Faculty

Leadership Team

Yasmine Ghandour, Ph.D. – Founder & General Director

Miss Yasmine holds her Montessori Qualifications from the Montessori Center International, a B.A. in East Asian Studies, a M.A. in Early & Elementary Education from Columbia University and a M.Ed in Educational Psychology from McGill University, focusing on Inclusive Education. She completed her Ph.D. at Concordia University, exploring the implementation of the Montessori method within a Quebec framework. She has taught in preschool settings in Asia, the Middle East and North America and has most recently spent a few years as an Elementary School Director in Montreal. Miss Yasmine has also led seminars at McGill University, hosted workshops in early childhood education at the annual Rocky Mountain Early Childhood Conference and the Bright Start International Conference, and has served on the board of a speech and language centre. Her varied experiences have led her to understand the true value of an individualized approach to education.

Tina Hillenbrand – Business Development Manager

Miss Tina holds a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Science and a Certificate in Family Life Education from Concordia University. She also has completed Montessori and Daycare Management Certification. Miss Tina has taught and directed in preschool settings in the Montreal area for over 25 years. Miss Tina is passionate about social service and currently sits on the Board of Directors for Elizabeth House and Carolyn’s Community. In her free time, she loves nutrition and cooking, cycling and being surrounded by friends and family.

Josianne Abouzakhm – Director

Miss Jo is a passionate early childhood professional with over 25 years of experience as a private daycare director. Holding a D.E.C. in Early Childhood Education, she has built a career rooted in nurturing young minds, creating safe and inspiring environments, and fostering meaningful connections with children and their families. After an additional several years in human resources—where she refined her skills in organization, staff development, and strategic planning—Miss Jo has returned to her true calling: working directly with children in the daycare setting she loves so much. Outside of her professional life, Miss Jo enjoys gardening, hiking, traveling, cake decorating and dancing—especially ballet and tap.

Ivana Aquilino – Assistant Director

Miss Ivana holds a college diploma in Early Childhood Education as well as a Certification in Daycare Management. She has several years of experience both in and out of the classroom and values the professionalism and dedication that she brings to her work. Miss Ivana is passionate about spending time with family and friends and enjoys anything to do with fitness and fashion. You can always catch her in her brightest outfits!

Nurse Maricel

Nurse Maricel holds a Bachelor of Nursing degree from Saint Ferdinand University in the Philippines and has worked as a Registered Nurse for over a decade. Her professional experience includes three years in Saudi Arabia as an Operating Room Nurse. Nurse Maricel has completed the integration program for internationally-educated nurses at John Abbott College. She is also the proud mother of young twins. In her limited spare time, Nurse Maricel enjoys cooking, gardening, singing and going to church.

Miss Arleen

Miss Arleen has completed her studies in Early Childhood Education. Though she has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, her true passion has always been in early childhood settings. She has worked with young children for many years, and is happiest when she can provide them with all the attention, love and care that they need.

Miss Nita

Having graduated with a B.Sc. in Commerce and Accounting, Miss Nita worked for several years as a book-keeper before turning to her true calling. With a deep love for young children, Miss Nita moved on to pursue her studies in Early Childhood Education at BCM College to put an official stamp on the work that comes most naturally to her. When not busy with her children at school and at home, Miss Nita loves to cook and to watch movies with her family.

Miss Susan

Miss Susan has 12 years of hands-on experience working with young children in both daycare and home environments. She is a loving, caring educator who loves watching her little charges grow and flourish as she guides them through stimulating, interactive activities. When Susan isn’t working with the Tiny Tots, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking healthy meals and exercising.

Miss Martine

Mme Martine is a certified educator who has been working with preschool aged children for many years in diverse settings (swimming instructor, camp animator, daycare and preschool educator). She also has two boys of her own and in her spare time enjoys reading, photography and travelling.

Miss Veronique

Miss Veronique has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a Major in Child Studies from Concordia University. She has a compassion and respect for early childhood education. Miss Vero values diversity and encourages her students to celebrate what makes them unique! Together, the individual traits of each child contribute to the classroom community – one that is warm and welcoming. When she is not teaching, Miss Vero enjoys oil painting, playing softball and scuba diving.

Mme Meaza

Mme Meaza has a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in History from Concordia University as well as an Attestation in Early Childhood Education from Vanier College. She has worked in different types of childcare settings with age groups ranging from infant to preschool. Mme Meaza believes that every child is unique and special and that children develop at their own pace and in their own manner. Her goal is to provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where the children can thrive. She is a mother of two and loves music, dancing, biking, reading, arts and crafts and hiking.

Mme Véronique

Mme Véronique has a bachelor’s degree in management from the Grenoble School of Management in France and a certificate from the North American Montessori Center. She is passionate about the Montessori philosophy and seeks to create a calm and respectful environment where each child feels secure and wants to learn. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, skiing and travelling to France to visit her family.

Miss Valarie

Miss Valarie first had the opportunity to work with young children back in the early 90’s while filling a position for an educator on study leave. Over the years she has worked in other fields but felt like she was missing out on something. In 2015 she took a big leap and decided to do something she really loved; she went back to school to study early childhood education and successfully completed the program (Attestation of Collegial Studies) and awarded a diploma with honors. In her spare time she enjoys frugal crafting, interior decorating and home DYI projects.

Miss Manuela

Miss Manuela studied midwifery at the Dr. Carlos S Lansing College in the Philippines and then practiced midwifery in Saudi Arabia for 8 years. Since moving to Canada, she has worked as a caregiver and obtained a diploma in Early Childhood Education. Miss Manuela loves keeping children active, helping them be more independent and watching them grow. Their smiles are her favorite reward! In her spare time, Miss Manuela enjoys biking, swimming, hiking, basketball and competitive volleyball.

Miss Tabatha

Miss Tabatha holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English Literature from the University of British Columbia. She began her teaching career in Asia, teaching English as a Second Language to students of all ages, but with a concentration with the under 5’s. Fifteen teaching years later, including a Supervisor role in a preschool setting, Miss Tabatha comes to Orchard house with a very good understanding of child development, and a deep compassion for the education of the whole child. Mind, spirit, curiosity, and empathy are the guiding hallmarks of her class.

Miss Gabi

Miss Gabi holds a B.A. in Early Childhood Education (UNIBE, Dominican Republic) and has received professional training at the Harvard School of Education and at The Loris Malaguzzi International Centre in Reggio Emilia. She is now completing her Master’s degree in Art Education at Concordia University. With more than 10 years of experience in the classroom, Miss Gabi joins Orchard House believing in the value of teaching children to be curious and confident, encouraging them to express their ideas, experiences and emotions in many different languages, focusing on her biggest passion: the language of art. In her spare time, Miss Gabi practices the martial art of Muay Thai.

Miss Abby Gail

Miss Abby Gail has a dual degree from Concordia University with a B.A. in Child Studies and a B.F.A. in Design. In her many years of experience, she has worked with children all the way into the elementary ages, but the beginning stages of early childhood have captured her heart. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll find her deep in a DIY craft project, hiking with her husband, or spending weekends eating loads of food with her family.

Miss Rechel

Miss Rechel has a Bachelor degree of Secondary Education in Chemistry from Philippine Normal University and holds a teaching license in Ontario and Quebec. Her many years of experience working with various preschool and elementary age groups in Montessori settings has guided her to be passionate and committed to her work. In her spare time, Miss Rechel enjoys cooking, baking and travelling with her family.

Miss Kathy

Miss Kathy has a Bachelor degree in Physical Education from McGill and has been working with children of all ages – early childhood, elementary, and high school – for over 10 years. Miss Kathy knew she wanted to work with children from a very young age when she would pretend her stuffed animals were students in her class! Now a proud mother of two, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, sharing delicious food, traveling to new places and playing soccer.

Miss Reina

Miss Reina is originally from Venezuela and moved to Montreal in 1993. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education with a specialty in Early Childhood Education from Jose Maria Vargas University. She came to Montreal to study English at McGill University and then pursued a Certificate in Human Resource Management. Miss Reina has been teaching for 30 years and has much experience working with children ranging from 3 to 5 years old. She believes that each child is unique, learns at his or her own pace and is capable of achieving their very best potential. Miss Reina loves planting the seed to enable children to be curious about their environment and cultivate an excitement for learning.

Miss Rosemary

Miss Rosemary holds a DEC in Early Childhood Education and is completing a BA majoring in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at Concordia University. She has a great passion for early childhood education which is transcended through her responsive, nurturing practice, and advocacy towards children. Miss Rosemary understands the importance of walking hand in hand alongside children as they grow to become unique, confident and independent individuals. She also brings these wholesome values into her own home with her daughter, Lily. Miss Rosemary has a background in music, having attended the Suzuki program at the McGill Conservatory for many years. Her love for music brings the classroom alive with enchanting songs and invites the children to express themselves through movement.

Miss Ashley

Miss Ashley, originally from the small town of Lynchburg, Virginia, USA, studied Elementary Education and Psychology at the University of Lynchburg. After four years as a Montessori teaching assistant, working with children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, she relocated to Montreal in 2021. She joined the Orchard House in 2023, bringing with her a strong enthusiasm for early childhood education that aligns well with the school’s values. Outside of the classroom, she and her husband, David, enjoy watching movies, taking road trips, snuggling with their cat, Butters, and playing board games.

Miss Petra

Miss Petra holds a Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and brings several years of experience working with young children, from Dubai to Montreal. Her international experience has enriched her skills and broadened her cultural perspective. She advocates for play-based learning, believing it is the most natural way for children to learn and develop. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family and engaging in her favorite activities, including running, hiking, and spending time outdoors discovering new areas around Montreal. She is also enthusiastic about arts and crafts projects, which reflect her love for creativity.

Mme Désirée

Mme Désirée has extensive experience teaching French and English to children aged 3 to 11 in various countries. Her international background has shaped her playful and interactive teaching style, incorporating songs, games, and creative methods to make language learning enjoyable and engaging. Known for her warmth, patience, and friendly demeanor, Mme Désirée creates a nurturing environment for her students. In her free time, she loves spending quality moments with her family, going for walks, listening to music, and cooking.

Miss Keisha

Miss Keisha brings over 14 years of experience in early childhood education, combining her passion for creativity and her love of teaching. For her, the classroom is a stage where laughter and joy are key ingredients in every lesson. A certified educator, she has worn many hats, including animator, camp counselor, and preschool teacher, all of which have shaped her dynamic teaching style. Outside the classroom, Miss Keisha channels her artistic talents into managing sip-and-paint parties. She also enjoys exploring nature, staying active, and seeking out new adventures that inspire her to live life to the fullest.

Miss Ellie

Miss Ellie is a certified teacher with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She has worked in several private schools in Montreal, and expanded her knowledge and skills in the field as she obtained a certificate in inclusive education. Miss Ellie believes each child is unique in character and in the way that they learn. Her focus on the classroom setting provides a secure, stimulating environment which honors the individual needs of each child. Miss Ellie enjoys spending her free time with her family, as well as reading, cooking and doing pilates.

Miss Grace

Miss Grace holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree, specializing in Guidance and Counseling, from Philippine Normal University–Manila, where she graduated Cum Laude. With over eight years of experience as a school counselor and teacher in the Philippines, Miss Grace has dedicated much of her life to supporting the growth and development of young minds. Now based in Canada, she continues to pursue this calling by volunteering in her church’s Sunday School. Outside of her work with children, Miss Grace enjoys graphic design, calligraphy, nature walk, and exploring different cuisines with her husband.

Miss Grace B.

Miss Grace holds a diploma of Early Childhood Education. She joins Orchard House with several years’ experience as an educator and assistant supervisor at different childcare settings in Ontario. As the oldest of 7 children, she has always been drawn to working with and supporting children’s growth. Miss Grace has a passion for helping children learn self regulation skills as well as fostering a welcoming environment that encourages each child to express themselves. In her free time, Miss Grace enjoys creating digital art and musical theatre.

Miss Genevieve

Miss Genevieve holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and a diploma in Early Childhood Education. She discovered her passion for working with children while teaching dance and has since dedicated herself to supporting young children’s learning and development. With several years’ experience working with children through both the arts and early childhood education, she enjoys creating engaging, nurturing, and creative learning experiences. Originally from India and now proudly calling Montreal home, Miss Genevieve loves teaching dance, choreographing performances, and exploring new places in her free time.

Miss Ashley O.

Miss Ashley is an experienced Montessori educator and school leader with over 15 years of international experience in early childhood education across Europe and Asia. She holds a BA in Montessori Education and an MA in Educational Leadership and Management. Passionate about creating nurturing, inclusive learning environments, she is dedicated to supporting children’s academic, social, and emotional development. Outside of her professional life, Miss Ashley loves horse riding, reading, and travelling, embracing every opportunity to explore new places and cultures.

Miss Lydia

Miss Lydia is a passionate and caring early childhood educator with several years of experience working in preschool settings. She began her teaching career at Discovery International School in Kigali, Rwanda, and with her Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, she brings strong relationship-building skills to her teaching practice. She believes every child is unique and deserves to feel respected, supported, and encouraged. Through her nurturing and engaging approach, Miss Lydia creates a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where children can explore, build confidence, and develop independence. She is a mother of one and loves singing, dancing, outdoors activities and spending time with her little family.

Miss Dianally

Miss Diana earned her Bachelor of Elementary Education, majoring in Special Education, in the Philippines. She brings several years of experience teaching both preschool and special education. Her passion for working with children began during her time as a mission volunteer. Today, she strongly believes in recognizing individual strengths, honouring unique learning timelines, and empowering every child.

Miss Jasmin

Miss Jaz has a diploma in Criminology from the Bergen College in the Philippines. She is always smiling and loves to sing. In her spare time, Miss Jaz plays volleyball and badminton and enjoys travelling.

Miss Celia

Miss Celia has been with Orchard House for over 15 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Baguio in the Philippines. Miss Celia has been working with children for many years and considers herself to be a kid at heart! Miss Celia loves adventure and exploring new places with her friends in her spare time.

Miss Nomi

Miss Nomi has a B.Sc. in Accounting, but she much prefers working with children than with numbers! Proud, hands-on grandma to two young children, Miss Nomi enjoys cooking, playing volleyball and badminton in her spare time.