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At Stanstead College since…
2015

BASc in Sport Studies

 

At SC since: September 2024

Hometown: Montreal

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Interacting with future Spartans and their families and helping our prep girls hockey players get better every day

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Exploring Europe one dessert at a time

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me:
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer and any song by The Airborne Toxic Event

Other jobs I've had:
Hockey coach, camp counselor and barista

A thing you may not know about me:
I can order a coffee like a local in most European countries 

BSc Memorial University of Newfoundland, BEd University of New Brunswick

At Stanstead College since... 
2024

Hometown
Whitby, Ontario

If I had to describe my job, it would be...
I am excited to dive into teaching science and math while navigating the adventures of boarding school life. I am soon to be an expert in balancing equations by day and balancing Wolfe House shenanigans by night.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Reading, canoeing, camping, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, watching a funny movie

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
Harry Potter

Other jobs I've had
Summer camp counsellor, swimming instructor, outdoor education facilitator, Skip the Dishes food courier, bartender

A thing you may not know about me
I am an only child

What I’m looking forward to the most at Stanstead College:
Getting to immerse myself in the community and culture at Stanstead!

BSc. Secondary Education - concentration in Biology, Bishop’s University

 
At Stanstead College since…
Teaching since 2024, here since 2010!

Hometown:
Born in Lennoxville, but grew up all over Canada!

If I had to describe my job it would be…
One of the greatest joys, being able to teach and shape the next generation of scientists. 

 

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am…
Reading, sleeping or out with my dogs! 

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
My family. I come from a family of kind and supportive teachers. 

Other jobs I've had
I have been very lucky to have gotten this job right after my university career, but I have worked in a pet store, as a tutor and as a camp counselor! 

A thing you may not know about me:
I am a born and raised private school girl! My parents have worked at many private schools throughout my life, so I was raised on many private school campuses!

At Stanstead College since…
2021

Hometown

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Taking care of the physical and mental health of students on campus.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Spending time with my family 

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
Kansas "Dust in the Wind"

Other jobs I've had
American football coach for 10 years, guitar and dance teacher 

A thing you may not know about me

Hometown
Georgeville, QC

If I had to describe my job it would be…

Working with teens is challenging, never boring and one of my great joys.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

Reading, spending time with family and friends, catching up on my recorded programs.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me

Two people in particular have impacted my life in more ways than I can say: my step-grandparents, Jack and Addie Atkin, who took in an 8 year old when they were in their mid-fifties and raised her as their own - they also taught me how to speak English!

Other jobs I've had

I've been a chambermaid, a waitress, a casino dealer, a telephone operator and a live-in nanny. Just to name a few!

A thing you may not know about me

Even after 28 years of teaching, the first day of classes still scares me!

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College

First year, first sit-down meal, walking across the dining hall and my heel catching - ended up on my behind in front of the Headmaster's table!

Anything else we should know about you?

I do love other things besides coffee and chocolate: red carnations, scented candles and a day at the spa.

BA, B.Ed, Mount Allison University

At Stanstead College since…
I’m beginning my third time at Stanstead College (1997-2001; 2007-2012; 2022-)

Hometown
Halifax, Nova Scotia

If I had to describe my job it would be…
I enjoy facilitating the academic, athletic, and social growth of the students I am fortunate to interact and work with.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Watching & reading about soccer & coaching, or doing something active outside.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
My parents were my role models & guiding lights. Pep Guardiola is my favourite coach. The country of Cyprus inspires me. Barometer Rising (Hugh MacLennan) is my favourite novel.

Other jobs I've had
Director of Soccer & teacher at King’s-Edgehill School; Director of High Performance and REX, Soccer Nova Scotia; Head Coach Dalhousie University women’s soccer

A thing you may not know about me
I have a significant fear of heights

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College
So many to choose from my two previous times at SC… but, one really fun one was in October 2011, when the senior girls & senior boys soccer teams both won playoff championships on the same afternoon and at home. With our fields only a few metres apart and the referees’ game-ending whistles sounding almost simultaneously, the ensuing on-field joy and celebrations between our two teams of players and coaching staffs showed just how tight-knit Stanstead College really is. It was a really fun afternoon!

B.Ed. McGill University

At Stanstead College since…
2021

Hometown
Lac Brome, Quebec

  
If I had to describe my job it would be...
A new and exciting challenge every day!

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Trying to get through my PVR, watching sports, recording my podcast, friends, family, as much as I can!

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
“Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead.”
– F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Other jobs I've had
I help manage the family ski shop.

A thing you may not know about me
I am absolutely petrified of heights!

 

B.Sc. Mount Allison University, B.Ed. Queens University

At Stanstead College since…
2021

Hometown
Barra Head, Nova Scotia

If I had to describe my job it would be…
To teach students the wonder and beauty that is science and create interesting learning experiences in the process

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Reading, painting or sleeping

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
My mom who is a nurse and gives her all to her job every single day

Other jobs I've had
Barista, tutor, teaching assistant, museum tour guide, Lyme disease researcher

A thing you may not know about me
I have 5 siblings (4 brothers and a sister)

2014

Hometown
St-Marc-de-Latour, Que.

If I had to describe my job it would be…

Simply amazing! Making sure students have a memorable time here at Stanstead College!

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

Spending time with my family, playing basketball, visiting new places.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me

"When somebody hurts you they take the power over you, if you don't forgive them then they keep the power. Forgive people and than you will be able to forgive yourself." - from the Diary of a Mad Black Woman

Other jobs I've had

Drama teacher, childhood educator, heritage interpreter

A thing you may not know about me

I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which means I sprain and break parts of my body very often. If you see me walking with a cane, it is absolutely normal! I am also trypophobic... Google it!

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College

The 2021 water fight was one of the most beautiful moments I've witnessed in 6 years here.

Finally...

At Stanstead College since…
2019 (chaperoning trips since 2017)

Hometown
Fairport, NY

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Capturing the magic moments that happen at Stanstead on a daily basis through photographs, videos, and words. I will also be covering Drama classes during a maternity leave until the winter, coaching volleyball and basketball and serving as house parent in Davis.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Hanging out with my puppy, Namy (named after Joe Namath), and ferret, Flutie (named after Doug Flutie). We swim in the lake, hike mountains and go on long country drives to Burlington, VT while we listen to tunes. Our favorites include: Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, The Velvet Underground, Dave Matthews and Tupac. I own a business in Burlington, VT, so that is an ever-evolving space that demands some time and attention on some weekends - where I am usually fixing, cleaning, building, and/or planning events. I am happiest by the water and in a boat - canoe or kayak. I adore plants and gardening, can't get enough of films, play the piano, cook like I am never going to eat again, like to sweat, and raise as many monarch butterflies as I can in the summer.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me:
Patch Adams and Mr. Rogers - because they embody altruism
East of Eden - it was the first book that stole my heart and undivided attention
“Natural Beauty” by Neil Young - because it's perfect
Outer Banks of North Carolina - because it is also perfect

Other jobs I've had
I was a live-in nanny for two different families for about 6 years. One family lived in Park City, Utah, and the other family owned a summer camp in Maine. I was an Americorps member for the Area Agency on Aging in Newport, VT where I worked with senior citizens and disabled adults. I worked at the Brattleboro Retreat on the forensic involuntary floor for major mental illness for adults. This led me to Howard Center in Burlington, VT where I was a case manager for adult with major mental illnesses that were living in group homes. Throughout all of this time, I was usually coaching basketball and lacrosse at the same time. I also opened Last Stop Sports Bar in Winoski, VT with a close friend -- a dog-friendly, safe, Buffalo Bills-loving bar that tries to give back to the community as much as we can.

A thing you may not know about me
I wear a men's 12 shoe and my husband Adam Spirk wears a 9 1/2 men's shoe.

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College
The 2018 talent show. It was the moment I realize that I was truly amongst the most talented, creative humans I had ever met in my life.

BA, B.Ed, Bishop’s University

 

August 2024

 

I grew up in Quebec City, moved to Lennoxville for university, spent a year living and teaching in Cambridge, UK, and now call Magog home. 

Inspiring young minds to explore their creativity and express themselves through art, and guiding them to see the world from new perspectives. 

 

Enjoying the outdoors, traveling, playing sports (volleyball, golf, snowboarding), reading, painting/drawing, or spending time with family and loved ones. 

My sister, who has an intellectual disability, has been a profound inspiration in my life. She has helped shape who I am today. Her positive outlook and ability to live in the moment are lessons I strive to apply in my own life every day. Thank you, Sharly xx 

 

Resource teacher, English and Science teacher, French language acquisition teacher, special education technician, customer service representative.

I was part of a bowling league when I was younger and even had the chance to play on television twice. 

 

Building meaningful connections with students and colleagues, inspiring a love for art and contributing to a supportive and creative school community.

Hometown
Lac-Megantic, Que.

If I had to describe my job it would be…

The incredibly valuable opportunity to affect young people in a positive way through a multitude of settings and situations.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

Home building stuff (snow forts or forts in the living room) with my kids or actually repairing my house or doing some family sports or just chillin' and playing video games or reading. Forts are cool.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me

When I first started working here, there were two major mentors who I credit with making me a better teacher/coach and that's Mr. Simard and Mr. Van Dyke. Also, my wife, an elementary school teacher who works so hard every day with kids in the elementary school across the street who come from various backgrounds, some them very difficult home situations. My kids inspire me through their natural curiosity and love of life.

Other jobs I've had

First real job: seven years of treeplanting to pay for university. Great summer job. A little nuts! Second real job: selling cedar shingles and bark mulch for a sawmill that was owned by my father-in-law. But this job (teaching) is the one I was meant for! :-)

A thing you may not know about me

I collected comic books all through university and for a time afterwards. Specifically Sandman and Hellblazer. Loved those! Can't wait to re-read them all...

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College

There are many. The senior girls rugby team 2003 won in double sudden-death overtime over arch-rival BCS. The junior girls soccer team 2011 (not the 2014 one that won everything; that was a fun team too, but the one that finished in third place and went on to upset at the semis and finals to win the championship). Every single Cafe Cappuccino nite. My office. Those who have started a song in my office know exactly what I am talking about. Four or five of us cramped in there with piano and guitars and singing. There's a magic that starts in there every time... going from nothing to something in an hour. It's amazing!

Finally...

Still trying as hard as I can to be the best teacher/coach/mentor/person I can be. I believe good teachers can change the world.

BS, Food Science and Nutrition, McGill University 

MA, Sports Management and Coaching, Link Campus University 

2022

Montreal, Qc

Helping with English of second language, assistant coach for the varsity soccer and varsity girls hockey team. 

Busy having quality time with my dog.

Definitely my parents who taught me to never give up. 

Coaching young athletes and receptionist
  

Played professional soccer in Italy for one full year

As a student, winning the CAIS championship in girl's soccer and scoring the winning goal

Hometown
Halifax, NS

If I had to describe my job it would be…

Fast paced

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

Asleep; I am always working at Stanstead College.


Other jobs I've had

Horticulturalist, landscaper, painter, teen center animator, gas station attendant, Northmart Cashier, arena attendant, marketing & communications intern.

A thing you may not know about me

I am a volunteer firefighter in Stanstead, I lived in Ethiopia, I went to the Canada Games to play field hockey, I come from a very large family.

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College

My first year at the College. I lived in Colby House, teaching my very first Grade 7 class and coaching my first basketball and rugby teams. Sr. Girls rugby won the league and the playoffs ('04). The next time we did that was when those Grade 7s were in Grade 12 ('09)!

Finally...

I live on the ocean and I do not like to eat fish!

B.Sc. Physics and Secondary Education (Bishop’s University); B.Ed. Secondary Education (Bishop’s University)

At Stanstead College since: 2023-24

 

Hometown: Montreal, QC

 

If I had to describe my job it would be... trying to get students interested and curious about the world of science while developing their ability to critically explore the world we live in.

 

When I am not working at Stanstead College, I am... Attempting to finish one of many books, training, playing chess, solving rubrics cubes. 

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me: My parents, who have always been there to help me with anything and guide me through difficult times.

Other jobs I’ve had: I am fortunate to have been hired at Stanstead College straight out of university. Before that, I’ve held various jobs such as a forklift operator, working for BeaverTails, working at a summer camp and substitute teaching.

 

A thing you may not know about me: I played football from the ages of 6 to 24.

 

What I’m looking forward to the most at Stanstead College: Being part of a community that values education and sport. 

At Stanstead College since…
2019

Hometown:
Spanish Town, Jamaica

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Satisfying. I love to teach and love seeing students excel.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Playing netball/basketball and lifting in the gym.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me.
My family is my biggest inspiration.

A thing you may not know about me:
I have 8 siblings

 

At Stanstead College since…
2012

Hometown:
Lennoxville, Qc

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Providing support to students who are struggling with a variety of emotional issues

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Spending time with family, reading, or just being outside enjoying my surroundings

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me:
The students that I have worked with at SC who push through their struggles and reach their goals despite the hurdles they had to surpass

Other jobs I've had:
Family therapist & university counsellor

A thing you may not know about me:
Although I grew up in Quebec and work here now, I lived for 7 years in New Brunswick

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College:
My Health Centre Family

BA, Bishop’s University

At Stanstead College since...
2019

Hometown
Stanstead, Qc

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Meeting families and students and sharing my personal experience with them!

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Travelling, hiking, playing golf or bowling ??

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
My 3 oldest brothers!  

A thing you may not know about me
I played 5 years of university varsity rugby and make exceptional fresh homemade pasta!

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College
Winning the CAIS tournament in 2014 and ALL-CAMPUS day (Go East)

At Stanstead College since…
2019 as a teacher; I am a Stanstead College lifer as well (1991).

Hometown
Stanstead, QC

If I had to describe my job it would be…
A great learning experience every day (and a busy one at the same time).

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
Camping, travelling, or reading a book.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me
Living in Japan: it is such a rich, vibrant, traditional and modern culture all at once. It certainly inspired me to change my view of the world.

Other jobs I've had
Farmer, grocery store stock clerk, Subway sandwich artist, ESL teacher in Japan, instructor manager...and last, but not least, Stanstead College summer maintenance crew!

A thing you may not know about me
I love doing obstacle course races. Marathons, not so much.

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College
My first time back on campus as a teacher, rather than a student.

DEC Soins Infirmiers, (College FXG 2013), BScN (UQAT) in progress, specialization in concussion (CCMI)

At Stanstead College since…
2018

St. Ubalde, Quebec

If I had to describe my job it would be…
Overseeing the clinical aspect of our practice, assessing and treating for a variety of physical health problems and building our concussion clinic, while being involved in different areas of our boarding environment.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...
 a mom (Ben, 2023; Chris, 2025; and Juliet), studying, running, biking, reading or baking!

I would not survive without maple syrup.

My son’s graduation, COVID lockdown with the Prep Boys, and moving into the new Wellness Centre

Fun fact:
I am the only nurse in the history of SC to have practiced in all 3 health/wellness centres! 

When our daughter (2016) and our son (2022) graduated from Stanstead College... but there are also many other moments over the last few years. Café Capp is the best!

Hometown
Sherbrooke

If I had to describe my job it would be…

Too complicated.. teaching French and being a second mom for 60 girls

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

A new mom

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

A thing you may not know about me

I’m a lefty

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College

My first grad at the end of the year. A mix of joy and tears

Finally...

I like chocolate, so if you do something wrong, don’t come back with excuses; come back with chocolate!

2020

Mexico City

Sharing with new families why Stanstead College is such a magic, amazing school and the best place in the world to be for our children. I’m in close contact with all the Spanish-speaking families, and I love to help them with whatever they need.

Learning something new, French for example! Spending time with my family.

I’m a tea lover, I’m crazy about matcha Japanese tea. I am a pediatric dentist.

My son’s first day of school. The day I tried cross-country skiing for the first time, which wasn’t planned at all; it was a great surprise one Saturday when I volunteered to help on activities.

BA Biology/Psychology Bishop’s University 

BSc Exercise Science/Athletic Therapy Concordia University 

Currently Perusing MEd in Post-secondary Studies at Memorial University
 

2022

Hometown 

Waverley, Nova Scotia 

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or in the residence, I describe my job as being a “life coach.” I am passionate about building a positive school culture and I love living on campus, working with students and cheering them on in all aspects of school life.  

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am... discovering new dog walking trails, finding water, sharing good food with friends or at the rink or the rugby pitch.  

Legacy by James Kerr is filled with inspirational nuggets on leadership and life, passed down from the New Zealand All Blacks. I have two copies of the book, listen to the audiobook often, and I have motivational quotes from the book saved on my phone! My former kayak coaches, Ann Dodge and Csom Latorovszki taught me a great deal about hard work and commitment. I think my coaching style models theirs in many ways, and I still hear their words of encouragement in my head when I need a little push. 

Director of Student Life and Wellness, Certified Athletic Therapist, Cardiac Rehab Technician, Lifeguard 

A thing you may not know about me
I was big into sprint kayaking when I was younger, medalling at Canada Games and I set a national record with my partner and former Olympian, Karen Furneaux. I paddled a giant pumpkin in the Annual Pumpkin Festival in Windsor, NS, and placed second. (I was sore for weeks…it was one of the hardest things I have ever done!)

B.A. Social Studies and Secondary Education (Bishop’s University); B.Ed. Secondary Education (Bishop’s University)

 

At Stanstead College since: 2023

 

Hometown: Montreal, QC

 

If I had to describe my job it would be... trying to get students interested in history and geography so that they can use it in everyday contexts and build their own critical opinions/thinking.

 

When I am not working at Stanstead College, I am... Attempting to finish one of many books, spending time with my cat, or at the gym.

 

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me: My mother, who has always taught me that I could do anything in life if I worked for it and truly believed in it.

 

Other jobs I’ve had: I am fortunate to have been hired at Stanstead College straight out of university. Before that, I’ve held various jobs such as data entry, working for BeaverTails, cashier, and customer service.

 

A thing you may not know about me: I speak somewhat fluent Italian.

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College: Supervising the Jay Peak trip during February break and getting the entire school to sing "Happy Birthday" to Mr. Kousaie at assembly.  

He has also been a past administrator within the school in Athletics (6 years as assistant followed by 16 years as director), Humanities Department head (5 years) and Bugbee House (1 year as assistant followed by 9 years as director). He has been a supervisor in many extracurricular activities over the years, including organizing and supervising 11 years of March break trips with students all over the world, and past club activities like Theatre Arts, Camera Club and Stanstead Broadcasting Service (SBS). He currently works with the Derby Community Service group.

His coaching profile has included multiple activities over many years, mainly in senior boys basketball (22 years) and senior football (22 years), but also including other commitments of various lengths and level of basketball, soccer, rugby and golf. His current coaching assignment is with the senior boys soccer team where he is presently in his 7th year. He is an avid spectator of many athletic events both at home and on the road.

A blend of my passion for academics and athletics

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

Enjoying down time with my girlfriend and our wonderful son, Gabriel.

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me

My parents; Tim and Terry Thompson
My Uncle; Mark Botell
Wayne Gretzky

Other jobs I've had

Residential Don - Appleby College (2010-2012)
Toronto Zoo (high school and university summers)

Certified Athletic Therapist, BSc, Concordia University

At Stanstead College since…
2024

Hometown:
Montreal 

If I had to describe my job it would be...
Always changing. From clinical to field work, I use my knowledge in injury assessment, manual therapy and exercise prescription to help the students and community of Stanstead achieve healthy functional living and through conscious movement. Athletic therapy is for everyone, and movement is medicine. 

When I'm not working at Stanstead I am...
Working in Montreal, and when I'm not working in Montreal I am up north at the cottage, reading by the lake.

Other jobs I've had
Lac St-Louis Soccer Sport-Etude Program, Club Rugby with SABRFC and MIRFC, and LHJAAAQ Montreal Phoenix Hockey. A special mention for working for the CBHSSJB over the summer as they deployed their Mobile Hospital Unit (MHU) for the Eeyou Itschee Summer Games.

A thing you may not know about me...
I was a Girl Guide for 15years.

What I am looking forward to the most at Stanstead College...
Meeting all of its exceptional students.

About
BA Degree from Bishop's University

At Stanstead College since…
2010

Hometown
Montréal, Qc

If I had to describe my job it would be…

Teaching English

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am...

BSc. Actuarial Science, U of T
BA Mathematics and Education, Bishop’s University

At Stanstead College since...
2022

Hometown
Mississauga, ON

If I had to describe my job it would be:
Working with a team of staff, faculty, and students to create a civil community and a safe environment for everyone to find their potential and see the best in themselves.

When I’m not working at Stanstead College, I am:
Playing with my dog, Hannah, reading, watching a movie, cooking

A person/book/song/place/etc. that has inspired me: 
Terry Fox

Other jobs I've had:
Houseparent/Activities Coordinator

Most memorable moment at Stanstead College:
Meeting all the amazing people so far.