About Us
Our philosophy is that children learn best through play-based activities!
- We believe that each child is an unique individual and learns at his/her own pace.
- We provide an environment that stimulates curiosity, creativity, imagination and independence.
- We provide opportunities to develop gross-and fine-motor skills.
- We encourage social interaction and cultivate problem solving skills.
- We have highly qualified teachers with strong early childhood skills to help your child develop.
Our Teacher
Shirley Hiemstra has been with Woodcroft (formerly Dovercourt Playschool) for 14 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and has previously taught Kindergarten, and Grades 1, 2 and 5. She also has Level 3 Certification (Child Development Supervisor) from Alberta Children's and Youth Services.
She has a passion for teaching young children and loves "playing" with them; facilitating their growth and development by leading them through fun and exciting "learn through play" experiences. She was once nominated for the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education.
Shirley has served several terms on the Edmonton Preschool Association's Board and regularly attends Conferences and Workshops to continually upgrade professionally. She also has current Child Care First Aid Certification.
Our Teacher's Assistant
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Dawn Knutson is looking forward to her first year as teacher's assistant at Woodcroft next fall. She has a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts degree. Dawn also has Level 3 certification from Alberta Children's and Youth Services. She has taught Special Education for two years and Grade 1 for 4 years in Ontario. After her family moved to Alberta, she chose to stay home and raise her children. During this time she was able to volunteer at her children'sschool and in the community. Dawn will be upgrading her Child Care First Aid this summer and is anticipating an exciting year at Playschool next September!!