Meet the Team

At the Village of Canal Flats Daycare, our children’s well-being, growth, and development are paramount. This guiding principle shapes our approach to assembling our team. Every staff member we bring on board is not just qualified in terms of credentials, but also possesses an intrinsic passion for nurturing young minds. We understand that a daycare’s heart and soul lie in its people. That’s why we invest time and effort in hiring individuals who are not only well-versed in early childhood education but are also caring, dedicated, and deeply committed to fostering a positive, enriching, and safe environment for every child. When you meet our team, you’ll see firsthand the love, dedication, and expertise they bring to our community each day.

Hello Everyone,

A bit about me:

I was born in Cranbrook, B.C. and have lived in The Village of Canal Flats for most of my life. For as long as I can remember I have wanted to guide, nurture, teach and care for children, if you asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up my answers were always Mom and Teacher.

In 2010 I enrolled in The College of The Rockies’ Early Childhood Educator Certificate Program and went on to complete The ECE Diploma Program with Infant/Toddler and Special Needs training in 2012.

I ran a small in-home daycare for over 11 years, regularly attended our local play and learn groups and eventually began substituting in both programs. I also worked for a short time as a substitute Special Education Assistant in our local school, Martin Morigeau Elementary, which cemented my preference for working with preschool aged children.

Through these work and life experiences I have utilized, developed and honed my skills as a creative, energetic, patient, friendly, supportive and motivated Early Childhood Educator. I believe that life is a never-ending learning experience.

My passion for my wonderful hometown matches my passion for working with children and I am extremely excited and ready to work towards improving my community by providing quality, licensed, responsive and loving childcare services

My name is Caroline Marisett. I am an early childhood education assistant. I grew up in Ontario and have lived in British Columbia for 16 years. I have two young children who I’ve been lucky enough to get to stay at home with and raise. We moved to Canal Flats just over two years ago and love all that the East Kootenays has to offer. Whenever I get the opportunity I love getting out in nature.

I’ve always been drawn to child care, they are excited to learn and see new things. Getting the chance to see them grow and realize their potential is an honour.

Some of my favourite moments of being a mother is when I see my children playing when they think no one is watching. It is for this reason I decided to get into Early Childhood education.

Hello Everyone,

I’m Catherine Anne Bongaitan an Early Childhood Education, Infant & Toddler/SNE teacher in Findlay Room. 

I decided to move to Canal Flats from the City of Toronto when I knew that the Village has a new Day Care and the community is surrounded by nature with so much to explore!

I am a licensed ECE in BC and a Registered ECE in Ontario working with children from birth to 12 years old. I’ve been in the field for over 12 years and I’m still loving and enjoying my passion for children.

My personality is fun, easy going, creative, and hard working with a positive outlook on life.

My passion for teaching and child care is continuing to grow within me. I believe in the saying “connect before you direct”, which means connecting with a child to build a positive relationship and everything else will come along.

Catherine Bongaitan

Hello, my name is Sonya Bond. I am so excited to be sharing your child’s early learning journey with you!

I was born and raised in Canal Flats, where I am now raising my family.

After high school graduation I moved to Abbotsford BC, where I discovered my passion for Early Childhood Education. I have worked in Early Learning since 2007, and hold a License to Practice through the Ministry of Health, through the Community Care Facility Act.

Throughout this time, I have worked in various positions and roles, which include Educator, Head Teacher, Transition to Kindergarten programs, Ready Set Learn, Literacy Nights, The CALM Curriculum, PALS program (Parent as Literacy Supports), and the Mind Up programs.

My commitment to your child, is to inspire a lifelong love of learning!