About

Our Educators

Supervising Educator/Toddler & Preschool Educator – Amy Sonnenberg
Ms Amy has over 20 years of experience as a Registered Early Childhood Educator. She lives just outside of Elmira with her husband and two teenage boys. She believes that the early years of a child’s development are vital and that early learning experiences play a valuable role in helping shape the future of a child’s life. Her own children attended Elmira Community Nursery School with Ms. Diane. She credits their creativity, confidence and outside the box thinking in part to their early learning experiences. She brings to our school her warmth, kindness, patience and a love of learning.

KinderPrep Educator – Teresa Wikkerink
I am honoured and thrilled to be a part of the Elmira Community Nursery School “family”. I have supported, worked and been a part of many families’ lives for many years. My background is ECE and Infant Education. I began my career as a nursery school teacher/supervisor and have since worked for organizations such as Family and Children’s services, Monica Place, Early Years (Our Place) and KW Counselling Services. At KW Counselling I had the opportunity to support parents in a variety of roles. First and foremost, I am a parent. My husband and I have four grown wonderful people who continue to bless us!! We have 5 adorable grandchildren, aged 7 months – 8 years of age. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow along with your families.

Toddler Educator – Jordan Dixon

Hi, I’m Jordan, I am so excited to be joining the Elmira Community Nursery School Family! I have worked in Early Childhood Education since I graduated in 2018, but I took a short break to start my family and spend time with my kids while they were little. I am very excited to be back in the field! As an educator I am passionate about connecting children’s home and care environments to empower families as active participants in their child’s growth. I strongly believe that when families feel supported and understood, that their children are better equipped to thrive emotionally, socially, and developmentally. I live outside of Elmira with my husband, our 3 children, our cat and our dog. We love to spend time at our cottage in PEI, and going for ice cream dates as a family. I look forward to getting to know your families and your children!

Educator – Yoko Yamada
Hello! My name is Yoko and I am a support staff for the classes. I grew up in Japan and have moved around a little bit before settling in this beautiful part of Ontario. Every time I am at school, I appreciate the opportunity to see and learn fresh perspectives together with the children. My wish is to be of some help in bringing out smiles, a sense of achievement, and respect for oneself and others in the classes. Outside of school, I try to bring out the same for myself and my family and enjoy walking, reading recipe books, and baking.

Educator – Brenda Schott
I’m Brenda and I am a support staff member. My husband and I live in Elmira and have two adult children who attended Elmira Community Nursery School. I enjoy working with young children and appreciate their honesty and creativity. I feel privileged to be a part of their early learning and social development, while they build their confidence and interpersonal skills. I believe laughter and having fun is an important part of the learning process, for people of any age. My hobbies include reading, walking on our beautiful local trail, and photography.  

Administration – Leigh Somerville

I’m Leigh and I am behind the scenes helping our amazing educators.  My son started at ECNS when he was 18 months old and continued until he was off to school.  Along with seeing my son interact with the teachers in all the different programs here, I have been on the board as the Registrar, Vice Chair and Chair.  When it was time to re-enter the workforce, I couldn’t think of a better team to join.  This school has been life changing for my little family and I know you will love it here as well! My hobbies include being crafty, reading and baking.