Candidate Biographies
District 5 – Toronto Region
Aliya Amin
Candidate’s Biographical Summary |
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Candidate’s Full Name: |
Aliya Amin |
Present Position: |
Program Support ECE |
Place of Employment: |
Victoria Village Childrens Services Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Advise on program support particularly for children with needs |
Self-Identification (if any): |
I am a Canadian-born Guyanese Muslim woman. |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) |
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Program |
Educational Institution |
Year of Graduation |
Degree, Diploma |
(2 years) Early Education Leadership Program |
Harvard University |
2021 |
Certificate in Early Education Leadership |
Early Childhood Education |
Centennial College |
2015 |
Diploma in ECE |
Bachelor of Arts |
York University |
2013 |
BA |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) |
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Position |
Association/Organization |
Dates |
ECE/Program Support ECE |
Victoria Village Children Services |
2015-Present |
Other Community Involvement |
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Position |
Association/Organization |
Dates |
Event Coordinator Volunteer |
Islamic Institute of Toronto |
2013-Present |
Tutor for Children |
(Own) |
2017-2021 |
Candidate Statement |
I believe I should be chosen as a council member because of my education history, classroom experience and my knowledge of provincial and municipal policy. I also strongly believe I have a unique perspective that can contribute to the team. I work well with others and also am able to carry my own duties as necessary. I manage time well in between work and professional learning and can commit my full efforts to this team. As a person of colour wearing a religious headscarf, I was initially hesitant to pursue education as a career. Previous experiences contributed to my anxieties about what others would think of trusting me with their children. While studying for my ECE Diploma I was excited to start my coop experience and even more excited to see that there are many in the profession that look like me. When I learned that we had a professional governing body supporting us I did my research and was proud to see inclusivity and land acknowledgement featured prominently. I diligently signed up for and rewatched several workshops and continuing education seminars held by the college in addition to assisting coworkers with their CPLs. To think that someone of my Caribbean background and Muslim beliefs could affect positive change with other council members is an incredible opportunity that I knew I had to try to achieve! I thank you all for your kind consideration. |
Mitra Azadmehr
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Mitra Azadmehr |
Present Position: | RECE |
Place of Employment: |
City of Toronto |
Area of Practice: |
Licensed Early Learning and Child Care Centre |
Self-Identification (if any): | Southwest Asian |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Education | Seneca College | 2000 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate Statement |
Being on Council would be a way for me to give back to the profession that I felt proud to be part of for over twenty years. Over the years, I have gained valuable knowledge in the field of early childhood education. However, I know that there are more to learn specially in the area of leadership and legislation, something that I am extremely passionate about as it would allow me to contribute to our community of early educators to self-regulate the profession in the public interest. As a member of this professional community, I would be honoured to help establishing professional standards and uphold regulatory mandates of the college in my best ability. As a member of the council, I conduct myself with integrity and commitment, and I intend to work hard and free from bias to represent the interest of all. If elected, I look forward to work with the members of the Council and other individuals from different fields to fulfil the mandates of the Council.
Sincerely Mitra Azadmehr |
Katherine (Katie) Begley
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Katherine (Katie) Begley |
Present Position: | Professor |
Place of Employment: |
University of Guelph/Guelph – Humber Toronto |
Area of Practice: |
Post Secondary Education/ Training |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Development Psychology in Education | University of Toronto (OISE) | 2011 | Master’s of Education in Developmental Psychology |
Early Childhood Studies | University of Guelph / Guelph – Humber | 2008 | Bachelor of Applied Science |
Early Childhood Education | Humber College | 2008 | Humber College |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Member | AECEO | Current Member |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Volunteer Coordinator (Volunteer Position) | S.H.I.F.T (Local Community Homeless Shelter) | Sept 2021-current |
Candidate Statement |
Backed by my 10+ years of experience as a RECE, I am running for council to bring my knowledge and experiences to serve and protect the public interest. I have been a sessional professor for 10+ years at the University of Guelph-Humber and Humber College; which is the current position I hold. Additionally, I have also taught at Seneca College and Durham College. I have sat on a review panel for the College of Early Childhood Educators in October 2016 to provide insight on the most recent Code of Ethics. Throughout my work experiences, I have engaged in educating students within the classroom on topics such as professional issues, curriculum, leadership, inclusion; as well as, engaging in field practicum teaching. My extensive field practicum experiences (10+ years) have provided me with the opportunity to work and visit with numerous RECE’s, early learning and child care centres across the GTA. Throughout these experiences I have gained invaluable knowledge and perspective about early learning across the GTA as well as circumstances that existing RECE’s and new graduates face. I aim to use this knowledge to serve the public as well as contribute to professional standards and continued professional learning for RECE’s I appreciate your vote! |
Jessica Christian
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Jessica Christian |
Present Position: | Site Manager – Bayview Gardens Childcare Centre |
Place of Employment |
Graydon Hall Nursery Schools North York, ON |
Area of Practice: | Licensed Childcare Centre |
Self-Identification (if any): | South Asian-Indian by birth, have lived and worked with children in Canada for more than a decade. |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Bachelor of Applied Science in Chid Studies | University of Humber Guelph | 2021 | Honors- Bachelor degree |
Early Childhood Education | Humber College | 2021 | Diploma |
Early Childhood Education | Mohawk College | 2014 | Diploma |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Volunteer | Dr. Angela Fountain and Associates | May 2021 to present |
Volunteer -events and writer | Compassion Canada | June 2021 to present |
Independent fundraising | Holland bloorview kids rehabilitation hospital | Nov 2018 to present |
Candidate Statement | ||
Serving as a council member, I strive to not only be able to expand the ways I can support the community but also give back to the profession by upholding the standards and regulatory requirements. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” I believe that my passion to make a difference in the life of children and families and the experiences that I have had along the way will provide a unique perspective and voice for many educators that are new to Canada and/or the field and are facing challenges to find the harmony between transferring their cultural experiences and learning new ones. With gratitude and appreciation, Jessica C, RECE |
Nicola Clarke
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Nicola Clarke |
Present Position: | Founder |
Place of Employment: |
The Nikki Clarke Network Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: | Training/Workshops/Speaking engagements |
Self-Identification (if any): | I am a Black woman. I am also the immediate Past President of the Ontario Black History Society. |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Education | Sheridan College | 1997 | Early Childhood Education |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Instructor and Field Supervisor of Early Childhood Education | Sheridan College | 1999-2009 |
Instructor and Field Supervisor of Early Childhood Education | Humber College | 2003-2006 |
Preschool Program Supervisor | Brampton Neighborhood Services | 2000-2001 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Preschool Program Supervisor | Malton Neighborhood Services | 2001-2002 |
President | Ontario Black History Society | 2015 to 2017 |
Advisory Council Member | Human Trafficking Advisory Council of Peel | 2018 to present |
Candidate Statement |
It would be an honor to serve as a council member. I have been advocating for the profession for over 25 years in a number of roles of involvement. I feel with my experience, expertise and wisdom as seen through the lens of a Black Canadian woman, I would be a great asset towards advancing diversity in policymaking in the field. |
Patricia Doyle
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Patricia Doyle |
Present Position: | Assistant Manager |
Place of Employment: |
CMAS Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: | Care for newcomer children |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
ECE Supervisor Series | Humber College | 1998 | Certificate |
Early Childhood Education | Sheridan College | 1985 | Diploma |
Children: Our Challenge | Sheridan College | 1978 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Council Member | College of Early Childhood Educators | 2019-2022 |
Non-council member | College of Early Childhood Educators | 2016-2019 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Client services | Furniture Bank | 2016-2020 |
Volunteer driver/mover | Shelter Movers | 2016-2018 |
Board of Directors | Lakeshore Community Child Care Centre | 1998-2002 |
Candidate Statement |
With the experience I have gained both sitting as a member of the council and having participated as a non-council member, I know that the work of the College is vital to upholding the professionalism of those who work so diligently in the field. I believe my experience and perspective, which spans a variety of childcare-related fields, would be a true benefit to the College. I have not only worked in both profit and not-for-profit licensed childcare environments, but for the last 20 years, my focus has been developing and monitoring the standards of childcare for immigrant and refugee children across Canada. With this breadth of experience, I know and appreciate the value that we, as educators, bring. Working in an organization that serves over 5,000 immigrant children each day, I have seen the challenges faced by RECEs and families. I believe wholeheartedly in the role of the college to protect the public interest and uphold the professionalism of the field. As someone committed to quality early childhood education for all, I would love to bring my experience and perspective to our College. |
Irene Egerszegi
Candidate’s Biographical Summary |
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Candidate’s Full Name: |
Irene Egerszegi |
Present Position: |
DECE |
Place of Employment:
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TDSB Scarborough, ON |
Area of Practice: |
DECE kindergarten |
Self-Identification (if any): |
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Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) |
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Program |
Educational Institution |
Year of Graduation |
Degree, Diploma |
Registered aba therapist |
Geneva |
2021 |
Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) |
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Position |
Association/Organization |
Dates |
Owner |
Learning coach |
2007-present |
Author |
Self employed |
2007- present |
Other Community Involvement |
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Position |
Association/Organization |
Dates |
Tutor |
Private |
2007- present |
Candidate Statement |
I am interested in running for counsel because I totally believe in the ece profession as being a vital part of education. I would like to assist in making sure members are involved and not alone in their supportive roles. |
Kathryn Firth
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Kathryn Firth |
Present Position: | Executive Director |
Place of Employment: |
Studio 123 Early Learning Centre Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Building Relationships with children and families Behavioural Guidance Diversity Inclusion |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Third year Direct Entry ECS Bachelor of Arts | Ryerson University | Still studying | |
Part time ECE Certification | George Brown College | 2020 | Early Childhood Educator |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Member | Planning Committee for Supervisor’s Network | 2021- present |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate Statement |
As a fairly new Executive Director at Studio 123 Early Learning Centre, I feel I make an excellent candidate for the Council. Since entering my new position, I have made it my mission to include diversification in programming, curriculum and daily strategies. In the past 6 months, I have integrated increased Indigenous materials including books and artwork. I ordered materials from Goodminds.com a First Nations owned and operated Children’s bookstore in Brantford, ON. I have lead my staff to focus on inclusion, diversification and celebration of culture. For Black History month, we ordered a large selection of books written and illustrated by Black authors. Each educator chose an age-appropriate selection to add to our ever-growing library. Teaching all-inclusive love and acceptance is a huge passion of my teaching. I think I have a lot to bring to the table of the Council. Although I am new to the College and to my position, I bring lots of leadership experience and a plethora of new and exciting ideas. Thank you, sincerely. Kathryn Firth |
Mark Francisco
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Mark Francisco |
Present Position: | Early Childhood Education/Social Service Worker |
Place of Employment: |
York Region District School Board/Toronto Catholic District School Board North York, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Home Childcare, Best Start, Special Needs Resourcing, Training, Research, Home Childcare. |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Social Service Workers | Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology | 2008 | Diploma |
Child Psychology |
Stratford Career Institute
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2002 | Diploma |
Early Childhood Education | Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology | 2001 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Catechism Teacher for Grade 2 | Archdiocese of Toronto – St Paschal Baylon | 2015 |
Professional ECE | The Association of Early Childhood Education | 2018 |
Child Abuse Prevention Program Facilitator | Making a Difference | 2020 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Community Consultant | TWCC Toronto Community Engagement and Consulting | 2008 |
Facilitator Assistant | Bloorview MacMillan Children Services | 2002 |
Facilitator Assistant | Giant Steps | 2018 |
Candidate Statement |
From a active preschool teacher to a aspiring JK/SK Teacher…To challenge myself and develop professional / personal goals during the pandemic is paramount like empowering yourself in wanting to teach, believe in yourself, confident in your abilities, and understanding self. By being part, of a male council/staff/colleague in the College of ECE, it is a remarkable position to advocate and reflect diversity, equality, multi-culturalism, anti- racial, and anti-oppressive framework. In turn, developing a sense to council in a multi-cultural society. To be aware of the Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics that is presented to all members of the College of ECE. As a struggling Male ECE professional and a passion to learn and be coachable throughout my career as a male ECE. I have learned specific methodology and explored particular subjects/issues in the classroom program or daycare settings. I had began this journey in ECE since 1995 at Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology. In terms of experience, it has been a challenge in either a elementary, secondary, day programs, daycares of after school programs. It shaped me to practice my core values, beliefs, respect, and trust. Especially, being a member of the College of ECE. I will try this opportunity to plan for, observe, engage with, and support the council. And children’s play and learning. I will communicate and work respectfully with children, parents, and other professionals. As a committed council member I can document interactions with children, parents, and other professionals clearly.
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CeCil Kim
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | CeCil Kim |
Present Position: | RECE, Instructor, Designate Supervisor |
Place of Employment: |
George Brown College Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Non-Profit Child Care Post Secondary Education |
Self-Identification (if any): | I am a persons of colour from East Asia |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Higher Education | Central Michigan University | 2022 | MA |
Early Childhood Education | George Brown College | 2012 | Diploma |
Political Science | University of Ottawa | 2007 | BSSc |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Member | AECEO | Current |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Attendee, Facilitator | Various workshops on Anti-Bias, Anti-Racist Curriculum | 2019-current |
Attendee | Various workshops on Trauma and Resiliency | 2021-current |
Candidate Statement |
I have been with the Council for the past three years and I have experienced the importance of the College’s roles and responsibilities for the sector: for educators, the public, children, and the profession. My experience in various roles as a frontline educator to an instructor equipping future educators to a leadership role in the sector will help bring unique and diverse perspectives to the Council. In addition, my current work with trauma-informed and Anti-Bias and Anti-Racism curriculum will also bring an essential lens to the Council: a lens that is critical as our sector moves forward. |
Branka Milin-Campbell
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Branka Milin-Campbell |
Present Position: | Director |
Place of Employment: |
Brock Early Learning Centre Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Child Care Administration |
Self-Identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
ECE | George Brown College | 1994 | ECE |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Member | AECEO | From 2001 |
Member | Umbrella Child Care Services | From 2001 |
Member | Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care | From 1990 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Volunteer | Big Sisters | 1999-2006 |
Board Member- President | BEST English Language Services | 2010-2017 |
Board Member | Caring for Kids | 2004-2009 |
Candidate Statement |
I feel that my long term experience in the field as well as being a witness to the many changes in the sector over the years can be a valued asset to the College. Especially with the proposed affordable child care initiative coming in on the horizon, those of us who facilitated the start of FDK have valuable insight into preparations and discussions that should be had. |
Tiffany Shawn Bien
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Tiffany Shawn Bien |
Present Position: | Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education and Childcare Supervisor |
Place of Employment: |
Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Licensed Childcare Centre |
Self-Identification (if any): | I am Jewish and I work in a Centre that is based on Jewish (yet universal) values. We follow The Sheva Early Learning Framework that was developed by the Sheva Centre: Innovation in Early Childhood Jewish Education and Engagement. My centre is one of many across North America through the JCC Association. |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Administration | Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology | 2006 | Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Early Childhood Education | Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology | 2001 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education | Miles Nadal JCC | July 2020-Current |
Childcare Centre Supervisor | Miles Nadal JCC | Dec 2018-Current |
Vice Principal, Family Co-ordinator & Quality Assurance Director | Inventiveminds Kidz Academy | August 2018-November 2018 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
RECE Advisor | College of Early Childhood Educators | Nov 12, 2021- current |
Candidate Statement |
I am applying to be a Council member as I feel that my background and passion to support other educators would be a great asset to the Council. I was selected as an RECE Advisor but I would like to do more. I have over 20 years’ experience in the Early Childhood sector. This includes being a classroom educator, quality assurance supervisor, and centre supervisor. I have a strong understanding of the CCEYA, HDLH? AQI, and other regulations. RECE’s need to be seen as competent and capable. As RECE’s we must adhere to the Code of Standards of Practice in order to be entrusted with the designation of Registered Early Childhood Educator. I feel that as an educator, particularly one whose role is to mentor, lead and guide others, it is so important especially now, that our voices are heard and I am driven to support this. I believe that we need the recognition from our communities and government. Several years ago, Chrystia Freeland, Martha Friendly and Carolyn Ferns visited the JCC. I was privileged to sit at the round table representing our Early Childhood department at the Miles Nadal JCC, participating in a discussion about the state of early childhood education and making childcare more financially accessible for families. This is a great leadership opportunity for me. I believe that I have the experience and knowledge to support other educators and be an integral part of the council. Thank you for this opportunity. |
Kathleen Valerio
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Kathleen Valerio |
Present Position: | RECE |
Place of Employment: |
Tiny Explorer Toronto, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Play base, Reggio |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Leadership | Sheridan College | 2018 | Degree |
Early Childhood Education | Sheridan College | 2015 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
RECE Advisor | College of Early Childhood Educators | Nov.-Present |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate Statement |
To be running for Council, would be an special experience to share with fellow RECEs and in my community. I feel that many people do not understand what RECE do in the community- we are the foundation that build children to become who they are in the future. I advocate for pay, inclusiveness, I advocate for fairness, the rights of the child, and most importantly I advocate for affordable childcare. I’m passionate about helping families that need support and to give them resources so that they are able to contribute in their community. I’m passionate to help students in ECE programs to navigate different avenues and to be open to many possibilities of not only becoming an Educator but a facilitator or advisor. In addition, I enjoy and love learning and if elected, this will definitely be a journey to remember. |
District 7 – Hamilton/Niagara Region
Chevelle Bernard
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Chevelle Bernard |
Present Position: | Early Childhood Educator |
Place of Employment: |
YMCA of Niagara Welland, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Child Care |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education | Brock University | 2017 | Degree |
Early Childhood Education | Niagara College | 2012 | Diploma |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
RECE Advisors | College of Early Childhood Educators | November 2021-present |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate Statement |
I am wanting to run for council because I have a strong passion for this career path. I have chosen to be dedicated in my field of work for many years and want to be an additional voice for my district. I feel that I am qualified for the position in many ways. I have always remained current within practice, I am involved whenever possible within my work organization and I have the commitment to do the best job possible. This would be a great addition to my portfolio as I take pride in adding experiences whenever possible. I will have no hesitations to speak up for my colleagues and will continue to support the college in all of it’s areas. I cannot wait to get started! |
Kim Cole
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Kim Cole |
Present Position: | Executive Director |
Place of Employment: |
A Child’s World Family Child Care Services of Niagara Welland, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Licensed Child Care |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Education – Administration | Niagara College | 1999 | Early Childhood Education – Administration |
Early Childhood Education | Niagara College | 1986 | Early Childhood Education |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Chair / Past Chair | Niagara Child Care Sector | 2011 – Present |
Member / Certification | Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario | 2006 |
Participant | Continuous Professional Learning Program Leadership Pilot Project | 2013-2014 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Board Chair | Early Childhood Community Development Centre | 2014-Present |
Board Member / Vice President | Port Colborne – Wainfleet Chamber of Commerce | 2015-Present |
Board Member | Executive Director Forum of South Niagara | 2015-Present |
Candidate Statement |
I have worked in the Early Childhood Education field for over 35 years and am currently a proud Registered Early Childhood Educator. I have had the opportunity to work with many educators, children and families in a variety of settings. I have worked in the playroom, been a Supervisor, a Program Coordinator, Human Resources Coordinator, Mentor, and am currently the Executive Director of A Child’s World Family Child Care Services of Niagara. Along with my Administration team, we currently operate 20 child care locations. I have been involved with the College of ECE’s in a few different capacities since 2013. I believe in learning each and every day from others and being involved in the early year’s community. Being on Council the past 3 years has has been an extremely rewarding experience professionally and personally. It has assisted me to learn more about leadership, reflection, engagement, diversity, ethics and so much more. I am interested in running again for Council in District 7. It is my belief that as I continue to learn, and share what I have learned from others, I will enrich the lives of those who I meet daily. I believe in the College of Early Childhood Educators and have always supported its purpose and mandate. |
Tara Freeman
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Tara Freeman |
Present Position: | Supervisor |
Place of Employment: |
Lucky Day Nursery Hamilton, ON |
Area of Practice: |
Hamilton Early Years Quality Project Supervisors Professional Learning Community Leadership and Supervision Community of Practice Pedagogical Leadership Learning Community |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Education | Fanshawe College | 2004 | Early Childhood Education Diploma -President’s Honor Roll |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Head Teacher | Central Daycare – Hamilton ON | 2004-2009 |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Member of ASCY | Affiliated Services for Children and Youth (ASCY) | 2004-Present |
RECE | College of Early Childhood Educators | 2008-Present |
Candidate Statement |
I am committed to high quality child childcare, and have spent my career championing for children and advocating for educators here in the Hamilton community. I strive to provide an environment that is meaningful, and engaging, as well as a happier, healthier workplace for the educators I mentor. My core values guides the work I do, and the decisions I make, keeping me focused on my quality journey towards inclusive, transparent, high-quality childcare, and supporting families various need. I believe I would be an asset to council, I have extensive experience as an RECE, in an ever-changing childcare society, with a working knowledge of current challenges, needs, and success. I’m an active participant in many communities of practice here in Hamilton, modeling dedication and leadership in my community while co-learning. My commitment towards quality childcare is visible through my years of dedicated relationships with families, community agencies and mentorship of educators. I strive to create a supportive nurturing, environment, for educators, children, as well as myself. Fostering these attributes encourages myself and others to be knowledgeable, reflective and resourceful. I will continue to model these practices, contributing to an environment of belonging within council. I have shared goals of professionalism, transparency, integrity, inclusion and leadership. I view educators and children alike, as capable individuals who bring their own abilities and strengths to each task at hand. I believe I can be a valuable addition to the team, given the opportunity and encouragement. Thank you for this opportunity. |
Samia Javed
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Samia Javed |
Present Position: | DECE |
Place of Employment: |
Hamilton Wentworth District School Board Hamilton, ON |
Area of Practice: | Full Day Kindergarten |
Self-Identification (if any): | Person of Colour |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Masters of Professional Education | Western University | 2022 | Masters |
Early Childhood Education (Intensive) Diploma | Mohawk College | 2011 | Diploma |
Post Graduate Certificate in Education | University of Sunderland, U.K. | 2009 | Certificate |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate’s Biographical Summary |
I am a person of colour, muslim woman and naturalized Canadian. I have been working as an ECE in Ontario for the last 12 years and an educator for over 18 years. Currently I work as a DECE in a FDK program. It is indeed a privilege to be part of a self-regulatory body and have professional status. The college’s mandate of protecting the public interest by setting standards, developing competencies and skills, and creating programs that expand ECE professionalism and knowledge is not only what I feel passionately about as an early years instructor but is also at the heart of my masters research. The growth and development of the early years profession is interdependent, interconnected and complementary to ECE leadership and regulation of the profession. I would like to research, contribute, and amplify this relationship. |
Olivia O’Reilly
Candidate’s Biographical Summary | |
Candidate’s Full Name: | Olivia O’Reilly |
Present Position: | Childcare Center Supervisor |
Place of Employment: |
YMCA of Niagara St. Catharines, ON |
Area of Practice: | |
Self-identification (if any): |
Education (ECE program/other relevant post-secondary qualifications) | |||
Program | Educational Institution | Year of Graduation | Degree, Diploma |
Early Childhood Educator | Fanshawe College | 2020 | ECE |
Childhood education | D’Youville College | 2010 | Masters in Childhood Education |
Participation in Early Childhood Education Organizations (e.g., associations, interest groups related to Early Childhood Education) | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Childcare center Supervisor | YMCA of Niagara | 2017-present |
Parent Participant | Niagara Catholic Parent Involvement Committee | 2021-Present |
Parent Participant | Goal/Parent Engagement Subcommittee-NCPIC | 2021-present |
Other Community Involvement | ||
Position | Association/Organization | Dates |
Candidate Statement |
I work as a childcare center supervisor for a reputable organization such as the YMCA of Niagara and have two small children in the school system. I strive to create and foster a positive and caring environment based on the four foundations of ECE. My pedagogical methodologies take into consideration how children develop through and with various learning opportunities that are set up for them. I encourage my staff to program plan based on concepts that children learn naturally and develop their skills when they are supported and treated as individuals. I would like to contribute my ECE skills and other knowledge to benefit my educational community. I may not have years of experience as an ECE but I thrive on challenging myself to continue to learn and grow daily. |