Christopher H. Grieve

Head of School

Mr. Grieve has devoted his entire career to education; he has worked as a teacher, Principal and Headmaster in a selection of renowned independent schools. He taught at Upper Canada College and Crescent School, served as Principal of Northmount School, and joined Fieldstone as the school´s first Headmaster in 2002. As a teacher, Mr. Grieve has experience at the elementary and senior levels and has taught Science, Mathematics, English, Physical Education and Career Studies. He holds degrees in Psychology and Physical and Health Education from Queen´s University and a Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. In addition, Mr. Grieve earned a diploma in Independent School Leadership from the Canadian Association of Independent Schools (CAIS).While growing up in Toronto, Mr. Grieve attended private and public schools and competed in elite athletics. He is married to Lindsay and has two daughters, Natalie and Alexandra. christopher.grieve@aberdeenhall.com

Grant Ozechowski

Director of the Senior School and Teacher of Language Arts

After completing his Undergraduate Degree in English and History at the University of Western Ontario, Mr. Ozechowski earned a Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, Scotland. He completed his Masters Degree in Education at the University of Calgary. Since entering the teaching profession, Mr. Ozechowski has acquired extensive experience teaching students ranging from Grade 7 to Grade 12. He takes pride in designing lessons that inspire students to stretch their minds, and challenges them to evolve as learners. Mr. Ozechowski strives to build a classroom environment in which each student feels capable, connected, contributing and cared for. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. grant.ozechowsky@aberdeenhall.com

Susanne Raye

Director of Admissions & Dean of Students

Mrs. Raye received a Bachelor of Arts Honours, major in Anthropology and a minor in Tribal Art, from the University of East Anglia, UK. Following eight years in human resources and international banking, Mrs. Raye entered the field of education and earned a post-graduate certificate in Secondary Education specializing in Humanities, a diploma in Teaching Support for Special Educational Needs, and a diploma in Early Childhood Education. She worked at Blenheim High School in Epsom, Surrey, UK for four years before immigrating to Canada. Mrs. Raye’s dual role at Aberdeen Hall as Director of Admissions and teacher of Social Studies provides her the opportunity to exercise the many skills gained during her career. She loves teaching Geography and History and helping children to become global citizens. Mrs. Raye is a keen field hockey player and a Level One Coach. She enjoys horse riding, skiing, tennis and walking her dogs with her husband and three children.  susanne.raye@aberdeenhall.com

Leitha Cosentino

Director of Advancement

Mrs. Cosentino is responsible for helping Aberdeen Hall to continue to grow through marketing and funds development.  Mrs. Cosentino holds an Honours BA with a double major in Mass Communications and Sociology from York University.  After graduating from university she worked in advertising in Denver, CO before returning home to Kelowna and working to better the community with United Way.  Mrs. Cosentino is also a Mentor Big Sister and has a passion for education, children and development. You can find Mrs. Cosentino on the ski hill, biking up Knox Mtn, volunteering, or playing on the beach with her husband and two children in her spare time. leitha.cosentino@aberdeenhall.com

Stephen Acree

Senior School, Social Studies and Language Arts, Grade 9 Homeroom Teacher

Mr. Acree holds two Bachelor degrees; the first in Theology from Briercrest Schools, and the second from the University of Saskatchewan in Education. He is fascinated by the world and is an avid reader; hence his passion for teaching Social Studies and Language Arts. Mr. Acree brings a calm, affirming presence to his students which encourages each to excel in his or her own unique way. Whether backpacking, camping, cross-country skiing, or mountain biking, Mr. Acree enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. On his days off, you’ll find him savouring a cup of coffee with his wife, Jacqui and his son, Samuel. stephen.acree@aberdeenhall.com

Geoffrey Bosdet

Senior Math, Science, IT and Grade 7 Homeroom Teacher

Geoff Bosdet comes to us most recently from Crofton House School in Vancouver where he taught Physics and Science. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics and Mathematics before going on to receive a Bachelor of Education specializing in Physics, Science and Mathematics Education from UBC Vancouver. As a Shad Valley Alumni, math contest enthusiast, and former member of Mensa, Geoff is a bit of a nerd and not shy about it. He is very interested in enrichment learning and inspiring wonder and curiosity about how the world around us works. On a given day off you’d find Geoff trying out parkour, rock climbing, judo, mountain biking, or just engaging in general physical training.  geoffrey.bosdet@aberdeenhall.com

Ashley Bryden

Senior School Maths, Grade 8 Homeroom Teacher

Ms. Bryden graduated from Thompson Rivers University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics as well as a Bachelor of Education specializing in Math and Science from UBC-Okanagan. She has always had a great passion for math and for helping others to understand and enjoy the subject as much as she does. Ms. Bryden is excited to be a part of Aberdeen Hall where she will work to inspire in her students a positive attitude towards math and learning in general and to help students become curious and critical citizens. Ms. Bryden enjoys all aspects of the outdoors and loves to discover new areas of the Okanagan to explore with her partner, Michael, and dog, Oscar. ashley.bryden@aberdeenhall.com

Reagan Church

Grade 4 Teacher

Ms. Church received her Bachelor of Education from the University of Victoria, specializing in History and English. She began her career in the Shuswap region of BC. Ms. Church’s experience in teaching ranges from Grades 4 to 6. She enjoys coaching school team sports and assists with the Yearbook Committee. Ms. Church encourages a team-like approach to learning in her classroom, creating an environment where students assist one another to achieve their goals. She enjoys playing a variety of sports, cooking and baking, and traveling with her family. reagan.church@aberdeenhall.com

Jennifer Cowling

Humanities Teacher

Ms. Cowling is originally from Vancouver, BC, but hasn’t looked back since moving to Kelowna in 2009. Ms. Cowling completed her Bachelor of Arts at Simon Fraser University in 2006, specializing in her favourite two subjects: English Literature and 20th Century History. She spent an incredible year teaching English in Palermo, Sicily, before moving to Kelowna to complete her Bachelor of Education at UBC Okanagan. When she does not have her nose buried in a book, Ms. Cowling enjoys exploring the outdoors with her partner, Ritchie.  jennifer.cowling@aberdeenhall.com

Meghan Dunn

Grade 3 Teacher

Miss Dunn is a graduate from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, and holds a Bachelor of Education Degree, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree with a Major in Anthropology and a Minor in English. Meghan completed her Education degree in 2008 and was nominated for the Maxwell Cameron Award for teaching excellence in her final practicum. Since she graduated, Meghan has obtained a variety of educational experiences, as she taught an array of primary and intermediate subjects. Meghan also worked as an educational facilitator for a government program called “Sip Smart”, in which she visited 8 local schools and taught a program about sugar sweetened beverages and nutrition. Meghan is originally from Castlegar B.C. and has lived in Kelowna since 2003. She enjoys taking in all of the local attractions, and enjoys bike riding, hiking, and visiting local historical sites and museums in her spare time. Meghan is a strong believer in character building and positive reinforcement in her classroom. She employs a “hands on” approach whenever possible, and encourages and motivates her students on a daily basis. Meghan is extremely happy living in the Okanagan, and is enthusiastic about being a part of the wonderful school community at Aberdeen Hall. meghan.dunn@aberdeenhall.com

Jessica Gareau

Resource Assistant

jessica.gareau@aberdeenhall.com

Mr. John-Michael Gareau

Teacher of Physical Education and Grade 5

Mr. Gareau is a graduate of the University of Victoria specializing in Physical Education. John-Michael has recently come to Aberdeen Hall after teaching at the St. Michaels University School, Victoria BC, as a physical education and coaching specialist. He carries a background of competitive freestyle skiing and professional ski coaching as well as coaching numerous school sports. He is looking forward to expanding the Physical Education department and developing the athletics programme at Aberdeen Hall. John-Michael believes in a student-centered teaching philosophy where all students are given the opportunity to excel. Outside of teaching, John-Michael enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. john.gareau@aberdeenhall.com

Daphne O'Sullivan

Resource Assistant

jessica.gareau@aberdeenhall.com

Ryan Hannan

Grade 4 Teacher

Mr. Hannan has completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in English as well as a Bachelor of Education Degree focusing on Elementary Teaching from the University of British Columbia. Mr. Hannan was born and raised in Kelowna. He is a part of a strong family tradition of teaching. Mr. Hannan has worked with youth and recreation for the city of Kelowna since 2005. He is excited to be part of the physical education department at Aberdeen Hall. Mr. Hannan believes in creating a happy, healthy, positive learning atmosphere. He has two daughters and enjoys running, cycling, reading, writing, photography, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. ryan.hannan@aberdeenhall.com

Dr. Barbara Hofmann

Teacher of Science and Grade 6

Dr. Hofmann graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Education specializing in Science. Upon completing her B. Ed., Dr. Hofmann taught Grades Four to Seven for three years at a Montessori school in Vancouver specializing in hands-on, constructivist learning. Prior to becoming a teacher, Dr. Hofmann completed a Ph. D. in Civil Engineering and worked as an engineering consultant for six years. Dr. Hofmann applies both her experience and her passion for mathematics and science in helping students learn how to solve real life problems and develop critical thinking skills. In her spare time, Dr. Hofmann enjoys the outdoors and participating in triathlons. She believes that “the mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be ignited” – Plutarch. barbara.hofmann@aberdeenhall.com

Christina Kuhn

Grade 3 Teacher

Ms. Kuhn graduated from the University of British Columbia-Okanagan with a Bachelor of Education specializing in Elementary Teaching. During her undergraduate degree, she spent a semester abroad in Southern Australia where she studied French and Anthropology at the University of Adelaide. Born and raised in Penticton, Christina truly calls the Okanagan Valley her home. Ms. Kuhn was highly influenced by many of her elementary teachers and knew from a very young age that she too would teach. She strongly believes that all students have the ability to succeed in a safe, positive, and structured environment and strives to engage her students through hands-on learning.  One of her greatest passions (aside from teaching) is dancing. Christina is professionally trained in various forms of dance and her highlights include performing in Disneyland and Tokyo City. She plans to incorporate her love for the arts through both the Drama program as well as co-curricular activities. In her spare time, Ms. Kuhn enjoys reading, camping, and spending quality time with family and friends. She is thrilled to be a part of Aberdeen Hall.  christina.kuhn@aberdeenhall.com

Morven McClean

Kindergarten Teacher

Although originally from the Okanagan, Miss McClean received her Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. She received a Generalist Degree in Elementary Education, with a minor in Psychology.

Miss McClean taught in the Vernon School District before being fortunate enough to work in a private school in London, England.

While in London she taught Kindergarten and was the Co-coordinator for the Early Years program (Nursery to Grade 2).  She is extremely excited to be back in the Okanagan and is even more excited to be teaching at Aberdeen Hall.  Miss McClean plans to make the most of the Okanagan outdoors by playing some of her favourite sports such as soccer and golf! morven.mcclean@aberdeenhall.com

Kirsty McElroy

Grade 7 Homeroom Teacher and French Teacher Grades 2 and 4 to 10

Ms. McElroy graduated from the University of British Columbia in Kelowna with degrees in Science,French and Education. She has been certified in the Accelerative Integrated Method (AIM) for Second Language Teachers and is thrilled to share her enthusiasm for this innovative approach to learning French with her students. Ms. McElroy believes in a learning environment that is both well structured and fun, allowing students to reach their full potential. Ms. McElroy is a certified coach with BC Athletics and coaches the Junior Development team for the Kelowna Track and Field Club. She encourages extra-curricular activities, including both sports and clubs, as a part of a complete education. Ms. McElroy has come to Kelowna to pursue her career as an educator after working for six years in radiology at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. She is very excited to be joining the community at Aberdeen Hall. kristy.mcelroy@aberdeenhall.com

Christine Moore

Junior Music Teacher

Christine Moore graduated from the University of Victoria with a degree in music, history and human development. In 1997, she began her training in Early Childhood Music at the Victoria Conservatory of Music and studied Orff Music for Elementary Children at the University of British Columbia. She has been teaching children’s music since 1997 at the Victoria Conservatory, Rotary Centre for the Arts and Kelowna Community Music School. She also performs flute professionally with the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra and various other chamber groups in the Okanagan. In her spare time, you can find Mrs. Moore cheering on her 2 daughters and husband at karate tournaments, soccer games and piano recitals.  orchardflotist@gmail.com

Madelaine Nichvalodoff

Preschool Teacher

Mrs. Nichvalodoff is a graduate of The College of New Caledonia, Early Childhood Education Program in Prince George, BC. She has nearly 30 years experience in the daycare and preschool settings and over ten years teaching the Montessori programme. Mrs. Nichvalodoff finds great joy in group environments, planning educational field trips, planning enhanced hands-on activities and singing age appropriate songs with instruments and movement games. She encourages independence and promotes a healthy learning environment. Mrs. Nichvalodoff brings a gentle, caring approach and attitude to teaching young children. She is very active outside school, enjoying gardening, swimming, mountain climbing, canoeing, hiking, dog walking and traveling with her husband and two sons.  madelaine.bencher@aberdeenhall.com

Alyson O´Connor

Kindergarten and French Teacher Kindergarten to Grade 2

Mrs. O´Connor graduated from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec with a Bachelor of Science (Major: Biology, Minor: Biotechnology) and a Master of Science (Genetics). She spent a year as a full–time volunteer Biology teacher in Namibia, Africa before obtaining her Post–Graduate Certificate in Education (Primary) in Edinburgh, Scotland. She has been teaching for the last 6 years in Edinburgh, gaining a wide range of experience from Kindergarten through Grade 4, including teaching French as a second language. Having just recently relocated to Kelowna from Scotland with her husband and young daughter, Mrs. O´Connor is excited to be joining Aberdeen Hall. In her spare time she enjoys camping, a variety of outdoor activities and horseback riding.  alyson.oconnor@aberdeenhall.com

Nancy O’Neil

Preschool Teacher and Daycare Supervisor

Mrs. O’Neil is a graduate of the Okanagan College, Early Childhood Education Programme and the Human Services Worker Programme.  She has a Preschool/Kindergarten Montessori Teaching Diploma. Mrs. O’Neil is very experienced in Early Childhood Education, having worked in childcare for over twenty years, including managing several programmes. She enjoys working with children, helping them to develop the skills they will need for their future years at school. In her spare time, Mrs. O’Neil enjoys skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and wakeboarding and hiking in the summer. nancy.oneil@aberdeenhall.com

Lauren Pighin

Grade 1 Teacher

Mrs. Pighin holds a professional teaching certificate and Bachelor of General Studies Degree from Simon Fraser University. While attending SFU, she received several scholarships including the SFU Alumni Scholarship, and the SFU Open Undergraduate Scholarship. Mrs. Pighin is a Grade 1 specialist; however, she enjoys working with elementary children of all ages. In addition to her classroom assignment, she is involved in coaching volleyball, basketball, track and field and primary games. Mrs. Pighin also organizes events such as the Terry Fox Run, Jump Rope for Heart, and various theme days. In her spare time, she likes to walk along the beach, read and visit with friends.  lauren.pighen@aberdeenhall.com

Dalyce Romaniuk

Preschool and Daycare Assistant

Teacher Dalyce recently completed the ECE program at the Vancouver Career College.  She is very passionate about children and has gained valuable experience as a volunteer with children aged 0-6 years through the Success By 6 and Strong Start Programs as well as with the Kelowna Childcare Society and Bridge Youth Family Services. Teacher Dalyce believes in empowering young minds through love and encouragement so that children may grow up feeling important in life and have the courage to make a difference. Her guidance and caring approach promotes independence and teamwork. When she is not at work or in school teacher Dalyce enjoys bike riding, playing with her daughter and camping. dalyce.romaniuk@aberdeenhall.com

Jessica Sales

Grade 2 Teachers

Ms. Sales graduated from Thompson Rivers University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in English, with a minor in Political Science. She then pursued her dream of becoming a teacher and obtained her Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, specializing in Elementary Education. Ms. Sales strives to create a joyful, positive learning environment, and works to motivate and encourage her students daily. Jessica is an avid reader, a passion she hopes to instill in her students. In her spare time Ms. Sales also enjoys hiking, camping and kayaking and knitting. Ms. Sales is very excited to be a part of the Aberdeen Hall community.  jessica.sales@aberdeenhall.com

Jasmine Scherz

Grade 2 Teacher

Mrs. Scherz received her Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. She has known from a young age that she would become a teacher. Her specialization is in Elementary Education, with a focus on the arts and physical education. Mrs. Scherz began her career in Kelowna and surrounding areas. Her teaching experience spans Kindergarten to Grade 12. Mrs Scherz is very passionate about teaching and encourages cooperative and independent learning in her dynamic classroom. She is an avid reader and works to inspire this same love within her students. In her spare time Mrs Scherz enjoys hiking, camping and playing tennis. She is very excited to be a part of Aberdeen Hall. jasmine.gill@aberdeenhall.com

Julia Schram

Resource Assistant

Mrs. Schram was born and raised in Rhodesia, (now Zimbabwe) She attended The University Of Cape Town and earned a Bachelor Of Arts degree.  She went on to obtain a postgraduate certificate in education, also from the University Of Cape Town. She worked at a remedial teaching centre in Cape Town before immigrating to Canada.  Mrs. Schram has worked in the education field in Kelowna since 2000.  She later went on to complete her C.E.A. certificate at Okanagan College.  She is also a certified assistant E.C.E educator and special needs and infant/toddler educator. Mrs. Schram loves working with children, particularly in meeting their needs, both academically and socially. Building self-esteem, exploring the different avenues necessary for them to excel, and fulfilling their potential is also very important to her. She loves to spend time with her four children, friends, and loves reading, walking and travelling.

Amy Splinter

Resource Teacher

After receiving an Undergraduate Degree in Honours Psychology at the University of Western Ontario, Mrs. Splinter earned a Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, Scotland. She continued her academic studies at Queen’s and Nippisssing Universities in Ontario where she studied Special Education. Since entering the teaching profession, Mrs. Splinter has acquired extensive experience teaching students ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 9 both as a classroom teacher and as a Learning Assistance and Resource Teacher. She celebrates the unique gifts and talents of all learners and strives to meet the needs of all of her students through differentiated learning opportunities. In her spare time, Mrs. Splinter enjoys exploring the Okanagan with her husband and three children.  amy.splinter@aberdeenhall.com

John Suderman

Violin Instructor

John Suderman has extensive experience as a violin teacher.  John completed his university education in April of 1982 and has taught violin since then.  He spent the first 18 years of his teaching career in Prince George and has lived in Kelowna since then.  Some of his former students now hold title positions in major Canadian orchestras.  John is also a member of the 2nd violin section of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra.  He has done some touring during his career and has experience as a guest soloist with the Prince George Symphony.  He is looking forward to his time here with Aberdeen Hall.  jsuder@telus.net

Scott Twigg

Grade 1 Teacher

Mr. Twigg completed his education at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, finishing with degrees in Human Kinetics and Education. He began his journey into teaching working in the Vernon School District and gaining experience at all grade levels. While living in Vancouver, Scott was employed by Vancouver Parks and Recreation as a Youth Leader/Coordinator and sports instructor, teaching a variety of sports from soccer to gymnastics. Athletics is a major passion for Scott, especially soccer, where he has had Varsity experience in his early years of college. Since then he continues to play soccer in Kelowna and has worked for the Vancouver Whitecaps coaching camps throughout the Okanagan. Scott carries his passion for soccer into his enthusiasm for education where he strives to create life-long learners in the classroom. He believes in creating an environment where students work together and encourage each other as they discover their potential.  scott.twigg@aberdeenhall.com