Our Staff

Owner: Aileen Kintanar

E.C.I. was created from a dream that I had since university: to have my own preschool. After teaching for a few years in the early childhood field and meeting so many gifted professionals who also shared my vision, we were able to make my dream a reality in 2011. My goal was to create a school that had a family feel to it, where teachers, families, and children feel respected and cared for. I believe in fostering inclusion in all our classrooms. I believe every child has something special to offer, and every child has the potential to promote empathy, kindness, and acceptance. I have confidence in the educational team and therapists. I value their passion and commitment to providing a learning environment for all children at E.C.I. Learning Academy.

Speech-Language Pathologist: Shruti Salian

My name is Shruti Salian, and I am a Speech-Language Pathologist. I graduated from Manipal University, India, with a Masters in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in 2012. Since then, I have worked in various institutions and setups to support neurodiverse children with their speech and language needs. My journey began in Qatar in 2013, where I was fortunate to be on a team of highly motivated professionals who worked together to provide holistic, child-centered, coordinated care and support to children aged 2- 18 yrs. I moved to Canada in 2017 and was offered a chance at a preschool setup for neurodiverse children to pursue my career as well as be registered. I have been lucky to have expert supervisors and colleagues who helped me throughout my professional journey to become a registered SLP. I am excited and looking forward to being a part of the team at ECI Learning Academy.When I am not working, I am probably fretting over the developmental milestones for my 3-year-old son or google searching new recipes to ensure he thinks his mom is still the best cook in the whole wide world.

Occupational Therapist: Susan McIlwain

Susan McIlwain, Occupational Therapist, has over 15 years’ experience working with children and youth of all ages in community, academic and specialized settings. With experience in both Alberta and Ontario, Susan is especially passionate about coaching all the important people in children’s’ lives to ensure any necessary practice or rehabilitation supports are built seamlessly into their natural environments. Allowing children to be children and be blissfully unaware of the practice opportunities they are gaining within regular daily activities and interactions is especially rewarding! Outside of work, Susan enjoys camping, reading, Muay Thai and spectating at her kids’ various endeavors.

Kindergarten Teacher: Ms. Nancy

I’m Nancy, the kindergarten teacher at E.C.I. Learning Academy. I’ve been teaching kindergarten for many years and have also had experience in early literacy development, special education, preschool and working with EAL students.

I believe that young children learn best through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences, and I strive to create a classroom where every child feels valued, safe, and excited to learn each day. I still find joy in watching children grow, discover new things, and develop confidence in their abilities.

Outside of school, some of my interests include music, spending time outdoors, camping, reading, and walking my dog. I am a mom of two adult children and love spending time being with my family

Child Development Facilitator and Transportation: Ms. Rajvir

Hello, my name is Rajvir. I am a dedicated Child Development Facilitator with several years of experience supporting children in achieving key developmental milestones—socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. I am committed to creating a safe, respectful, and engaging environment where children can learn through play and build positive relationships with others.

I ensure consistent supervision and foster inclusive, developmentally appropriate interactions among children in my care.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and exploring nature, which helps me stay grounded and inspired in my work with children.

Therapy Assistant: Ms.Leslie

My name is Leslie Mouncey and I have worked at ECI Learning Academy for 13 years. I have many years experience working both as an Educational Assistant and Therapy Assistant, supporting students with diverse and developmental needs. I’m passionate about helping students reach their potential and creating environments where everyone feels supported and understood.

Outside of work, I’m happiest around animals and the simple rhythm of farm life. Whether it’s caring for animals, being outdoors, or spending quiet time in nature, that’s where I recharge and find balance.

Preschool Teacher and Child Development Facilitator: Ms. Ayma

Hello! My name is Ayma Khan, I am a Child Development Facilitator and Preschool Teacher at E.C.I. Learning Academy, with a background in Child and Youth Care Counselling. I focus on creating supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environments that nurture each child’s unique development through play, connection, and curiosity.

I bring a diverse range of experience in early childhood education, after-school programming, academic research, and community-based child and youth support. I hold a Level 3 (ECE) certification and am passionate about helping children build emotional resilience, explore their creativity, and grow with confidence.

In addition to my work in early learning, I’m the Co-Founder of Youth Achieve, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people through leadership, advocacy, and meaningful community involvement.

To me, being an educator means showing up with empathy and intention—supporting every child as they learn, explore, and discover their place in the world. I believe in the power of strong relationships and in helping children feel seen, safe, and celebrated.

A few fun facts about me: I love art, camping and volunteering in the summer, and traveling to experience new places and cultures. I also recently became an aunt, which has brought so much joy into my life! No matter where I go, it is truly my passion to support and uplift children in every space I’m in.

Preschool Teacher: Ms. Janette

Hi! I’m Janette Viernes, a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator and proud preschool teacher. I started my journey working with children years ago, and it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I believe every child has their own rhythm of learning, and my goal is to create a warm, playful, and safe space where they can shine in their own unique way.

What I love most about teaching is seeing the “aha!” moments—the spark in a child’s eyes when they discover something new or proudly do something on their own. It’s magic every single day!

When I’m not in the classroom, I love hiking, biking, and camping with my family. I find that nature has a way of reminding me of the simple joys—just like the little ones do.

Administrative Coordinator and Therapy Team Assistant: Ms.Allina

My name is Ms. Allina, and I am the Admin and a Therapy Assistant at ECI Learning Academy. I have worked in the early learning and support field since 2002, and I feel deeply grateful to be part of a school community where everyone truly belongs. Guided by kindness, curiosity, and a strengths-based approach, I value meaningful relationships and environments where wonder, growth, artistic exploration, and joy can flourish. Our school mantra, “Explore, Create, Imagine!”, reflects not only our philosophy but also my own love for finding opportunities to wonder and to explore the whimsy in everyday life—making a little magic from the mundane.

I take a trauma-aware, relationship-centered approach in all of my interactions and believe strongly in lifelong learning. I enjoy collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and working closely with families, recognizing that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. It is a true privilege to support children and families within a community that honors diversity, inclusion, and compassion, while celebrating each child’s unique strengths and potential.

Child development facilitator : Ms. Nibras

My name is Nibras, and I am a child development facilitator with a Level Two Early Childhood Educator certification. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from my home country, Iraq, and bring over twelve years of experience working in early childhood education. I am proud to be part of the team at ECI School, where I feel a strong sense of belonging and purpose in my work.

Originally from Iraq, I am grateful to now call Canada my home. Together with my husband, we have built a happy and meaningful life here and raised four wonderful daughters, who are now grown, married, and continuing their studies. I am also a proud grandmother to three grandchildren, and I treasure the time I spend with them.

I am passionate about caring for children, supporting families, and helping others whenever I can. I enjoy giving back through donations and community support and hope to continue working in caring and supportive roles as I grow older. Outside of work, I love cooking, walking in the rain with a cup of coffee, and enjoying simple, peaceful moments with my family.

I believe in kindness, dedication, and lifelong learning, and I am grateful to be part of the ECI community.

Ms. Annette: Child Development Facilitator

Ms. Annette has been a valued member of the E.C.I. Learning Academy team for the past 6 years and brings a total of 9 years of experience in childcare, including work as a personal nanny and an Early Childhood Assistant. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Management.

Ms. Annette believes that every child can thrive in an inclusive learning environment when they are supported with patience, consistency, and encouragement. Her teaching philosophy is centered on maintaining a balance of being both firm and loving, while providing clear expectations and consistent guidance to help children learn and grow with confidence.

Known as our “Craft Wizard,” Ms. Annette loves creating fun and engaging craft activities that inspire children’s creativity and imagination. Outside the classroom, she enjoys sports and has a background in running and weightlifting. She also loves shopping for shoes and has quite the collection! In her free time, she enjoys visiting amusement parks—especially for the roller coasters—and spending time with family and friends at the park enjoying a good barbecue.

Ms. Annette’s warm personality, creativity, and dedication make her a wonderful part of the E.C.I. Learning Academy family.

Junior Kindergarten Teacher: Ms. Salena

Hello, my name is Salena. I am a proud graduate of Mount Royal University, where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Child Studies with a minor in Psychology. I am currently the teacher in the Junior Kindergarten classroom here at E.C.I. Learning Academy.

I have always loved advocating for children’s rights and supporting them as they grow, learn, and reach their own unique goals. My greatest joy is helping each child discover their strengths and become the very best version of themselves.

Before joining E.C.I., I spent my summers volunteering in Lebanon, working with children with differing abilities. That experience taught me the importance of inclusion, empathy, and being a positive advocate for every child — values that I carry with me into my classroom every day.

I’m so grateful to be part of your child’s learning journey and look forward to creating a fun, nurturing, and inspiring year together!

I am a registered psychologist : Ms Joanna

Hi! I’m Joanna. I am a registered psychologist. I’ve worked with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children and their families and teachers for nearly 2 decades! I love helping others find out about how their child or student thinks, learns, and relates to others.

I provide assessments for accessing early intervention programming. I meet with teachers to create goals and strategies unique to each child. I join in classroom activities to model strategies and approaches.

I prioritize relationship and research-based developmental approaches. I value each child’s unique profile, interests, and community, and try to have some laughs while facilitating skills.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love reading mysteries, walking my dog, swimming, eating, and watching just a couple reality shows. My favourite quote is from Temple Grandin, “The world needs all kinds of minds.” I love being part of the team at E.C.I. where each child is treasured, just as they are.