Our Amazing Team
Our diverse team consists of 20 amazing individuals, with various backgrounds, experience, and education in the Early Learning and Care field. We have several staff who have been employed with West Oakville Preschool Centre for many years, and some that have even reached their 10, 20, and almost 30-year anniversary milestones! Each program has staff members who have been thoughtfully selected to work together to provide a well-rounded Infant, Toddler or Preschool program, with character traits, skills, and experience that complement those of their teammates. We have 11 Registered Early Childhood Educators on our team, and at least one working in each room. We are committed to providing our staff team with a positive work experience and investing in their professional growth and development.
All our staff members:
• have a current valid Vulnerable Sector Check (as per Ministry of Education requirements)
• receive annual re-certification in Standard First Aid and Infant/Child CPR – Level C
• have up to date immunizations
• review policies and procedures annually, and more frequently as needed
• are monitored, mentored, and evaluated annually for their job performance
• actively participate in monthly staff meetings, professional development, and special events throughout the year
ADMINISTRATION
AMANDA FENG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (M.Ed., RECE)
Hello WOPC Family,
My name is Amanda Feng, and I am honoured to serve as the Executive Director of West Oakville Preschool Centre. I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with nearly 30 years of experience in education and leadership. Since joining WOPC in February 2018, I have had the privilege of serving in several leadership roles, including Assistant
Supervisor, Interim Supervisor, and, since February 2022, Executive Director.
I hold a Master’s degree in Education and a Certificate in Resource Consulting. My leadership is guided by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement in early childhood education. I believe in fostering a collaborative culture where children, families, educators, board members, and community partners feel valued, respected, and
supported.
It has been incredibly rewarding to lead WOPC through a period of growth and transformation. Together with our dedicated team, we have strengthened our programs, invested in professional learning, expanded community partnerships, enhanced operational excellence, and remained committed to providing exceptional, play-based early learning experiences for every child.
I firmly believe that investing in our educators and building meaningful relationships with families creates the foundation for children’s success. Every decision we make is guided by our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and inspiring
environment where children can develop confidence, curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
Fun Fact: I always enjoy learning about financial management, investing, strategic leadership, and organizational growth. Outside of work, I love watching movies, travelling, and hiking. Exploring new places, embracing new ideas, and continuously learning inspire me to grow both personally and professionally, helping me bring fresh perspectives and innovative leadership to West Oakville Preschool Centre.
NAVDEEP BRAR, SUPERVISOR (RECE)
Hello WOPC Family,
My name is Navdeep, and I am the RECE Supervisor at West Oakville Preschool. I completed my Early Childhood Education diploma from Georgian College in 2019 and brought over four years of leadership experience as a Centre Director with Kids & Company.
Throughout my career in early childhood education, I have developed a strong passion for creating positive learning environments where children feel safe, valued, and supported. In my leadership role, I enjoy mentoring educators, building strong relationships with families, and working collaboratively with my team to provide high-quality care and meaningful learning experiences for every child.
I believe children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment where each child is encouraged to grow, develop confidence, and thrive at their own pace.
I look forward to building meaningful connections with the children, families, and educators at West Oakville Preschool and being part of their learning journey.
Fun Fact: I love going on long drives—there’s nothing better than discovering new places and enjoying the journey with family and friends!
INFANT PROGRAM – CUBS
KATHY BLAAK (ECA)
Hi! My name is Katherine Blaak, and I joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in 2015. I have over a decade of experience in early childhood education and am passionate about supporting children's learning and development.
Working with young children is truly rewarding. Every day, I am inspired by their natural curiosity, optimism, and trust. These qualities remind me of the importance of patience, creativity, and authenticity in every interaction. I am committed to creating a warm, safe, and engaging environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Fun fact: I love cooking, dancing a little, and singing just for fun! I also enjoy playing baseball and spending quality time with my two wonderful children. Whether we’re trying a new recipe, playing outdoors, or simply enjoying time together, I treasure making lasting memories with my family.
RANA CHARAFEDDINE (RECE)
Hello! My name is Rana Charafeddine, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). I graduated with Honours from Sheridan College and joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in 2024.
I am passionate about early childhood education and dedicated to supporting children’s learning and development during their most important early years. I enjoy creating engaging, play-based learning experiences that help children grow academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.
I currently work in the Cubs Room, where my goal is to provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment in which very child feels valued, confident, and encouraged to explore their potential. I enjoy building meaningful relationships with children and their families while supporting each child’s unique learning journey and celebrating their individual strengths.
Fun Fact: Outside of the classroom, I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes. I love trying different cuisines and discovering creative ways to make delicious meals.
JUNGHEE YOO (ECA)
Hi! My name is Junghee Yoo, and I am an Early Childhood Assistant (ECA). I have over 10 years of experience working in a kindergarten in Korea, and I joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in February 2023.
I am passionate about supporting young children’s growth and development and believe that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and learn. I enjoy building positive relationships with children and their families and strive to create a warm, caring, and engaging environment where every child can thrive.
Fun Fact: My favourite food is spicy Korean ramen, especially Buldak ramen! I also enjoy trying different Korean dishes and sharing my culture and traditions with others.
SANTHANALAKSHMI VIVEK (RECE)
Hello! My name is Santhanalakshmi (Santha) Vivek, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). I graduated from Confederation College and have been a proud member of West Oakville Preschool Centre since 2021.
Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with children of various age groups, with a special passion for caring for infants. I feel privileged to support babies as they grow, learn, and discover the world around them. I love this stage of development because infants communicate through their smiles, laughter, curiosity, and their own unique ways of
expressing themselves.
I believe that every child develops at their own pace. My goal is to create a nurturing, inclusive, and responsive environment where each child feels safe, respected, and supported. I am committed to celebrating every child’s individual temperament, culture, and developmental journey while building strong relationships with children and their families.
Fun Fact: I enjoy exploring new cuisines, trying different recipes, and listening to a wide variety of music. I love discovering new flavours and relaxing with music from different cultures.
TODDLER PROGRAMS – TEDDIES
HARSIMRAN KAUR (RECE)
Hello! My name is Harsimran Kaur, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). I received my Early Childhood Education diploma from Sheridan College in Oakville and have two years of experience working with young children.
I am passionate about creating a safe, fun, and engaging learning environment where every child has the opportunity to grow, explore, and thrive. I currently work as the Head RECE in the Toddler classroom, where I enjoy supporting children’s curiosity, independence, and overall development every day.
Fun Fact: I love trying different cuisines and exploring new places in my free time.
GHOUSIA NAEEM (ECA)
Hello! My name is Ghousia Naeem, and I am an Early Childhood Assistant (ECA). I completed my Early Childhood Assistant studies at Pharma Medical College and have over eight years of experience working with young children. I have been a proud member of the WOPC team since 2019.
I am passionate about creating a safe, caring, and welcoming environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to learn through play and exploration. I currently work in the Toddler classroom, where I enjoy helping children build confidence, develop new skills, and reach developmental milestones each day.
Building positive relationships with children and their families is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. I am grateful to be part of the WOPC community and look forward to continuing to support children’s learning, growth, and well-being every day.
Fun Fact: I enjoy reading books and spending quality time with my family and friends.
TANVIR KAUR (RECE)
My name is Tanvir, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator with two years of experience in the field of early childhood education. I am passionate about creating a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported, and confident to explore and learn.
I believe that children learn best through meaningful play, hands-on experiences, and positive relationships. One of my favourite parts of being an educator is getting to know each child as an individual, recognizing their unique interests and strengths, and celebrating their growth and milestones along the way.
I am very pleased to be part of the West Oakville Preschool Centre team and look forward to building meaningful relationships with children and families while creating many happy learning experiences together.
Fun Fact: In my free time, I enjoy painting and crafting, travelling to new places, and exploring different kinds of music. I’m always excited to discover something new and bring creativity and fun into my everyday life.
PRESCHOOL ONE – KOALAS
JAPJIT KAUR (RECE)
Hello! My name is Japjit Kaur, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). I joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in February 2026 after completing my Early Childhood Education studies at Seneca Polytechnic.
As an RECE, I am committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
I currently work in the Koala classroom, where I enjoy creating fun, engaging, and meaningful learning experiences that encourage children to explore, discover, and reach their full potential. It is a privilege to be part of each child’s early learning journey and to build positive relationships with children and their families.
Fun Fact: I enjoy exploring new places, trying different foods, and experiencing new cultures.
NAVNEET GURM (RECE)
Hello everyone! My name is Navneet, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). I joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in July 2026, I also completed my Early Childhood Education diploma at Canadee College in Scarborough, where I developed a strong foundation in child development and play-based learning. With over 4.5 years of hands-on experience working with young children, I am committed to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environment that supports each child’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
I believe in honoring each child as a unique individual, and I am deeply passionate about observing and responding to their diverse interests, strengths, and developmental needs. My approach is grounded in building meaningful relationships with children and families, and I take great joy in witnessing those “lightbulb” moments when a child
discovers something new.
I am currently working in the Koalas Preschool classroom and look forward to collaborating with families and colleagues to create a warm, enriching, and memorable early learning experience for all.
Fun fact: Outside of the classroom, I love exploring new cuisines, traveling to new places, and spending quality time with my family. My greatest reward as an educator is seeing the wonder and excitement in a child’s eyes when they master a
new skill or idea.
PRESCHOOL TWO – PANDAS
JOSEPHINE ILAGAN (ECA)
I have been working as an Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) at West Oakville Preschool Centre since 2018. I began my journey as a supply staff member, gaining experience working with children across all age groups.
In 2023, I transitioned into a full-time position in the Infant Room and, in 2024, transferred to Preschool 2 (Panda Room).
Working with children is incredibly rewarding, and I am passionate about supporting their growth, learning, and development. I enjoy creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. It is a privilege to watch children learn, build confidence, and achieve new milestones each day.
Fun Fact: I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to Canada in 2017. I enjoy learning about different cultures, trying new foods, and spending quality time with my family.
HAE CHANG (RECE)
Hi, I’m Haeryung Chang!
I’m a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) and graduated from the ECE program with High Honours. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature, with a minor in Educational Psychology.
As a mom of two teenagers, I’m passionate about creating a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported.
I believe that inclusive education and open communication with families are essential to supporting each child’s growth and well-being.
I’m excited to get to know you and your children!
Fun Fact: I have a dog and am a mother of two!
PRESCHOOL THREE – BEARS
CATHY MATSOS, (RECE)
Hello! My name is Cathy Matsos, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) and the proud mother of two wonderful children.
I graduated with High Honours from Sheridan College in Oakville in 1997. Just two days after graduation, I began my career at West Oakville Preschool Centre, where I have proudly worked since.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving in many roles at WOPC, including Early Childhood Educator, Assistant Supervisor, and working in every classroom throughout the centre. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of our programs, our families, and the importance of creating a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child can thrive.
Throughout my years at WOPC, I have been fortunate to build lasting relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Supporting children’s growth and development has been the most rewarding part of my career, and I am grateful to be part of the WOPC community. I look forward to continuing to provide high-quality early learning experiences and making a positive difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.
Fun Fact: I love reading in my free time! I also enjoy sharing my love of books with children and helping them discover the joy, imagination, and lifelong love of reading through stories.
ANDREA REIDMAN (RECE)
Hello! My name is Andrea Reidman, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) in the Preschool program at West Oakville Preschool Centre. I have been a proud member of the WOPC team since December 2014.
Originally from Argentina, I moved to Canada with my husband in 2001. I am also the proud mother of two daughters, now 19 and 22 years old.
With more than 30 years of experience in early childhood education, I am passionate about supporting young children as they grow, learn, and develop. I strive to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences that foster confidence, curiosity, and independence while helping each child build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Fun fact: I love spending time with my family and enjoy exploring new places together. Creating lasting memories with my loved ones is one of my favourite things to do.
KITCHEN MANAGEMENT & FLOAT
BHARATI PATEL (ECA)
Hello! My name is Bharati Patel, and I am an Early Childhood Assistant (ECA). I joined West Oakville Preschool Centre in 2022.
I hold a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) from India. I have over four years of experience working with children in Canada, along with seven years of experience in educational settings in India. My diverse background has given me valuable knowledge and a strong passion for supporting children’s learning and development.
At WOPC, I support children in both the classroom and kitchen environments, helping to create a safe, positive, and engaging space where every child can thrive. I enjoy encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence while building meaningful relationships with children and their families. It is a privilege to be part of each child’s early learning journey and to contribute to their growth every day.
Fun Fact: I love trying different foods, but my favourites are Gujarati cuisine, Italian dishes, and ice cream. I always enjoy sharing recipes and discovering new flavours with family and friends!
HURIYA MALIK (ECE)
With over five years of experience in early childhood education, I am passionate about creating nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environments where every child feels seen, heard, valued, and empowered to thrive. My educational background, combined with hands-on classroom experience, has strengthened my ability to support children’s developmental milestones while encouraging their natural curiosity and love of learning.
I believe the most meaningful part of my work is watching children grow in confidence, creativity, and independence. Each day brings new opportunities to inspire young learners, build trusting relationships, and support each child’s unique journey through these important early years.
Since joining West Oakville Preschool Centre in 2022, I have been grateful for the opportunity to continue my professional growth while making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the children and families I have the privilege to serve.
Fun Fact: I also have a strong passion for arts and crafts, and I love integrating hands-on, creative activities into my teaching to make learning both enjoyable and memorable.
SUPPLY STAFF & PROGRAM SUPPORT
Maria Oller
Nawal Siddiqui
Irene Prieto
Supreet Supreet
Fiona Xun
Isabel Perdigon-Ledezma
Jaime Taylor
Teja Peltomaa
Carrisa Barakat
Yi Sun