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.

ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL

Originally from Panama, Melissa immigrated to Canada with her family as a child. Her father was a Professor of International Law and her mother (who is from the Philippines) was a Linguistic Anthropologist at the University of Alberta. Melissa journeyed through higher academia with the completion of her B.A. in English Literature with a specialization in Shakespeare; a B.Ed. in secondary English from the University of Alberta (2010); and an M.Ed. in Education Leadership from the University of Portland (2020). Melissa has taught grades 4 through 9 as an elementary generalist, a junior high specialist in English Language Arts, second languages and social studies, an ESL instructional coach and a teacher in the Cogito Alternative Program. Throughout her teaching career, Melissa always yearned to teach her students more about life and the virtues that make us human. She is thrilled to be a part of Edmonton Classical Academy where she can now pursue pedagogy imbued with the teachings of truth, beauty, and goodness. She and her husband have raised two children who are now grown and on their own.

When asked to take on a leadership role with the Academy, Melissa felt honoured and humbled to be entrusted with such important work. Having written her master’s thesis on how English Language Learners best acquire English; she feels blessed to have been given the portfolios of ESL and Specialized Learning Supports. Melissa looks forward to dedicating herself to the pursuit of wisdom and excellence both in the classroom and as a leader. C.S. Lewis said, “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” Melissa hopes to see all students at Edmonton Classical Academy journey through their learning in preparation to live lives filled with meaning and beauty.

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.

Language Tutor

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.

Grade 3 Homeroom

Originally from Toronto, Domenica McPeek recently earned her Bachelor of Education from The King's University in Edmonton. She previously graduated from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, a liberal arts post-secondary institution in Barry's Bay, Ontario, with a Bachelor of Catholic Studies and a concentration in philosophy and theology. Prior to this, she attended the University of Toronto for a year, studying Life Sciences. In the past, Domenica has worked as a cook, and has directed programs teaching culinary arts and STEM subjects to disadvantaged students. She is a strong advocate for classical liberal arts education, and is passionate about pursuing the truth with her students. During her free time, Domenica is an avid reader, and she enjoys hand lettering, baking, and cooking.

Physical Arts, Athletics & Outdoor Education

Originally from the Cayman Islands, Elizabeth studied at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, in Barry’s Bay, Ontario. She then continued her education by earning a Bachelor's in English Literature and a minor in Philosophy from Redeemer University in Hamilton, Ontario. Elizabeth is a great lover of Literature and an avid reader of the classics. Through her time at university, Elizabeth developed a fondness for the pursuit of truth and the mission to form the whole person. In her free time, Elizabeth can be found playing rugby, spending time with family and friends, or cooking up a storm.

Grade 8 Humane Letters, PE

Returning to Edmonton after exploring education and school systems in Spain, Gloria Osei is enthusiastic about integrating her extensive teaching experience with the timeless principles of classical education. With over eight years in educational roles and teaching contexts, she is committed to fostering an environment where students engage meaningfully with the humanities. Gloria is excited to inspire students to explore the richness of literature, history, and philosophy. Holding a Master’s in Global Education from Arizona State University, she is eager to contribute to a learning community where clear reasoning, character formation, and a love for truth are at the heart of education.

Music 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.

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.

EAL Specialist & Interventionist

Julia Baker grew up on an acreage outside Edmonton and holds a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in International Development from Trinity Western University, as well as a Master of Arts in International Development from St. Mary's University in Halifax. With a lifelong passion for learning and travel, Julia has worked and volunteered in diverse countries including South Korea, the Philippines, Kenya, Jamaica, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Over the past 15 years, she has built her career as a community development practitioner in the non-profit sector. Julia has taught EAL to adults and youth, and worked as a certified Canadian Language Benchmarks assessor. In her free time, Julia enjoys reading and spending quality time with her husband and two children.

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.

Grades 5, 6, & 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 II, 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 4 Homeroon

Originally from the Philippines, Miranda was raised in the U.A.E and came to Canada in 2017 to pursue her B.A and B.Ed at Bishop’s University in Sherbrooke, Quebec. After graduating in 2022 with her degrees in English and Secondary Education, she spent two years in Montreal working various jobs in education. She has worked with adults as an ESL instructor; high schoolers as an English tutor; and K-6 students as a supervisor, after-school program coordinator, and substitute teacher. She is passionate about literature and the creative arts, spending most of her free time reading, painting, drawing, and writing. She hopes to nurture students’ thirst for knowledge and inspire them to find joy in learning.

Grades 8 & 9 Math (Tutor)

Monika was born and raised in India and has recently made Edmonton, Canada her new home. Coming from a family of dedicated educators, she has always felt a deep connection to teaching—not merely as a profession, but as a calling that is deeply ingrained in her identity. She holds a two-year Diploma in Elementary Teaching from the State Council of Education and Training, followed by a Bachelor of Education from Rohtak University. She further advanced her qualifications with a Master’s degree in Education and a Master’s in Political Science, both from Delhi University, India.

Monika’s educational philosophy centers on the belief that true learning goes far beyond the confines of a classroom. She envisions education as a holistic process that nurtures not just academic knowledge, but the emotional, social, and ethical growth of each student. To her, every child is unique and possesses untapped potential. She hopes to empower her students to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, and inspiring them to grow into thoughtful, responsible, and joyful individuals.

Grade 2 Homeroom

Niels grew up on an acreage east of Edmonton, and after graduation pursued a culinary career prior to shifting aspirations to education. He holds a BEd from the University of Alberta with specialization in secondary Social Studies and English, and a MEd in Special Education from the University of British Columbia, as a well as post-graduate studies from the University of Northern Colorado. He comes to ECA with over 25-years teaching experience in the Alberta school system.

Today, Niels looks forward to the educational opportunities afforded to students under the classical approach, and is excited to embark on this new chapter: inspiring young minds to love history, to become good citizens, and engaged lifelong learners. On a personal note, he adores that ever-so-clever plastic toy invented by the Danes — LEGO!

Emotional Behavioral Specialist

For the last ten years, Rachel Pedyash has worked with vulnerable children and youth in a variety of therapeutic settings including PSECA treatment, residential care and SIL programs, work with incarcerated women and youth, and supporting students to manage behavior and regulate emotions in the classroom. In spending so much time with high risk youth she has learned a lot about resilience, gratitude, connection, and the seemingly insurmountable human spirit. Rachel strives to instill in each child the knowledge that everything they need to lead fulfilling lives and experience peace is already inside them, and takes this approach into the classroom to empower children to learn valuable lessons that extend far beyond the school walls.

Humane Letters Grade 8/9, Latin

Scott Walsh holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Toronto, where he focused on the metaphysics of intentional action. For over fifteen years, he has taught philosophy, critical thinking, literature, writing, history, and Latin to students from middle school through university, guiding them in Socratic discussion and the study of classical texts. He invites his students to see the world with fresh eyes and to cultivate a proper childlike sense of wonder---to contrive, with Chesterton, “to be at once astonished at the world and yet at home in it.” Outside the classroom, he is a student of Roman history and a sumo wrestling enthusiast. He and his wife, Kelli, are blessed with eight children and a growing number of grandchildren.

Humane Letters Grade 5, PE

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.”

Art Grades 4 through 9

Tamara Oakes holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Education from the University of Calgary, graduating in 2014. Since then, she has dedicated her career to teaching at the high school level, where she has taught Social Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Art, and Yoga. Outside the classroom, Tamara’s interests include oil painting, soccer, volleyball, slow-pitch, water-skiing, and book club, as well as spending time outdoors with friends and family. Tamara is thrilled to be involved in a classical education setting; she aspires to continue learning new things every day, and is committed to teaching by example and demonstrating the values of hard work and dedication.

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.

Latin I & PE

Damian grew up in rural Alberta outside of Edmonton. He was homeschooled through high school following a classical liberal arts curriculum. Damian then attended Our Lady Seat of Wisdom college and completed a Bachelor of Arts honours degree with a major in Classical and Early Christian studies and a double minor in History and Philosophy. While at college, Damian worked as a Latin tutor for three years and spent a year teaching Latin online for Holy House Edmonton. Damian enjoys playing hockey, hiking and camping, and reading the great works of western civilizationDescription goes here

Art Instruction Gr. 4 through Gr. 9

Eden Craig holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, with a major in Art and Design, and a minor in Mathematics. She teaches Visual Arts to students in Grades 4 through 9, encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence in artistic expression. Passionate about exploring the world, Eden finds inspiration in seeing art from different cultures and styles during her travels. Her favourite mediums to work with are acrylic paint and clay, which she uses to help students bring their ideas to life through both vibrant colour and hands-on creation.

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 in Rural Alberta, Jessica obtained a Library and Information Technology Diploma from MacEwan University. Since then, she has worked at NorQuest College Library, Strathcona County Library, and the University of Alberta Archives. As a life-long learner, Jessica seeks truth and goodness in the world around her. When she is not studying or working, she can be found reading and cozying up with her family and cats, spending time with loved ones, taking long nature walks, or crafting up a storm. Jessica is dedicated to cultivating students' wonder and desire to find truth.

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.