Meet our
Executive Director
I am Saarah Shivji, J.D., Executive Director at Mint. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our Montessori school located in Toronto’s west end Etobicoke neighbourhood. Founded in 1995 by Christina Zentena as Etobicoke Montessori School, Mint offers your child a one-of-a-kind enriched, bilingual Montessori experience.
With a law degree from the University of British Columbia and over 15 years of legal practice, I lead with strategic vision, intellectual depth, and community-mindedness. My passion for learning and teaching led me to pursue my Montessori Diploma through the MACTE-accredited Montessori Teachers College, as well as specialized training through Harvard University’s Early Education Leadership program.
Fluent in French, I also contribute to the bilingual learning environment we offer our students. My husband is a physician, and we share a deep commitment to uplifting our community.
With over 90 percent of brain development occurring before age six, we know the power of investing in early education. My extensive education and experience inform Mint’s commitment to offer the best in early childhood learning. My school gives young children the motivation and tools to confidently and proudly take ownership of their own learning journey. I can’t wait to watch them grow into empowered leaders of tomorrow.
Always Mint,
Saarah Shivji, J.D.
Certified Montessori Curriculum Specialist,
Harvard Graduate School of Education
Executive Director
Meet our Faculty
Toddler Community
Ms. Alexandra Primi
It has been a wonderful journey being part of this school community. I joined the school in 2024 after completing my student placement in 2023. I hold an Early Childhood Education Diploma from Humber College. I have also pursued my Infant Toddler Montessori Diploma through Montessori Teachers College. I am passionate about early childhood education and find great fulfillment in supporting young children, especially toddlers as they grow and develop. It is incredibly rewarding to witness their progress and see how much they are capable of achieving at such a young age. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy expressing my creativity through writing and drawing.
Ms. Sera Sorbara
I have had the honour of working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) as a Toddler Teacher for the past year. It has been a truly rewarding experience filled with growth, meaningful learning, and strong connections amongst myself and my students. I hold an Early Childhood Education Diploma and have also pursued my Infant Toddler Montessori Diploma. This role is very close to my heart. I see my classroom as a small, supportive community where we learn together, care for one another, and celebrate each child’s unique journey. My goal as an educator is to work alongside my toddlers to build confidence, develop independence from an early age, and learn through exploration and hands-on experiences in a nurturing environment. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and loved ones.
Ms. Gina Torkos
I have been a Montessori Teaching Assistant at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) since 2018, working closely with children 18 months to 6 years old. I enjoy supporting the children’s growth and seeing their pure happiness each day. I value the strong sense of trust I have built with the children. Over the years, I have earned various certifications including Nursing through the Red Cross Society of Romania, Food Handling, Canadian Language Benchmarks and more, all of which have contributed to my skills at the school. During my free time, I enjoy hiking and walking nature trails on the weekends.
Casa Community
Mrs. Maria Vennare
It has been a true blessing to work at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) for the past 14 years as an Early Childhood Educator. I hold an Early Childhood Education Diploma, a History Degree at University of Toronto, and an ESL certificate, which have equipped me to confidently contribute to this rewarding field. I am passionate about working alongside children, particularly in supporting their growth in language and math which are components of the Montessori curriculum that help lay the foundation for their future success. I also deeply enjoy nurturing their ability to express their unique, creative selves. Outside of the classroom, I have a love for reading with a book collection of over 1,000 books, as well as enjoy spending time quilting and knitting.
Ms. Aysia Brown
It has been a privilege to be part of this school for the past seven years. Teaching here has been more than a job, it has been a deeply rewarding and meaningful experience. I hold an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Community Social Services, with an Area of Emphasis in Youth and Families, as well as an Early Childhood Montessori Diploma. My teaching approach is centered around creating a safe, joyful, and engaging learning environment where children feel confident to explore and learn. I strive to foster independence and a sense of accomplishment in each child, encouraging them to take pride and joy in their work and learning. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is witnessing the pride and joy my students feel after successfully completing a task or mastering a lesson. Seeing their confidence grow in these moments is truly the highlight of my work as an educator. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy long walks with my puppy.
Ms. Mitra Amudan
I have been part of the Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) team for the past 13 years, and have worked as a Montessori Teacher for 20 years. I hold a MACTE Early Childhood Montessori Diploma, as well as degrees in English and Psychology. I am passionate about helping children build confidence specifically in math and language, and I consider it a privilege to guide them in learning to read, write, and develop mathematical skills within the Montessori environment from an early age. Through dedication and hard work, I take great pride in both my teaching and the progress my students achieve. Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling the world and exploring different genres of music.
Ms. Rose J.
I have had the privilege of working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) since the year 2000. With my AMI Montessori Assistant Teacher Certificate, I am trained to support the classroom environment and guide children in their ongoing learning. Throughout my years of experience, I have been inspired by the independence, focus, and creativity that the Montessori method fosters. I particularly enjoy fostering self-expression through visual arts, crafts, and participating in our annual concerts, which provide wonderful opportunities for children to showcase their talents. Outside the classroom, I am passionate about wellness.
Ms. Victoria De Sousa
I’ve been working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) since 2023 while pursuing my Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Studies. I am privileged to work here as a Montessori Teaching Assistant and Supply staff. I have had the opportunity to work in all classrooms, from Toddler through to Casa. This experience has allowed me to work with children ranging from 18 months to 6 years old gaining hands-on experience with Montessori materials and curriculum. Each day, I apply what I learn in university while also learning from my co-teachers and the children to help create a supportive, engaging learning environment. During my free time, I enjoy reading and going for leisurely walks.
Specialists
Mme. Virginie Jalkh
I am a dedicated educator with seven years of experience teaching French and working in Montessori environments. My experience has shaped my approach to fostering independence, curiosity, and a love of learning in young children. I am passionate about helping children grow not only academically but also socially and emotionally. I especially enjoy creating a warm, engaging space where students feel confident to explore language and express themselves. One of my greatest joys in teaching is witnessing those “lightbulb moments” when a child makes a discovery or overcomes a challenge. Outside of the classroom, I love baking, swimming and reading.
Michelle Elias
I am an affiliated teacher with the Royal Conservatory of Music, specializing in Vocals with minors in Piano and Theory. I opened my first music school at 19 years old, and my students regularly participate in RCM exams, local vocal competitions, open mic events, and annual recitals. Beyond music, I am a mother of two children, Blue and Navy, along with two bunnies and three dogs.
Join a teaching team
dedicated to excellence
At Mint, we strive to hire the most dedicated and gifted educators, administrators, and support staff. Guided by a common set of values, we collaborate with passion and dedication, all to help children thrive.
Discover more about our unique school culture and hiring practices.
More than just a school
The Mint School represents a true community made up of generations of students, parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, caregivers, valued partners, and friends. Throughout the school year, we love hosting fun events and celebrations that mark important occasions and milestones.
Mint & Mingle
These events give the parents of the Mint community a chance to get to know each other in a relaxed setting while the children enjoy structured fun nearby.
Curriculum Nights
These evening sessions offer parents insights into child development, educational research, our Enriched Whole Child Montessori curriculum, and bilingual classroom practices.
Celebrate at Mint
Throughout the year, we come together with our students and families to celebrate meaningful moments—ranging from seasonal concerts and graduation to cherished holiday traditions and special events.
Partners
Montessori Canada
The Mint School is proud to be fully accredited by Montessori Canada (formerly the CCMA) — a mark of excellence and authenticity in Montessori education. Since the term Montessori is not trademarked, Montessori Canada accreditation offers families assurance that our school meets the highest national standards in Montessori practice, teacher training, and leadership. As Canada’s leading accrediting body, Montessori Canada ensures schools like ours remain true to the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori.
Wholesome Kids Catering
Mint proudly partners with Wholesome Kids Catering, a leading Canadian provider of nutritious meals for children. Together, we support healthy growth and development by offering freshly prepared, balanced meals that meet provincial nutrition standards and accommodate a variety of dietary needs. This partnership allows us to provide our students with wholesome food in a way that aligns with our commitment to excellence and nurturing.
Humber College
Mint proudly partners with Humber College to support the next generation of early childhood educators. Through this collaboration, Humber sends practicum students to gain hands-on experience in our Montessori classrooms. These students work under the guidance of our trained educators, contributing meaningfully while learning through real classroom engagement. This partnership enriches our school community and helps mentor future educators.