Hello there. I’m looking forward to working with your child in my grade 7/8 class. I have been teaching for over 25 years. This includes: K-12, dance, sports, music, swimming, theatre, knitting, cooking and many outdoor activities. I worked with the York District School board for 20 years and before that ran a private music focused school. Each year it excites me to see what my students will bring to the classroom, and how they will grow their skills, character and faith. I strive to create a classroom where students are welcome to discover their strengths and encouraged to overcome their weaknesses. They will be given the opportunity to use critical thinking, develop good work habits, express and defend their ideas, overcome difficulties, be creative and enjoy learning. Outside of work, I have volunteered with several youth programs including Teen Challenge, and presently, a church youth group. For many years, I have been a part of a performance music and dance group for adults and children. I love being part of the learning process: both teaching or learning, especially where youth are involved. I’m excited to meet your child and help them develop a path to success.

Hello my name is John Vogel and I am the Grade 5/6 teacher here at Hope Academy. Last year I made the transition from the nursing profession, helping people in need, to teaching, helping students learn, and see that God has a purpose for them. I understand the importance of a Christian education, and I am passionate about helping children grow not only academically but also spiritually. I am thankful for the Christian education I received growing up and look forward to working along parents, students, and the Hope Academy Board. It is exciting to be part of the Hope Academy teaching team working together to train up the next generation one lesson at a time. After work I get to come home to my wife Maria and our little son Joshua. I enjoy going for bike rides, walks, and during the winter months, reading!

My name is Karis Persaud, I am a teacher at Hope Academy for our Grade 3/4 classroom. I am currently working on my Bachelor’s of Music Education at the University of Toronto. I have teaching experience from Whitfield Christian Schools and King’s College Preparatory School, where I had experience teaching in both elementary and high school classrooms. I have been teaching privately for over 6 years in my own studio in Scarborough. My goal is to help students become more confident in learning independently and thinking critically, so that they get a better understanding of their strengths and gain confidence in them. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy anything creative, such as making music, baking, and various forms of art. I also enjoy incorporating various mediums of creativity in my classroom, as I believe it is an important skill and also gives me the ability to connect with students on a personal level. I continue look forward to working with the students at Hope Academy as we work together to achieve personal and academic success!

Hi! I'm Chris Van Dyken, the principal and part-time teacher at Hope Academy. I've been teaching at Hope for the past 10 years and am currently in my sixth year as principal. This year, I'm especially enjoying teaching science to students in Grades 1-8. I hold a Master's degree in Education from Dordt University, a Bachelor's degree in Theological Studies, and a Diploma of Education from Covenant Canadian Reformed Teachers College. It's a privilege to know each student at Hope Academy and to encourage and disciple them in their educational journey. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Deanna, and our five kids. I'm passionate about gardening, playing piano, reading, staying active in sports, and picking and preserving fresh produce.

Hello, I am Simi Nathaniel, and I love teaching. With forty years of experience in education, spanning from kindergarten to high school classrooms, I have cultivated a deep understanding of how children learn and thrive. I bring this passion and expertise to my role as an elementary teacher at Hope Academy, where I have dedicated the past twelve years to nurturing a love of learning in young minds. My qualifications include a degree in Bachelor of Education and a Master’s degree, along with Special Education and ESL qualifications. I am an Ontario Certified Teacher having completed both Junior and Primary Basic qualifications at the University of Toronto. My teaching journey began in New Delhi, India at St. Thomas School, a Christian mission school. This experience, coupled with my deep commitment to mission work, motivates me in providing students with a strong academic foundation and a supportive learning environment. I believe every child deserves a caring and engaging environment where they can discover their unique potential. I am passionate about providing not just academic knowledge but also a firm foundation of character and values guided by Biblical principles. Beyond the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking and indulging in my hobby for home decor which brings balance and creativity to my life.

Hello! My name is Sarah Mostert, and I am teaching JK and SK at Hope Academy this year. I first came to Hope Academy in 2023 and helped out for a year in the kindergarten classroom. I am also currently working toward a BS in Elementary Education. I love building relationships with the students and helping them learn more about God and His creation through the various subjects. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, crafting, and playing piano and violin. I am thankful for each student, and look forward to watching them learn and grow!