Meet Our Faculty

PRINCIPAL

Conal Tanner is thrilled to be a part of Edmonton Classical Academy’s founding team. Originally from Ottawa, he was first introduced to classical education by his mother, who ran a homeschooling group from first to eighth grade. Conal then attended an all-boys boarding school in Pennsylvania for the last two years of high school, where he fell in love with Shakespeare, Euclid, logic, Dickens, Byron, the Latin language, and Homer. "I had the epiphany that one of our deepest desires is for the truth, and it is in attaining and reflecting on the truth that we find some of the deepest joys possible in life."

He graduated from Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California in 2007 and returned to Ottawa. From 2009-2012, Conal served in the Canadian Forces, spending most of the time working at the tactics school at CFB Gagetown. After the army, Conal taught at a small private school in New Brunswick and then earned his B.Ed. from University of New Brunswick.  From there he moved to Bogotá, Colombia, where he taught all levels for fours years. Most importantly, it was in Bogotá that he met, fell in love with, and married his wife Pilar, with whom he now has three young children. 

From the cold mountains of Colombia, they packed up and moved to Arizona, where Conal has spent the last three years teaching at a classical charter school, Chandler Preparatory Academy. When asked his initial thoughts on being named principal educator of Edmonton Classical, Conal said, “I am both humbled and thrilled... Classical education — the education by means of reading what the best that the brightest have written and following a proven tradition — is not just for the elites who can afford private schools. It’s for everyone, and I want to be part of this educational renaissance.”

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.

Art & Drama

Colette Bachand's upbringing traces back to a quaint town just north of St. Albert. Demonstrating a talent for art from an early age, she has garnered an impressive collection of awards. Notably, Mme Bachand has contributed two murals to the town of Legal, along with several others adorning local schools. Her academic journey led her to attain a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. Over the past seven years, she has been serving various school districts in and around the Edmonton area as either an Art or French teacher. Mme Bachand believes that everyone has an undiscovered artistic ability, which can be harnessed when guided by proper instruction. A cornerstone of her teaching philosophy is designing projects that cater to students of all skill levels, ensuring a sense of achievement across the board. During her leisure time, she finds tranquility by the lakeside, often drawing inspiration from nature's beauty.

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 7 Humane Letters, Latin

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.

Language Tutor

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.

Tutor, English Language Arts

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.

5th History, 6th & 7th Humane Letters

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.

Maths

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.

Maths and Science

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.

Tutor

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.

Tutor

Born and raised on a farm on the outskirts of Edmonton, Ruth graduated with a Bachelor of Catholic Studies with a concentration in Theology in 2022 from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, a Liberal Arts post-secondary institution in Barry’s Bay, Ontario. Prior to this, Ruth was homeschooled with a primarily classical, great books program of studies. She has always enjoyed asking the deeper questions of life, and originally wanted to be an archeologist in order to discover the primal truths of what it means to be human and live well. Ruth loves being immersed in theology, philosophy, literature, history, science, and math for this end and to reawaken wonder. In her free time, Ruth enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, gardening, wood carving, cooking, and singing in her traditional church choir.

Latin, History, Science

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 3 Homeroom

Stéphane Van De Walle is a French Canadian teacher born in Peace River, Alberta. She holds a B.Ed in Elementary Education with distinction from the University of Alberta, and a Master of Religious Education from Newman Theological College. Stéphane has a wealth of experience, having taught grades K – 6 in various Catholic school districts across the province, in both French and English. She has also pursued certification in both the Orff and Kodaly approaches to music education. She has performed with the Schola Cantorum at St. Joseph’s Basilica in Edmonton, and as a member of the Concordia Handbell Ringers and Les Chantamis. Having a passion for Catholic theology, she also completed studies at the Augustine Institute in Denver, Colorado. Stéphane was drawn to Edmonton Classical Academy due to its emphasis on objective moral truth, and she looks forward to being part of a team that sets high standards and fosters a love of beauty and wisdom.

In her spare time, Stéphane enjoys biking, walks in the Edmonton river valley, camping, gardening and boating with her husband Ben.

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.”

Grade 4

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.

Grade 2 Homeroom

Verity emigrated with her family from South Africa to Edmonton as a young child. When school started a few weeks after her arrival she was amazed at the number of books available in the school library, and her love affair with libraries and books has continued to the present day. Verity graduated with her B. Ed in elementary education from the University of Alberta. She homeschooled her daughters until high-school, whereupon she began her formal teaching career. She taught for two years in a private school and has most recently been teaching at a Christian preschool. Verity is thrilled to have the opportunity to teach in a classical school that values character development alongside the pursuit of academic excellence.

Math & Science

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.

4th ELA, 8th Humane Letters

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.

TUTOR

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.

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 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.