French

Mrs. Kani Matobo-Mackita (Madame Kani)

I grew up in Paris, France, where I did most of my education. I have been teaching for the past 15 years. I taught at French Immersion for two years, a French School for nine years and three years at a Montessori school, teaching PK to Grade 8.

I went to Tower Hamlets University in London, UK where I lived for 8 years. And this led to my career in education. I obtained my (MEEF French) with a diploma and Certificate of Pre-School Practice which led to my educational credentials of teaching. I studied at Humber College and received a Certificate of Children’s Mental Health, and also obtained a RECE diploma. I have a passion for traveling and spending time with my family. I love watching movies, going on long walks, and reading French authors.

I have the privilege of working in a profession that makes a difference in the lives of children of all ages. It is a pleasure to be working with an amazing and welcoming team. It is my goal to provide all students with a welcoming, fun, empowering environment full of learning.

Mrs. Zaina Semmaoui (Madame Zaina)

I graduated from Laval University, Quebec, obtaining a master’s degree in education and a Certificate of Aptitude for Specialized Teaching of a Second Language. I also hold a B.A. degree majoring in English Language. I have experience working with different grade levels from JK to Grade 10 in public and private schools.

I am passionate about positive motivation in the classroom, as well as in life. Positivity can help children reach their full potential. I am excited about working with your children at Northstar Montessori school. I believe that every student is capable of learning and growing. I see the value in allowing students the opportunity to see mistakes and imperfections as part of the process of growing. There are various types of learners and keeping every student excited and engaged about learning is essential; creating an environment that students feel a part of, safe, welcomed, and supported. I am excited to rejoin and once again be a part of the fabulous Northstar team.

Art

Ms. Amrita Virdi

I studied Studio Arts and Art History at the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, earning my Bachelor of Arts. In my teaching, I love to bring the fine arts experience into the classroom by introducing students to a variety of high-quality materials and techniques. We explore painting, drawing, and sculpture using traditional methods, while also incorporating contemporary approaches and lessons drawn from art history to spark curiosity and creativity.

My teaching style is supportive and dynamic. I encourage students to trust their ideas, experiment freely, and take pride in their work. I value the process of making just as much as the final piece and strive to create an environment where students feel inspired, confident, and excited to express their own artistic voice.

At Northstar Montessori, I’m excited to continue fostering creativity and imagination while building a space where art feels meaningful, joyful, and accessible to everyone.

Music

Ms. Adina Vlasov – Early Years Music Instructor

Adina is also an alumnus of Northstar Montessori. Adina is an award-winning songwriter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist who has been teaching music to children of all ages for over a decade. She uses a creativity-driven approach, placing equal emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and intuitive learning through movement, ear-training, and exploration.

She graduated with honours from Humber College’s Bachelor of Music program in 2022, majoring in voice, and has also earned her RCM Level 9 in piano. With experience in a multitude of genres including folk, jazz, rock, pop, funk, country, classical and musical theatre, Adina brings versatility and enthusiasm to her lessons.

Outside of teaching, she performs throughout the GTA and Muskoka, serves on the Mississauga Music Board of Directors, and has garnered over one million streams under her artist project, Adina V. She believes music and arts education offer a beautiful outlet for expression while fostering lifelong confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Mr. Brandon Gregory – Elementary Music Instructor

Brandon Gregory is a University Educated musician, who has been performing, recording, and composing music professionally for over fifteen years. He attended High School at St. Thomas Aquinas in Brampton Ontario, where he successfully completed his diploma through the schools Regional Arts Program in Instrumental Music. Upon receiving a scholarship to study Jazz Guitar at the University of Windsor, Brandon joined the school’s chamber choir in addition to studying under several Detroit based guitar professors.

Since graduating, Brandon has performed hundreds of live performances in Canada and around the world, with several cover and original bands. He has been writing and recording original material since 2009 and has had the pleasure of working with producers such as Gilby Clarke (Formerly of Guns n Roses), Gavin Brown, Jeff Pilsen, Keith Nelson, Taylor Locke, Marlon Young and Al Sutton. Currently, Brandon is a touring musician for hire, and a creative collaborator with up-and-coming Canadian rock artist Charlie Edward.

Computer

Mr. Ekam Singh

I will be teaching Communications Technology. My teaching philosophy is simple: technology should never replace human connection — it should strengthen it. In my classroom, I use coding, AI, UX design, and digital storytelling not just as skills to learn, but as tools for students to collaborate, express themselves, and see technology as something that connects people rather than divides them.

I believe learning should feel hands-on, creative, and meaningful. Students in my class are encouraged to experiment, ask questions, and see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators. Role-play activities, design challenges, and real-world projects help bring abstract ideas to life in ways that are both fun and empowering.

Outside the classroom, I am active in the community through philosophy clubs and reflective dialogue groups, where people of all ages come together for deep conversations about life, meaning, and connection. I bring that same spirit of curiosity and reflection into my teaching — encouraging the community not only to build technical skills, but also to think critically and introspectively about the world they are helping to shape.

Above all, I want students and families to know that my classroom is a place of trust, exploration, and connection. Technology is the medium, but people are always at the heart of the learning.

Physical Education

Mr. Tramar Sutherland

Hi, I am Mr. Sutherland, your new Phys. Ed teacher! I have always had a passion for sports and a competitive drive that pushes me to be my best—and I love bringing that same energy to my students. For me, sports are more than just games; they build community, character, and lifelong skills. I went into teaching to give back to the next generation of athletes and to make a positive impact in the community that helped shape me.

Aquatics Supervisor

Miss Anastasiia Medvedieva

My name is Anastasiia Medvedieva, but my students know me as Miss Ana.

I have been swimming all my life, started synchronize swimming at 6 years of age and competed for 9 years. I currently hold my First Aid, Freediving AIDA level 3, PADI rescue diver certificates. I am also an experienced, trained and certified diver and freediver.

I consider myself to be very kind, empathetic, and understanding. I like to think I’m quite responsible, nurturing and patient, but stern when needed. My method of teaching is about building relationships with my swimmers. I really enjoy having fun in the water while still ensuring all my students are learning and safe. I feel that trust is the most important foundation with any relationship, and I prioritize gaining that with each and every student I meet! I like to motivate children through encouraging words and giving them something to look forward to, such as swim-related games at the end of a lesson.

I have visited and lived in different countries around the world, and I enjoy learning about their cultures. I speak four languages: English, Ukraine, Russian and Chinese (Mandarin).

My Life is one exciting adventure, and I want to know more about yours!