Meet The educators behind the stars

At Raising Stars℠, our educators learn and grow right alongside your children. We believe in working as one united team, supporting each other across all classrooms. While your child will have two main teachers in their classroom, they’ll also build caring connections with every educator on our team.

Samantha Sewell Raising Stars Preschool

Miss Sewell
Owner/Manager
Early Childhood Educator
Little Stars ℠ 

3 Years
 at Raising Stars 

  • Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Specialized training in ASL & Deaf Studies
  • Graduate of Gallaudet University with a focus on ECE ASL/English Bilingual Early Childhood Education
  • Trained in the Reggio Emilia approach to early learning
  • Certified in Hygge in Early Years practices
  • Mentor for the BC Learning Outside Together program
  • Holder of a Special Education Assistant Diploma

Ms. Papou
Human Resources/Parent consultant
Early Childhood Education Assistant
Little Stars ℠

3 Years
 at Raising Stars

  • Extensive training in special needs care
  • Skilled at providing compassionate and effective family support
  • Expert in creating unique, individualized learning opportunities for every child
  • Proficient in conflict resolution and fostering positive social interactions
  • Well-versed in supporting children through after-preschool transitions and connecting families to resources
  • Enthusiastic about gardening education

Ms. Ziola
Early Childhood Educator
Shining Stars ℠ 

2 Years
 at Raising Stars

  • Engages children in meaningful conversations that promote critical thinking and deeper understanding
  • Empathetic and responsive to each child’s unique needs, supporting their emotional and developmental growth
  • A dedicated and passionate educator committed to creating a positive, inclusive learning environment
  • Loves incorporating messy, process-based art into everyday learning to foster creativity and expression
Samantha Sewell Raising Stars Preschool

Mrs. Frederick
Early Childhood Educator
Super Stars ℠ Opener & Shining Stars ℠

2 Years
 at Raising Stars

  • Experienced in supporting children with special needs
  • Trained in basic American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Over 5 years of field experience in early learning environments
  • Strong communication skills with families and caregivers
  • Deeply values listening to children’s stories and honoring their voices
  • Proud mother of two young children, bringing empathy and real-world insight to her work

Ms. Cheung
Early Childhood Educator (SNE)
Super Educator ℠

1 Year
 at Raising Stars

  • Arts and crafts enthusiast who brings creativity into the classroom daily
  • A patient and nurturing educator, focused on each child's unique pace
  • Passionate about incorporating diverse cultures into everyday learning
  • Produces fantastic documentation that reflects each child’s day and developmental journey
  • Skilled in supporting cultural understanding and inclusive education for children of all cultural and family backgrounds

Ms. Davidson
Early Childhood Educator
Super Stars Educator ℠

4 months
at Raising Stars

  • Graduate from Pacific Rim Early childhood Institute
  • 10 years Experience in early child hood education and supporting special needs
  • Loves creating engaging learning experiences
  • Child-led learning enthusiast
  • Great at open communication with families
  • Supportive educator

Understanding ECE Certifications in British Columbia

ECE – Early Childhood Educator
An ECE is a licensed educator who has completed a full diploma in Early Childhood Education, including 8 university-level courses and 3 practicums. They must renew their license every 5 years with at least 40 hours of professional development. ECEs serve as lead educators, classroom teachers, and mentors.

ECEA – Early Childhood Educator Assistant
An ECEA is an assistant who has completed at least one of three foundational courses (Guiding and Caring, Growth and Development, or Health, Safety, and Nutrition). Their license can be renewed twice by completing additional courses. ECEAs may temporarily lead a class but cannot hold a permanent lead role without full ECE certification.

Raising Stars Vision Statement

At Raising Stars Preschool℠, all children are welcomed, celebrated, and included—regardless of ability, gender, race, or any barriers that may be present. We believe every child deserves equal opportunities to grow, play, and thrive.

We recognize the importance of playful learning and embrace a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to Early Childhood Education. Our curriculum is rooted in both the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the BC Early Learning Framework, guiding our daily practices and classroom environments.

Children at Raising Stars℠ learn through hands-on experiences, open-ended exploration, and meaningful projects based on their interests. We encourage curiosity, questioning, and wonder—because these are the building blocks of lifelong learning.

Our classrooms are vibrant, messy, and full of joy—because as we always say,

“A messy classroom is where the magic happens!”

Whether it’s exploring the outdoors, experimenting with art, or diving into imaginative play, we foster an environment that promotes creativity, collaboration, and self-expression

Raising Stars Mission Statement

At Raising Stars Preschool℠, we ignite the spark of curiosity and creativity in every child—nurturing a lifelong love of learning and exploration.

We are committed to creating a safe, warm, and engaging environment where children feel valued, families feel connected, and learning happens through wonder, play, and meaningful relationships.
Here, we foster confidence, encourage connection, and lay the foundation for a bright and joyful future.

Careers & Practicum Opportunities

At Raising Stars℠, we believe that educators are lifelong learners. Our team is made up of passionate Early Childhood Educators who are dedicated to creating nurturing, curiosity-driven environments for children. We value collaboration, creativity, and a genuine love for early learning.

Whether you’re an experienced educator looking to grow your career, or a student eager to complete your practicum in a supportive and inspiring setting, Raising Stars℠ is proud to provide opportunities for both. With our Reggio-inspired, Hygge-accredited, and Curiosity Approach-aligned philosophy, we offer a truly unique environment for both teaching and learning.

Ready to take the next step? Explore how you can start your career with us or complete your practicum at Raising Stars℠.

Little Stars℠, Shining Stars℠ and Super Stars℠ are service marks of
Raising Stars Preschool℠. All rights reserved.

Raising Stars Preschool Limited

Address: 3404 24th Street Vernon BC, Canada
Phone: (250) 938-7264
Email: raisingstarspreschool@gmail.com
Hours: 8:30am - 6:00pm