Mandarin Manager.
Outside of work, Angela enjoys traveling, reading, and handicrafts, and treasures time spent with her family—always inspired by the joy of discovery.

Ms. Miao Miao

Administrative Support

Miao Miao is a certified Early Childhood Educator who brings warmth, support, and a cheerful spirit to our school every day. She loves helping children explore, learn, and grow, making each day fun and engaging. When she’s not at WMA, you’ll likely find her snowboarding or hiking outdoors.

Ms. Lulu

Lulu is a Casa Guide and Mandarin Specialist who received her AMI Primary Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of B.C. As a proud mom of two, she brings warmth, patience, and a joyful love for learning into her classroom. Lulu has a deep respect for Dr. Montessori’s philosophy and strives to bring it to life in her daily work. Outside of school, Lulu enjoys photography (especially capturing little details in everyday life), music, yoga, fitness, and cooking healthy recipes. These passions keep her energized and inspired—both at home and in the classroom.

Ms. Yuki

Yuki Okemoto is a Casa Guide and Classroom Manager. She received her AMI Primary Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of B.C. She started teaching Japanese to young children and became interested in becoming a Montessori teacher. She believes that early childhood is the foundation for the child’s future.

Ms. Sandy

Ms. Sandy is one of our IC Classroom Guides at WMA and has been part of our school community for over three years. As a mother of three, she brings a caring, nurturing approach and a strong understanding of children’s needs to the classroom. With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, she loves watching children grow in independence, confidence, and important life skills. Outside of school, Ms. Sandy enjoys traveling and cooking spicy dishes to share with her family and friends.

Ms. Winni

Winni is one of our IC Guides and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education with a major in Guzheng. After becoming a mother, she was deeply inspired by the Montessori philosophy and developed a strong passion for early childhood education. Motivated by her belief in respecting each child’s potential, she completed her AMI 0–3 Infant Toddler diploma and an ECE certificate in B.C. With several years of hands-on experience, Winni is dedicated to creating a warm, respectful, and stimulating environment where young children can thrive. Outside of the classroom, Winni enjoys playing the guzheng to relax and express her creativity, and she loves traveling with her family to explore new places and make lasting memories together.

Ms. Nina

Nina is an Early Childhood Educator and Infant Toddler Educator who believes that teaching is about making lasting, positive connections in children’s lives. Her passion shines through in the care and dedication she brings to her work. Outside of school, Nina enjoys camping, hiking, fitness, and cooking new recipes—hobbies that bring balance, joy, and creativity to her life (and sometimes to her classroom too!).

Ms. Alice

Alice Chen is an IC Guide. She received her Assistants to Infancy Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of B.C. She holds both Early Childhood Educators and Infant Toddler Educator certification. She finds the Montessori approach very impressive, and she is amazed by how the approach supports the child’s self-construction process, and how it guides children to become confident, independent and self-sufficient.

Ms. Kaye

Kaye Aquino is a Casa Classroom Assistant. She has a B.A. in Elementary Education with a major in Preschool Education. She has worked for over 11 years as a preschool and elementary teacher, and is a certified Early Childhood Educator in various Canadian provinces. Kaye brings her wealth of experience with much enthusiasm, and is happiest when working with young children, guiding them to meet their full potential.

Ms. Mae

Mae is one of our dedicated Casa Assistants and has been with WMA since its opening. She holds an Early Childhood Education certification and brings over eight years of experience in the field. Mae believes that every child is a unique gift and feels honored to play a role in building a strong foundation for their future growth and development. She is committed to supporting each child’s journey with care, encouragement, and respect. Outside of work, she loves hiking, yoga, and listening to music.

Mr. Bogdan

Bogdan is a valued Casa Classroom Assistant with over 10 years of experience in Montessori environments. He holds his Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) certification and brings a diverse international perspective, having previously taught in China. Since completing his Montessori training in 2018, Bogdan has supported children’s development through a hands-on, child-centered approach. As a father of two, he is deeply passionate about early childhood education and enjoys enriching the classroom experience through storytelling, games, and hands on learning.When he’s not at WMA, Bogdan enjoys soccer, tennis, and spending time in nature with his family.

Ms. Joyful

Joyful is one of our Casa Classroom Assistant who holds an AMI Primary Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of BC, along with her Early Childhood Education certification. With over five years of experience in early childhood settings, she brings a strong commitment to the Montessori philosophy. Joyful also has a background in film and theatre, which she thoughtfully integrates into her work by supporting children with warmth, curiosity, and a passion for storytelling and self-expression.Outside of school, Joyful enjoys theatre, writing, and spending time outdoors.

Ms. Lucy

She’s passionate about helping children grow in every way—physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively. In her free time, Lucy enjoys traveling, exploring local cuisines, learning about different cultures, and capturing memorable moments through photography.

Ms. Mia

Mia is a Casa Classroom Assistant and is a certified Montessori Teacher Assistant from the Montessori Training Centre of BC with additional training in child play therapy from the Canadian Association for Child and Play Therapy. She believes strongly in the power of play to help children express emotions, build social skills, and develop self-confidence within a supportive, nurturing environment. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, Mia creates engaging, child-centered learning experiences tailored to each child’s individual needs. Her approach emphasizes emotional development, inclusive education, and the core principles of the Montessori method, helping every child thrive both socially and academically. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, dancing, playing sports and being with her family.

Ms. Miriam

Miriam is one of our Casa Classroom Assistants and received her AMI Montessori Primary Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of BC in 2003. She has many years of experience both as a Casa Guide and an Assistant.The Montessori Philosophy has shown her a new way of understanding children on a deeper level and helped her to grow as an educator. She enjoys seeing children recognize their milestones and helping them to grow their independence on educational and social levels. Outside of school, Miriam enjoys reading, watching hockey games, and has a past passion for singing

Ms. Jinny

Jinny has taught children both in Korea and in Canada for over a decade. She believes children thrive when they feel genuinely happy and supported, and she’s always ready with encouragement and care. Outside of school, Jinny enjoys singing, painting, and playing musical instruments—talents she often shares with the children.

Ms. Nicole

Nicole has her Early Childhood Educator certification and a diploma in ECE Education. As a mom of two, she brings warmth and care to her role, guiding children with a balance of Chinese and Canadian educational philosophies. Outside of work, Nicole’s world revolves around music—she loves dancing, playing piano, and leading fun rhythmic activities with children.

Ms. Lily

Lily is a registered Early Childhood Educator who loves encouraging children to participate in fun, interactive learning experiences. Families appreciate her gentle and positive energy in the classroom. Outside of work, she’s adventurous and enjoys exploring new places with her family, hiking nature trails, practicing yoga, meditating, and relaxing with a good book.

Ms. Catherine

Catherine is an IC Assistant at WMA. She received her Early Childhood Educator Diploma from the Vancouver Career College where she received a Certificate with Honours. As a mother of three children, she was excited to expand her role as an ECE. Watching each child grow and develop is an amazing experience for her, and it fills her heart with joy. Outside of school, Catherine enjoys cooking, golfing, and playing badminton with her children.

Ms. Irena

Irena, a new mom, holds a degree in Child and Family Studies and has a growing passion for the Montessori approach. She values early learning, as well as the strong role that families and community play in children’s growth. Irena appreciates the uniqueness of every child and loves being part of their developmental journey.

Ms. Tina

Tina (Christina) holds her Early Childhood Education certification and has always known that teaching was her calling. She loves how the Montessori approach encourages children to become independent and confident learners. Outside of work, Tina enjoys baking, creating miniatures or Legos, exploring music (especially indie bands), and golfing when she gets the chance.

Ms. Ellie

Ellie has her ECE diploma and more than four years of classroom experience in Canada. She focuses on creating warm, nurturing spaces where children feel safe, supported, and motivated to explore. Outside of school, Ellie enjoys puzzles, traveling, and discovering new cultures.

Ms.Hannah K

Hannah is our IC Program Assistant Hannah is a licensed Early Childhood Educator in British Columbia with over five years of experience working in preschools and daycares. Her passion for early learning deepened after discovering the Montessori philosophy, which continues to inspire her approach to supporting each child’s natural curiosity, creativity, and love of discovery. She is committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to learn. Hannah is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at UBC to further expand her knowledge of child development. Outside of work, Hannah is a foodie at heart—she loves exploring local restaurants and cafés, trying new recipes at home, and has even taken up ballet as a fun new hobby!

Ms.Lena

Lena holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education as well as an Infant and Toddler Certificate in British Columbia. She has a strong interest in the Montessori philosophy and finds joy in supporting children as they build independence and confidence through exploration and learning. Lena feels grateful to be part of each child’s early journey and considers it a privilege to witness their growth and development every day. In her downtime, she enjoys meeting friends and building positive relationships. She also enjoys running to help her stay active and have good energy.

Ms. Jiale

Jiale is one of our Mandarin Specialists and received her Master of Management degree and holds an ECE certification in Early Childhood Education. As both an educator and a mother, she truly believes that “presence is the best form of love.” As a dedicated advocate for holistic child development, she ensures opportunities for cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth—while nurturing self-directed discovery and meaningful exploration. Outside of work, she loves traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.

Mr. Kyle

Kyle is an experienced Mandarin language educator with a background in Applied Linguistics, which he studied in China. He holds a master’s degree and an Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECEA) certificate from British Columbia, Canada. Kyle’s engaging and developmentally appropriate teaching methods consistently inspire a love for the Mandarin language among his students. As both an educator and a father, Kyle is deeply committed to nurturing, respecting, and motivating children—values that form the foundation of his teaching philosophy. Outside of the classroom, Kyle enjoys singing and hiking—two hobbies that keep him positive and energized.

Ms. Jing Jing

Jingjing is a registered Early Childhood Educator and one of our Mandarin Specialists. She is passionate about exploring the world alongside children and enjoys using music, storytelling, and language-based activities to spark their curiosity and support their development. Her gentle and caring approach helps create a safe, confident, and joyful learning environment where every child can thrive. In her free time, she enjoys taking leisurely walks and recharging in nature.

Ms. Lyrica

Lyrica is a Classroom Assistant and a Mandarin Specialist. She is continually inspired by the energy and curiosity children bring to each day, and she values the unique strengths and intelligence each child demonstrates. Lyrica is passionate about supporting their growth and discovery through engaging, language-rich experiences. Outside of school, Lyrica loves hiking, snowshoeing, dining out and enjoying good food, playing pickleball, and going on nature walks with her kids. She also has two French Bulldogs who keep her busy and entertained.

Ms. Arjita

Arjita is a Classroom Assistant. She took the AMI Orientation Assistants’ Course from the Montessori Training Centre of B.C. She has a rich experience in the field of dance, having won many awards in the past, and she continues to pursue this passion. She shares her creative talents with the WMA children through creative movement and dance programs. She loves seeing how children discover their own creative identities and is passionate about music and dance. Outside of school, she’s always dancing, listening to music, and finding new ways to celebrate creativity.