Meet the ECE Teams
We are proud to showcase the dedicated individuals who help shape and strengthen the Early Childhood Education landscape in Fort Macleod. From licensed day homes and childcare programs to community agencies, educators, and advocates, it takes a collective effort to support children and families in our community.
Interested in joining us?
If you’re passionate about early childhood education we would love to connect. Visit our Work With Us page to learn more about current opportunities and how you can be part of strengthening childcare in Fort Macleod!

Ganna Semyrozum (Anya)
Anya is a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator with a strong background in education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Sumy State Pedagogical University in Ukraine and an Early Learning and Child Care Diploma with Distinction from Portage College. Anya has been with Sunshine Kids Family Day Homes since 2016 and currently works as a Family Day Home Consultant/Visitor and Centre Supervisor. She is passionate about play-based learning and creating inclusive environments where children can explore, learn, and thrive.

Jeanelyn Siaron
Jeanelyn is a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator and has been a licensed provider with Sunshine Kids since 2013. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and extensive experience in childcare leadership, she is dedicated to continuous professional growth. Jeanelyn prioritizes strong relationships with families and creates inclusive, play-rich environments that support children in becoming confident, creative, and capable learners.

Mary Ann Nieto
Mary Ann is a Level 1 Early Childhood Educator and a mother of three. She is passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children feel supported as they grow and learn. Mary Ann enjoys engaging children in fun, meaningful activities and values the joy of watching them discover new skills. She is dedicated to supporting each child’s development and overall well-being through positive, caring interactions.

Mary Ann Bumactao
Mary Ann has been a Family Day Home Educator since 2012 and holds her Level 1 ECE certification along with Flight training. She is committed to providing a safe, happy environment where children can grow at their own pace across all areas of development. Mary Ann values exploration, multicultural learning, and creating meaningful experiences that support children’s social and emotional growth.

Sharon Felicen
Sharon has operated her licensed dayhome with Sunshine Kids since 2018. With a background in Office Administration and leadership experience, she brings dedication and heart to her work with children. Sharon believes deeply in play-based learning, diversity, and nurturing children’s confidence and creativity. She integrates the Flight framework into her programming and values building strong, joyful connections with the children and families she serves.

Brianna Wolstoncroft
Brianna is the Executive Director of the Kinder Roots program with the Fort Macleod Early Learning & Childcare Society. She brings a strong passion for early childhood development, leadership, and building meaningful connections within the community.
Brianna is committed to creating nurturing, inclusive environments where children can grow and thrive. She is excited to be rooted in Fort Macleod, working alongside families and community partners to support young children and build a strong foundation for early learning.

Liliya Yarovenko
Liliya is an Early Childhood Educator with over a decade of experience in education since 2013. She has completed her studies in Pedagogical College and University and holds a Level 1 Early Childhood Educator certification. Liliya is passionate about supporting children’s development through play-based learning and values its role in building strong foundations for growth. She creates a safe, engaging environment where children feel encouraged to explore, learn, and build confidence.

Tyese Sillito
Tyese is a Level 1 Early Childhood Educator and a longtime, dedicated member of the team. Having grown up in Orton, she enjoys hiking and swimming and brings a strong appreciation for the outdoors into her work. Tyese is passionate about play-based learning and loves sharing books and stories with children. She creates engaging experiences that support curiosity, imagination, and a love of learning.

Jayme Brooks
Jayme holds her Level 3 Early Childhood Education and has worked in the childcare field since 2012 in a variety of leadership roles. Since joining Sunshine Kids in 2023, she has focused on creating a warm, home-like environment rooted in child-led learning and play. Born and raised in Fort Macleod, Jayme is passionate about fostering curiosity, exploration, and strong community connections.

Maria Darina Hugo (Darly)
​Darly is a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator and has been part of the Out of School Care Program since 2016. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the Philippines. Darly is passionate about the meaningful impact of working with children, families, and the community. She values creating supportive, nurturing environments and approaches her role with dedication and care, helping children grow while finding purpose in the joyful and rewarding experiences of early childhood education.

Jessi Beck
Jessi has been a Family Day Home Educator with Sunshine Kids since 2010 and recently earned her Early Childhood Education Diploma with distinction from Portage College. A longtime Fort Macleod resident, she is passionate about creating inclusive, child-centered environments where every child feels respected and capable. Jessi is a strong advocate for outdoor exploration and community connection, often leading children in discovering the river bottom and local spaces.

Rebecca Neels
Rebecca is a Level 1 Childcare Educator and holds an Educational Assistant Certificate from Lethbridge College. She has been working with children since the age of 17 and has completed various professional development courses, including Flight training. Rebecca is passionate about creating inclusive environments and inspiring children to believe in their potential. Drawing from her own experiences, she strives to be a positive role model and encourages confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging in every child.

Darcia Slingerland
Darcia is a Level 1 Early Childhood Educator, having completed her certification in 2026. She is passionate about creating a positive, supportive environment where children can learn and grow. Darcia has a natural ability to connect with children and enjoys building meaningful relationships that support their development. She looks forward to continuing her education toward her Level 2 certification while creating engaging experiences that encourage confidence and exploration.

Kaitlin Erven
Kaitlin has been an Early Learning and Childcare Provider with the Hand In Hand Out of School Care Program since 2022. She holds her Level 2 certification and is currently working toward her Early Childhood Education Diploma through Portage College. Kaitlin is known for her authenticity and ability to make learning practical and engaging. She focuses on nurturing each child’s potential, fostering connections with nature, and encouraging empathy through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Kaylee Kreft
Kaylee is a Level 1 Early Childhood Educator who is currently working toward completing her Level 2 certification. Originally from Fort Macleod, she brings experience from both local and regional childcare programs and is passionate about supporting children's development through play, creativity, and meaningful relationships. Kaylee values building strong connections with children and families while creating a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Her warm personality and positive approach make her a wonderful addition to the Kinder Roots team.

Leah Ballicud
Leah is currently completing her Level 1 Early Childhood Educator certification and brings a strong background in leadership, customer service, and team supervision. As a Fort Macleod local and mother, she understands the importance of creating welcoming environments where children and families feel supported. Leah is passionate about learning, growing within the early childhood profession, and helping children build confidence through positive experiences. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and willingness to take on new challenges make her an exciting part of the Kinder Roots program.

Marilou Buenaventura
Marilou is a licensed Family Day Home Educator and Level 1 Early Childhood Educator who has proudly called Fort Macleod home for nearly a decade. Inspired by both her experience as a mother and her passion for supporting families, she creates a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to learn through play. Marilou believes in fostering kindness, confidence, and meaningful friendships while helping children develop social skills and independence in a caring home-like setting.

Justys Layton
Justys is a licensed Family Day Home Educator and Level 1 Early Childhood Educator who was born and raised in Fort Macleod. With a Bachelor of Music from the University of Lethbridge, she brings creativity, music, and a love of outdoor exploration into her programming. After becoming a mother, Justys discovered a passion for early childhood education and creating meaningful learning experiences for young children. She believes every child deserves a nurturing environment where they feel loved, respected, and supported as they grow into their unique selves.
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