LINA P.
With over two decades of experience in education, Lina is a dedicated teacher committed to supporting students’ academic growth, confidence, and individual learning needs. She holds both a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts (Specialized Honours), and has completed extensive additional qualifications, including Specialist certifications in Religious Education, English, and Special Education. Her professional background spans teaching English and History in the Intermediate and Senior divisions, as well as supporting diverse learners in literacy and numeracy through specialized training in working with students with intellectual needs.
Throughout her career, Lina has focused on creating inclusive, structured, and engaging learning environments where all students can thrive. She is passionate about literacy, differentiated instruction, and helping students develop strong communication and critical-thinking skills.
Outside of her professional life, Lina enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, reading, and spending time outdoors. These moments keep her grounded, inspired, and connected to the world beyond the classroom.
HEATHER G.
Heather has been guiding and coaching students for nearly three decades, bringing extensive experience in academic counselling, executive functioning coaching, and post-secondary advising. She has worked in leadership and guidance roles at some of Canada’s leading independent schools, including Appleby College and Havergal College, as well as internationally at Neuchâtel Junior College in Switzerland. Most recently, she served as Director of Guidance and Counselling at the National Ski Academy in Collingwood, Ontario.
Heather specializes in post-secondary advising, helping students successfully navigate the university and college application process in Canada, the US, and the UK. She has particular expertise in NCAA athletics pathways, supporting student-athletes through eligibility, recruitment, and scholarship opportunities. In addition, Heather provides executive functioning coaching, guiding students in developing organization, time management, and study skills that allow them to thrive academically and personally.
Her approach is student-centred and holistic, blending academic planning with social-emotional support to ensure students feel confident, resilient, and well-prepared for their futures. She has extensive experience helping students build strong study habits, manage stress, and develop the independence needed to succeed in post-secondary settings.
Heather holds a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto, a Master of Arts in Physical and Health Education from Queen’s University, and multiple undergraduate degrees in Physical Education, Health Studies and Women’s Studies. In addition to her school leadership roles, she has been a frequent presenter to students, parents, and community groups on topics including university admissions, executive functioning, and mental health.
Families and students consistently value Heather’s warmth, professionalism, and depth of experience. She combines practical, step-by-step guidance with a caring and encouraging presence, making her a trusted partner in helping young people prepare for the next stage of their academic journey.
JESSICA A.
Jessica is an Ontario certified teacher with more than 20 years experience. She has degrees in Music and Education from Western University in London, Ontario. She has worked for many years with elementary school children, has taught piano and also ran her own English school while living in Brazil. Aside from spending time with her family and children, Jessica enjoys rock climbing, being outdoors, yoga, reading and crafting.
JACK D.
Jack pursued his teaching career after more than 25 years of experience in the financial industry. He brings a wealth of practical knowledge to teaching and tutoring Accounting, Business, Marketing, and Economics. His background includes roles in financial advice, product management, project management, and strategic planning – all of which give his students real-world insights that connect theory to practice. He is passionate about helping learners build confidence and achieve academic success through clear explanations and engaging lessons. Outside of teaching, he enjoys gardening and staying active through various sports.
PRISCILLA H.
Priscilla is a Registered and Certified teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). She completed her Master of Teaching degree at the University of Toronto and currently teaches in York Region schools. She has experience as a homeroom teacher in Grade 4/5 and brings valuable expertise working with Grade 7/8 students, supporting them as they develop the academic skills and independence needed to succeed at the intermediate level and prepare for high school. Priscilla has also led small-group targeted intervention programs and holds both Special Education and Early Language Learner qualifications. She has enjoyed teaching in an Autism Community Class and working as an English Language Teacher supporting newcomers from Grades 1–8, where she tailored instruction to meet each student’s unique needs.
Through these diverse experiences, Priscilla has developed a deep understanding of the needs of learners at different stages. She knows what skills and knowledge are expected at each grade level and how to bridge any gaps to support student growth. Her experience teaching during the pandemic, where some students learned online while others were in person, further strengthened her ability to adapt and create meaningful learning experiences. Priscilla is committed to fostering a supportive and encouraging environment where students can build confidence, develop a love of learning, and reach their full potential.
SANDY A.
Sandy joins Prep Academy with over 20 years of experience teaching Spanish Language and Culture to students from grade 5 to grade 12. She is a native Spanish speaker from Caracas, Venezuela. Sandy graduated from The University of Alberta, where she received a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Physical Education with a minor in Spanish. While completing her undergraduate program Sandy also studied Italian Language and Culture in Cortona, Italy. She also has a Master’s degree in Spanish Language and Culture from the University of Granada in Spain.
Over the years, Sandy has demonstrated a solid commitment towards Spanish Language education in Alberta by spearheaded the implementation of the Spanish Language and Culture Program at Westmount Charter School in Calgary. A lifelong learner, Sandy continues to further her professional development obtaining numerous certifications, including Advance Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB), as well as being a certified examiner for the Diploma in Spanish as a Foreign Language (DELE).
Teaching Spanish Language and Culture is Sandy’s passion. She believes that learning another language allows students to not only communicate, but to also become critical thinkers who are caring, compassionate and independent.
KAYLA D.
Kayla is a dedicated OCT Primary/Junior qualified teacher. She is a self-motivated, efficient, and energetic individual excited to be able to use her skills and abilities to support her learners. Her academics have provided an array of opportunities to learn about working with individuals of various physical and cognitive abilities. Kayla’s career aspirations are and have always been to work with young people. She has worked with students with varying special needs such as severe learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, hearing impairments, visual impairments, individual behaviour plans, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, epilepsy, etc. Kayla most recently taught overseas in London, England where she worked in a special needs school. She considers herself a lifelong learner and is always exploring new techniques to best support her students.
CHRIS M.
An experienced educator with a BEng and OCT certified, Chris is passionate about helping students achieve success in math and science. With a background in both engineering and education, he brings a unique, problem-solving approach to tutoring, making complex concepts more accessible and engaging for his students.
With experience supply teaching and mentoring, he has assisted students in mastering challenging topics through clear instruction and personalized learning strategies. He has also mentored students who went on to win first place in a robotics competition. He believes in working with students to foster both their academic growth and personal development, while also focusing on building their confidence in math, science and in themselves.
Jake W.
I am a graduate of the University of Waterloo with a BASc in Electrical Engineering. I have over 200 hours of successfully tutoring students from elementary to high school – and through to university – in math, calculus, and physics at both the introductory and AP (Advanced Placement) levels. I am a proud father to four kids.
FRANCES R.
Frances is an enthusiastic OCT Primary/Junior teacher who has been tutoring students since 2013. She draws from her tutoring experience to tailor academic support to individual student needs. Inspired by a passion for fostering curiosity and lifelong learning, she prioritizes creating a supportive environment where all students feel valued and empowered to succeed.
Motivated by her work in a special education school, Frances pursued additional qualifications in Special Education to better meet the diverse needs of her students. She employs a patient and adaptive teaching approach to ensure every student thrives.