Faculty & Staff

Meet our
Executive Director

Saarah Shivji Headshot 1

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

Saarah Shivji Headshot 1

Meet our Faculty

Toddler Community

Ms. Alexandra Primi

Montessori Teacher

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

Montessori Teacher

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.

Mme. Aude Prudhomme

French-Speaking Montessori Teaching Assistant

I am Parisian and recently moved to Toronto with my family. Before settling here, I ran my own pastry shop in Paris for five years, where I also organized baking workshops for children. I hold a business degree, a French pastry certification, and passed the national teaching exam in France. Teaching, learning, and sharing knowledge have always been close to my heart. As a classroom assistant and French teacher, I speak in French with the children so they can absorb the language naturally through daily routines, songs, and joyful activities. I believe that curiosity and confidence are the best ingredients for learning, and I’m thrilled to share my culture in such a caring and inspiring environment.

Ms. Gina Torkos

Montessori Teaching Assistant

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

Ms. Aysia Brown

Montessori Teacher

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. Joanna Kamali

Montessori Teacher

My name is Joanna, and I have been drawn to working with children for as long as I can remember. After completing my Early Childhood Education diploma, I discovered the Montessori approach and quickly fell in love with how it fosters children’s growth and independence. I went on to complete my MACTE-accredited Montessori training and now have over 12 years of experience, with my heart truly in the Casa years. I am passionate about creating a calm, joyful classroom where children feel confident, curious, and excited to learn, supporting their independence, curiosity, and emotional growth every day. I’m especially passionate about early literacy and exploring science through fun experiments. Outside the classroom, I am adventurous and love trying new experiences. I enjoy dancing, music, poetry, and the arts and I’m always inspired to bring these into the classroom through creativity, movement, and expression.

Ms. Maria Vennare

Montessori Teaching Assistant

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.

Mme. Virginie Jalkh

French-Speaking Montessori Teaching Assistant

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.

Ms. Rose J.

Montessori Teaching Assistant

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

Montessori Teaching Assistant

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. 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. Aude Prudhomme

French Specialist

I am Parisian and recently moved to Toronto with my family. Before settling here, I ran my own pastry shop in Paris for five years, where I also organized baking workshops for children. I hold a business degree, a French pastry certification, and passed the national teaching exam in France. Teaching, learning, and sharing knowledge have always been close to my heart. As a classroom assistant and French teacher, I speak in French with the children so they can absorb the language naturally through daily routines, songs, and joyful activities. I believe that curiosity and confidence are the best ingredients for learning, and I’m thrilled to share my culture in such a caring and inspiring environment.

Mme. Virginie Jalkh

French Specialist

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.

Ms. Michelle Elias

Music & Drama

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.

CAREERS

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.

CONTACT US
Community

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

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

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

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.

Montessori_Canada

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

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

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.

Testimonials

“Working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Each day, I have the privilege of guiding children who are curious, eager to learn, and developing a strong sense of independence. It is truly fulfilling to watch them grow in confidence and responsibility throughout their time at the school. Mint has also supported my growth as an educator, giving me the opportunity to continue learning and refining my teaching practices. Mint is a united team of dedicated educators and our principal, Saarah, leads with genuine care and commitment to both the students and staff. Her dedication to creating an environment where everyone can thrive is inspiring. I am truly grateful to be part of such a nurturing and progressive school community, and I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of The Mint School.”

Ms. Aysia Gargarella-Brown (8 years at Mint)

Working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori) has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Our Principal Saarah Shivji leads with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the Montessori philosophy. She fosters a warm and collaborative environment where both children and staff can thrive. Working with children, watching them grow in an environment rooted in independence and practical learning, has been so rewarding.

Ms. Margherita Carducci (20 years at Mint)

Working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) has been nothing short of rewarding and meaningful. From day one, I have felt welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute whole-heartedly. The leadership is inspiring, the entire team is collaborative and supportive, and the culture encourages personal and professional growth. I feel motivated and fulfilled in my role here and I truly believe that this is a workplace where children, and staff, all thrive and matter. I am proud to be part of The Mint School!

Ms. Sera Sorbara

Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori) has given me the opportunity to grow and further enhance my skills as a teacher. I am grateful to be part of a team that nurtures and supports each other.

Ms. Diane D.

"I have truly enjoyed working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) for the past 25 years. It has been a privilege to witness the school's growth and development over the years and it has been a beautiful journey to be part of. Participating in the concerts has been especially rewarding, as they have allowed me to share my love for music and child expression in a meaningful way. The school not only offers incredible opportunities to work closely with the children but also fosters a strong sense of community amongst the staff. I look forward to seeing Mint continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.

Ms. Rose J.

I take pride in my work as a Montessori Teacher at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School), a growing school community that welcomes and inspires young learners each year. While the end of the school year in June is always emotional, I say goodbye with confidence, knowing my students are ready for their next steps. Each September, I’m excited to begin a new journey with another group of children, helping them grow and discover their potential. I value the strong collaboration with my colleagues as we work together to create an inclusive, nurturing environment where every child feels supported and encouraged to thrive.

Ms. Mitra Amudan

Working at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. In my time working here I have found it is incredibly rewarding to be alongside the children and guide them as they grow, explore, and learn at their own pace. I feel truly grateful to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate team, guided by Saarah Shivji, the principal whose genuine care for both the children and staff shines through in everything she does. Her thoughtful leadership and constant encouragement makes Mint feel like a second home. Every day brings a renewed sense of purpose and joy.

Ms. Alexandra Primi

It has been a true blessing to work at Mint (formerly Etobicoke Montessori School) for the past 14 years as an Early Childhood Educator. As a Montessori teacher, I strive to create a nurturing environment where young minds can explore and learn through their bodies, minds, and senses. I guide each child with patience and intention, encouraging them to discover their strengths and interests. I am committed to helping every student recognize their unique value and capabilities. I love the sense of belonging and community we have at Mint.

Ms. Maria Vennare

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