Welcome to the Teams page of Evergreen Academy, where we go beyond traditional education to cultivate a nurturing and positive emotional environment.

At Evergreen, we believe in empowering students to explore their own ideas and thoughts, fostering critical thinking, confidence, and personal growth.

We understand that children are like sponges, absorbing not only knowledge but also the beliefs, attitudes, and energy of those around them. That's why we emphasize creating a community where these underlying values support each child's development.

Our faculty members are carefully selected for their positive attitudes, alignment with core beliefs and values, and commitment to their own personal growth. Together, we strive to inspire and guide students on their journey of discovery and learning. Discover the passionate educators who make Evergreen Academy a place where students thrive.

Our Dream Team

Mrs. Tanya Nicoloff - Co-Founder | Principal

I founded Evergreen Academy in 2022 with a vision to create a nurturing, inspiring, and dynamic learning environment where children can grow with confidence, creativity, and purpose. As a mother of four, a certified Nutritional Practitioner, educator, and lifelong entrepreneur, my passion lies in helping children thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

With over six years of experience as both a Montessori and POD teacher, I’ve seen the power of personalized, hands-on learning. I believe every child deserves a safe space to express themselves freely, think critically, and develop a strong sense of self.

As a Christian, I value the importance of sovereignty and see education as a sacred opportunity to honour the unique potential within each student. It’s an honour to lead this incredible community as we reimagine what education can be.

Mr. Simon Wolfson - Vice Principal | STEAM Educator | Co-Founder

With over 20 years of experience in the private school sector, I’ve dedicated my career to building meaningful, student-centered learning environments. I helped grow a private school from its early stages to nearly 300 students, serving as both an administrator and minority shareholder. Throughout that journey, I played a key role in cultivating community and reimagining how education could better serve children.

Over time, I came to realize that while traditional academic models may produce strong test scores, they often come at the cost of creativity, purpose, and joy. I felt called to pursue a more holistic, values-driven approach—one that truly honours the unique potential within every child.

In 2018, that vision began to take shape with the founding of Evergreen Leadership Academy. And in 2022, I proudly co-founded Evergreen Academy—a school committed to inspiring curiosity, fostering innovation, and empowering students to lead with purpose. Reimagining education has become my life’s work, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that shares that mission.

Mrs. Sacha Lalla - Board Member

I am a mother of two with over 15 years of being an entrepreneur in the realm of personal development and Gestalt Therapy. I hold an Honors degree in Abnormal and Developmental Psychology from the University of Toronto, with honesty, integrity, and authenticity being the core values that guide my work. My husband and I are big proponents of attachment style parenting and strongly believe that children are to be nurtured according to their individual needs thus enabling their optimal growth and development. I deeply believe in the team and values of Evergreen Academy and am excited to be part of the team.

Mrs. Ella Stefan - Early Kindergarten Educator

I’m an educator with over 25 years of experience working with young children. I began my teaching career in Romania as a primary school teacher before moving into early childhood education, where I’ve had the joy of guiding children ages 1 to 6 through play-based, interest-led learning.

Since joining Evergreen Academy in 2022, I’ve loved creating a nurturing and engaging environment where our youngest learners can thrive. As an art and nature enthusiast, I weave creativity and outdoor exploration into our daily routines—always following the children’s curiosity as our guide.

It’s a privilege to be part of the Evergreen community, and I’m so excited to welcome new families, build meaningful connections, and support each child’s growth with warmth, care, and joy.

Mrs. Heather McNutt - Lower Elementary Educator

Hi, I’m Mrs. Heather McNutt, and I’m thrilled and grateful to be part of the Evergreen Academy community. I hold a Bachelor of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Bachelor of Education from Western University. My teaching experience has been entirely within the private school sector, where I’ve had the opportunity to support and guide elementary students through their academic and personal growth.

In addition to my classroom experience, I’ve also been actively involved in supporting the education of my own three children, which has deepened my appreciation for the important role that family plays in a child’s learning journey. I always strive to create a warm, welcoming, and positive classroom environment where every student feels supported and empowered to thrive.

I’m passionate about building strong relationships, fostering curiosity, and nurturing each child’s unique potential while inspiring a lifelong love of learning. I look forward to working in partnership with families and contributing to the vibrant, caring community at Evergreen Academy.

Mrs. Katie Rylance - Upper Elementary Educator

Hi, I’m Katie Rylance, and I’m so excited to be a part of Evergreen Academy. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from McMaster University and a Master of Science in Education from Niagara University. I’ve been teaching in independent and private schools for over 15 years. I began my journey in 2005 teaching Grade 1, and then spent more than a decade with Grades 4 and 5, where I truly found my rhythm as an educator and developed a deep love for supporting upper elementary learners.

After stepping away from the classroom to raise my four children, I had the unique opportunity to homeschool them during the pandemic. It was during this time that I also discovered my passion for running. What began as a dream of completing a 5K evolved into running marathons and eventually ultra-marathons. This journey taught me a great deal about perseverance, self-discovery, and the importance of pushing beyond my comfort zone - lessons I bring into the classroom every day.

Most recently, I returned to education through supply teaching and part-time instruction in Grade 2 and Grade 4 math. I’m thrilled to be stepping into a full-time teaching role and being a part of the vibrant Evergreen community.

Outside of school, I’m a nature enthusiast and long-distance runner. The forest is where I feel most at home, and I believe we can learn a lot about ourselves when we immerse ourselves in the natural world. I love weaving that energy, curiosity, and love for movement into my teaching, creating a dynamic, active, and connected learning environment for my students.



Miss. Jacquelin Leavey - Elementary Educator

Hi, I’m Miss Jacquelin, and I have a deep passion for teaching and inspiring students to reach their full potential. I hold a Master of Education, a Bachelor of Education, a Bachelor of Arts in History and English, and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Marketing.

I’ve had the privilege of teaching students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 across a wide range of subjects. My experience spans both primary and secondary classrooms, as well as roles as an educational assistant and a high school Ultimate Frisbee coach. Each opportunity has strengthened my dedication to creating a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.

Outside of the classroom, I love writing, exploring creative projects, and spending time with my two wonderful dogs, Maya and Thunder. I’m thrilled to be part of the Evergreen Academy team and excited to grow alongside our students in such a vibrant and nurturing community.

Ms. Jessica Carrasco - Visual Art Educator

Hi, I'm Jessica Carrasco, a writer and passionate art instructor with over 10 years of experience teaching students from grade 2 through adulthood. I believe every individual is born with the ability to create, express, and interpret the world in a way that’s uniquely theirs, so my mission is to nurture those gifts and guide them on their journey of self-expression and creative discovery.

My academic background includes studies in Marketing and Advertising, Educational Management, Art Fundamentals, and Visual and creative Arts. Yet beyond any degree or diploma, art is the very breath I live— second only to the love I have for my daughter.

I homeschooled her throughout elementary school, and our lives changed when we discovered Evergreen Academy which is where she started her high school journey. Evergreen wasn’t just a school, it became a second home. A place where learning went hand in hand with belonging. There, students aren’t just numbers; they’re seen, heard, and given space to grow into who they’re meant to be.

It’s because of this meaningful experience that I now proudly lead the art program at Evergreen Academy! My goal is to carry forward the heart, purpose, and creative spirit of this beautiful place.

Ms. Amanda Morelli - Physical & Health Educator

After coaching two sports from the recreational to international level for over 20 years, I discovered that my true passion lies in teaching children and helping them reach their full potential. I went on to create an elite training center where athletes could develop and thrive.

As a former high-level athlete myself, I chose my sport at 15 and moved away from home to train at an international training center. That journey shaped my career in athlete development, taking me across Canada and the U.S. to train others. After taking time to raise my two children, I returned to education as a Vice Principal, classroom teacher, supply teacher, and one-on-one support educator.

Now, I’m thrilled to combine my love for sport and teaching at Evergreen Academy. With its incredible facilities, Evergreen is the perfect place to create a fun, safe, and engaging environment where students can grow in their physical literacy—and I’m excited to help them achieve their best.

Ms. Becca Winship - Kitchen Manager & Culinary Instructor

I’ve always had a deep love for creativity in the kitchen. Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of restaurants, gaining experience with different styles of cuisine and learning how to craft meals that are both nourishing and exciting. At home, I enjoy making fun and healthy meals for my kids, and I bring that same energy and creativity to the kitchen at Evergreen Academy.

Here, I have the opportunity to design menus that are nutritious, kid-friendly, and full of variety, fueling students’ bodies and minds.

What I love most about Evergreen is the rewarding environment and the chance to blend my passion for food with education. It’s a joy to be part of a community that values health, learning, and creativity all at once.


Mr. Darren Flower - Music Teacher & Co-Founder of Dandelions Music & Art

I’ve been teaching music for nearly 15 years, working with students of all ages, but my greatest passion lies in teaching elementary-aged children. I knew I wanted to be a music teacher since I was twelve, back when I was already showing my classmates the little bit I knew at the time. That early spark never left me.

Becoming a father has deepened my understanding of how young children learn and connect with music. Watching my daughter develop perfect pitch at just four years old has been both inspiring and affirming. It reminds me daily of the importance of nurturing creativity from an early age.

My wife and I founded Dandelions Music & Art, and together we’ve been fortunate to receive multiple awards for our work in arts education. When I’m not teaching, you’ll often find me onstage playing guitar with my Classic Rock-inspired band Wayward Saints, or behind the mic hosting my radio show Rock It Up! on CFRE, the University of Toronto Mississauga’s campus station. Through the show, I’ve had the chance to interview some incredible artists, including members of Blind Melon, Pearl Jam, and The Kentucky Headhunters.

I’m also proud to serve as a judge for FACTOR (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent on Recordings), a government-funded organization that supports emerging Canadian musicians.

I am excited to be a part of the Evergreen Academy community. I love sharing the power and excitement of music with students and helping them discover their creative voices.