Faculty & Staff

Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Penther is a dedicated Kindergarten teacher at Richland Academy, where she has been part of the community for over a decade. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Education. She brings warmth, creativity, and a deep understanding of young children to her classroom, creating an environment where students feel confident to explore, discover, and develop their independence. She is passionate about making learning joyful and meaningful.

Kindergarten Teacher (on maternity leave)

Ms. Sbrissa is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who brings warmth, enthusiasm, and creativity to her Kindergarten classroom. She enjoys every aspect of working with young learners and creates engaging experiences that make each day exciting and meaningful. With a caring and playful approach, she encourages children to explore, discover, and grow. She strives to make each child’s learning journey a memorable adventure filled with joy, connection, and discovery.

Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Sherman is a dedicated Kindergarten teacher who has been a valued member of the Richland Academy community for five years. With a diverse background at Richland, Sarah has also supported students as an ELL and French teacher. She brings warmth, creativity, and a love of learning to her work with young children, creating an environment where students feel supported, curious, and excited to explore. Ms. Sherman holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto, majoring in History with minors in French and Renaissance Studies. 

Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Vanegas is a passionate Educator who has been a valued member of Richland Academy’s Kindergarten team for seven years. She brings warmth, energy, and creativity to the classroom, creating an environment where children feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn. Ms. Vanegas is deeply committed to early childhood education and takes great joy in helping young learners build confidence, develop independence, and discover the world through meaningful, hands-on experiences. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree and is a Registered Early Childhood Educator.

Kindergarten Teacher

Ms. Paguaga is excited to join the Junior Kindergarten team this year! She graduated from Niagara University with a Bachelor of Education degree after completing her Honours Bachelor degree of Arts at York University. She is passionate about creating a warm, welcoming, and nurturing classroom where every child feels valued and supported. She looks forward to fostering curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning while making this year a fun and memorable experience for every student.

Grade 1 Teacher

With over 20 years in education, including 12 years at Richland Academy, Ms. McCutcheon brings experience, passion, and a deep commitment to nurturing the whole child. Her educational philosophy reflects Richland’s Reggio-inspired roots and a commitment to creating supportive environments where every child feels valued, capable, and encouraged to grow. Guided by the IB philosophy, she continues evolving as an educator while building meaningful relationships with students and families through empathy, care, and connection.

Grade 1 Teacher

With almost two decades of teaching experience, Ms. Bracciale has been a valued Grade 1 teacher at Richland Academy since 2019. She is passionate about creating supportive and engaging learning environments and loves teaching within the IB framework, which encourages students to become creative, curious, and independent thinkers. She believes meaningful connections are essential to learning. By understanding each student’s interests, strengths, and experiences, she helps them feel valued, confident, and connected to their classroom community.

Grade 2 Teacher

Ms. Wentzell brings 16 years of international experience teaching the PYP in IB World Schools across Italy, South Korea, Bangladesh, China, Senegal, and Canada. Reggio Emilia–trained, she brings a child-centred, inquiry-driven approach to her classroom at Richland Academy. She believes in educating the whole child and creating a joyful, responsive classroom where strong relationships and student agency foster confidence, resilience, and belonging. Ms. Wentzell holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Education.

Grade 2 Teacher

With five years at Richland Academy, Ms. Quiquero brings experience teaching Grades 1 and 2 and supporting English language learners. Her experience working with young students has shaped a warm, inclusive approach to learning, with a focus on building strong relationships and creating engaging classroom experiences. She is passionate about helping students feel confident, supported, and excited to learn while developing the skills and independence they need to thrive.

Grade 3 Teacher

Ms. Kenedy is an experienced IB educator who joined Richland 4 years ago, bringing over 14 years of teaching experience from the International School of Geneva to Richland Academy. Susan is committed to creating a classroom environment where children feel respected, cared for, and valued. She believes strong relationships are at the heart of learning and strives to help every student feel confident, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Grade 3 Teacher

Mr. Pinho is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and creating engaging learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and independence. He has worked within the education field for the better part of a decade and his experience supporting students with diverse learning needs in mainstream and special education settings has shaped his inclusive and student-centred approach. Mr. Pinho holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and a Bachelors degree in family and social services. As a teacher and Richland soccer coach,  he fosters an environment where students feel valued, encouraged to take risks, and empowered to grow as learners.

Grade 4 Teacher

Ms. James holds a Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and has over a decade of experience in private education. She is passionate about her students, art, and exploring new approaches to teaching and learning. Ms. James brings creativity and enthusiasm to her work, continually seeking meaningful ways to inspire curiosity, encourage self-expression, and support each student’s growth. 

Grade 4 Teacher

With over 21 years of teaching experience in Canada and internationally, including 15 years within the IB PYP, Ms. Carr brings a global perspective and deep commitment to traditional and inquiry-based learning. She fosters engaging, supportive environments where curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration thrive. Strong partnerships with students, families, and colleagues are central to her practice, helping create a space where every learner can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Grade 5 Teacher

As a teacher and Richland soccer coach, Mr. DeLuca brings enthusiasm, positivity, and a genuine passion for supporting students’ growth. A valued member of the Richland Academy community for seven years, he strives to create a classroom environment where students feel supported, valued, and excited to learn. He believes strong relationships and a sense of belonging are essential to student success. Outside the classroom, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Steelers, and cheering on his teams.

Grade 5 Teacher

With five years as part of the Richland community, Ms. Mistry brings a global perspective and a passion for meaningful learning to her Grade 5 classroom. Having taught overseas, she brings diverse experiences and perspectives to her work with students. She holds a Master of Education specializing in Indigenous Studies and is committed to creating engaging learning experiences that encourage students to think deeply, make connections, and grow as learners and individuals.

Grade 6 Teacher

Ms. Adhyaru is an experienced IB educator with over 15 years of teaching experience, including roles as a Mathematics and Science specialist and an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) homeroom teacher. She has extensive experience with the PYP framework, including mentoring students and colleagues and leading multiple PYP Exhibitions. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Management and is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity, collaboration, and growth.

Grade 7 & 8 Teacher
and MYP Coordinator

Ms. Soriano has been a valued member of the Richland Academy community since 2018, teaching in the Middle School with a focus on MYP Individuals and Societies and MYP Language and Literature. With over 15 years of experience in private education, Millie is passionate about the IB framework and currently serves as Richland’s MYP Coordinator, supporting staff and students in reaching their goals. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Design and a Bachelor of Education.

Grade 7 & 8 Teacher

Mr. Alton is a passionate MYP Mathematics and Science teacher who strives to make learning engaging, meaningful, and connected to the world beyond the classroom. He enjoys exploring the connections between mathematics and science with his students while fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Outside the classroom, he enjoys the outdoors, gardening, hands-on projects, and learning about science, nature, and technology. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University.

Meal Coordinator Manager

With over 30 years of experience in hospitality and working with children, Heidi brings her passion for food and teaching to Richland. In addition to her role as Meal Coordinator Manager, she also leads after-school cooking programs and summer cooking camps, inspiring children to build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of cooking.

Meal Coordinator

Amy brings extensive experience in catering, food preparation, and barista service. With a passion for cooking and baking, she enjoys creating delicious meals and treats. Amy also loves working with young children and is excited to be part of the Richland Academy community.

Campus Manager

Mr. Rafael plays an integral role in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and well-functioning campus. As a respected custodial team leader, he demonstrates exceptional professionalism, leadership, reliability, and commitment to the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and care. His positive attitude and strong relationships with students and staff make him a trusted presence. Mr. Rafael’s initiative, attention to detail, and dedication consistently strengthen our school community and daily campus operations.  

Custodian

Carlos joined Richland Academy in 2020 as custodian. He has over 12 years of experience in custodial services and plays an important role in maintaining a clean, welcoming, and well-kept school environment. Carlos is a dependable member of the Richland team and takes pride in helping keep the campus comfortable and cared for each day.

Custodian

Hazelle brings over 10 years of custodial experience to Richland Academy. She is dedicated to keeping the school looking its best and ensuring students and staff enjoy a comfortable, cared-for environment each day.

Custodian

Chakib is a dedicated and conscientious member of the Richland Academy team. He takes pride in maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming environment where students and staff feel comfortable and supported. Through his work, Chakib helps create a positive school environment that supports learning, growth, and the well-being of the entire Richland community.