Meet our team of dynamic, vibrant, creative Educarers.
We pride ourselves in having a dynamic team with a wide array of specialties.
Amy Hendricks
Director
Originally from Vancouver, I am a mother of one of my own, and now, 2 handsome step sons. I have always worn many hats. Every step of my childs life I have been involved in his activities from volunteering at his preschool - Rise and Shine, coaching his soccer, being on the Executive for the Richmond Montessori School District, to volunteering at his school programs and NDG baseball, and currently volunteering with the 690 Air Cadet Squadron. I have always been an active presence in his life, and have always dedicated myself to working with young children. This is my passion.
It was my son's preschool teacher, Ms. Rose, who inspired me and encouraged me to work with children. She has truly been an inspiration to me. In May of 2012, Shyrose Nurmohamed, Director of Rise & Shine, was honored with an award from the Province of British Columbia, Ministry of Children and Families for Excellence in Teaching Innovation.
I could not ask for a better mentor. I have designed my centre on what I have learned from her, and what I have learned through my journeys.
My educational background includes the Early Childhood Education at Kwantlen University in British Columbia in 1996, and more recently the Early Childhood Education program at Vanier College in 2010.
Joanne Dubois
Early Childhood Educator
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Joanne joined our team, in 2015, with a wealth of experience. While raising her 3 girls, including a set of twins, Joanne had her own home daycare that she ran successfully for ten years. Seeking a change of pace, she closed up shop and decided to work for someone else. After many years of working for another local daycare she has decided she loved the approach we use at Academy of Imagination and joined our team.
Joanne has a high level of energy and delights the children in stories and imaginary play. Her laughter is contageous and she brightens up even the gloomiest of days! She loves the outdoors and doesn't mind helping the children move rocks and logs to help them find bugs and discover nature.
Her wholistic approach is loved by all.
Megan Lovelace
Early Childhood Educator
Studying Early Childhood Education
Megan started with us in 2021, in the middle of the craziest time we've ever known (thanks Covid), and she adapted so well and is an amazing educator.
She came from an amazing home daycare where for 10 years she learned along side of an amazing mentor.
Taylor Watson
Qualified Early Childhood Educator
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Taylor is a graduate from Vanier College in the Early Childhood Education program and joined our team in 2015.
She knew she wanted to be an Educator ever since she helped her mother in the after school program at her elementary school. Watching children grow and overcome their challenges and learn puts a smile on her face everyday.
She is proud that she was able to turn her passion in to a career. Her other hobbies include arts and crafts, dancing, nature walks, yoga and MORE!
We are proud to have Taylor as part of our team, and family.
Taylor now has her own family and little boy whom she is an amazing mother to, and she runs the pre-kindergarten program.
Sabrina Dubois
Qualified Early Childhood Educator
TODDLER PRO!
Sabrina is a qualified educator with a degree in child studies from Concordia University, and 16 years work experience in the childcare field.
"I come from good genes; some of you might know my mom Joanne, who has taught me everything I know from an early age. I am also a Mommy to a wonderful daughter who is my guiding principle to my teaching philosophy: I treat all of the kids in my class like how I would want my daughter to be taught and treated. I give lots of praise, guidance, and lots of hugs! I believe learning can be found through play and exploration, and as a teacher I find it important to play and explore right along with my kids. I also believe parent-teacher communication is very important. I love to talk with my parents and work as a team."
Sabrina is the team leader and she also runs the Lil's class. Every kiddo wishes they could take her home with them.
Simranjeet Kaur
Qualified Early Childhood Educator
Sim joined our team first as a stagiere in 2019 and after Covid came to join us as a permanent member of our crew. She runs the Mini-Kinders with Joanne and she brings art, knowledge and fun to the class.