Meet Our Faculty

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Born and raised in Edmonton, Mr. Piotrkowski comes to ECA with a wealth of experience and over 28 years of teaching and leadership experience in area schools. He holds a BSc. in Chemistry and a BEd. specializing in physical science education, both from the University of Alberta. 

Mr. Piotrkowski's many contributions to the profession include serving as a department head; leading committees with Alberta Education to mark, review, and improve provincial Diploma exams and to develop a more robust Science 30 program; formal mentorship of new and prospective teachers; and contributing to province-wide professional development and research related to student assessment. An accomplished science and chemistry teacher, his lessons spark curiosity and wonder in students through careful, systematic observation and investigation of the natural world, incorporating hands-on approaches and classical principles, including an emphasis on grammar, Socratic methods, and coaching in logic and rhetorical analysis. 

Aspiring to the qualities of the Renaissance man, Mr. Piotrkowski has years of classical music training as well as contemporary band experience. He understands three languages (English, French, and Polish) while appreciating the roots of Latin that permeate scientific terminology. He can be found playing volleyball frequently, staying fit, and being open to new outdoor endeavours. He looks forward to sharing his unique and broad skillset with the community at Edmonton Classical Academy in the coming years.

VICE-PRINCIPAL

With over 25 years of experience in education, Mr. Arden brings a wealth of experience in mathematics teaching, curriculum, assessment, and educational leadership. He holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education, with a career focused on helping students develop strong mathematical understanding, critical thinking, and confidence as learners.

Mr. Arden’s contributions to education include extensive experience in classroom teaching, curriculum development, assessment, mentorship, and leadership. His approach to education emphasizes high expectations, purposeful learning, and the development of students as independent thinkers. As he moves into his role at ECA, he brings a deep understanding of the classroom together with a growing focus on organizational leadership, staff development, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Mr. Arden believes that effective leadership begins with a clear sense of purpose and is built through strong relationships, thoughtful decision-making, and a commitment to excellence. He looks forward to bringing his experience, perspective, and passion for education to his new role in administration and to contributing to a strong and vibrant school community.

 When not at work in the summer, you can find Mr. Arden tending to his garden and cherry trees.  In the winter you can find him in his wood shop.

Kindergarten Homeroom

Amy Waters was born and raised in Calgary. She received her Bachelors of Arts and Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta in 2016, and has been working in various teaching positions since. She has mainly taught in Indigenous communities, teaching students from pre-K to Grade 5. Amy believes strongly in the power of building relationships with students and is looking forward to cultivating these relationships with her students at Edmonton Classical Academy. In her spare time Amy can be found cross-stitching; crafting; spending time with her dogs, husband, and young daughter; and reading (particularly exploring a new-found love of Marcus Aurelius). 

Grade 2 Homeroom

From the moment she was first introduced to the wonder and magic of books, Andrea Koning has been enraptured by literature and the English language. She followed that passion and received national acclaim through the Royal Canadian Legion's National Youth poetry award, and then received a BA in English from Concordia University of Edmonton. Working in the business world upon graduation led her to find her true vocation in teaching, leading her to return to her alma mater to obtain a Bachelor of Education degree. She has since had the opportunity to teach both locally and internationally. Andrea recently returned from teaching abroad in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, where she was passionate about spreading her love of learning and literature with her students. When she's not teaching, you can find her chasing adventures in a new book, running path, or travel destination.

Kindergarten & Physical Education

Born in Accra, Ghana, Cecilia and her family immigrated to England before eventually settling in Canada. She attended the University of Alberta, graduating with a Bachelor of Education. For the past 5 years she has diligently led the children's department at her church, fostering moral and intellectual growth in her students and mentoring youth. Cecilia’s teaching philosophy centres on creating safe and empowering learning environments, fostering positive relationships and teaching kindness, respect, and perseverance. In her free time, she enjoys reading, art and going to the gym. She is thrilled to be a part of the Edmonton Classical Academy teaching team and looks forward to inspiring and nurturing the minds and souls of students.

Language Tutor

Colleen Miller was born and raised in various places throughout the beautiful province of Alberta. Growing up, she had the pleasure of experiencing city life while also spending much time on her grandfather’s farm. This time at the farm affirmed her deeply rooted love of animals, which has stuck with her ever since. In 2018, she received her Special Needs Educational Assistant Certificate from MacEwan University and, in 2024, her Early Learning and Child Care Diploma from Portage College. Outside of the school environment, she enjoys the beauty of the outdoors and capturing it through her camera lens, creating music, loving any animal that will allow it, and spending time with her husband, Shawn.

Vice-Principal School Culture

Danica Marlow has been teaching classical ballet for over twenty years. She first received teaching qualifications in the Cecchetti method, and currently holds her Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies through the Royal Academy of Dance. Having spent seven years performing with Citie Ballet, she draws on her experiences on stage to help her students excel. A mother to two young boys, Danica recognizes the need for development and appreciation of virtue. She is inspired by the vision of Edmonton Classical Academy, and thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of its students.

Music & Art Kinder - Grade 3, LAT I

Living all of his life in British Columbia, Jacob’s strong belief in classical education took him and his family here to Alberta to tutor language at our academy. Jacob has worked with children for over a decade as a mentor and educator at churches, schools, and summer camps. He has composed and conducted symphonies, and earned a Masters in theological studies—but his greatest pride and joy comes from his dedication to his triad role as a Catholic, husband and father. Jacob believes that classical education is the only other method of education after parenthood that can satisfy the debt owed to every child: the cultivation of love for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful.

Latin III, Latin Grades 1-4

Moving into Education after an almost ten year long career as an Electrician, James Hatherly holds a BA from the University of Alberta in Philosophy and Classical languages. He has studied, and continues to read: Latin, Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew, and French. Passionate about poetry and the art of language, and a student of the ancient, medieval, and renaissance philosophical traditions, he looks forward to sharing these great treasures of words and wisdom with future generations of young scholars.

Grade 4 Homeroom

An adventurer by nature, Jennifer has a breadth of life experiences that inspire and enrich her teaching.  She holds a BEd and a BFA (both with distinction) from the University of Alberta, and has teaching experience in Canada and Honduras, where she taught both elementary and junior high Art and English. She has three wonderful children whom she homeschooled for seven years; it was during this time that she developed a passion for the classical approach to learning. Jennifer’s most recent adventure has been building an award winning market garden (Sundog Organic Farm) from the ground up with her husband of 28 years. After many years of farming, and now that her children are mostly grown, she is blessed to be redirecting her focus on her passion for teaching in the classroom. Jennifer is also a professional artist and has had an active and vibrant studio practice that focuses on both traditional oil painting methods as well as abstract botanical explorations. When Jennifer is not in the classroom or in the studio she can be found court-side watching her sons play volleyball or exploring the river valley near her countryside acreage.

Music

Jered Steeves has a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Langley, BC and a Masters in Music from Carleton University in Ottawa. He specializes in Choral Conducting and his choirs have been awarded Gold at the Vancouver International Kiwanis Music Festival, Silver at MusicFest Nationals in Niagara Falls, and the Most Outstanding Junior/Senior Vocal Ensemble at the Surrey Schools International Jazz Festival. He is very excited at the opportunity to build a nationally recognized music program at Edmonton Classical Academy.

Grade 7 Humane Letters, Latin I

Originally from New Brunswick, Joseph Grondin studied the liberal arts in Ontario at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Catholic Studies in 2019, concentrating in history. He moved to Alberta for love in 2021 and enrolled in the University of Alberta’s after-degree education program. He graduated this year with a Bachelor of Secondary Education with a major in Social Studies and a minor in English Language Arts. He believes history to be fundamental to the human experience and in the power of language to move hearts and minds. Joseph spends his leisure time engaging in one of his many hobbies, including reading, writing, and composing poetry. Otherwise, he can be found spending time with his wife.

Grade 2 Homeroom

Despite being an Edmonton local, Josh has moved to both Germany and Scotland in his academic pursuits. He graduated from The King’s University with a Bachelor of Theology before moving to the University of Edinburgh to pursue a Master of Theology in History. It was here that Josh wrote his thesis on Vermeer’s Woman Holding a Balance, creating in him a desire to seek beauty in all of its forms. In a eureka moment, Josh decided to become a teacher and therefore attended the University of Alberta to obtain his Education After-Degree. When he is not teaching, Josh is busy walking long distances, taking photos, and exploring stories as told through various mediums.

Natural Sciences & Physical Education

Originally from Ontario, Kyle pursued his diploma in Outdoor Adventure from Algonquin College, followed by his BSc in Biology at Algoma University. After graduating in 2017, he was offered employment with Natural Resources Canada which led to an opportunity to relocate and study at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. There, he completed his MSc in 2020, specializing in biology. Kyle continued his education at King’s University, receiving his BEd in 2022. Since then, he has worked at various educational jobs across Edmonton, from substitute teaching to homeroom teacher from 5-9, specializing in math and science. Kyle strives to bring authentic science experiences to his students. When not in the classroom, he spends his time in the outdoors camping and travelling with his wife and young son.

Grade 3 Homeroom

Laura was born and raised in Edmonton and earned her Education degree from the University of Alberta. Her love of classical literature led her to teach in the Cogito program for over a decade before joining ECA, where she found her values reflected and supported. She also holds a TESOL certification and has taught adults at the college level. A former University of Alberta basketball player, she was part of the Pandas’ national championship team and values teamwork. As a marathoner, Laura found time to reflect during long runs, especially on the works of Emerson and Kierkegaard. In the classroom, she fosters curiosity, resilience, and thoughtful risk-taking.

Vice-Principal Academics / Grades 5 & 7 Math

Originally from central Vancouver Island, Lindsay is a veteran educator who has worked in a variety of middle school settings since 2006. She holds a Master of Education degree in leadership, and a post-graduate certification as an Inclusive Education Specialist. Following her relocation to Edmonton, Lindsay is eager to return to the classroom in a role she is passionate about, and looks forward to supporting the success of all students and building relationships with their families. When away from teaching, Lindsay enjoyed travelling and spending time with her husband and their new puppy.

Latin IV, 6th Humane Letters

Born and raised near Edmonton, Alberta, Mark graduated with a Bachelor of Catholic Studies from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in 2020. He has been immersed in classical liberal arts education since high school, a blessing for which he is extremely grateful. Mark has taught Latin, English grammar, writing, and literature at Campion Classical Academy in Edmonton, as well as for the Gilbertine Institute’s WISDOM Online Program. He previously worked as a crew lead in the construction and restoration industry, is a certified water remediation technician and a licensed asbestos technician, and also dabbles in woodworking and landscaping. In addition, he has spent time over three years teaching swimming to children and school groups. His other passions include meteorology and astronomy, hiking, gardening, playing hockey and soccer, and discussing The Lord of the Rings. Mark firmly believes that the antidote to the many issues that plague society today is the revival of classical education and the pursuit of the truth, as the truth is what truly sets one free.

Grade 1 Homeroom

Melissa Meinders studied at Burman University receiving a Bachelor of Elementary Education and a minor in social studies. She received her ECE (early childhood educator) license in 2017 and has worked extensively with students ranging in age from 3 to 16 years in both professional and volunteer settings. Most recently, she was a Grade 1 homeroom teacher at our sister school, the Calgary Classical Academy. Melissa believes in building meaningful relationships and creating positive, experiential learning experiences for her students. Melissa continues to positively impact the lives of children in her community through volunteerism, supporting the fine arts, and teaching youth leadership. Melissa is particularly passionate about history, politics, and geography and enjoys sharing these passions with her students.

Grade 6 & 9 Mathematics

Bio coming soon…

Humane Letters Grade 8/9, ELA Grade 10

Scott Walsh holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Toronto, where he focused on the metaphysics of human freedom and intentional action. For over fifteen years, he has taught philosophy, literature, writing, history, and Latin to students from middle school through university. 

He believes that education begins with wonder and seeks to cultivate in his students an attentiveness to the world, an awareness of the assumptions and biases that shape our perception, and the intellectual humility necessary for a thoughtful pursuit of truth.

Grade 3 Homeroom

Born and raised in The Bahamas, Shannon Armbrister has always seen passionate about sharing knowledge and seeking wisdom in community with others. Resolved that she must become a teacher, Shannon moved to Lacombe, Alberta Canada in 2014 to attend Burman University. There, she studied early childhood education and explored different avenues for teaching the large spectrum of learners she would encounter. Following completion of her Bachelor of Elementary Education, Shannon moved to British Columbia where she has taught for several years. During this time, she was awarded Teacher of the Year for her ability to teach, classroom management skills, and build a connection with her students. Being very family-oriented, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, baking, and knitting. She is ecstatic about the new school year for another opportunity to help another group of children fall in love with learning.

Grade 1 Homeroom

Tabitha Faith Wiebe was raised on a farm in Southern Alberta. She is passionate about reading, sports, hiking in the mountains, and practicing the ancient art of hospitality. She met her husband Jeremy in university, and together they have two lovely children.

Since earning her Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta, Tabitha has spent 13 years as a teacher, including four years at a German bilingual program. Tabitha has a deep passion to see students become the best version of themselves, and strives to set an example of lifelong learning by continually expanding her own knowledge of history and of the world. Among her influences as a teacher is C.S. Lewis, who wrote that “The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles but to irrigate deserts.”

Humane Letters Gr. 8, Social Studies Gr. 10

Gloria Osei holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s in Global Education. This year marks her ninth year of teaching, during which she has had the privilege of teaching students in a variety of settings and helping them discover the joy of learning.

She is particularly passionate about literature and history, and the way both can open our eyes to the world and to ourselves. She loves seeing students encounter a character, historical figure, or moment in history and begin to recognize something of their own lives within it. For Gloria, education is not simply about acquiring knowledge, but about cultivating wonder, asking meaningful questions, and considering what kind of person one wants to become. She hopes to foster in her students a lasting love of learning and a curiosity that encourages them to see the world with fresh eyes.

Outside the classroom, Gloria enjoys photography, finding joy in noticing and capturing the beauty and stories found in ordinary moments. She is grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside her students as they explore great books, encounter the people and ideas of the past, and consider how these encounters might shape the way they choose to live.

Science Grades 5, 6 & 7

Originally from Taiwan, Yeefang earned her PhD in Physics from Queens University in 2013. Before she became a teacher, she worked as a scientist and researcher focusing on laser technology, optical system design, computational photography, data science and artificial intelligence. This background provided her with an advanced understanding of both theoretical and applied science and mathematics. In addition to teaching in Edmonton and Sherwood Park schools, she also homeschools her own child, and is working to instil a love of classical Chinese literature, mathematics, and piano. Her ongoing reflections on her teaching at schools and homeschooling motivates her to constantly refine, experiment with and balance her teaching strategies. She enjoys hiking, swimming, volleyball, yoga, jade collecting, and spending time with her young daughter.

Grade 4 Homeroom

Born in Edmonton, Zach Schauer obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and English Literature from MacEwan University, and a Master’s in Philosophy from the University of Toronto. He has also received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for his non-profit work in mental health advocacy. In the past, Zach worked as an Academic Don at Trinity College in Toronto, a writer and program officer with the Antarctic Institute of Canada, and a supervisor at a local lube shop. His love of truth pervades all of his work, and he finds no greater joy than seeking virtue and wisdom with those around him. Aside from reading philosophy and talking peoples’ ears off about it, Zach loves playing music, writing fiction and non-fiction, and embracing the wonders of nature on long walks. He is passionate about providing students an education that opens them up to seeing the transcendent in the mundane and loving true goodness for its own sake.

Art Instruction

Jen Rogan is an artist and art educator with over twenty years of teaching experience. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Lethbridge. Jen began her teaching career in Calgary at FFCA before spending many years teaching art at international schools in Poland, Singapore,  the United Arab Emirates, and China. As a practicing artist who primarily works in drawing and painting, she believes that drawing is a powerful way to learn to see, think, and understand the structure and beauty of the world. Her travels to historic and artistic sites around the globe have deepened her appreciation for the great artistic traditions of the past. She is passionate about helping students develop technical skill, careful observation, and a lifelong appreciation for the pursuit of truth and beauty through art.

Grade 4 Homeroom

Born in Grande Prairie and raised in High Level, Alberta, Kai brings a diverse background in education, history, and athletics to his role as a Grade 4 teacher. He has spent nearly 15 years as a swim coach, developing a passion for leadership, teamwork, and helping young people reach their potential. Kai holds degrees in History and Elementary Education. His historical research focused on Early Modern Norwegian history and the history of religion in Edmonton during WW1. He is excited to bring his experience as an educator, coach, and historian to the classroom and looks forward to building a positive, engaging learning environment for his students.

Grade 5 Humane Letters & Grade 10 Speech & Debate

Georgia Hoven earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Theology from Thomas Aquinas College in Ojai, California. Mrs. Hoven also holds an Associate Diploma (ARCT) in Speech Arts & Drama from the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto), receiving the National Gold Medal for ARCT Performance in 2019. As a Speech Arts instructor, she helped students cultivate confident, expressive voices through diverse training including public speaking, interpretation and performance of literature and drama, improvisation, and even storytelling. Mrs. Hoven holds that the beauty of moral virtue is deepened and informed by contemplation; when we see the truth, we love it and act by it (“veritatem agere”). Mrs. Hoven recently moved to Edmonton after three years at our sister-school, Calgary Classical Academy. She seeks to encounter something challenging or beautiful each day, which ranges from her latest philosophy read (the drier, the better) to food experiences, camping, or yet another new hobby. 

Secretary

While Tina Cunningham is Canadian-born, she spent most of her adult life living overseas in New Zealand and Australia. She is the proud mother of her daughter Krista and wife of Nathan. Tina earned a Doctorate of Natural Medicine (DNM) with a Diploma of Ayurveda Medicine (Dip. Ay Med) from Auckland New Zealand, and a Master’s degree of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Queensland. She enhanced her education by studying and practicing at the SDM Ayurveda Hospital in Hassan, India, and has taught college-level nutrition courses in New Zealand.

Tina has a passion for helping others, especially those with health issues, and works to promote healthy lifestyles for others and for herself. With her friendly and loving nature, Tina is delighted to be a part of an amazing team at Edmonton Classical Academy, and is excited to see the growth and joy of every student who enters the doors.

Administrative Assistant

Dianne was born and raised in Edmonton, and has also lived in Toronto and on an organic farm in southern Saskatchewan. Her interest in education was piqued after attending the first Edmonton Classical Academy open house. She knew then that she wanted to be involved in this meaningful project, and happily left her 35-year career in financial services.

She is a graduate of the Gestalt Institute of Toronto and subsequently had a small five-year Psychotherapy practice in Toronto. When not at work, she enjoys being a mother and all the returns that investment brings. Her hobbies include healthy cooking and finding new ways to make vegetables taste good. She is passionate about ensuring that children know and understand the world in order that they may successfully navigate the world they will inherit. Favourite Quote: ‘Better a bitter truth than a sweet lie’. - unknown

Family Support Liaison

Raised in Edmonton, Tehya graduated with a Bachelor of Child and Youth Care from MacEwan University in 2020 and later pursued her Master of Counselling Psychology from Athabasca University. With experience in group care, transitional support programs, and various Edmonton Catholic Schools, Tehya is passionate about supporting children and youth mental health. Tehya believes in the potential for growth and success in every child, often needing just a bit of extra support to recognize it. She is also a strong advocate for classical education, believing that a foundation in classical learning can provide children and youth with reasoning skills and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Librarian

Born and raised in Edmonton, Teresa studied at MacEwan University where she graduated with distinction from the Library and Information Technologies Diploma. It has been a lifelong goal of Teresa’s to work in a school, as she is passionate about providing children with the resources they need to discover the truth and goodness in themselves and the world around them. In her spare time, you can find her reading a book with her cat or dog on her lap, outside enjoying a walk, cooking a new recipe, or spending time with friends and family.

Tutor

Born and raised in Edmonton as one of 7 siblings, I developed a deep love for children and learning early in life. Much of my childhood was spent surrounded by family- including over 20 young cousins- which nurtured my joy in mentoring and connecting with young minds. I studied for one year at Newman Theological College in a Catholic Studies program, where I deepened my appreciation for classical thought and education. I’ve also had the pleasure of working closely with a young girl with autism, which deepened my understanding and patience as a tutor. Outside tutoring, I enjoy staying active through sports and hiking, adventuring with my fiancé, and exploring skills like sourdough baking and homesteading.