Our Team
Victoria Kubica
School Principal, Administrator, T.M.I. Infant Toddler Montessori Diploma, MACTE
About
– Qualified in First Aid/CPR.
– Food Handler Certified
At the age of fourteen, I was given the unique experience of becoming an Au Pair for a family in Montreal. This is when my passion for child development began. That passion continued to grow and as a result, I entered the Early Childhood Education program at Centennial College. I was most interested in child development and child psychology. I soon began the life long journey of motherhood and through my study of child development, I understood the importance of the first six years of life and the impact that the environment has on human beings. I applied the Montessori pedagogy at home with my own children as well as with those in my care.
My passion for both education and child development was strong and I wanted to do more. I studied business through Laurentian University and worked in both the education and the business world while I raised my children. I am now a mother of two bilingual adult children whom are both teachers. My daughter is a Montessori teacher and she also has a Business Degree. My son is an elementary school teacher, a French Major and a father of two darling little girls.
My Skills
Katie Furlotte
Supervisor, Pre-Casa Directress, RECE, Early Childhood Education
About
-Qualified in First Aid/CPR
1. As a child I remember playing ” School Teacher” and having my dolls and stuffed animals as students. I obtained my Early Childhood Education Diploma with Honours in 1999 from George Brown College in Toronto, and for 20 years now have been working with young children. Having grown up in Toronto, I had the good fortune to work in Inner City, “high risk” Centres. This experience has helped shape me into an open minded and resilient individual.
I am the proud mother of 2 teenage boys aged 17 and 13. After the birth of my first son, I opted to open my own home daycare and ran it as a successful and reputable business for 6 years. I also spent several years teaching at Childcare Centers in Toronto with families from all cultures and walks of life.
I am now in my 5th year with AMA. I became interested in the Montessori philosophy several years ago. After researching it’s methodology, I came to the realization that it is in my nature to provide the same educational instruction, guidance and nurturing care that Montessorians provide. This is a natural fit for me!
My Skills
Jennifer Turner
Casa Directress, A.M.I Montessori Diploma, Casa dei Bambini
About
– Qualified in First Aid/CPR
– Food Handler Certified
I have been teaching as a Montessori Directress for 17 years! Studying at the University of Toronto, I earned my BSc. in Anthropology and Ancient Civilizations.
Shortly afterwards I worked as an Montessori assistant in a school in Toronto. I was supported by the staff to go back to school and earn my Montessori diploma. I took their advice and earned my A.M.I. diploma. I have been working as a Casa Directress ever since!
I am married with two children. I have a 14 year old son and an 11 year old daughter. Both of them have attended Montessori schools until grade 3.
I admire the Montessori philosophy and I have seen it teach peace, harmony, and respect to children. The self-confidence and independence each child gains always astounds me. Personally, my Montessori training has helped me be a better teacher, parent, and an overall person.
My Skills
Breanna Buzzell
Assistant Casa Directress, Senior Summer Camp Director, Studying Early Childhood Development
About
– Food Handler Certified
During all of my early years, from as far back as I can remember, my mom provided childcare at our home. I truly believe this experience lead to my love of children and to my keen interest in child development and early education. I studied Recreation and Leisure at Fleming College and received my diploma in 2011. I am currently working toward my Child Development Practitioner Certification as an Apprentice through Durham College. Being able to spend time looking after my niece and nephews, as well as the children here at Authentic Montessori Academy, has given me a great look into being a parent one day myself.
My Skills
Roxanne Bruno
Supply Teacher, all classes
About
My Skills
Blaire Hart
Chef, Assistant Teacher
About
– Food Handler Certified
My roll at Authentic Montessori Academy is to provide delicious, nutritious meals and snacks as well as to provide support in the classrooms. I have a five year old son, a couple of nieces, a nephew and a godchild. I love being a mother a godmother and an Aunt! I have always had a way with children and love being surrounded by them. After all, my mother did have a childcare program in our home from the time that I was a baby. I have two siblings, an older brother and a sister, Mrs. Buzzell, whom is also on the AMA team.
I went to Durham college for ECE but unfortunately had to withdraw before completing the program due to the pregnancy with my son. When my son turned one I started working at a retirement home serving residents over the dinner hour. I switched positions within the company to work as a prep cook where I was later trained as a cook. This position suited me at the time because I was able to be with my son during most of his day. I am now in my fourth year of cooking for large groups.