Linda R. is the supervising teacher for our morning programs and has been with CCPC since April of 2000. Linda graduated from Durham College with her ECE diploma in 1988 and has experience working with children of various ages. Linda has previously been employed at Durham College Early Learning Centre and Clarington Kids Daycare. As well, Linda operated her own private home day care for five years. In the past, Linda also volunteered with two school boards and was involved at an Oshawa co-operative nursery school in both parental and teaching roles. In addition to her wealth of experience, Linda is certified in CPR/First Aid and has a nursing background. Linda also routinely attends courses that deal with special needs and workshops designed to enhance her classroom programming.

At home, Linda and her husband have two sons, ages 12 and 15 years. As a family they are quite busy spending time at their cottage, swimming and boating. Linda also enjoys her quiet time reading, gardening and walking her dog.

Linda’s personal goal for CCPC is provide a healthy and happy learning environment where the children can participate in a wide variety of enjoyable activities. She is also focused on creating an environment that promotes independence and the development of socialization skills.   

 
 
** Arlene F. has been involved in the CCPC since 1993. Arlene was herself a CCPC parent, filling a variety of committee positions, and has been teaching in CCPC’s classrooms since the spring of 2000. Since earning her ECE diploma from Centennial College in 1975, Arlene has taught in a variety of settings including child care centres, private schools and at the elementary level for the Durham District School Board. In addition, Arlene tutors high risk students and children with special needs. Arlene continuously upgrades her skills by attending workshops and keeps abreast of current research with a particular focus on developing early literacy.

When not in the classroom, Arlene enjoys doing storytellings, arts and craft lessons, designing learning materials, writing children’s books and gardening. Arlene has been a resident of Columbus for the past 18 years with her husband, two sons (ages 28 and 16) and daughter (age 10).

Arlene’s personal goal is to offer the children of CCPC a nurturing, fun and progressive program where they feel special and valued. By instilling a feeling of security and confidence, Arlene hopes that upon leaving CCPC children feel empowered to go forward with enthusiasm and self confidence.

 
 
** Heather F. is the assistant teacher for the PM program. Her own children participated in CCPC and she joined the program as a teacher this year. Heather brings to the school more than three years of experience as an assistant teacher, 20 years of parenting experience and over 30 years of volunteer work with hospitals and not-for-profit organizations.

In her free time, Heather reads every book in the New York Times bestsellers list. She also enjoys writing, painting, photography, swimming and skating.

Heather loves working with children (especially preschool age) and she strongly believes in the gift of positive reinforcement. She has completed coursework in child development, psychology and the guidance of young children.