Meet the TCS Team

The staff at TCS is a group of qualified and dedicated Christian teachers who are deeply committed to the children entrusted in their care. We model Christian behaviour in the way we treat our students, their parents and each other, seeking always to bring glory to God through our words and deeds.


Primary Division

 

Ms. Sandy Ayala

Junior Kindergarten

BA(Hon.), ECE, BEd

I became an early childhood educator in 2005, graduated from York 2009 and Trent University 2010 and have worked in Kindergarten classrooms ever since. Working in the children’s ministry and Sunday School Director in my church has also been a blessing as I get the chance to serve in His Kingdom. I am currently the Junior Kindergarten teacher at Timothy Christian School and I thank God for the opportunity to be part of TCS. I enjoy reading, singing, travelling, and soccer is my favourite sport. I play the mandolin and enjoy listening to music as well.

Mrs. Lorraine Groot

Senior Kindergarten / Librarian

BA, BEd, CSTC, OCT

I first taught at Timothy Christian School in 1983. Besides teaching Senior Kindergarten, over my 25 years at TCS, I have taught Junior Kindergarten, Grades 2, 3, 4 and Resource. I enjoy sharing my passion for learning with my students especially in the areas of outdoor education, language arts, and art. Helping students learn about how to serve and love God, others, and themselves are central to my daily work. My four children and husband are graduates of Timothy! 

Mrs. Leanne Porter

Senior Kindergarten / Specialty Teacher (Music)

BA, Music Specialist, OCT

I presently teach Senior Kindergarten, as well as Band and Bible part time at TCS. I graduated from Brock University with my BA in Music and attended McGill University where I received my diploma in Education. I have also taken additional qualification in Junior Basic and Instrumental Music part 1. I have been teaching a variety of subjects and age groups on a part-time basis at TCS for the past 14 years. My teaching career began in vocal music and has included time at home raising my family, and working as a presenter with Scientists in School. I love to lead worship for kids both at TCS and my local Rexdale church. I recently had the opportunity to use these skills on a short term mission trip to Spain. I am passionate about proclaiming the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord and seeing students become life-long worshipers.

 

Mrs. Carla Jael Perera

Grade 1

BA(Hon.), BEd, CSTC, OCT

Becoming a teacher has been one of my hopes and dreams. I am a UFT and Trent alumni. I was introduced to TCS by friends at my church, Abundant Life COG. I first taught at TCS in 2014 and since then I have had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten and Grades 1/2. It is an absolute pleasure being part of the TCS teaching team.

Mrs. Margo Hudson

Grade 3 / French (Gr. 4-8)

York University, Nipissing University College – BA(Hon.), BEd OCT

I think I have the best job in the world! Having the privilege to be a part of children’s lives and watching them grow and mature in their learning and faith is a huge joy and an awesome responsibility! I first joined the TCS community in 1977 as a student in Grade 7 and immediately felt at home. After graduating in 1979, I attended Toronto District Christian High School, then both York and Nipissing Universities (English, French, and Education). 

I was eager to rejoin Timothy in 1989 as a teacher. Since then, I have taken courses in French, Primary Education, Curriculum, and the Philosophy of Christian Education, as well as many workshops. Most recently, I have enjoyed and appreciated delving into the Responsive Classroom. Although I have spent significant time teaching Grades 2, 3, and 4, I have also enjoyed teaching French as a Second Language to Grades 4 through 8.

When I am not at school, I love camping and playing board games with my family, reading, playing piano, and worshiping God through song and Scripture reading.

Ms. Janice Miedema

VP of School Culture / Grade 2

University of Guelph, Redeemer University College – BEd, BA CSTC, OCT

I graduated from the University of Guelph with an Honours BA in Sociology, and later, I earned my Education degree from Redeemer University. Since then, I have taught Grades 4, 5, 6 and now Grade 2.

I love to learn and teach! I consider it a joy to watch children grow in their knowledge of God and of His creation. It is a blessing to have been part of the TCS community since childhood, and it’s my privilege to have served as a teacher at TCS since 2001.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and camping and canoeing in Ontario’s beautiful parks.

Mrs. Barbara Ubbens

VP of Curriculum / Art Teacher

University of Toronto, Redeemer University College – Forestry BScF, BCEd, CSTC, OTC

Most comfortable with my hands deep into paint and pastel or picking up sticks, leaves, cones and stones. I love to enjoy God's creation and revel in the creative process. I enjoy children - their free expression, exploration, their whimsy and spontaneity. My specialties in education are math, science and art. All three bring us closer to know and enjoy the presence of our Creator. It is delightful to have a place at Timothy Christian and serve Him with all my heart. In my free time I love on my chickens, spend early mornings in a kayak or snowshoe with a camera before my face in awe as God paints the day.

 

Junior Division

 

Ms. Katarina Baziw

Grade 4

Redeemer University College – BA, BEd, OCT

This is my sixth year teaching at TCS and my seventh year teaching. I graduated from Redeemer University College with a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in dramatic arts. My Bachelor of Education I also received at Redeemer. I have previously taught Grade 4/5 at London Christian Elementary where I enjoyed directing and co-directing two plays. While at TCS I enjoyed helping with drama at the Christmas concert, coaching the basketball teams, and working on the tech committee

 I am thrilled to be teaching the Grade 4 class this year! It will be great to build connections with other students and chat about God in all the classes I teach throughout the year.

When I'm not teaching, I like to read, rock climb, and play board games in my spare time. I am an active fan of the show Survivor and am looking forward to this upcoming season. You can often find me on weekends sitting in a Starbucks enjoying a grande pumpkin spice latte with family and friends.

Ms. Sylvia Kimm

Grade 5

McGill University – BA, OISE (University of Toronto) – B.Ed, OCT

During my sophomore year at McGill University, I volunteered to go to Chad for three weeks to serve as a summer retreat Bible school teacher. This remarkable experience sparked the beginning of my teaching journey. After graduating with a BA at McGill, I entered OISE at the University of Toronto and completed my diploma in education. Since graduation, I have worked in South Korea teaching English at two
middle schools. I gained such valuable insights and rich perspectives
in education.

Coming back home, I have been so blessed to teach various subjects ranging from elementary to high school classrooms. As a Christian educator, I believe that each and every child is a beautiful gift from God. I believe that faith-integrated differentiated instruction gracefully supports the needs of every child and meets each student's best learning preferences and abilities to flourish their full potentials and capabilities.

I am so blessed and grateful to be a part of the TCS team. And I am also thrilled to teach grade 3, 7 and 8 part time at TCS. In my free time, I enjoy playing piano, ukelele, and guitar to worship God. I also enjoy daily jogging around the neighbourhood, greeting the neighbours and thanking the Lord for His daily grace.

 

Intermediate Division

 

Ms. Kathleen Knox

Grade 6/7 / French (Gr. 7-8)

Brock University – BA, BEd, OCT

I have been teaching at the Junior High and High School levels for the past 6 years after graduating from Brock University with a Bachelor's in History and French as well as a Bachelor's in Education in 2013. I spent six years working in Christian education in China and Hong Kong, experiencing many new cultures and seeing how God is at work all around the world. Throughout my teaching experience I have loved getting to open students' eyes to the world around them and helping
them to discover their own unique perspective of God's amazing creation. I enjoy having fun with my students and building trust with them through honest conversations and encouraging them to take risks and be vulnerable. I have enjoyed my time here at Timothy Christian School
as God continues to reveal his plan for me and I do my best to follow
in His will.

Mrs. Amy Vander Wier

Physical Education

I have deep roots in and a great love for Timothy Christian School. My parents both graduated from Timothy, I had the privilege of attending as a student, and now I have the joy of watching my own children learn about the world from caring, professional, godly teachers. 

After graduating from Redeemer University with my Bachelor of Arts and Education in 2008, I spent some time exploring the great land of Canada with my husband. At the same time, I was able to teach in a variety of educational settings in the public, Catholic, and Christian school boards on the East coast, West coast, and great white North! We truly live in an incredible country surrounded by beauty and filled with amazing people and communities. 

I love incorporating Christian throughlines in my teaching practice to nurture the mindset that we are all image-bearers of the Father, we are community-builders, creation-enjoyers, and earth-keepers. It is a privilege to work in a setting where we can weave in the truth of God's word, pray for our students, and be united in nurturing a culture of love of God and our neighbour. I am teaching part-time currently. I love to teach middle school students and this year you can find my in the gym teaching Phys. Ed to a variety of grades. In my spare time, I love to be active, outdoors, and cherishing time with friends and family.

Mr. Joshua Robinson

Grade 7/8

York University – BA(Hon.), OCT

 

I am a grateful husband, proud father, and passionate worshipper of God.  After working part-time at both TCS and Grace Fellowship Church for several years, I joined TCS full time in 2015. Since then, I have in various ways taught every grade except kindergarten and 1st. Teaching mainly grades 2 and 3 until 2023 was a blast. My biggest joy was seeing new readers develop a sincere hunger for God’s truth as revealed in scripture! I love my current assignment teaching grade 8. I believe in Christian education because God is the architect and builder of all things, including our salvation. I count it a privilege to daily point young souls to their Creator and Saviour!

 

Student Support Team

 

Dr. Amber Anstey

Student Support Services Director

BA (Hon.), B.Ed., M.Ed., Ed D., OCT

Growing up as a child with a parent and a grandparent who were teachers allowed me to have great insight into the world and art of teaching. As a student in a private Christian school, I found family members and teachers united together working to develop my God-given abilities and talents. I graduated with my B.A and B.Ed. from York University. After teaching for ten years, I recently graduated with my Master of Education and my Doctor of Education.

I treasure each day that I get to spend watching my students learn and grow both academically and spiritually. I am passionate about making learning fun for my students by coming up with creative lessons that will be memorable for them. I trust in the Lord to lead my steps as it says in Proverbs 16:9 and I am thrilled to be working at TCS as the Student Support Services Director.

Mrs. April Lansing

Educational Assistant

St. Lawrence College, Frontline Bible Training Centre — DSW, Diploma in Theology

This year you'll find me supporting the grade 5/6 class. I've been an educational assistant at TCS since 2019.  I started my career 12 years prior, and have I worked in public and Catholic school boards supporting children with various abilities and learning challenges. I have a passion for seeing children learn and grow, and enjoy sharing the wonder of discovery with them.

I really treasure the opportunity to integrate my faith with my work at Timothy and am so thankful to have this opportunity to use my experience and skills for His glory in this school.  When I'm not at school you'll find me enjoying cooking or reading a great book. I also love serving in my local church as a vocalist on the worship team and youth volunteer. I also enjoy spending time playing trombone, painting and listening to a wide variety of music.

Mrs. Angela Bijl

Educational Assistant

I am an educational assistant in Grade 6. I really love working with children. I homeschooled my four children for 15 years and have experience in nursing and in directing an educational outreach program for vulnerable women in Rexdale. My hobbies include science and swimming. I love a good story and Formula 1 racing.

 

Mrs. Nice Fierro

Educational Assistant

Early this year, I had the opportunity to be the After School Coordinator at Timothy Christian School. I am delighted to join to the team this year as a Teacher Assistant.

My career in education began with four enriching years as an Early Childhood Assistant in a Montessori daycare and preschool. The Montessori philosophy, with its focus on independent learning, creativity, and respecting each child's developmental journey, left a profound impact on me. I am passionate about empowering students to take an active role in their learning process.

Following this, I opened a Play and Learn Centre dedicated to creating a safe and stimulating environment for children. Here, we prioritized not only recreational and educational activities but also the physical, emotional, and social growth of each child.

Feeling a deep call to serve others, I pursued a Master’s Degree in Human Development. My Christian journey started soon after. It has been a guiding light in my life, teaching me the importance of reflecting Jesus’ love.

Later, the Lord led me to work as a Children’s Ministry Associate at my church, where I have had the joy of working closely with children and their families. Each day in this role has been a fulfilling opportunity to be a vessel for God's love and guidance.

In my role as a Teacher Assistant, I am committed to helping teachers in their mission to support students grow academically and spiritually. I love to see TCS’ effort to create a school environment where students are encouraged to explore their faith, engage with their community, love one to another, and develop strong values that will help them navigate the challenges of today’s world.

 

Administration

Ms. Vanessa Chiang

Principal

BSc, Griffith University – M. Teach., OCT, CSTC

After completing a B.Sc. at Redeemer University College, I completed my Masters in Teaching, with a focus on student behavior, at Griffith University in Australia. My journey at T.C.S. began as a maternity leave. It was a temporary, one-year position which, by God’s grace, grew into a fifteen-year career as the grade one teacher before accepting the position as principal.

My classroom and this school have become my second home, and not because of the hours spent here, but because of the relationships built. My colleagues offer endless support, the parents always have words of encouragement, and the students never cease to bring joy and laughter to my day. I am proud to belong to this community knowing that we work together to share God’s love with the children and prepare them to use their gifts effectively to follow God’s plan for their lives.

Ms. Sarah Sohail

Office Administrative Assistant

I am delighted to join TCS and embark on this new journey. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Biology from Asia Pacific International University in Thailand and completed my Teacher's certification at Moreland University, U.S. My enthusiasm for teaching led me to work as a Project-based Learning (PBL) coach, where God gave me the opportunity to lead PBL projects for students in Grades 1 through 12 for three years. I also took pleasure in teaching Sunday school at my local church, where I found fulfillment in helping young hearts grow in their faith.

Having recently relocated to Canada with my family, I feel truly blessed that God has directed me to TCS, an institution that centers its mission around Christ. I am excited to contribute to the school community as an Office Administrative Assistant and am eager to support the students, staff, and families at TCS.

Ms. Christina VanHemert

Finance Administrator

I am a follower of Jesus, a wife to Mike and a mom to 3, now adult kids.  Recently I was promoted to the best position in the world: Grandma.

My husband and I both had the privilege of being educated in the Christian School environment and it was very important to us to give our children the same experience.  It is such a blessing to have the opportunity to send our children to schools where they are taught to love God and others in every aspect of their education.  

My husband and I love to travel and although we have scratched a few items off our bucket list, there are still many more places that we hope to explore.

I hope to use my years of experience as a bookkeeper to serve the community of TCS.