EREM KHALFAN, OCT

Director of Education

I consider myself a life-long learner. With a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Western Ontario in Psychology and a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree from Ryerson University in Fashion Marketing, I set off in an exciting career that had me travelling across the globe as a Marketing and Communications professional in the fashion industry. After starting a family, I found myself reflecting on my deeper purpose. The opportunities that a strong education can provide has been monumental in my belief system. I decided to step away from my career and obtain a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Toronto. Now, as an educator, my teaching philosophy encompasses preparing students for their futures as global citizens. As an educator, we hold insurmountable power to influence young minds. Given this power, it is my responsibility to inspire students to be the best version of themselves. This program was developed to build confidence by providing opportunities for critical thinking and skill building in a positive and inclusive environment, in the areas of reading comprehension, written language, public speaking, media literacy, and mathematics. Welcome to Apostrophe Kids.

AL ALARAKHIA
Director of Operations

Professionally, I am a graphic designer and own a media consulting company. I create marketing and advertising materials in both print and interactive media. As I reflect on my educational career, I recall one teacher that truly inspired me to recognize my potential. They made me realize that my creativity could turn a hobby into a career. This educator was fundamental in establishing my belief in how one person can greatly influence the path of a student. With a Graphic Design Diploma and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Computer Graphics from Sheridan College, I taught Multimedia at the International Academy of Design for two years in an effort to share my passion with students. I volunteer to teach advanced level Language and Mathematics in a community program on the weekends. Being the first generation that graduated from post-secondary studies in my family, I believe in the opportunity that education can provide. Each time I step into a classroom my goal is to deliver Language and Math in a way that builds confidence, excites, creates conversation and challenges students to want to learn more. This program was developed for this purpose. Welcome to Apostrophe Kids.

KRISTEN MACEACHERN, OCT

Certified Teacher

As an Ontario Certified Teacher with the Peel District School Board, I have had a multitude of experiences to enhance my professional development. I received my Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto and went on to obtain my Masters of Education from Medaille College. As an educator, my goal is to cultivate a safe, inclusive space that encourages students to take risks, think critically, and challenge themselves. As an avid reader and writer myself, I recognize the importance of a strong literacy program. I aim to empower students to engage critically with texts, develop and expand their vocabulary, and to communicate clearly and confidently for a variety of purposes. I believe in providing meaningful, descriptive feedback that serves to target specific areas of opportunity to improve for each and every student in their own way. I believe that strong written and oral communication skills breeds confidence, and through engaging programs allows students to develop their own voice. I look forward to working with each student at Apostrophe Kids.

NICOLE BURKE, OCT

Certified Teacher

I work as a teacher in the Peel District School Board. I graduated from York University’s Bachelor of Education in 2019 and recently completed my Masters of Education with York University in 2020. Through these educational experiences, I have learned how to facilitate a safe, inclusive and individualized learning environment. My objective is to encourage students to think critically and inquire about their interests and the world around them. Doing so will provide students with the skills and motivation to be lifelong learners and become contributing members of society. 

FARAH QURAISHI
Tutor

"Language shapes our minds, personalities, and eventually our cultures", said by my professor from the University of Toronto. Although I don't remember the name of my professor, I do remember his words of wisdom that he once bestowed upon me. I love teaching English language and enhancing the thinking and intellectual levels of individuals that I have assisted over the years. As a high school student I assisted newcomers to Canada with homework who were ESL students and needed some guidance to master the language. During my English Literature degree at the University of Toronto, I learned to dissect and analyze the depths of words that make our language such a great one. I continued to assist students with English language during and after earning my degree. Becoming a CELTA Teacher gave me an opportunity to teach English and share my knowledge of the English language with students in England for a semester. I have always enjoyed teaching this beautiful and powerful language, and in my journey with Apostrophe Kids, I continue to enjoy teaching English and passing on my knowledge to young minds who are the future of our history.