Instructor, Academic Upgrading, Steps to Opportunities, Academics & Readiness (SOAR)
Raised in Burlington, Ontario, Maria completed her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education degrees at Queen’s University in 2008. Spending the next couple of years traveling, she eventually landed in Vancouver where she began to work with individuals with diverse abilities in recreational settings (adaptive hiking, skiing and kayaking). Maria took this passion with her when she quickly traded big city life to small town living in the Kootenays in 2015 and currently lives in Salmo.
Maria’s journey led her to the AUD department in 2016, where her passion for working with individuals with diverse abilities found it’s home. As an instructor in both the Academic Upgrading and SOAR programs, she brings her dedication to creating inclusive learning environments to every class. Maria supports students where they are at in their learning journey, strongly believing there is a place for everyone in education. Together with her students, she embarks on a path of growth and discovery and ensures there is plenty of fun along the way. Her favorite thing about working at Selkirk College is the incredible students and popcorn Wednesdays.
Outside of work, Maria is actively involved in volunteering with the Salmo Valley Trails Society and as a coach with Salmo Soccer. She can be found spending time with her husband and two young kids on their river property or exploring the mountains in the region. Maria and her family are passionate about camping, biking and skiing, and love sharing these adventures together.