Teachers & Staff

We have two dedicated and highly qualified teachers, Ms. Claire and Ms. Debbie. They each have the highest certification in Early Childhood Education, kids of their own, and a love for inspiring children to learn. Ms. Bisi, Ms. Pamela & Ms. Ursula are our part-time Educational Assistants. Sarah is our Administrative Assistant in the office. We do not have a Director or Principal since our organization is directed by our board of parent volunteers.

Claire Cresencia

When Claire joined the Preschool team in fall 2016, she brought with her a wealth of experience and certifications in Early Childhood Development. She worked at Canmore Community Daycare from 2004-2016 in a variety of roles – from classroom teacher to Before and After School Care program coordinator to Assistant Director to Acting Executive Director.

All of us at Preschool enjoyed working with Claire over the years as partners sharing the Roundhouse facility, so we are absolutely thrilled to work more closely with her in the future. We are confident she will be a great addition to our team!

From Claire: “I look forward to finding myself back in the classroom to inspire and be inspired by your children. I have a love for the great outdoors and taking every opportunity as a learning experience.”

Debbie Waddell

Debbie has moved to Canmore in 2017 with her husband and 2 boys. She has been an early childhood educator and middle years teacher for over 20 years. She had the opportunity to get to know families in the community when she was working as the Program Director for the Canmore Daycare and is excited to be part of the preschool team.

She has been an International teacher mentor and evaluator, certified in early literacy, and understands the importance of developing a positive learning environment for children.

Each child learns differently and brings with them an abundance of wonder and enthusiasm. Debbie believes in enhancing learning through play and providing learning that meets the needs of all her diverse students.

On her free time, Debbie can be found spending quality family time hiking with her boys and 2 dogs, and taking in all the amazing sights Canmore has to offer.

She looks forward for the opportunity to get to know more of the wonderful families and children entering the new school year.

Sarah Schaefer

Sarah has joined the Preschool team in September 2020 as our Administrative Assistant. Sarah has been living in the Bow Valley for almost 10 years working in the hospitality industry. If you have any questions regarding the Preschool program, please do not hesitate to reach out to her, info@canmorepreschool.com.