Stephen (Steve) Clarke began his Headship on July 1, 2019, joining Armbrae from Ridley College in St. Catharines, Ontario, where he was most recently Deputy Headmaster and Head of Lower School, and where he and his wife Elizabeth (Liz) worked as educators and leaders for 20 years.
At Ridley College, Steve began as Director of Information Technology in 1999 and held increasingly broader leadership roles, focusing on school improvement and community enhancement including Curriculum Director, Head of Academics, Head of Upper School and Head of Lower School. His long list of accomplishments at Ridley include: advancing educational technology; championing professional development; guiding the launch of the globally recognized IB programme; initiating the expansion of the school from a Grade 5-12 to a JK-12 "IB Continuum School"; supporting the development of the Strategic Plan and Master Campus Plan; and shepherding upgrades and enhancements to facilities throughout school. In addition to his leadership contributions at Ridley College, Steve taught in the classroom and coached hockey, sailing and golf.
Stephen Clarke is an Ontario Certified Principal with an academic background in Biochemistry, Honours Bachelor of Science and Master of Science, and a Bachelor of Education, all from the University of Ottawa. Before joining Ridley College, Steve began his career teaching general Science, Biology, Chemistry and Math in Ontario (Ottawa) secondary schools in 1990, and he spent four years at Crestwood School (Toronto) as Director of Information Technology.
Mary-Susan thrives in a fast-paced work environment where each day offers a different challenge. A seasoned Executive Assistant with over 30 years’ experience, she is passionate about delivering exceptional customer and client service. Over the years, she has been actively involved in volunteer work taking her to Guatemala and Cambodia and closer to home, volunteering with Make-A-Wish.
In her off-time, Mary-Susan enjoys reading, camping and exploring new coastlines.
Alyssa Hill, mother of two and current Armbrae parent, joins the Armbrae staff to take on a new role for the school: Director of Finance & Operations. To this role she brings ten years of financial advisory experience in both the private business and non-profit sectors. Designated as a Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Business Valuator, she offers insight and guidance to our school community as we move forward under our strategic plan and uphold our standard for excellence.
Margo Langille: Oxford Campus Administrative Assistant, School Receptionist
I began working at Armbrae September of 2007. Our son had just started Primary and our youngest daughter was in Grade 3 - both at Armbrae Academy. At that time, my husband, Jamie Langille, was a teacher at Armbrae - so joining the team was in fact more like an extension of our family. Over the years, I have worked in the Preschool, as a dedicated Primary Supervisor, and as an assistant to the Administrative Assistant. In 2014, I took over the Administrative Assistant position full-time. I have made incredible friends here at Armbrae, in both the faculty and the parents, and have watched with pride as children whose shoes I once tied in the Lower School have grown to do amazing things in the Middle and Upper School and then graduate and take on the world. What a gift it has been to work in such a vital and energized community!
Denise Smith: Upper School Administrative Assistant, Coburg Campus
Denise grew up in Dartmouth and moved across the bridge to Halifax in her early twenties. She enjoys reading, being by the ocean, and spending time in the UK - but lately has been keeping it to day trips along the coast of Nova Scotia. She studied Sociology at Saint Mary's University, then ended up changing course entirely and attending the Canadian Tourism Institute where she graduated with a diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management. She has worked in Tourism, Admissions at a post-secondary institution, a local newspaper, and most recently spent the last number of years in Finance. Denise often thought she would like to return to an educational environment - so when an opening in administration at Armbrae presented itself, she jumped at the opportunity. Since the fall of 2021, she has been assisting the Head of the Upper School at the Coburg Campus - where she loves the positive atmosphere and is really enjoying getting to know the students and staff.
Jennifer is grateful to be the second oldest of three siblings from a Dutch immigrant family that came through Pier 21 in the mid 1950's. Her mother is where her love of music, gardening and hiking originated. Jennifer's education and work experience led her to becoming part of the Armbrae family as Business Manager which she has enjoyed for the past 19 years.
Suzanne Morrison: Admissions and Marketing Director
Suzanne is a proud Cape Bretoner and even prouder Xavierian. A graduate of St. F.X. University with her Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science, she has spent most of her career in communications. She has worked for Tourism Nova Scotia and several advertising agencies in Halifax, and spent years partnering with her sister in an event management company - Offspring Productions. Offspring produced an annual event in the HRM which was a four-day activity-driven family weekend with a large exhibition component. Suzanne has also been a partner with her husband photographer James Ingram in their production company Jive Photographic Productions for over 20 years. During this time, she became a certified Make-Up Artist to assist with the family business. Suzanne has three sons, Hogan, Redford, and North, the eldest who graduated from Armbrae in 2016. Her strong passion for the school - developed during Hogan's time at Armbrae - combined with her sales and marketing experience, make her a great fit for the role of Admissions and Marketing Director at Armbra. Responsible for the popular quotes on the Armbrae sign, her motto is "Do what you love, love what you do."
Director of the Foundation Years Programme, Primary
Rebecca Cornick: Director of the Foundation Years Programme
Rebecca Cornick has been the PreSchool/PrePrimary Lead Teacher and Director for the last seven years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a concentration in Psychology from Ottawa University, Qualified Teacher Status from School Centred Initial Teacher Training in England, an internationally recognized Montessori Primary Teaching Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of British Columbia and an Early Childhood Education Certificate, Level 3, from the Nova Scotia College of Early Childhood Education.
Rebecca has lived and taught in Ottawa, South Africa, New Zealand and England. She began her career as a Montessori Teacher in 2003 in a small rural school in Cornwall, England. During this time she went back to University to obtain her teacher’s certification. With this new qualification, Rebecca expanded her teaching scope and began working as a Primary teacher in the local public elementary school where she remained for 4 years.
Rebecca returned to Canada in 2008 and soon after opened her own Montessori School in her home. She operated this for several years before she was appointed her dream position as Director of the PreSchool and PrePrimary division of Armbrae in August 2015.
Rebecca is passionate about her curriculum and enjoys the privilege of seeing the students flourish at the beginning of their journey at the school. She has a strong understanding of child development and prides herself on creating a nurturing environment with an educational flair that promotes lifelong learners.
Erin grew up in Prince Edward Island where she began her career. She is a Holland College graduate (Level 2) and former Association of Early Childhood Educators Nova Scotia (AECENS) board member. She has been a proud member of the Armbrae Academy family 2017 and an Early Childhood Educator for more than twenty years. She enjoys running and playing ultimate frisbee and is the coach for the Armbrae Academy ultimate frisbee team.
Erin is passionate about play based learning and early childhood development. Her focus is on supporting positive behavioural development and helping children to form positive relationships with their peers. These principles allow Armbrae students to become strong and empathetic members of the school community. She also loves to incorporate music with her teaching.
The roots to my career began within my family home back in Ontario when my mother began a home childcare business. Growing up in this environment, I quickly discovered a passion for nurturing and educating young minds.
I have been an educator for over 8 years and graduated with high honours from Sheridan College, obtaining a diploma in Early Childhood Education. Of those years, I have 6 years experience teaching at a Private Preparatory Academy in Ontario, with extensive training in both the Jolly Phonics and Handwriting Without Tears Programs. I value curiosity and confidence. I believe that when we encourage curiosity and believe that children are capable, the child develops a willingness to grow, learn and question the world around them.In my free time, I engage in volunteer work as a board member for the Dartmouth Nova Scotia Lacrosse community, or you may find me with my nose in a good novel and enjoying time with family.
Janie Benedict has been an Early Childhood Educator for over eight years, with experience teaching in a variety of settings as well as curriculums. In 2015, she received a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Originally from the United States, Janie moved to Thailand after graduating university, where she received her TESOL diploma (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Over the next two years, she was a Lead English Teacher for multiple kindergarten programs in Thailand. In 2017, she immigrated to Canada with her partner, where she continued working in childcare and teaching private ski lessons in Whistler, BC. After they made the move to Halifax, Janie fell in love with the Montessori Method. She gained invaluable experience teaching in a Montessori environment for several years, and she received her International Montessori Teaching Diploma from the North American Montessori Center in 2020. This experience impressed upon her the importance of a child's sense of independence, and how to best support an organic, student-led love of learning in the classroom. In 2023, she received her Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Nova Scotia Community College.
Janie has called Halifax home for over five years now, and it is here where she developed a love of yoga and movement that she loves to share with the children. She holds a Children's Yoga Teacher Training Certificate, and enjoys teaching her students asana and breathwork through story. She also enjoys playing the flute, piccolo, and ukulele in class and can be known to break out into song at any moment! A few of her top priorities in the classroom are promoting inclusion and diversity, as well as teaching grace and courtesy and care of environment lessons; she believes children learn best when they feel confident, safe, and well oriented in their space. Janie joined the Armbrae community in 2023, where she is currently a lead teacher in the Preschool and PrePrimary class.
Born and raised in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Brittany began working with children at a young age. In 2012 she graduated from NSCC obtaining a Child and Youth care diploma.
Brittany began her career working in a group home facility at Akoma Family Centre. She loved taking on the role of creating recreational and educational activities for the youth to take part in. Brittany took pride in creating a positive safe educational living environment. She has also worked as an Educational Program Assistant with Halifax Regional Center for Education, which gained her focus in personal care, behaviour management, and instructional programming. She strives in positive reinforcement and encourages students to try new things.
Brittany is a loving and caring mother to one and loves spending time with family and friends. She is overjoyed to have joined the Armbrae family in 2023 and looks forward to helping students obtain a positive experience in all aspects of their educational development.
Rebecca Cornick has been the PreSchool/PrePrimary Lead Teacher and Director for the last seven years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a concentration in Psychology from Ottawa University, Qualified Teacher Status from School Centred Initial Teacher Training in England, an internationally recognized Montessori Primary Teaching Diploma from the Montessori Training Centre of British Columbia and an Early Childhood Education Certificate, Level 3, from the Nova Scotia College of Early Childhood Education.
Rebecca has lived and taught in Ottawa, South Africa, New Zealand and England. She began her career as a Montessori Teacher in 2003 in a small rural school in Cornwall, England. During this time she went back to University to obtain her teacher’s certification. With this new qualification, Rebecca expanded her teaching scope and began working as a Primary teacher in the local public elementary school where she remained for 4 years.
Rebecca returned to Canada in 2008 and soon after opened her own Montessori School in her home. She operated this for several years before she was appointed her dream position as Director of the PreSchool and PrePrimary division of Armbrae in August 2015.
Rebecca is passionate about her curriculum and enjoys the privilege of seeing the students flourish at the beginning of their journey at the school. She has a strong understanding of child development and prides herself on creating a nurturing environment with an educational flair that promotes lifelong learners.
Jenny received her Bachelor’s of Science in Early Childhood Development from the University of Tennessee and completed her B.Ed. in Texas. She is currently in the Master of Education program at St. Francis Xavier University, concentrating in early elementary pedagogy. Jenny has taught in early elementary classrooms for over fifteen years. She strives to instill curiosity within her students by helping them develop a love for learning. She is particularly interested in nurturing cultural awareness and appreciation for diversity within her classroom. She believes Armbrae is a vibrant community where students can discover more about themselves, their friends, and our world.
Jenny immigrated to Canada with her partner and daughter in 2017. She has made her home in the Armbrae neighbourhood and, with her family, enjoys being part of community life. They enjoy discovering Halifax on foot and savouring cups of coffee at local cafes.
Caroline is a graduate from Wilfrid Laurier University (BA) and Nipissing University (BEd) through the combined Concurrent Education program.
Caroline has taught both Grades One and Two at Armbrae Academy, and she also runs a Book Club and STEM Club for Grades One and Two. Caroline previously taught in Armbrae’s preschool and was a teaching assistant for Primary and Grade One for two years. She has also taught in England and in public schools.
Caroline returned to Armbrae from the UK because of the Armbrae community, the small class sizes and the supportive learning environment. She is interested in early literacy, inclusive education, hands-on learning and works to apply this to her teaching.
Tariq Thomas is from East Preston, NS and recently graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Bachelor of Education degree at the elementary level. He played university basketball for MSVU and continues to be an assistant coach for the Mystics. As well as teaching, he also is coaching the junior and senior boys basketball team at Armbrea. Teaching and coaching are his passion which is why he is looking forward to adding to the positive energy at Armbrae.
Born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Gracia graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Anthropology, and earned her Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University.
While studying at Dalhousie, Gracia worked in the morning and after school programs at Armbrae, and was the teaching assistant in Grade 2 before leaving to earn her teaching degree. Being at Armbrae everyday, getting to know the students and families, and seeing the school culture, Gracia realized she wanted to be a teacher - a teacher at Armbrae.
Gracia currently teaches Grade 3 where she believes in fostering a positive learning environment, getting to know her students and incorporating their interests into the classroom, and making sure all her students feel like they belong. She also runs the Home for Dinner co-curricular, working with Middle and Upper School students.
Beyond teaching, Gracia enjoys volunteering her time as a committee member for the Halifax Lebanese Festival, and enjoys spending time with her family.
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Criminology (University of Toronto)
• Bachelor of Education (OISE, University of Toronto)
• Masters in Development Economics (Dalhousie University)
• Co-curriculars: Lower School Running Club, Ski/Snowboard Club, Math Kangaroo Club
Kevin has 19 years of experience teaching in independent and public schools, locally, nationally and internationally. He has taught a variety of courses in upper, middle and lower school levels ranging from Precalculus to Economics to Grade 6 Language Arts. At Armbrae Academy, he loves the energizing discussions with young people about important ideas. He also loves helping coach young runners, mathletes and facilitating skiing and snowboarding. Kevin is energized by the enthusiasm of young students and the critical thinking of older students. He continues to love learning while being exposed to new concepts and challenges by students, colleagues and through professional development. With a background in youth work and camp directing, he is also pleased that his current job includes occasionally strumming guitars and a lot of laughter.
Nicole is originally from British Columbia and has worked in education for 23 years. She has worked overseas for 17 years and has taught at international schools in Asia, Canada and South America. She received her BA in Psychology and teaching certificate from Simon Fraser University and has a Master of Science in Education from SUNY University. Living in Beijing during COVID-19, her passion for community wellness became paramount leading her to pursue certification in SEL Leadership. She joins her husband Michael Maki (Guidance at Armbrae) and her daughter, Meleigha (Grade 12 at Armbrae).
Originally from Ontario, Ruthanne has been a teacher since 2012. Prior to joining Armbrae Academy, she taught at Montcrest School, a Kindergarten to Grade 8 school in Toronto. A special education teacher with training in Orton-Gillingham reading remediation, Ruthanne utilizes her skills to reach every learner in her classroom, to find the right amount of support that each student needs to achieve.
Ruthanne attended St. F.X, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in English and Political Science, and then received a Bachelor of Public Relations degree from Mount Saint Vincent University. After working for years in the private sector, Ruthanne rediscovered her passion for education and studied teaching at Niagara University in Ontario, where she graduated with a Magna Cum Laude designation. Since then, she has continued to enhance her practice through acquiring specialties in Reading, and additional qualifications in Writing, Intermediate English, History and Special Education.
As an NCCP certified curling coach, she worked with the Toronto Metropolitan University Women’s team, and co-led a youth curling program at her local curling club. Today, Ruthanne still volunteers at the Mayflower Curling Club as a youth curling instructor.
Born and raised in Halifax, Alice Tosic returned to Halifax after nearly 20 years of living in British Columbia, where she taught at independent schools for over a decade. She holds a Bachelor of Science (University of Victoria) and a Bachelor of Education (University of British Columbia). Passionate in mathematics, she has also obtained a Masters of Education in Mathematics Education (University of British Columbia).
A highlight in Alice’s career thus far was her participation in an action research project initiated by the Independent School Association of British Columbia. Here, she explored innovative ways to engage students in using mathematics to tackle global water issues. She continually strives to make learning not only meaningful, but also relevant to real-world challenges.
Alice is a huge fan of the TV show, "The Price is Right," and enjoys incorporating Bob Barker’s pricing games into classroom lessons. She also spent numerous summers as a residential camp counsellor, guiding youth through outdoor adventures.
Alice finds solace in the great outdoors and experimenting in the kitchen. She is pleased to be a part of the Armbrae community and having the ability to build meaningful relationships with the school’s students and families.
Mme Jo-Anne Brown-Shimeld is a graduate of l'Université de Moncton with a B.Ed. in Preschool-Elementary Education, and at McGill University she earned a Certificate in Teaching a Second Language. She loves the outdoors and is now training to be a Forest & Nature School practitioner to help children discover the natural world around them. She grew up speaking French and English at home and is very grateful to be able to share her mother tongue with her students. She has learned so much from her experience teaching and believes children have so much to teach us. She is very excited to begin Gardening 101 with students in order to get the Armbrae vegetable gardens growing again. She has enjoyed teaching at Armbrae for 20 years because of the spirit of caring in the community and the possibilities that teaching a small class can offer.
In 2012, Dani moved to Nova Scotia from Vancouver Island to take up a teaching position at Armbrae Academy. She possesses a number of French proficiency certificates, as well as extensive training in the specialty of instructing French to young learners. Childhood summers spent on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica ignited Dani’s love of this language and culture while the time she spent teaching in the South-West of France solidified her desire to work in the classroom with children. Dani strongly believes in the importance of language learning to help us break down barriers and to make greater connections with the world around us, and she endeavours to instil this mindset in each of her students. These days, along with her partner, Dani calls Halifax home, and they spend their free time renovating their old house or hiking with their dogs.
• 2010 Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies, Major in Architecture - Cooperative Program. Dalhousie University, Canada.
• 2004 DEA (graduate degree) in Interior Architecture with honours. Lebanese University, Lebanon.
• 1999 Baccalaureate Diploma in Experimental Sciences. Ecole Nationale Orthodoxe, Lebanon.
Rana is a certified Art Teacher with experience educating students of all ages (pre-primary to college). Fluent in Arabic, French and English, Rana specializes in Art, New Technology, Learning technique, Educational Art, History of Art, Autocad and French.
Presently teaching Art and French to pre primary, primary and grade one at Armbrae, she has 13 years of teaching experience teaching Artistic Education to Early Childhood Educators and also various mediums of Art to high school students.
Early in her career, she had her own interior design firm in Lebanon and also worked for Lydon Lynch Architects in Halifax, NS.
Athletic Director, Physical and Health Education(PrePrimary & Primary)
Susan Beazley: Athletic Director, Physical and Health Education (PrePrimary & Primary)
Susan Beazley has been a part of the Armbrae community for over 42 years. She is the Athletic Director and teaches Physical Education to Grades P-2. Susan has coached for over thirty years at various levels from school, club, provincial to university. Sports include basketball, field hockey, soccer, volleyball, badminton and hockey, winning several different championships. Susan is currently on the CAIS Athletic Director’s Executive and is the Chair of Metro High School Athletic Associations. She received her Bachelor of Arts from SMU and worked one year at Sacred Heart before coming to what was then The Halifax Ladies College, now Armbrae. In 2010, she received her Masters in Physical Education and Sport from Drake University and her certificate for Canadian Athletic Administration in 2014. Susan was actively involved with Team Nova Scotia at the Canada Games in ‘05 & in 07 was Chef for Team Nova Scotia. Susan now sits on the Canada Games Management group for Team Nova Scotia.
Susan was inducted into the St. Mary University Sports Hall of Fame for her contribution to women’s sports in 2004. Over the years, she has received many awards including the Nova Scotia Athletic Coaches Service Award and the Dorothy Walker Distinguished Service award for Nova Scotia in 2019
She was also a member of the Nova Scotia Field Hockey team that was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. Susan has had the great pleasure of watching her three children (and now 2 of her 3 grandchildren) grow up at Armbrae Academy.
Inclusion Coordinator, Physical and Health Education (Grades 1 - 4)
Jalynn Skeir: Athletic Director, Inclusion Coordinator, Physical and Health Education (Grades 1 - 4)
Born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Ms. Skeir graduated from Cape Breton University with a B.Sc. (Major in Biology and Minor in Chem and Psych). She later attended Acadia University where she received her B.Ed. - Secondary Division - focus on Science and Physical Education.
During Ms. Skeir's education journey, she was fortunate enough to play a number of years through Basketball Nova Scotia and 5 years of university basketball for CBU where she was part of an AUS Championship team. Throughout her athletic career, Ms. Skeir realized her passion for coaching through her work with BNS whilst achieving her coaching levels. This led her to the opportunity to coach with the Acadia University's Women's team, earning two more AUS championships along the way.
Basketball Director, Physical and Health Education (Grades 5 & 6)
John Tramble: Basketball Director, Physical and Health Education (Grades 5 & 6)
• BA, 2007 & B.ED, 2009 - St.Francis Xavier University
• Co-curriculars: Director of Basketball
From Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Mr. Tramble teaches Physical Education and Health at Armbrae, and he is our Director of Basketball. Mr. Tramble has over 15 years experience, having started teaching elementary/junior high/high school levels in various subjects beginning in Prince George, British Columbia, and moving on to Calgary, Alberta before making the cross Canada tour back to Halifax in 2018. In addition to teaching, Mr. Tramble has coached Basketball at five different universities across Canada, and he has gained a wealth of experience coaching from the grassroots to the provincial and university levels. Mr. Tramble says that “Teaching allows me to get up every morning and do what I love most: to connect, build and inspire with a simple philosophy - Help me, Help you.”
• B.A. Mount Allison university
• B.Ed., Spec.Ed. Acadia University
Sandra has been a part of the Armbrae family for over 30 years. As the Lower School Learning Strategist, her goal is to support students' diverse learning needs (in the classroom, small groups, one-on-one), on their path to becoming engaged life long learners. In the position of librarian, Sandra introduces students to library and research skills that will support their inquiry-based learning. Through her work organizing book fairs and the Battle of the Books team (COVID hiatus notwithstanding), Sandra shares her joy of reading with the Armbrae community. Her co-curricular involvement includes the Lower School sewing club where she is learning new skills along with the students. Armbrae has a great collaborative atmosphere that encourages learning and friendship across grades and divisions which brings a unique sense of community to the school.
Jessica is an actor, writer, director and educator born and based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She believes that theatre is essential for building confidence, social skills and creativity in children and youth. She has written and directed nine Armbrae Jr. School musicals and has directed four successful Armbrae Sr. Drama productions. Jessica was the recipient of the Best Supporting Actress award at the Liverpool International Theatre Festival and was nominated for a Robert Merritt award for her work with The Plutonium Playhouse. Since joining the Armbrae family in 2011, she has worked professionally with Zuppa Theatre, Lunasea Theatre, Villains Theatre and Phyllis Rising Productions and is always looking for opportunities to further her craft and passion for performance.
B.A. Music, Major in Voice
St. Francis Xavier University
Mr. LeBlanc grew up in the Acadian community of West Pubnico, Nova Scotia. In high school, his passion for music flourished and he knew that music would be his life. After graduating from St. FX, he became a voice and piano teacher at the Canadian Conservatory of Music. There he also taught young children in the Musical Friends program and teenagers in the Summer Rock program. In 1993, he became the music teacher at Armbrae Academy. Mr. LeBlanc has composed music for over 20 musical plays. He is in his element with computer technology and is well versed in audio and video production. His co-curricular activities include Garageband and Guitar Mania. Mr. LeBlanc is an active musician in the community and he has directed many choirs and ensembles through the years. Sharing his passion for music is his driving force. Music offers a means of expression that is unique and fulfilling. Active participation in music making is the cornerstone of his music program. Armbrae is a vibrant and supportive community where music, along with a great variety of events and achievements are celebrated.
Originally from Antigonish, NS, Kaitlyn is an enthusiastic and committed new teacher who is eager to be a part of the Armbrae community. Holding a Bachelor of Science with an advanced major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry from St. Francis Xavier University, Kaitlyn's academic journey and experience working in StFX's chemistry labs and as a science and mathematics tutor have fuelled her dedication for science and mathematics education, inspiring her to obtain her Bachelor of Education from StFX in 2023. Beyond the classroom, Kaitlyn is an avid gardener. Her love for indoor gardening has transformed her home into an oasis of lush houseplants, fostering a serene and calming environment which she hopes to mimic in the spaces she shares with the Armbrae community. She also finds joy in activities that bring her closer to water such as kayaking, swimming and exploring the shores of rivers, lakes and oceans. Additionally, she has a creative side which she expresses through various artistic mediums.
Jessica is an actor, writer, director and educator born and based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She believes that theatre is essential for building confidence, social skills and creativity in children and youth. She has written and directed nine Armbrae Jr. School musicals and has directed four successful Armbrae Sr. Drama productions. Jessica was the recipient of the Best Supporting Actress award at the Liverpool International Theatre Festival and was nominated for a Robert Merritt award for her work with The Plutonium Playhouse. Since joining the Armbrae family in 2011, she has worked professionally with Zuppa Theatre, Lunasea Theatre, Villains Theatre and Phyllis Rising Productions and is always looking for opportunities to further her craft and passion for performance.
• B.A. in Human Kinetics, St Francis Xavier University
• B.Ed., St Francis Xavier University
Mr. Brennan comes from a small town in North-Western New Brunswick, where he grew up on a potato farm - learning the values of hard work and accountability. He attended St. FX to follow his academic and athletic aspirations by completing his B.A. in Human Kinetics, his B.Ed. and running for the St. FX varsity track and field team.
During his Bachelor of Education studies, Mr. Brennan specialized in the teachable subjects of Physical Education, French, Social Studies, and Outdoor Education. Mr. Brennan believes that developing relationships with students and allowing them to take an experiential learning approach will best lead to their academic development. He believes that allowing students to engage with material applicable to their everyday lives will significantly improve their course achievement; ultimately leading to their success as a student.
Mr. Brennan runs the table tennis extra-curricular and coaches the Armbrae Track and Field team. His passion for track and field led him to break multiple school and AUS records and to eventually become an assistant sprints and hurdle coach for the St.FX track and field team in his final year of study. He hopes to foster the athletic development of Armbrae students by coaching the Armbrae track and field team.
English 9 & 10-2, African Canadian, Studies 11, Global History 12-2
Paul Carter: English 9 & 10-2, African Canadian, Studies 11, Global History 12-2
• B. Ed., B.A. (Hons), High Distinction - University of Toronto
• Volleyball coach, Duke of Edinburgh Award coordinator, English, Drama
Born and raised in England, Paul has travelled widely, crewed in several ocean yacht races, and is a keen cyclist, avid reader, and writer. He was educated in Bermuda, Oxford, London, and Toronto. After joining the teaching profession, Paul honed his craft for 15 years with the Toronto District School Board and was drawn to Armbrae for its sense of belonging, academic programme, and small class sizes. He particularly enjoys the ability to tailor each class's curriculum to the needs of the students and respond t
Angela was born in the UK but has lived for many years in other countries. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Animation and PGCE in Mathematics. She taught in England for 7 years until catching the travel bug and decided to start looking for a job abroad. Her search helped her to gain a position in the Bahamas. Although she loved her life in the Bahamas, she decided to try a new place to live that would give her a completely different experience and took the opportunity to live and teach in Mongolia. And, now she is in Halifax, loving Nova Scotia where she is very happy and even happier to be teaching at Armbrae.
She is a keen runner and has taken part in many races in the past, raising money and awareness for many charities. She has a passion for arts, crafts and obviously travelling!
In 2012, Dani moved to Nova Scotia from Vancouver Island to take up a teaching position at Armbrae Academy. She possesses a number of French proficiency certificates, as well as extensive training in the specialty of instructing French to young learners. Childhood summers spent on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica ignited Dani's love of this language and culture while the time she spent teaching in the South-West of France solidified her desire to work in the classroom with children. Dani strongly believes in the importance of language learning to help us break down barriers and to make greater connections with the world around us, and she endeavours to instil this mindset in each of her students. These days, along with her partner, Dani calls Halifax home, and they spend their free time renovating their old house or hiking with their dogs.
Math, Head of Department, Math 9-1 & 9-2, Precalculus 11
Krista Ghanekar: Math, Head of Department, Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science (St. Francis Xavier University)
• Masters of Mathematics in Applied Mathematics (University of Waterloo)
• Bachelor of Education (OISE, University of Toronto)
• Co-curriculars: Math Circle, Math Contests and Senior Robotics
With over 15 years of teaching experience, Krista has taught both mathematics and computer science to students ranging from grade 9 to grade 12. She began her teaching career in the Peel District School Board in Mississauga and then moved internationally to teach at Neuchâtel Junior College (CAIS) located in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Krista is a passionate educator who works relentlessly to find ways to help support and improve student success, while at the same time endeavouring to add depth, interest and enrichment to the Math curriculum. Originally from Antigonish, Krista is excited to have returned to her beloved home province, sharing her joy for mathematics with the Armbrae community.
English Language, Arts 8-1 & 8-2, Social Studies 8-2
Yoga 11
Deborah Moore: English, Social Studies, Yoga
• Middle School Teacher (English and Social Studies)
• B.A. (English and Anthropology), Wilfred Laurier University
• B.Ed, University of British Columbia
• M.Ed, University of British Columbia
Deborah grew up in Lunenburg and recently moved back home to Nova Scotia after many years abroad. She started her career teaching in South Korea and China and then spent several years teaching at independent schools in Vancouver, British Columbia. Deborah has held many positions, including Head of the English Department, Instructional Coach for an Enrichment program, and Middle School Curriculum Coordinator.
As an English teacher, Deborah has a keen interest in literature and creative writing. She is a proponent of place-based, cross-curricular learning, and encourages students to make meaningful connections between the texts they read and their own lives. Deborah believes that reading can be a powerful way to cultivate empathy and understanding of others’ perspectives and she sees writing as a tool for self-exploration and discovery.
In her free time, Deborah enjoys hiking, snowboarding, yoga, writing, and relaxing at home with her husband and cat, Mao Mao. She has backpacked through much of the Middle East, Asia, the South Pacific, South America and Africa, and she hopes to see more of Europe in the future.
Science 8-2, Math 8-1 & 8-2, Assistant Athletic Director
Olivia Hodder: Math, Science
Olivia Hodder started her career at Armbrae in July 2020 and teaches in the Middle School. Growing up in Mineville, Nova Scotia, Olivia moved to Ontario at the age of 14 to pursue a high level hockey career. She attended Brock University in Niagara, Ontario, completing the Concurrent Education program in the Middle School division whilst playing on the Women’s Varsity Hockey Team. Olivia specializes in Indigenous Education, Science, and History.
When she is not teaching, Olivia likes to spend her time with her friends, family, and dog, Bauer. She loves to travel and experience new things, as well as playing sports and spending time outdoors.
Olivia strives to establish a welcoming and positive learning environment that promotes risk taking, experiential learning, critical thinking, and an active lifestyle. She is passionate about environmental action and works to portray this in her teachings. Olivia admires the tight knit community that Armbrae has to offer and is grateful to be a part of it.
• B.A. Music, Major in Voice
• St. Francis Xavier University
Mr. LeBlanc grew up in the Acadian community of West Pubnico, Nova Scotia. In high school, his passion for music flourished and he knew that music would be his life. After graduating from St. FX, he became a voice and piano teacher at the Canadian Conservatory of Music. There he also taught young children in the Musical Friends program and teenagers in the Summer Rock program. In 1993, he became the music teacher at Armbrae Academy. Mr. LeBlanc has composed music for over 20 musical plays. He is in his element with computer technology and is well versed in audio and video production. His co-curricular activities include Garageband and Guitar Mania. Mr. LeBlanc is an active musician in the community and he has directed many choirs and ensembles through the years. Sharing his passion for music is his driving force. Music offers a means of expression that is unique and fulfilling. Active participation in music making is the cornerstone of his music program. Armbrae is a vibrant and supportive community where music, along with a great variety of events and achievements are celebrated.
Originally trained as an architect, Kate holds a BFA and BArch from the Rhode Island School of Design as well as a Certificate for International School Counseling from Lehigh University. After working as an architect in San Francisco, she followed her teacher boyfriend, now husband, overseas and became a teacher of Visual Arts, Design and Technology, Math and Science as well as serving as a school counselor. Kate is an accomplished IB Visual Arts teacher and examiner and has been Head of Arts in various schools. She is passionate about inspiring students as she believes talent follows pursued interest. Since 1998, she has taught at schools in Germany, Czechia, Turkey, USA, Tanzania and Somaliland. A dual national American/Canadian, she is excited to be back in Canada closer to her older children who have returned home for university. She joins Armbrae with her youngest son Bannen who is in grade 8.
Canadian History 11, AP Euro History, AP Economics, Global History - 12
Andrew Creighton, History & Economics
Andrew is from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He majored in Political Science and History at Saint Mary’s University and obtained his Bachelor's in Education from Memorial University. He specializes in teaching history, entrepreneurship, and economics courses to Upper School students.
Andrew strives to create engaging lessons and discussions that foster a deep understanding of economic concepts and historical events to empower students to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
When not teaching, Andrew enjoys mountain biking and spending time with his family.
Kim has a BS with honours from the University of Miami with a double major in Marine Science and Biology, and a MS in Oceanography from the University of Delaware. She recently completed an M.Ed. in teaching students with diverse learning needs and exceptionalities. She enjoys applying what she’s learned to her teaching practice and in her role as Learning Strategist in the Middle and Upper School. Kim believes in helping each learner recognize and maximize their unique strengths and in building strong relationships between students, families, and school staff.
Advanced Math 10-1, 10-2, Precalculus 12, Calculus 12
Cynthia Perry: Mathematics
Cynthia enjoys the challenge and beauty of mathematics, inspiring her to earn a master’s degree in the subject. Cynthia is an Upper School math and calculus teacher, and she has also taught Upper School English, her other academic specialty. Cynthia has worked in both the public and the independent school systems, and she has previously held administrative positions in addition to her classroom assignments. In both roles, she enjoys working with students, parents, and colleagues. Cynthia tries to encourage an enthusiasm for learning while helping students recognize and celebrate their success. As an Upper School teacher, she strives to challenge students and prepare them for the rigorous courses they will encounter beyond Armbrae.
IT Director, Computer Science 10, Applied Computer Science 12, AP Computer Science Principles 1 & 2
Alex Rhinelander: IT Director, Computer Science
• A.B. cum laude in Anthropology (Archaeology), Harvard College, 1985
• M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning (Technology in Education)
• Harvard Graduate School of Education, 2001
My ‘first career’ was in archaeology, where I specialised in later European prehistory and worked in France and the UK. In 1992 I moved back to Boston, my home town, and changed my focus to teaching at the high school level. I taught Computer Science and served as a Technology Director at boarding and day schools in New England before accepting the position of Director of Technology at Armbrae and moving to Halifax in 2009.
At Armbrae, my job includes teaching students of a variety of ages as well as supporting teachers in their use of instructional technology. I love the variety that every day brings and the challenge of navigating the always-changing waters of technology. I also love helping students to become creators, rather than consumers, of technology.
Outside of school, my passions are sailing with my family in our 41-year-old wooden schooner COMET II and volunteering with the Canadian Ski Patrol.
Born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Ms. Skeir graduated from Cape Breton University with a B.Sc. (Major in Biology and Minor in Chem and Psych). She later attended Acadia University where she received her B.Ed. - Secondary Division - focus on Science and Physical Education.
During Ms. Skeir's education journey, she was fortunate enough to play a number of years through Basketball Nova Scotia and 5 years of university basketball for CBU where she was part of an AUS Championship team. Throughout her athletic career, Ms. Skeir realized her passion for coaching through her work with BNS whilst achieving her coaching levels. This led her to the opportunity to coach with the Acadia University's Women's team, earning two more AUS championships along the way.
• BA, 2007 & B.ED, 2009 - St.Francis Xavier University
• Co-curriculars: Director of Basketball
From Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Mr. Tramble teaches Physical Education and Health at Armbrae, and he is our Director of Basketball. Mr. Tramble has over 15 years experience, having started teaching elementary/junior high/high school levels in various subjects beginning in Prince George, British Columbia, and moving on to Calgary, Alberta before making the cross Canada tour back to Halifax in 2018. In addition to teaching, Mr. Tramble has coached Basketball at five different universities across Canada, and he has gained a wealth of experience coaching from the grassroots to the provincial and university levels. Mr. Tramble says that “Teaching allows me to get up every morning and do what I love most: to connect, build and inspire with a simple philosophy - Help me, Help you.”
Head of Department - English, Advanced English 11 & 12, English Plus 9 & 10
Shelley Thomas: English, Film Studies
Shelley Thomas is an award-winning teacher, writer, and artist. She has received international recognition for her contribution to ideas in education, and has worked with Greenpeace, the UN, and with schools throughout Europe, South and North America.
Thomas is a graduate of McGill University (MA), the University of Western Ontario (BA), and the University of Toronto (B.Ed). She served as Head of English at Ridley College (Ontario) and then as head of English and Dramatic Arts at Neuchâtel Junior College (Switzerland) before relocating to Nova Scotia with her surf-loving husband and dog.
A lifelong beachcomber, Thomas has a deep love and affinity for the ocean, its creatures, and their preservation. She actively combs the shores of the Great Lakes, the North Sea, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans where she scours tidelines for artifacts, fossils, flotsam, marine flora and fauna to photograph and research. Currently, she is completing work on a beachcombing memoir that covers a sabbatical year of treasure hunting on fabled shorelines around the world.
Favourite authors include Mary Oliver, Helen MacDonald, Maria Popova, and her Armbrae students.
English Language Arts 7-1 & 7-2, Social Studies 7-1 & 7-2
Ben Ur: English, Social Studies
Mr. Benjamin Ur is from Halifax, Nova Scotia and is teaching Social Studies, English, and EAL at Armbrae. Mr. Ur majored in History and Political Science at Dalhousie University and received a Bachelor of Education degree from Acadia University.
He had a successful athletic career with the Dalhousie Men's Soccer team and was named CIS All-Canadian in his final year. His passion for the sport took him to Israel, where he pursued a professional soccer career and competed in the top divisions in the country for eight years. Mr. Ur is now involved heavily in the local soccer community, having worked with Dartmouth United Soccer Club and the Acadia Women's/Men's program. As a graduate of Armbrae, Mr. Ur is extremely excited to be back and begin his teaching career with us. He has been passionate about sharing his soccer expertise in the school's co-curricular activities by providing students of all ages and abilities with the opportunity to enjoy the world's sport. Mr. Ur believes that Armbrae is a unique community that cares deeply about all of its students that enter its building and remains supportive of those individuals in their future endeavours, wherever that may take them.
Paul grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan with a passion for wrestling, sailing and diving. He attended the University of Saskatchewan to study biology. He also trained as a combat engineer with the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering. By the end of his undergraduate degree, Paul was instructing military courses with 38th Brigade Battleschool and an acting Troop Warrant for the 38 Combat Engineer Regiment.
In 2014, Paul left Canada to teach, travel and dive in the Middle East with Toni, his best friend and finance. Paul returned to Canada and moved to Vancouver to take classes in Education and instruction with 39th Brigade Battleschool for one year. Since convocating with his E.Ed. in Secondary Science from the University of British Columbia, Paul and Tonie married and have been teaching, traveling and cave diving in Mexico and the Caribbean. Sailing back to Canada from Bonaire in 2022, and enjoying every stop along the way, has been a highlight of his travels, before happily settling in Halifax near the sea.
Head of Interdisciplinary Department, Citizenship 9-1 & 9-2, Leadership 9-1 & 9-2,
Jamie-Lynn Wilkinson: Social Studies, Citizenship, Leadership
• BA (Saint Mary's University- Political Science Major)
• B.Ed. (Mount Saint Vincent University)
Jamie-Lynn Wilkinson is from the Acadian municipality of Clare, Nova Scotia, a beautiful seaside community known for its language, music, and seafood. She teaches Social Studies and English Language Arts at Armbrae Academy and is consistently impressed with student motivation for success and their genuine curiosity for learning. Jamie-Lynn’s love for teaching first began in Phnom Penh, Cambodia while volunteering for a non-governmental organization aiding vulnerable girls. It was there that she gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the power of education and decided to become a fully qualified teacher. Soon after earning a Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University, she moved to London, England where she spent two years teaching at a secondary school and travelling Europe as much as possible. When she returned home to Nova Scotia she was employed with the Halifax Regional Centre for Education and eventually by Armbrae Academy. Jamie-Lynn continues to actively volunteer in her own community and enjoys bringing her world experience to the classroom to inspire students to become engaged global citizens.
Ryan has been a teacher at Armbrae Academy since 2006. Over those years, he has taught Upper School English, Middle and Upper school Science, Career Education, and Grade 11 Biology. He was the CAIS Coordinator for our most recent CAIS accreditation review, and has served on numerous committees over the years, from professional development event coordination to staff representation on the Board of Governors. He has also coached the hockey team and the snowboarding team.
He holds an MFA in Creative Nonfiction from King's University College, and has published his first book in 2018. In May, 2024, his second book, Captain Solitude, will be published by Goose Lane Editions. He recently taught a Travel Memoir course through King's, and has been active in their MFA program, hosting coffee chats and book club events. He is a member of both the Writers Federation of Nova Scotia and the Writers' Council.
His passions, outside of his family and teaching, are surfing and writing. He aspires to continue deepening his place in the Nova Scotia surf scene, and he hopes to write a third book in the near future. As an educator, he subscribes to the adage, "Students will not remember what you taught them, but how you made them feel." He hopes to continue building positive relationships with his students, elevating their voices and creative confidence.
Head of Guidance & University Counselling, Career Ed 11 & 12
Michael Maki: Guidance
Michael is originally from British Columbia and has 20+ years of experience as a University Advisor having worked in South America, Asia as well in Canada in both IB and AP based schools. He has an undergraduate from Simon Fraser University and a graduate degree from University of California. Los Angeles. The celebration of individual achievements are his personal motivator as an education. Outside of education, he loves seafood, reading and the outdoors. He will join Armbrae with his wife (an elementary teacher now at Armbrae) and his daughter Meleigha (a grade 12 student at Armbrae) and his two cats.
