About Us
Greenbelt Academy and Early Learning Centre is brought to you by:
Joelle Kanakis, RECE, FSP
Director of Preschool Programs / Forest School Practitioner
Joelle is a Registered Early Childhood Educator, Forest School Practitioner, and an owner/operator of Greenbelt Academy and Early Learning Centre. She has always been drawn to nature and the outdoors which started when she was young, spending time outdoors with her three younger sisters going on backyard adventures or spending time in the summer camping with her family. It wasn’t until she became a mother that she really saw the importance of sharing this love of nature with her two daughters. Joelle ran a successful nature based home daycare for over 6 years in her home before joining Tiffany and Jackie to open Greenbelt Academy in Grimsby. Joelle has always been drawn to a space where education and the natural environment overlap and is excited to be on this journey to develop lifelong connections to the natural world for the children in her community.
Tiffany Tierney, RECE, FSP
Director of School Age Programs / Forest School Practitioner
Tiffany is a Registered Early Childhood Educator, Forest School Practitioner, and an owner/operator of Greenbelt Academy and Early Learning Centre. She gained experience working in Kindergarten classrooms with the DSBN, preschools throughout the Niagara region, and trained as a Forest School Practitioner before joining forces with like-minded educators to offer nature-based education to their community. With over 10 years experience in her field, she is driven to share her passion for nature, environmentalism, and education with students, educators, and the community.
Jaclyn Giesbrecht, OCT, FSP
Director of Operations / Forest School Practitioner
Jackie is an Ontario Certified Teacher, Forest School Practitioner, and an owner/ operator of Greenbelt Academy and Early Learning Centre. She started working with children as a day camp instructor and program facilitator, which then led her to pursue her passion to become an educator. She has a passion for teaching outdoors and scaffolding learning opportunities that occur in such a rich and diverse setting. Her goal in offering nature based programming is to inspire young minds to take an avid interest in nature, which will then open up various avenues for learning and inquiry, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Ms. Stephanie, OCT
Kindergarten Educator
Ms Stephanie is an Ontario certified teacher with a focus in teaching English, English as a Second Language, and is also currently studying for Montessori certification. She spent nearly a decade teaching abroad in South Korea and the United Arab Emirates. Always a lover of the outdoors, one of her favourite weekend activities in Dubai was desert camping under the stars. She has also traveled the world exploring the Amazon rainforest, the salt flats of Bolivia and even spending a summer camping with lions and elephants in Botswana and Namibia. She is very excited to continue her adventures with the students at Greenbelt Academy.
Ms. Claudia, RECE
Kindergarten Educator
Claudia is a former Kindergarten teacher who immigrated to Canada in 2017. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and courses toward a master’s degree in Psycho-Pedagogy, which she completed in Mexico.
After she moved to Canada, she worked as an ACE at childcare centers and school age programs. Following her passion for the early years field, she attended Sheridan College and graduated with Honours from the Intensive ECE program. As a RECE, she is committed to plan and implement curriculum that is challenging yet age-appropriate and inclusive.
Nature has always been an important part of her life; she grew up surrounded by trees, rivers, lakes, animals, and farms. Most of her childhood memories involve playing outside on a sunny day, digging holes, climbing trees, collecting rocks, getting wet in the rain, and observing insects and bugs. Claudia believes that being exposed to nature from an early age, contributed to her love and appreciation for the natural world. She finds nature fascinating; for her, there is nothing a long walk can’t fix.
Therefore, she believes that an educational approach that involves the outdoors benefits children in their holistic development; not just academically. Claudia is excited to be part of the Greenbelt Team, where she hopes to foster a welcoming environment, so children can grow and develop to their full potential. She cannot wait to learn and thrive with the children and Educators at Greenbelt Academy.
Ms. Ranjeet, RECE
Kindergarten Educator
I am Ms. Ranjeet. I am new to Canada from India and teaching was my profession and passion back home. I have 2 bachelor degrees; one in Medical and the other in Education. I also have one master degree in Botany (study of plants). I have 2 years experience of teaching in India and taught science for children in grades 5 to 10. To continue this profession, I studied Early Childhood Education at Mohawk College in Hamilton and graduated in April 2023.
Working at Greenbelt Academy has been such a pleasure so far because it blends my passion for Education with my background in Botany.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my daughter and husband. I enjoy cooking and watching my daughter’s favourite animal shows with her. I love to spend time in nature and study the biodiversity of plants in Canada because they are so different from the plants back home in India. I also enjoy the weather patterns/seasons in Canada that I have experienced over the past 2 years. I love learning new things and also love learning alongside the children in my program.
Ms. Sarah, RECE
Kindergarten Educator
Hello, I am Ms.Sarah and I am so excited to be a part of the Greenbelt teaching family. I graduated from Mohawk college with my ECE diploma in 2014 and have taken professional learning courses over the years. I live here in Grimsby with my husband and three children. I am very passionate about our community and teaching our students about Grimsby’s rich heritage and beautiful nature. I look forward to many years with our students.
Ms. Laura, RECE
Kindergarten Educator
I was previously on leave from the school board after having my twin boys, and made the final decision not to return over the summer. I have been beyond blessed to stay home with the twin,s and I knew in my heart that returning to the board wasn’t the right choice for myself or my family. Being able to be home with my boys for the last 3 years has taught me the importance of outdoor exploration, and I truly believe every child should have the ability at some point in their life to learn in nature.
I’m also a certified paediatric sleep and child development practitioner and have been lucky enough to help families over the last few months understand infant and toddler development through a holistic lens.
I’m so excited to start this new chapter with Greenbelt!
Ms. Amanda, RECE
Toddler Room Educator
Amanda graduated from Mohawk College as a Registered Early Childhood Educator in 2021. There is not a memory Amanda has as a child that does not involve the outdoors from camping with her family, ATVing, fishing and going on hikes in spring to fall to snowmobiling and tobogganing in the winter.
Amanda has experience working with various age groups, and she is looking forward to learning alongside the children as they explore the world and develop new skills. She is excited to join our seeds program and share her passion for the outdoors with the children and her colleagues.
Ms. Alycia
Toddler Room Educator
Miss Alycia has been working with children as a toddler and preschool educator for almost 2 years. She has always had a love of working with little ones.
She has helped run a dance studio for over 5 years, working with young children’s classes and administration. She is very excited to be a part of Greenbelt Academy and is looking forward to exploring and watching the students learn and grow.
Ms. Dipika, RECE
Toddler Room Educator
My name is Dipika Shrestha, and I come from the beautiful country of Nepal, a place known for its breathtaking mountains, rich culture, and peaceful connection with nature. Growing up surrounded by greenery and the Himalayas inspired me to appreciate simplicity, kindness, and the balance between people and the natural world. These early experiences shaped my values and continue to influence how I live and work today.
In Nepal, I pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and completed three years of the program before deciding to explore new opportunities abroad. My background in business helped me develop strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills — qualities that I now use in my work as an educator.
After moving to Canada, I discovered my true passion for working with young children and supporting their growth through creativity, play, and meaningful connections. I recently graduated from Mohawk College with a diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE 2025).Through my studies and experiences, I have learned the importance of nurturing the whole child — emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively — while building inclusive and supportive environments for all families.
As an educator, I believe that every child is unique and capable, and I aim to create a classroom where children feel safe to express themselves and explore their world. I enjoy incorporating natural materials and outdoor play into learning, as I believe nature offers endless opportunities for curiosity, discovery, and imagination.
My goal as an Early Childhood Educator is to continue learning and growing alongside children — supporting their development, celebrating their achievements, and helping them connect with the world in positive and meaningful ways. My journey from Nepal to Canada has taught me that learning never ends and that every culture, language, and experience adds beauty and depth to who we are and how we teach.
Ms. Rachel, RECE
Preschool Room Educator
Rachel has been a registered early childhood educator since 2014 and is working towards her degree for autism and behavioral sciences. Rachel has an inside view into children on the autism spectrum and has experience working with children with exceptionalities. Rachel follows her passion through teaching children of all developmental levels. She loves all types of plants and animals and enjoys being in nature to soak up the world around her. Rachel takes a lot of additional courses throughout the year to continue to stay on top of the newest research and teaching strategies. Rachel is excited to thrive and explore nature with all the children in the roots program and see where this year takes us.
Ms. Ceci
Preschool Room Educator
Hello, Greenbelt Academy community, my name is Ceci, and I am a happy, friendly and caring Educator from Mexico.
I completed my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Educator in 2018. I have more than 5 years of experience working with children. I had the opportunity to live abroad in the States as an Au Pair, through which I gained a better understanding of American culture and improved my English skills.
Following my passion and interest in child development, I moved to Canada in 2022 to upgrade my studies. I graduated from the Educational Support Program, at Mohawk College in 2024, to become an EA. This program brought me the tools to assist and support exceptional students facing physical, emotional or behavioural challenges, which I am confident will be beneficial during my time at Greenbelt Academy.
Growing up in Veracruz, Mexico, surrounded by tropical weather, beautiful beaches, and diverse flora and fauna, filled me with a sense of wonder, love and appreciation for nature from an early age. I strongly believe that Forest Education can allow children to grow with a different perspective, one that is more conscious, free and full of lasting memories.
I am very excited for all the learning and growth that will come from our time together, I am ready to start this journey and create unforgettable memories and adventures at Greenbelt Academy.
Ms. Avanti
Preschool Room Educator
My name is Avanti Makwana, and I began my career by completing my studies in Financial Management. Soon after, I discovered my true passion—working with young children—which led me to pursue training as a Nursery Trainee Teacher in India. Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of teaching and supporting children in their early years, helping them learn, grow, and discover their own unique potential.
I truly enjoy being part of a child’s learning journey, especially watching their curiosity and creativity unfold each day. My greatest joy as an educator is creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment where children feel confident to explore and express themselves.
I chose Greenbelt Academy because of its strong commitment to nature-based learning. I believe children thrive when they connect with the natural world, and I love how this approach encourages them to be curious, imaginative, and responsible. Being surrounded by nature provides endless opportunities for discovery, and I am excited to be part of a community that values outdoor exploration and hands-on learning.
Ms. Kiki, RECE
Preschool Room Educator
Hi Greenbelt Friends and Family! My name is Miss Kiki.
I graduated with honours from Niagara College as a Registered Early Childhood Educator in 2017.
I have many years under my own “greenbelt” working with children of all ages and abilities. I strongly believe that every tiny human has the ability to grow and become amazing in their very own, beautiful way! I support each child’s individuality to help them become confident and capable. My personal belief is that nature holds a strong importance in development. We all come from the earth, therefore we should explore it to flourish in our understanding. I can’t think of a time growing up when I wasn’t outside. If there is one motto I live by, it’s what Miss Frizzle said, “Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!”
Mr. Jordan
Forest School Facilitator
Growing up on a 100 acre mixed farm, Jordan had the privilege of spending countless hours exploring the surrounding fields and forests, creating stories, and wondering endlessly about the mysteries of the natural world. Jordan has always been passionate about creative expression, a love matched only by his desire to help others recognize their own potential and place in the web of life. As an undergraduate at the University of Guelph, Jordan spent a co-op semester working at Mono Cliffs Outdoor Education Centre where he experienced firsthand the transformative power of outdoor education and nature connection. After graduating with a BA in English and Psychology, Jordan worked for Community Living Guelph-Wellington helping people with disabilities connect with their communities through social and recreational activities. He directed several plays, ran a music improv workshop, and also taught private art lessons during this time. In 2019, Jordan participated in a year-long nature connection course for adults through the Guelph Outdoor School. This experience prompted him to pursue a career in the field of outdoor education and Jordan subsequently worked at the Guelph Outdoor School until July of 2023 when he and his partner decided to move to the Niagara region to raise their daughter closer to family. Jordan is thrilled to be a part of the Greenbelt family and is excited to learn, explore, and create alongside some of the youngest human inhabitants in the beautiful Niagara region.
Ms. Teresa, RECE
Forest School Facilitator
Ms. Teresa is a RECE, with a Bachelors of Arts and Sciences from the University of Guelph. She is bilingual, speaking French and English, and loves to share her love of language with the children under her care. She is passionate about educating and empowering young people, and is so excited to be a part of a team dedicated to the growth and wellbeing of children. Teresa fondly remembers hiking and camping with her family growing up, and believes that this access to natural spaces at a young age was instrumental to her growth, strengthening her independence and empathy. She loves to sing, dance, act, play the ukulele, and go for hikes with her husband and their dog, Boone. She is so excited to be a part of the Greenbelt Team!
Ms. Yvonne
Program Support
Yvonne is a certified Forest School Practitioner, who, from a young age, spent a lot of time outdoors, from family hikes with her family and just playing outdoors, exploring the land between the surrounding greenhouses and orchards where she grew up just outside of St. Catharines, Ontario.
She has an advanced diploma in Ecosystem Management Technology from Fleming College, an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from York University, and a Masters degree in Environmental Studies, specializing in Sense of Place and Belonging from York University with a diploma in Sustainable Education.
Throughout her time in academics, Yvonne also provided child care for families, and took the children outside as much as possible because of how beneficial it is for children. In her Dutch background, ‘uitwaaien’ means to refresh oneself in the wind, a practice that she believes is important for everyone.
Between degrees, Yvonne lived for almost two years in France and the Netherlands, to explore her family background and land a bit more thoroughly, mostly by bike! In her free time, Yvonne continues to be curious about the world around her through hiking, camping, or canoeing, and creates watercolour paintings inspired by the natural world.
After spending two years in Parry Sound at the Parry Sound Forest School, Yvonne is excited to be back in Niagara, and share her forest experience with the children of Greenbelt Academy!
Ms. Saakshi
Program Support
Yvonne is a certified Forest School Practitioner, who, from a young age, spent a lot of time outdoors, from family hikes with her family and just playing outdoors, exploring the land between the surrounding greenhouses and orchards where she grew up just outside of St. Catharines, Ontario.
She has an advanced diploma in Ecosystem Management Technology from Fleming College, an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from York University, and a Masters degree in Environmental Studies, specializing in Sense of Place and Belonging from York University with a diploma in Sustainable Education.
Throughout her time in academics, Yvonne also provided child care for families, and took the children outside as much as possible because of how beneficial it is for children. In her Dutch background, ‘uitwaaien’ means to refresh oneself in the wind, a practice that she believes is important for everyone.
Between degrees, Yvonne lived for almost two years in France and the Netherlands, to explore her family background and land a bit more thoroughly, mostly by bike! In her free time, Yvonne continues to be curious about the world around her through hiking, camping, or canoeing, and creates watercolour paintings inspired by the natural world.
After spending two years in Parry Sound at the Parry Sound Forest School, Yvonne is excited to be back in Niagara, and share her forest experience with the children of Greenbelt Academy!
