Our Teachers and management 

Hello,
I'm Maryse Dion, founder, director and coordinator of Kazelfa School. At the turn of the 2000s, several linguistic communities were offering language classes to children on weekends, but it was difficult, if not impossible, to find English classes in the metropolitan area. As a second-language teacher myself, I felt challenged by this mission, and in 2008 I founded the Kazelfa School.  I'm convinced that regular practice of English is essential if young people are to become bilingual, and Kazelfa's courses respond to this need for communication by offering a variety of themes and activities where everyone is encouraged to express themselves in English in a safe, inclusive and non-competitive environment.  The teachers and I make sure that young and old alike make significant progress, all while having fun!

Maryse Dion
Founder, Principal & Coordinator
Bachelor in French and Spanish teaching
Major in Hispanic Studies
Master in Didactics
University of Montreal

Hi!

My name is Ms. Patrizia and I am the Educational Director at Kazelfa! I began as a teacher at Kazelfa and now collaborate, create, and revise lessons for all age groups. My belief is that children learn best when engaged, interested, and are having fun - and that’s what we try to bring to every weekly lesson! 

Ms. Patrizia
Educational Director
Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (McGill University)
Masters degree in Educational Psychology (McGill University)

Hello!

My name is Miss Kayla and I am one of the teachers for the 9-12 year old group online classes. My primary focus is to cultivate a positive classroom environment where every student feels empowered to progress at their own pace. I believe in tailoring my teaching approach to accommodate the unique needs and learning styles of each individual. By fostering a supportive atmosphere, I encourage students to embrace their journey to English proficiency with confidence and enthusiasm. Whether they're beginners taking their first steps or advanced learners refining their skills, I strive to create a space where everyone feels valued and motivated to reach their full potential. It's a joy to see my students flourish as they discover the joy of language learning at their own rhythm.

Kayla Krushelnyski
Bachelor in Kindergarten/Elementary Education at McGill University

Hello
My name is Rosie. I have been teaching at Kazelfa since 2016.  I believe children learn best in a supportive, fun, and positive environment. Learning should be fun, engaging, and hands-on experience! I provide fun and stimulating and interactive games, stories, and art activities as a way for children to learn. In my classroom, I offer reinforcement activities to engage the topic of the lesson. I believe teaching a second language is a great opportunity for students to develop in their social skills and open up many doors in the future. Encouraging and guiding students through positive reinforcement is an important aspect. I am happy to be part of the Kazelfa team and enriching your children’s life! We will work as a team and have fun learning English.

Rosie Roselli
D.E.C. in Early Childhood Education (Vanier College)
Bachelors in Child Studies (Concordia University)
Bachelors in Specialization in Early childhood and Elementary Education (Concordia University)

Hello
My name is Ms. Athana. I believe that children learn best when they are in a positive, safe and respectful environment. My approach is student centered; thus, I work towards meeting the students' learning styles, strengths and challenges, and interests. I will provide a fun learning environment which will include hands-on activities, music, videos, games, arts and crafts, etc. to enhance the students' confidence, encourage collaboration and support them to succeed. Overall, I want to establish the love of learning English in children while having fun! 

Athana Uthayakumar
Bachelor of Arts: Specialization in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (Concordia University)

Hi!
My name is Miss Olivia and I teach at Kazelfa’s  Laval location.  I am a strong advocate for motivating my students to learn and engaging them in interesting activities in order to heighten their curiosity. This is made possible as Kazlefa offers students a well-structured course load, which I believe is key in fostering children to become lifelong learners. I am also a strong believer in a positive classroom environment where students feel they are in a safe space and feel conformable participating in the activities. As we learn through activities, crafts, songs and play, the students and I will make this journey as memorable and exciting as possible!

Olivia Mancini
B.Ed In Elementary Education 
Master of Education – Student in the Educational Leadership Graduate program (McGill University)

Hi!

My name is Miss Christin and I teach students at the Laval branch. I  believe students learn best through not only a stimulating classroom setting but an equally fun one as well. As a qualified second language teacher, I am a firm believer of practice makes perfect, thus making participation super essential in my classroom. The more the students participate, the more comfortable they will be with learning a language. It is with such that I strive to provide engaging lessons, allowing students to participate through various interactive activities. I am proud to be part of your children's learning language journey. Here's to creating fun and cherished memories together!

Christin Ladas
B. Ed in Teaching English as a Second Language, Concordia University.

Hi!

My name is Melissa and I teach the 9–12-year-olds at Kazelfa. You will find me to be an enthusiastic teacher, who firmly believes in a fun, structured and engaging learning environment. I believe this can be achieved through songs, videos, and taking part in communicative activities. Not only do our students learn a new language, but they are also learning how to express themselves and communicate appropriately in an enriching environment. By giving our students the knowledge to learn a second or third language, we are opening doors for them and providing them with an abundance of opportunities. I love teaching, it is a profession that comes very natural to me. Therefore, my passion for teaching and learning will help to create a positive environment for your children.

Melissa Aiello
Bachelor of Education- Kindergarten & Elementary (McGill University)
Bachelor of Arts -Child Studies (Concordia University)

Hello!
My name is Miss Alyssia and I am and elementary school teacher. I believe that children
learn a new language best in an environment that is immersive, interactive, and
supportive. This includes creating opportunities for constant exposure to the English
language through listening, speaking, reading, and engaging in real-life contexts. The
environment should be engaging, with hands-on activities and resources that align with
their interests and encourage active participation, communication, and collaboration
among peers. With each class, I aim to organize and teach my lesson in a way that
truly engages each student to help them learn and have fun while doing so!

Alyssia Bentivegna
Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning (University of Ottawa)
Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (Concordia
University)

Hi!

My name is Miss Stephanie and I teach the 5-6 and 9-12-year-olds at Kazelfa. My main goal is to create enjoyable, engaging, and enriched learning opportunities for students in an environment where they can feel safe and reach their full potential in English. I strive to place students at the center of their learning and have them play an active role in their education. I believe this is the key to creating meaningful learning. I look forward to working alongside your child and creating memorable learning experiences for them.

Stephanie Gioia
Bachelor of Education Kindergarten/Elementary (McGill University)
Master of Education Studies in Teaching and Learning (University of Ottawa)

Hi!
My name is Miss Crystal and I teach the 7–8-year-olds on Sundays at Kazelfa. Through the years of working with children I have come to learn that children learn best when they are presented with opportunities to grow and explore different topics. It’s also important for children to have fun and interact with one another when learning. In my classroom I aspire to give a safe and welcoming environment to allow each kid to shine and express themselves in their own way.

Crystal Bentivegna
BA in Teaching English as a Second Language (Concordia University) (in progress)

Hello,
Teachers are responsible for the instruction of content and curriculums, and to help each student navigate through their own individual journeys of personal development. However, an even greater responsibility teachers are tasked with is to shape upcoming generations of students to become critical thinkers who are able to contribute to society as conscientious citizens of a global community. This task requires a lot of patience, diligence, empathy and understanding. When the teaching and learning process is successful, then we begin to move closer to an equitable, just, and prosperous society. More importantly, a teacher is also an important mentor in the lives of his or her students. When a strong bond is established between the teacher and the student, that is when the fruits of our labour appear, and the educational process flourishes to its highest potential. This is part of my teaching philosophy and I aim to have my students gain something that will help them for life as we grow together one lesson at a time. 

Jason Alexander Vairamuthu
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts (Concordia University)
Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning (McGill University)

Hi! 
My name is Miss Alessia, and I teach the 9-12 and 7-8 groups. I am also a student at McGill University pursuing my Bachelor of Education with a concentration in Teaching as a Second Language. My love for teaching began when I was just a kid! My desire to be among children and encourage their passion for learning inspired me to become a teacher. Nothing is more rewarding than observing a student's eyes light up as they grasp the taught content. I love being a part of the Kazelfa family and look forward to the upcoming semesters. 

Alessia Spaziani
Bachelor of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language (Studies in progress) (McGill University)

Hello!
My name is Miss Lan. I teach English to young students with engaging activities organized by Kazelfa. Based on my personal experience in learning the language, I now teach English to students through songs, movements, and crafts. For me, students learn best when they enjoy being hands-on with the lessons. 

Lan Tran
Bachelor of Education - English as a Second Language: Elementary and Secondary (McGill University)

Hi!
My name is Miss Melanie and I teach the 3-4 year old group at Kazelfa. I believe that all children are unique and must have a stimulating educational environment where they can have the opportunity to learn and grow. I always aim to create this type of atmosphere so that students can meet their full potential. I also believe it is important to keep the children engaged and having fun through songs, games, and crafts. 

Melanie Joly
Bachelor of Arts: Specialization in Early Childhood and Elementary Education (Concordia University)

Hi,
My name is Miss Jemma and I teach the 5–6-year old groups on Sundays.  As an educator, I am here to facilitate students’ learning, inspire their curiosity, and to ensure that each child feels valued and empowered in their educational journey. 

My goal is to establish a nurturing and supportive environment that encourages students to explore, express their thoughts and actively participate in class activities. Through engaging and fun activities, interactive lessons, and creative play, I intend to make every child’s learning experience both enjoyable and memorable.

Finally, I want to mention that teaching my students is both an honor and a privilege. I enjoy spending time with them, guiding their education, and witnessing their intellectual and social development. Seeing the sparkle in their eyes as they learn and grasp new concepts is a reward beyond measure.

Jemma Bressi
Bachelor of Education - Kindergarten and Elementary (McGill University) (In progress)

Hi,

My name is Miss Bailey and I teach the 7-8 and 9-12 groups at Kazelfa. I believe that children learn best when they feel confident and included. My approach revolves around removing the barriers to inclusion of students so that they are excited to learn and participate in class. My goal is for every student to get the most that they can out of my lessons, by having a teacher that adapts to their individual motivations and needs.

Bailey Roy
Bachelor Degree in Secondary Science & Technology Education (McGill University)

Hello,

I’m Ms. Maria! I teach the 5-6 year olds at Kazelfa. I am passionate about teaching and expanding young minds with valuable knowledge, all by promoting holistic learning through interactive group activities and hands-on experiences. In my teaching, I emphasize how each child is important and valued through their learning, and with valuable and joyful learning, we can create the best outcomes!

Bachelor Degree in Kindergarten & Elementary Education Education (McGill University)(In progress)

Hi!

My name is Miss Sara. As someone who has experience learning a second language, I understand firsthand the challenges that students may face. This is why I strive to make learning relevant and fun, while at the same time providing gentle guidance. 

I believe that by fostering an inclusive, enthusiastic, and supportive classroom environment, children are in their best position to thrive. I find value in building up my students’ confidence, so they feel comfortable to take risks when it comes to learning. 

I look forward to nurturing your child’s progress and I’m happy to be a part of their journey!

Sara Keller
Bachelor of Education- Kindergarten/Elementary (McGill University) (In progress)

Hi,
I’m Miss Nour, a teacher at Kazelfa School. I’m passionate about building strong connections with my students and creating a classroom where everyone feels seen and supported. I’ve had the privilege of working with both neurotypical and neurodivergent students, and I integrate a Universal Design for Learning approach to adapt lessons to different learning styles. This ensures that every student, regardless of their challenges, can learn and grow in a way that suits them best.
I also believe that digital tools should not only simplify access to information but also enhance students’ critical thinking and digital literacy skills. By integrating technology into the classroom thoughtfully, I aim to create a dynamic, inclusive environment where all students are empowered to engage with the world around them and succeed!

Nour Mezni
Bachelor of Education : Secondary English
McGill university

Hello,

My name is Amanda. I am committed to creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and encourage student participation. Beyond teaching, I see myself as a mentor, guiding my students not only academically but also in their personal growth. I focus on providing individualized support, helping each student build confidence and develop critical skills. My goal is to share my love of teaching to help each child reach their fullest potential in the classroom.

Amanda Cianci
D.E.C. Child Studies (Vanier College)
B.A. English Literature, Education. (Concordia University)