Program Supervisor
Sherry-Lee Allum, RECE
Hello, my name is Sherry-Lee Allum, and I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator. I have worked in many different types of children’s program environments since graduating in 2006. Each experience has brought me joy, knowledge, creativity, confidence, and most of all, growth as an RECE. I have had the opportunity to work as a nanny overseas, a nanny here at home, in classroom settings, daycare centres, and of course preschool environments. All these experiences have shaped the RECE I am today. They have been amazing adventures that have led me to this journey at Cygnets. One of my favourite parts of this work is watching children work hard on something and finally accomplish it and seeing the pride they feel. I also love seeing them work together, build connections with each other, be their authentic selves, and grow into independent individuals. It truly is the best feeling to watch it happen right in front of you. A little bit about me: I love my hometown of Stratford. You will often find me with a hot drink in hand, walking along the river or around our beautiful downtown. I love being creative and bringing that creativity into the ECE world. I also love travelling across our country and around the world. My favourite place is Ireland, so you can probably guess that St. Patrick’s Day has a special place in my heart! – Ms. Sherry

Program Educators

Toddler Educator, Office Assistant
Ms. Randi, RECE
Randi attended Conestoga College and graduated from the Early Childhood Education program in 2013 and has been working in the field for 10+ years! She has lived in Stratford with her husband and two daughters (15 and 6) for 6 years now. She has been working at Cygnets since August 2019 and looks forward to every day being a new adventure! As an educator, she helps children grow, learn and enjoys watching the children become their own little person. Randi takes great pride in feeling like part of their family! "As a RECE, we help provide the opportunity to shape the lives of young children. I hope I can inspire the children’s love for learning and help them develop those important social skills needed for their future." Randi strives to provide a caring, warm and safe environment for children to be themselves and she hopes the children look forward to coming to the program every day!

Program Support
Ms. Sherese
Sherese is currently enrolled at Conestoga College. She is working to obtain her Bachelor's degree in Early Learning Program Development. Over the years, she has enjoyed working with children through volunteering in Sunday school at her local church, babysitting and volunteering in summer camps. Through these experiences, Sherese has found a passion for working with children, and she is excited for what the future holds!

Preschool Educator
Ms. Sarah, CYC
Sarah recently graduated from Mohawk College as a Child and Youth Worker. She grew up in a small community outside of Stratford. She comes from a large family whom she shares a close bond with. Sarah has years of experience with children of all ages ranging from babysitting and day camps to before and after school programs that have expanded her growth as a CYC. She has enjoyed working with children and youth as she loves watching them learn and achieve those milestones to become independent individuals. Sarah looks forward to continue growing with the children as a Child and Youth Worker.

Preschool Educator
Ms. Allie, RECE
I am a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) and a graduate of the Early Childhood Education program at Fanshawe College. I have been part of the team for two years, beginning as a School Age Educator and now working in both the AM and PM Preschool programs. I am passionate about play-based learning and believe children learn best through exploration, curiosity, and meaningful relationships. I love watching each child grow, gain confidence, and reach new developmental milestones. It is truly a privilege to be part of their early learning journey.

Extended Day Educator
Ms. Robin, RECE
I began my ECE journey here at Cygnets in 2021 after completing the Early Childhood Education program at Conestoga College in 2018. I enjoy creating a fun, welcoming environment where children feel safe to explore and learn. I am passionate about spending time outdoors with the children and encouraging hands-on learning through sensory and messy play. I also recognize the importance of planning activities based on the children’s interests, helping them stay curious, creative, and engaged as they grow and discover the world around them. You might catch me walking my dog, Penelope, around town, or Dragonboating on the Avon River. I also like to stay busy hiking, camping, playing soccer, and spending as much time as I can outdoors.

Program Assistant
Ms. Janelle
Hello my name is Miss Janelle, I am a mom of 2, a son Zenan (16) and a daughter Ayla (11). I spend most of my time with my family and being your typical “competitive dance mom.” After graduating from the Medical Office Assisting program at Fanshawe College in 2007, I worked in various office settings including a dental office and bank. However, when a department closure led me to rethink my career path, I discovered a new passion for working with children. I then decided to open a home child care business where I could focus on nurturing and educating young minds. This experience deepened my love for child care and I soon found an opportunity to expand my role by joining a child care center as a supply teacher while continuing my home child care. Due to my dedication and enthusiasm I was quickly offered a full time position as a preschool teacher. Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience working with children across different age groups including infants, toddlers and preschoolers. I’ve also served as a program assistant multiple times assisting children with varying needs. Currently, I work at Cygnets Cooperative Preschool as a program assistant where I continuously support all programs. My journey in childcare has been incredibly rewarding and I’m committed to helping children thrive and grow.
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After School Educator
Ms. Balsimran (Binny), RECE
I have completed a Master’s degree in mathematics and a Bachelor’s degree in computer science in India. Most recently, I completed my Early Childhood Education (ECE) in April 2025 and have obtained my Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) designation. I have my First Aid CPR (Level C). I have worked as a School Teacher in India, where I gained experience teaching and supporting students. I also gave private lessons to young children after school, which I truly enjoyed. Teaching has always been a passion for me, not just a job. I love spending time with children, helping them learn and grow, and being part of their early development. I believe young children are curious and full of potential, and it is my responsibility to guide them in a positive and caring way. I enjoy creating a fun and safe learning environment where they feel supported and confident. In my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking, and dancing. As a mother to a 4-year-old daughter, I love dancing and playing with her, and I bring that same playful energy when working with children.

Before School Educator and
Toddler Educator
Ms. Natalee, RECE
I joined the Cygnets team back in 2021, where I worked in the Toddler and PM Preschool rooms! I spent just over three years in those programs, where I had the privilege of creating an environment that allowed the children to explore, grow and learn! I left the preschool for a year-long adventure in Italy, where I worked as an Au Pair. I worked with a family, caring for their daughter, immersing myself in the culture, travelling, meeting amazing new people, and most importantly, enjoying the cuisine! Now I am back at Cygnets working in the field that I love! I am passionate about creating an environment that fosters growth, independence, and a desire to learn. My goal is to create meaningful relationships with the children and their families, and make Cygnets a place where all feel welcome!

School Age Coordinator
Ms. Amber, ECE
Hello families! My name is Amber Brown, and I am a passionate and experienced early childhood educator with over 13 years of experience working with children and families. I hold my Early Childhood Education diploma from Fanshawe College and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Early Childhood Studies from the University of Guelph-Humber. I am currently completing my Master of Professional Education in Early Childhood Education, with graduation anticipated in August 2026. As both an educator and a mother of three, I deeply understand the importance of creating safe, nurturing, and engaging environments where children feel valued and supported as they learn and grow. Outside of my work, I am an avid reader (and a proud Harry Potter fan!) and love spending time with my family. Together, we enjoy travelling and exploring new cultures, having visited Mexico, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. These experiences shape the way I value inclusivity, curiosity, and global awareness in my work with children. I look forward to connecting with families and being a supportive, caring presence in your child’s day.

Preschool and School Age Coordinator
Ms. Hailey
Hailey is a warm and enthusiastic educator who brings energy, positivity, and creativity into both the preschool classroom and after-school care program. She believes that children learn best in an environment where they feel safe, supported, and celebrated for who they are. In preschool, Hailey focuses on play-based, hands-on learning that builds strong foundations in social, emotional, and early academic skills. In after-school care, she creates a welcoming space where children can relax, explore their interests, and strengthen friendships. Hailey is passionate about helping every child grow in confidence, independence, and kindness, and she strives to make each day filled with laughter, learning, and meaningful connection. In her spare time, Hailey enjoys caring for her guinea pigs, baking sweet treats, playing video games and spending time with her loved ones.

School Age Coordinator
Mr. Jaafar
Working with children is truly a blessing. Being part of their journey as they discover the world, build confidence, and develop their unique strengths is incredibly rewarding. I am proud to support their growth and to build meaningful connections with them and their families.
