Our Teachers

Mrs Sara Pickell, Our Teacher

Hello families of West Edmonton Playschool. I am Mrs. Sara Pickell, the new teacher here at WEP, and it is a delight for me to be starting off September with you all. I am honoured to have been selected to teach, play, learn, develop and discover with your children. Playschool is a wonderful opportunity to increase a child’s self help; social and learning skills that help promote kindergarten readiness.

I completed my Rehabilitation Services Diploma from Red Deer College in 1999. I then went on to three years of Elementary Education at Red Deer College and the University of Alberta. At this point I decided to test my knowledge and I entered the work force. During my forages, I worked with children, both typical and developmentally delayed. Over the years I have had the great privilege of working with a number of people both teachers and caregivers alike whose ideas I have kept, adapted and fine tuned. I look forward to sharing my ideas and love of teaching and learning with you all.

I believe in an open door policy, so please feel free to share any concerns you may have. I look forward the months ahead as we continue learning through play.

Thank you
Mrs. Sara Pickell

No one has yet realized the wealth of sympathy, the kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child. The effort of every true education should be to unlock that treasure -Emma Goldman

Holly Cowan - Teacher's Aid

Hello! My name is Holly Cowan and I am very happy to be back at the West Edmonton Playschool as a teachers aid. Both my daughter, Theresa, and most recently, my son, Tommy attended the playschool and have such fond memories of the school. My hope is to contribute positively to the experience that your child has at the playschool. I have my experience as a caregiver to both children and individuals with special needs to draw on, as well as the previous three years being part of the playschool as a parent.

Elaine Merrick - Relief Teacher

I have been involved in learning as long as I can remember. Ask my mom where I was when she called me to complete Saturday chores--I was usually reading my book. I thrive on the time spent encouraging preschoolers and believe it takes a village of caring individuals to bring up healthy children. It is one of the reasons I chose the co-operative playschool setting. I appreciate it is an awesome responsibility that parents share with me.

It is in my nature to prepare for optimum use of my and the children's time. I am also open to "following up" when children express an interest and curiosity about a particular idea/thing.

During the preschool day, I believe it is important to provide a safe environment, motivate a desire within each child to learn (through play, listening, involvement), and provide guidance for each child so that it is easier to make a good choice.

I am an enthusiastic educator who seeks to know the learner's needs, provide opportunities for the preschooler to be "hand's on" to discover concepts, and strive to find a balance between providing guidance and being involved with the children.

University educated, I qualified for my permanent professional Teaching Certificate and Certificate in Adult and Continuing Education from U. of A. I keep current by taking courses, attending conferences and playing with my grandchildren. I taught grade one before the birth of my children and have taught preschool for 23 years.

I continue to put myself in new learning situations so that I remain cognizant of what I ask of my students when presenting new tasks to master. This year, I hope to take a kayaking course.

I invite you to consider West Edmonton Playschool for your child.