Our Staff

Aileen

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 the best learning environment for all children at E.C.I. Learning Academy.

Ms. Jen

Hello, my name is Jen and I will be the Assistant Director at ECI Learning Academy. I have a wonderful husband and two children. My daughter was married last year and soon I will be a grandma! My son is 17 years old and ready to conquer the world. My son came much too early and had some special needs in his early years. I understand what it is like to go through the process, the emotions, the family needs, and the outside intervention. I grew a passion for kids, I grew a desire to provide for all kids specifically to their needs. I met Aileen and her passion was contagious. She thought I would do well in childcare, and so my journey began. I am a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator and Certificated Bookkeeper. I have always excelled in administrative duties and therefore Assistant Director suits me well. I am looking forward to starting my journey with E.C.I. Learning Academy!

Ms. Jean

The Kindergarten teacher that has been at ECI Learning academy for about 10 years. She loves the school and her job, her passion is evident. We are happy to continue having Ms. Jean teach our children.

Ms. Donna

The famous bus driver. She loves driving the bus and being the first contact for the children who ride with her. Donna has been an Education Assistant for many years and will be in the Junior Kindergarten room this year.

Annette

Our Level One Early Childhood Educator for the preschool room. Annette is like the “mom” of the group, the children gravitate to her for hugs and comfort. Annette is a vital part of our team and is very dedicate to being of service wherever needed.

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.

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.