Rural Roots; Confident Kids
Meet the Staff:
L. Erin Jensen (Miss Erin), Owner/Operator, Director, Playschool Teacher
Erin began her career with a diploma in nursing as a Licensed Practical Nurse in acute care (medical/surgical and pediatric units in Calgary hospitals) as well in in education as a teacher for the nursing and Health Care Aide programs in post-secondary institutions.
After the birth of her second child, she found an increasing need for child care in the community. Having been raised by an ECE, she found this a natural transition from nursing and began the process of opening this facility.
Miss Erin graduated from Red Deer College with her diploma in Early Learning and Child Care in December 2019.
Miss Erin is currently working hard to expand our child care reach to in need rural communities through our Day Home Agency and community consultations across Alberta. She is also a rural acute and emergency department nurse for Alberta Health Services.
Ma Crispina F. Surigao (Miss Kris), Child Development Assistant
Miss Kris has an extensive background in childcare starting in the Philippines, as a nanny in Hong Kong and Toronto and now to us!
She also has a background in accounting and has a second job as an assistant manager in retail.
Miss Kris is hardworking, kind, and consistent. She develops amazing relationships with the children and has incredible powers of potty-training.
Miss Kris is looking forward to continuing in her ECE training here in Alberta. We are so grateful that she is here at Country Kids.
Kathleen K. Elphick (Miss Kathleen), Program Supervisor, Playschool Teacher
Kathleen’s interest in working with children began during high school as summer camp coordinator.
Becoming a mom inspired her to study Early Childhood Education, which she has enjoyed for the past 30+ years.
Her career has led to a variety of settings, including the Calgary Jewish Academy, Montessori preschool/ Kindergarten and the public school system. She is highly skilled in program planning and the organization of indoor and outdoor spaces. She is co-author of an indigenous children’s book, has created a successful Montessori toddler program and recently managed a comprehensive Montessori inspired Early Learning Program.
We are very excited to have Kathleen's expertise on site and are excited to learn and grow with her!
Genesis Marucha-Barrientos (Miss Gene), Child Development Assistant
Miss Genesis joins us as the daughter of a fellow ECE, (Miss Wendy worked with us in 2016). She demonstrates a natural talent to care and play on a daily basis. Miss Gene is currently working toward her paramedic diploma at SAIT, but we are going to hold on to her for as long as we can!
Deanna Walsh (Miss Deanna), Child Development Assistant, Playschool Teacher Assistant
Bio coming soon
