Montessori Foundation

Governance and Accountability

School Calendar

2026 - 2027

Faculty and Staff

Meet our Dedicated Faculty and Staff

Our dedicated faculty and staff, who bring diverse multicultural experiences and exposure from different countries, support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. In the Early Years, the Lead Guides in each class have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree and are Montessori-certified. All Elementary staff, from Kindergarten to Grade 6, hold a Bachelor’s in Education or higher, along with an Alberta teaching certificate and Montessori training. This broad global perspective enhances our educational environment, fostering an inclusive and enriched learning experience for all students.

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Mrs Patricia Maraire
Founder, Head of School and Principal

Kwazivayi, Greetings!, I am your dedicated School principal , a passionate leader from Zimbabwe committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every student can thrive and every family and staff can feel welcomed.

Mrs Olive Ngumi

Diversity & Inclusion Programs Lead

I am Mrs. Olive Ngumi, Diversity & Inclusion Programs Lead at Hillcrest Montessori Academy. I am passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, respected, and supported. I am proud to help foster a diverse school community where children can celebrate their unique identities, learn from one another, and grow together.

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Mrs Maribel Capanzana
Elementary Assistant

Maligayang pagdating, Welcome, I am  your dedicated Elementary Montessori classroom Assistant serving at HMES, supporting students with care, curiosity, and a passion for hands-on learning from the Philippines.

Mrs. Jyoti Chauhan
School Secretary

I am Mrs. Jyoti Chauhan, School Secretary at Hillcrest Montessori Academy. Originally from India, I am pleased to be part of the HMA community, where I support students, families, and staff with care, organization, and a welcoming approach. I look forward to helping our families feel connected and supported throughout their journey with our school.

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Mrs Grace Torda
Phys Ed & Enrichments

Maligayang pagdating sa ating paaralan, Welcome to our school. I am the Enrichments Coordinator and Physical Education Instructor from the Phillipines. With a passion for movement and holistic development, I’m excited to support our students in building confidence, coordination, and a lifelong love for physical activity through engaging and inclusive programs.

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Mrs Gladys Legara
Dance Instructor

Kamustaka, How are you, coming from the Phillipines as a Dance Instructor for HMES , I am passionate about inspiring creativity, confidence, and cultural expression through the art of movement.

Mrs Sizhu Murayama
Piano Instructor

Konnichiwa, Greetings, having been under the tutelage,  of Mrs Yashima in Japan I am a dedicated Japanese piano instructor passionate about nurturing music talent at HMES.

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Mrs Inger Kleppe
Skii & Wilderness Instructor

Hjertelig velkommen , A heartfelt welcome from the Ski Instructor and Outdoor Wilderness Instructor from Norway, passionate about helping students build confidence, resilience, and a love for nature through engaging outdoor adventures and skill-building in the Birchwood Trails.

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Mrs Magda Marais
Speech & Language Pathologist

Sanibonani, Hello, I am the Speech & Language Pathologist at HMES from South Africa, dedicated to supporting students in developing effective communication skills that empower their learning and social connections.