Kayla Williams, ECE (Owner) Canadian born, Caribbean raised Kayla is a highly motivated and dynamic young professional with over ten years of experience, with formal training in Early Childhood Education (Diploma) and Child Development (BA.). She previously worked as a Therapeutic preschool teacher at the Child Development Center (CDC). Kayla is an enthusiastic and confident individual committed to enhancing her skills and adapting quickly to meet the needs of her environment. She is highly skilled in program development and providing an inclusive learning environment, ensuring every child receives the best education possible. Kayla moved to Yukon from Toronto 3 years ago. As an islander she enjoys the warmth of the longer summer days by hiking and being close to the water. Kayla is dedicated and committed to continuing the provision of quality childcare.
Aida Carduz, ECE (Owner) Aida, with eight years of experience in childcare, graduated from Fanshawe College with a diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE). She is currently pursuing her ECE degree at Brock University. She has worked in different early learning centers in town and had the opportunity to be a mentor for the PDP program at Yukon U. Aida previously worked at the Child Development Center as an Early Learning Inclusion coach, where she ensured that all children have access to quality, inclusive early learning programs. Her passion for education, and dedication to her work is inspiring. Aida has resided in Yukon since 2015 and has decided to make it her beloved home. She enjoys spending time with her husband and friends, partaking in exciting adventures. Her love for nature and outdoor activities makes living Yukon a perfect fit
Pippa Burt, ECE Pippa has been working with preschool aged children for the last ten years. Originally from the UK, her desire to travel and passion for working with children led her to Whitehorse where she is now raising her 2 children. When she is not teaching at The Gardens, Pippa works with students enrolled in Yukon University's Early Learning and Child Care program in a mentoring role. Pippa believes that children's experiences in the early years particularly surrounding socio-emotional learning and development is paramount and equips children with core life skills to carry forward for years to come.
Cassandra Postill, ECE Cassandra has spent the past 14 years working in the helping profession in a variety of roles. Originally from Ontario, Cassandra drove to Yukon Territory in 2021 after spending 2 years working with Inuit Youth aged 6-12 in remote fly in communities where her spark for working with children began. Cassandra spent the past 2 years working as a Specialized Supported Childcare Educator working in close relationship with the Child Development Centre. Cassandra is currently in school completing her Early Childhood Educator diploma. She has a passion for inclusion, advocacy, social emotional learning with an emphasis on building strong connections and relationships to children, families, land, and place where she works and resides in. She believes strongly in developing trusting, secure relationships and connections which is the framework she grounds her work in. When she is not working or studying you can find Cassandra filling her cup with hiking, camping, dancing, relaxing on the lake, travelling, taking pictures, and experiencing all life has to offer with her friends, family, and fur children.
Anne Pinkerton, ECE Anne is an Early Years Educator who has been a valued member of the Gardens Family for the past five years. She is deeply passionate about teaching through meaningful connections and relationships, and embraces an emergent curriculum that evolves based on the interests and needs of the children. A cornerstone of her approach is cultivating a profound connection to the land and fostering a love for nature. Anne excels at crafting engaging and dynamic learning environments that ignite curiosity and inspire exploration. Beyond her work in the preschool, Anne is actively involved in advocacy for the Early Years Sector and serves as both a mentor and instructor for Early Learning students at Yukon University. Outside of preschool, Anne enjoys paddling, camping, gardening, and spending time in nature with her family during the warmer months. In the winter, you’ll find her kicksledding around her community in Marsh Lake or relaxing by the wood stove, sewing, or exploring children’s literature.