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Maria Hodgkinson Kindergarten EA

Maria Hodgkinson

Kindergarten EA

"Hi, I’m Maria! I strive to help kids discover confidence and curiosity through outdoor learning. I love being part of an environment that supports growth, and I aim to build strong, supportive connections with students and staff."

background & bio

Maria's Experience

"I’ve spent several years involved here at WILDE School, becoming a familiar face in both seasonal and year-round programs.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned how to support kids in a way that balances fun, structure, and inclusion, while helping them feel safe and valued.

Working closely with students and staff has strengthened my skills and inspired me to continue building my path in education, encouraging growth and confidence in every child I work with."

personal philosophy

Maria's Passions and Goals

"My focus is on supporting students by creating a safe, welcoming, and encouraging space where they can explore, ask questions, and try new things. I aim to be a steady and reliable support for both the students and teachers I work alongside, while helping every child feel included, valued, and confident in their learning."

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fun facts!

About Maria

"Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s backcountry camping, hiking, running, or exploring new places. Staying active, embracing new challenges, and trying new things is important to me, and I’m excited to share that sense of adventure and curiosity with the students I work with."

the wildE school team

Meet Our Team & Faculty

The exceptional and diverse team at WILDE School Blue Mountains is committed to transforming education through a mix of traditional and innovative strategies. We believe in every child's potential and guide them to become lifelong learners and future leaders.

Brayden-Plummer-Blue-Mountains-Wild-School-Faculty

Firstname

Position Title

Introduction to staff member.

Carly Gurr WILDE Friday & French

Carly

WILDE Friday & French

Carly is an adventurous educator with a rich background in international development, sustainability, and leadership.

Curtis Shepard Grade 5 & 6 Teacher

Curtis

Grade 5 & 6 Teacher

Curtis’s own lifelong learning goals and experiences thus far have embedded in him a sense of wonder that he seeks to share with his students.

Olivia Damsma Substitute Teacher

Olivia

Substitute Teacher

Olivia is our Music and French teacher, who values nature's classroom through nurturing creativity, curiosity, and connection through outdoor learning.

CD Shrack Bushcraft & Leadership & The Arts

CD

Bushcraft & Leadership & The Arts

CD is a teacher and lifelong learner who inspires students through exploration, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to become well rounded, capable humans.

Laura Beattie Grade 2 & 3 Teacher

Laura

Grade 2 & 3 Teacher

Laura is a creative and driven educator who believes in the power of curiosity. She loves to facilitate the unique strengths and passions of her students, encouraging creativity and courage throughout the learning process.

Sophie Keil Grade 7 & 8 Teacher

Sophie

Grade 7 & 8 Teacher

"I strive to empower students as critical thinkers and independent learners, encouraging them to follow their interests while supporting their unique academic needs."

Melissa Porchia Toddler Room Educator

Melissa

Toddler Room Educator

Melissa is a Toddler Room Educator who creates a warm, nurturing environment where young children feel safe, supported, and inspired to explore.

Grace Leyshon Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

Grace Leyshon

Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

Grace is an Ontario Certified Teacher who believes in the power of curiosity. She loves to support the unique strengths of her students, encouraging creativity and courage throughout the learning process.

Brayden Plummer Director of Education

Brayden

Director of Education

After getting over kicking himself for not starting something like WILDE School 20 years ago, Brayden is honoured to be a leading member of the WILDE team.

Ali Bush Director

Ali

Director

Ali is an educational leader and one of the driving forces behind Wilde School Blue Mountains. At the heart of her work is a deeply personal goal: to help build the kind of school she wants her own children to grow up in.

Garrin Carter Substitute Teacher

Garrin

Substitute Teacher

Garrin is a passionate nature connection facilitator that uses bushcraft and survival skills to help others relate to their natural surroundings .

Pam Green Grade 1 & 2 Teacher

Pam

Grade 1 & 2 Teacher

Passionate about sustainability, creativity, and adventure, Pam brings learning to life through exploration, foraging, and connecting with the land. She also shares her love of horses, weaving stories and lessons from her lifelong journey.

Leah Ramalho Substitute Teacher

Leah

Substitute Teacher

Leah is a dedicated outdoor educator with a strong background in environmental education and a deep commitment to connecting children with nature.

Dave Bus Driver

Dave

The Wilde Bus Driver

Dave is the beloved driver of The Wilde Bus, known for his unwavering reliability, friendly demeanour, and the profound trust he has earned from both the parents and children of our school community.

Jeff Barrett Founder & Executive Director

Jeff

Founder & Executive Director

Jeff is the visionary founder of WILDE School Blue Mountains, with a rich background in outdoor education and ecotourism, dedicated to fostering a new generation of passionate, educated changemakers through meaningful educational experiences.

Maria Hodgkinson Kindergarten EA

Maria

Kindergarten EA

"Hi, I’m Maria! I strive to help kids discover confidence and curiosity through outdoor learning. I love being part of an environment that supports growth, and I aim to build strong, supportive connections with students and staff."

Leah Peyton Administrator & Camp Director

Leah

Administrator & Camp Director

Leah is a creative and passionate person focused on outdoor learning and weaving the WILDE way into every part of children’s lives—both inside and beyond WILDE.

Diane Niec Kindergarten Teacher

Diane

Kindergarten Teacher

Diane is a multifaceted educator who combines her diverse skills to offer a uniquely immersive and creative learning experience.

Interested in Joining the Team at Wilde School?

Empower the leaders of tomorrow and make a lasting difference in the world of education.