Faculty – Maryvale Academy

Mrs. Moodley

Administrative Assistant & Advancement Coordinator

Mrs. Pranusha Moodley has a Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering and worked in the field of pyrometallurgy for 17 years in her home country of South Africa. She taught grade 10 and 11 mathematics at Chesterton Academy of Ottawa from 2020 – 2022. Mrs. Moodley is mum to three Maryvale alumni and is so glad to be able to remain a part of the school and its mission going forward.

Sacred Music Choir

Physical Education

The physical education program aims to develop healthy, active lifestyles by offering a wide variety of indoor and outdoor physical activities (e.g., soccer, basketball, volleyball, ice skating, cross country running, track & field) and emphasizes character development and virtues like perseverance, respect, cooperation and sportsmanship.

The Arts (visual arts, speech & drama, music)

Students explore the beautiful and the good—visual-arts classes study and imitate the masters using varied media; speech & drama include recitations, drama games, performing in class, and public-speaking contests; music involves theory, history, choral singing and performance opportunities at Mass and concerts.

History & Geography

History and Geography are introduced in grades 3 and 4, focusing on early European explorers to Canada and the lands they trod. Grades 5 to 8 History cycles through the ages through a Catholic worldview from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome to the early Church, Medieval Christianity, and Modern Europe. Geography is integrated into the study of History according to the time and place, and introduces map-skills, and global, European, and Canadian contexts.

French Language Arts

The Maryvale French program supports fluent French speakers and Core-French learners alike, focusing on all four skills—speaking, listening, reading and writing—with oral skits, story comprehension, grammar and writing exercises. The grades 1 to 4 Bilingual program allows for half-day immersion in French, ensuring a sturdy early foundation, upon which to build and maintain a fruitful Core French experience in grades 5 to 8.

Religion

Students receive catechetical instruction in the Catholic faith—covering topics such as the Commandments, the Creed, the Sacraments, and Christian moral life—while daily prayer in the classroom and before the Blessed Sacrament, regular opportunities for confession, and weekly Mass help integrate faith into all aspects of school life.

Science

The science program at Maryvale Academy fosters curiosity about God’s creation by engaging students in life, earth and physical sciences through reading, discussion, hands-on exploration and careful observation. Younger students (K-4) focus on familiar natural phenomena such as plants, animals, water, earth and sky, while older students progress to more complex topics like ecology, anatomy, physics, chemistry, astronomy and geology. The program also includes the bilingual delivery of science in French for Grades 1-4, field trips, simple experiments, and guest speakers.

Math

The math program at Maryvale Academy follows a “concrete-pictorial-abstract” progression: students begin with hands-on manipulatives and illustrations, move on to pictorial models that represent concepts, and finally work with abstract numbers and symbols. Regular practice emphasizes memorization of facts, mental math, and problem-solving skills to build a strong foundation for higher-level mathematics.

English Language Arts

The English Language Arts program at Maryvale Academy emphasizes language as the core of learning, beginning with phonetic-based reading in Kindergarten and Grades 1–2, and progressing through writing instruction, spelling, classic literature, grammar, and logic up to Grade 8. The curriculum includes poetry memorization, public speaking contests, and culminating showcases to develop articulate, literate, and thoughtful communicators.

Kindergarten Program

The kindergarten program at Maryvale Academy offers small-class learning in a nurturing, faith-based environment, with a nicely equipped classroom and personalized attention. Mornings focus on structured academic skills like one-on-one phonics, reading, and manipulatives-based math, while afternoons feature outdoor play, circle time, science experiments, arts & crafts, and an introduction to French. Spiritual development is integrated through daily chapel visits, Scripture, and participation in school-wide Masses and special celebrations.

Ms. Anawati

Visual Arts Teacher

Alexandra Anawati-Gingras holds a Diploma in Animation. She recently completed a year of Catholic missionary work with NET Ministries Ireland, where she shared the Faith with Irish youth in schools and parishes. Ms. Anawati is passionate about helping students grow in creativity, knowledge, and faith, guided by the mission of the school. When not supporting students and staff, she enjoys drawing, reading, playing piano, and delighting in the beauty of God’s creation, most especially in the sky and clouds.

Mr. Moellman

Sacred Music Teacher and Choir Director

Jeffrey Moellman is originally from Independence, Kentucky. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Organ Performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting at Kent State University. Mr Moellman has held full-time Director of Music positions in Catholic churches in Ohio, Orillia, and at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Kingston. He has served as a staff accompanist at Queen’s University’s DAN School of Drama and Music, and as interim faculty at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Academy. Mr. Moellman was one of five conductors from across North America selected for the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir’s 2014 Emerging Conductors Program. Together with his wife, Mr. Moellman founded Chamber Music Orillia (CMO), which grew to include a 32-voice Youth Choir and 46-voice adult Chamber Choir. Mr. Moellman was the recipient of the Orillia and District Arts Council’s 2015 Educating in the Arts Award in recognition of his community outreach and educational achievements. To foster an appreciation for sacred music in liturgical and concert settings in Kingston, he and his wife have founded Trinitas, which includes adult and youth choirs, a Sacred Arts Camp, educational opportunities, and outreach programming. Mr. Moellman lives in Kingston with his wife and their 6 children.

Ms. Sammut

Grade 5/6 Homeroom Teacher

Natasha Sammut has a great love of the natural world, which led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her interests expand beyond science, especially into art and literature. Natasha is an artist and author; she wrote and illustrated the Maggie the Guardian children’s book series, inspired by beloved children’s classics such as the works of Beatrix Potter. Natasha loves watercolour painting and is currently practicing oil painting as well. In addition to painting and drawing, she enjoys reading, hiking, gardening, and spending time in nature. Natasha is excited to be part of the Maryvale community and strives to help her students discover and develop their unique interests and skills as they enjoy the well-rounded Catholic education Maryvale provides.

Mrs. Do

Front Desk Secretary

Mrs. Christa Do is from Combermere, ON and grew up as a close family friend of Madonna House, which has shaped her spirituality. She attended Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College for three years before completing her Bachelor of Arts in Theology and a Master’s in Catholic Studies at Franciscan University of Steubenville. In addition, she is an Early Childhood Educator with eight years of teaching experience. Mrs. Do enjoys being at Maryvale, immersed in its deep, faith-filled environment, which combines her passions for the Faith and the education of children. She enjoys jigsaw puzzles, baking, and board games, along with being a mom, and spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Do and her family attend St. George’s Parish in Ottawa, where she and her husband are actively involved in parish life.

Mlle Neusy

French Teacher

Anna-Maria Neusy is proud to be from Canada’s capital city and is grateful for its wonderful Catholic community. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, with a designation in French as a Second Language, from the University of Ottawa. Mlle Neusy was a ballet dancer for many years and completed her Royal Academy of Dance Advanced I examination. She enjoys teaching dance to her students when the opportunity arises. She also loves travelling and has discovered her family’s heritage in Nicaragua, France, and Switzerland. Her interest in Christian history and traditions was the motivation for subsequent travels to England, Portugal, Czechia, Poland, Austria, Germany, and most recently, Italy. Mlle Neusy is thankful for the unique opportunity to support authentic Catholic education.

Mr. Dina

French Teacher

Cosmin Dina was born and raised in Romania. As a teenager he moved to Montreal with his mother, where he learned French as a third language. He earned a Master’s degree in Literature from the Université de Montréal. M. Dina worked for the Archdiocese of Montreal for several years before starting to teach. A father of four, he is now living in the national capital region with his wonderful wife and family. He is passionate about science, philosophy and theology, and enjoys playing electric guitar.

Mlle Cherygova

French Teacher

Anastasiia Cherygova completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences with French Immersion and a Master of Arts from the School of Political Studies in the University of Ottawa. For several years she served as a librarian in Dominican University College, and taught history and public speaking in the homeschooling co-op of Augustine College. Her professional experiences also include communications, research, and manuscript preparation with the Faculties of History and Law of the University of Ottawa, and the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages. She has published academic and analytical articles about the questions of secularism, urbanism, and political thought. Mlle Cherygova was received into the Catholic Church in 2018 by Archbishop Terrence Prendergast SJ. She has dedicated much of her academic and professional efforts to exploring the position of the Church in the modern state, and how it is possible to be faithful and steadfast no matter how hostile the world. Apart from her work, Mlle Cherygova is an avid pen and ink artist, keen on reading, travelling, and making new friends.

Ms. Dickison

Grade 7/8 Homeroom Teacher

Mikaela Dickison grew up in a loving family of six in Kingston, ON. She earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a Certificate in Social Impact from Queen’s University, where she was an active member of the Newman House Catholic Chaplaincy. Ms. Dickison completed her Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry at Franciscan University of Steubenville, OH. Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, Ms. Dickison was joyfully involved in ministry with children, youth, and young adults. She is grateful for the opportunity to have participated in mission trips to Tanzania, Honduras, and Belize. It was through Franciscan University’s teaching mission in Belize that she realized her desire to support authentic Catholic education. She is delighted to have discovered Maryvale’s holistic, Christ-centred classical education and is at home in this welcoming community. Ms. Dickison is humbled by the gift of learning and growing with her students as they all strive to become Saints together.

Mr. Morin

Grade 7/8 Science Teacher

Mr. Jason Morin holds degrees in Theology and Canon Law, a BEng in Chemistry, a BScH in Genetics, and a MSc in Computational Immunology. For several years he was a medical researcher at the National Research Council. He is excited to accompany his students as they discover the compatibility of faith and science and learn to bring the two into fruitful collaboration.

Mr. Thompson

Grade 3/4 Homeroom Teacher & Phys Ed Teacher

Michael Thompson has a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinanthropology from the University of Ottawa, and a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. Mr. Thompson also has formal religious instruction and earned a Certificate in Philosophy from the Dominican University College. He taught previously in the Ottawa Catholic School Board and coached soccer and basketball. Mr. Thompson has been teaching at Maryvale since it opened its doors to students in September 2005.

Ms. Dawson

Grade 1/2 Homeroom Teacher

Madeline Dawson graduated from the University of St. Michael’s College with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Christianity & Culture. In her time there, she enjoyed participating in the musical theatre club, campus ministry, and the Schola Cantorum. A year later, she completed her Bachelor of Education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto. Having experienced the gift of Catholic independent education in her adolescence, and having been blessed to teach previously at a Catholic independent school in Toronto, she is grateful to belong to the faculty of Maryvale Academy, amongst a vibrant and devoted community of families, staff, and benefactors. Ms. Dawson is a member of St. Clement Parish.

Mrs. Champion

Principal

Helena Champion has been an active member of the Maryvale community since 2007. She has served on the Curriculum Committee since 2008, was a member of the Board of Directors for three years, and has been Principal since 2013. Mrs. Champion has an Honours BA in Spanish and German Literature from Dalhousie University and the University of King’s College, where she completed the Foundation Year Program on the great works of Western Civilization. For many years she worked with young single mothers and their children at Youville Centre, and served on the boards of Action Life Ottawa and JMJ Children’s Fund of Canada. Mrs. Champion is a member of St. Clement Parish. She and her husband have two children, both of whom are Maryvale graduates. The family participates annually in the Marie Reine walking pilgrimage to Notre Dame du Cap.

Miss Zilio

Junior Kindergarten Teacher & Extended Program

Victoria Zilio studied Christian Humanities, with focus on Theology and Philosophy, at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College. Post graduation, she worked in childcare for 2 years before pursuing a diploma in Early Childhood Education at Loyalist College in Belleville. In addition to Early Childhood Education, she has worked with special needs children, as well as adults with exceptionalities, and assisted in the management of a summer camp for autistic children and their families. Ever growing in her faith, Miss Zilio enjoys sharing it with students. She is thrilled to get to know the families of the school, and to support and build upon the work of the parents.

Mrs. Lau

Grade 1/2 Math & Religion and Grade 5/6 Religion Teacher

Katherine Gunn holds a degree in Psychology from Carleton University and worked with a clinical child psychologist by aiding in report writing and the synthesis of assessment data. She has experience in tutoring elementary age students, leads a Girl Guides of Canada Sparks unit, and teaches Children’s Liturgy at her parish. As a recent convert to the Catholic faith, Katherine is enthusiastic about sharing the abundance of truth that the Catholic Church offers so that everyone may come to know Christ and become His disciples. She is delighted to work in a Christ-centered school and to have the honour of helping students embrace the Christian life with love and joy. Katherine loves to be outside in the beauty of nature, enjoys reading (specifically the writings of the Saints), spending time in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and appreciates quality time with friends and family.

Mrs. Clark

Senior Kindergarten Teacher

Katherine Clark has a Bachelor of Arts in Child Studies, a Bachelor of Education from Ottawa University, and an Early Childhood Education Diploma. She is the mother of seven children, six of whom are or have been Maryvale students. Mrs. Clark and her family enjoy spending time outdoors and going on all kinds of adventures together. They are members of St. Mary’s Parish.

We’d Love to Hear From You!

Interested in scheduling a visit or learning more about Maryvale Academy?
Feel free to reach out to our Principal directly:

📧 Email: principal@maryvaleacademy.ca
📞 Phone: 613-321-2186, Ext. 2

We’re happy to answer your questions and welcome you to our school community!

Our Faculty

Mrs. Champion

Mrs. Clark

Miss Zilio

Ms. Dawson

Miss Gunn

Mr. Thompson

Ms. Sammut

Ms. Dickison

Mlle Cherygova

Mr. Dina

Mlle Neusy

Mr. Moellman

Ms. Anawati

Mr. Morin

Mrs. Do

Mrs. Moodley

Forming Hearts and Minds

Making Disciples of Christ.