Our Teachers & Staff at Star Academy

Belinda Bernardo Principal
Star Academy has become a dream come true. More than a decade on, I could not be more pleased with the dedicated staff team that brings our philosophy to life. We have built an academic home for all of our students, one where the students succeed and flourish in all aspects of their development. Each student has value and importance not only academically but personally as well. Being an innovative, forward thinking learning environment is a point of pride for Star Academy. Constantly reviewing research, curriculum and programming, then tying all of this into the needs of our learners is a key part of our school culture, as evidenced by our new OPUS programmes. We have never been, nor will be, a “one size fits all” school. We teach our children how to love to learn. You won’t find this in any text book, but it is the foundation of everything we do. It means our students try harder and achieve more than they have before. They are recognized for their strengths rewarded for their achievements and supported regardless. Academic achievement is vitally important, but the whole child is paramount. It’s what we do.
Pam Rennie Vice Principal
Star Academy provides a safe nurturing environment where the individual needs of each student are recognized and supported. To watch each and every student rise to their full potential and gain confidence in their ability is a true joy. The staff team are a dedicated group of individuals with a strong passion to teach. Their commitment to and belief in their profession is exemplified each and every day. From the academic foundations, to technology, social skills, fitness and community mindedness – Star Academy students become confident individuals in themselves and in their role in the world around them. It is a privilege to share this journey with them.
Bia Crumpton Office Administrator
After many years of working in the corporate as well as independent business world I have to say, it is a pleasure coming to work every day. Star Academy is a very positive and progressive place to be. The staff and teachers make up a tight, synchronized team and, along with the students and parents, they are a constant reminder of how important learning is. I have also been reminded that school is not just about academics. It's also about learning compassion and respect for others, responsibility, a healthy sense of humour and developing life lessons that build self esteem, strong character and life-long friendships.
Stephanie Cassells Finance

As a member of our admin staff I often answer phone calls from parents interested in learning how Star Academy can benefit their child.  I am proud to tell them about our unique programming and low teacher/student ratio.   However, the positive changes I see in our students every day is the most inspirational and rewarding part of my job.  All of our students are given opportunities to grow and experience success.  But, it is their positive outlook on school, their sense of pride in their accomplishments and the growth in their self confidence that truly inspire me.  Every child should have the opportunity to experience the nurturing and supportive environment and sense of family here at Star.
Carolyn Jacobson Primary Room
“The highest function of the teacher consists not so much of imparting knowledge as in stimulating the pupil in its love and pursuit” – Henri Amiel. This quotation conveys the spirit of my approach to teaching. Respectful, caring bonds with children and their families are the vital foundation for a wonderful kindergarten experience. The early years are a magical journey, and part of my role is to develop the imagination and create memorable rituals, traditions and celebrations that honour childhood; I look forward to this challenge.  This is my sixth year teaching at Star Academy, and each year I have learned many new things. I anticipate an exciting, eventful school year, with an all new Primary Class!

 

Adam Scott PhysEd
I believe that, above all else, it is a teacher’s responsibility to teach the child first – and curriculum second. Children need to know that they are respected, trusted, and cared for; only then can true learning occur. At Star Academy, the focus is on teaching each child what, and how they need to be taught. Our low teacher-to-student ratio allows for personal connections and attention. In this environment, children are able to succeed, and therefore learn to love learning. Once children experience such achievement, they want to learn, and subject matter becomes challenging – instead of a challenge. I feel fortunate to work in such a progressive and enriching atmosphere.

 

Kelly Farrell OPUS
In my teaching career, I have always looked for new ways to engage students in their learning. I am dedicated to creating a stimulating classroom environment which facilitates cross-curricular learning and fosters creativity as an integral part of the learning process. I believe in involving my students in all aspects of their individual learning journeys from planning to assessment.

 

Shannon Barber Foundations
As a teacher, I strive to instill a sense of wonder about the world within each of my students.  I do this by looking at education as a process of exploration and discovery.  My philosophy is to teach the whole child by equipping them with the skills they need to excel in our world and by helping them discover their potential as individuals.  This is achieved through teaching that is tailored to the needs of each of my students.

 

Michelle Pomeroy Intermediate
I feel truly lucky to be a part of the Star Academy community.  Being a teacher at Star Academy has taught me that the most important aspect of a child’s education is to instill a deep and long-lasting love for learning.  With ever-increasing advancements in technology and the wide range of information available, it is important to not only develop a student’s academic intelligence, but also their social and emotional intelligence.  I believe that creating a comfortable environment, rich with creative, imaginative and engaging opportunities in the classroom allow students to flourish and develop the confidence they need to be successful throughout their lives. “No one has yet fully realized the wealth of sympathy, kindness, and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure” (Emma Golmam).

 

Sonia Satov JI
The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery. ~ Mark Van Doren When a child feels comfortable, safe, and supported, the world is a magical place. I believe that it is a teacher’s role to create this environment for each student, and give them the tools and inspiration to investigate and grow. As a teacher I support my students’ success by accessing individual sources of motivation and learning styles, while fostering a love for learning and exploring our world. I am dedicated to providing creative, active, hands-on experiences that make learning meaningful and memorable. An effective classroom is one that is filled with respect, caring, joy and wonder. Through individual attention and differentiated instruction, I support each child’s unique strengths and needs so that they can achieve academic and social success.  Star Academy is a wonderful place that enables us to value and celebrate each child. I am thrilled to be a part of the Star family!

 

David Wichman Junior

It is said that you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. I believe the same holds true for people and knowledge. I am thrilled to be a teacher at Star Academy, where developing a thirst for learning in students is so richly encouraged. My own learning journey has been a galloping adventure. I have written for children’s television, edited books for young people, and taught in settings ranging from inner-city libraries in Toronto to rural schools in the misty mountains of Japan. Along the way, I have met extraordinary people who have invariably been creative risk-takers, innovative problem-solvers, and voraciously curious. It is a dream come true to join a learning community where we are fostering exactly that kind of thirsty learner. Every day is a new opportunity for us all to giddyup!

 

Blake Pallett Seniors

I believe that all students deserve the opportunity to express their ideas and opinions in a safe and nurturing environment. The small class sizes and high ratio of teachers allows for this at Star Academy, and as a result our students flourish.  The students love coming to school every day and this passion and enthusiasm makes our role as teachers enjoyable and rewarding.  The creativity of our students continually exceeds all my expectations and provides us, as teachers, a unique opportunity to plan, and deliver lessons that embrace and enrich this passion for learning.