Our Team

Allison holds a Medical Office Assistant Certificate from the University of the Fraser Valley and has also completed Marketing Management Courses at the BC Institute of Technology. She has extensive experience in community building through a range of volunteer work. She has taken on a range of roles in which she has honed her administrative and communication skills. She comes to us from Stenberg College where she worked as a program administrator.

Ben was raised in Dunedin, New Zealand completing a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education at the University of Otago. After leaving the safety of home he moved to Wellington to take a job teaching English at Hutt International Boys School where he worked for ten years. During this time he was fortunate to learn from some amazing educators who helped him develop a student-led, strength-based style of teaching. Ben also took on a range of coaching opportunities during this time including Basketball, Cricket, Debating and Football. Getting to see students excel outside of the classroom has always been an amazing aspect of the job that brings him joy. As the son of two English teachers a passion for reading and desire to always be a life-long learner have both been fostered from a young age. When not in the classroom Ben can be found attending gigs, exploring the beautiful B.C. outdoors, watching and playing basketball or reading a book—coffee in hand.

Bobbie earned a BA in Anthropology from Mount Royal University, and a BEd from the University of Calgary , specializing in Secondary English. She taught English and Social Studies with the Calgary Board of Education, especially with English Language Learners, and led extracurricular activities such as cross-country, pottery club, and choir. Bobbie enjoys long-distance running, beachcombing, and hiking with her husband and two dogs. When she is not outside,  she can be found crocheting and listening to documentary podcasts.

Cassaundra McDonald – Youth Development Worker

Cassaundra, who prefers to be called Cassie, is a highly qualified member of our team. She pursued her education at the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto, Ontario, where she achieved an Honours degree in Family and Community Social Services and obtained a diploma to become a Social Service Worker. During her time in school, Cassie completed multiple field placements, which allowed her to gain valuable experience working with diverse populations.

Cassie has a wealth of experience, having previously served as an Educational Support Specialist and Developmental Therapist for children and youth on the spectrum at a private school, where she implemented the DIR/Floortime model. Her dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all youth is evident, as she prioritizes building meaningful relationships that support learning and development.

In her free time, Cassie enjoys the great outdoors, often taking her miniature Golden Doodle, named Bentley, on hikes and picnics. Her passion for both her work and her personal life shines through in her commitment to fostering growth and well-being in the children and youth she works with.

Dave brings depth, versatility, and a global perspective to his work with young people. A BC-certified teacher with over ten years of experience, he holds a Master’s in Applied Linguistics from Concordia University and is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, with conversational Mandarin as well. His career has taken him from classrooms in Canada to leadership and curriculum design roles abroad, experiences that have sharpened his creativity and adaptability. At Whytecliff, Dave teaches across the humanities, drawing on his love of languages, literature, and culture to make ideas come alive and to help students grow in confidence.

Demelza has a background as an Education Assistant with a wealth of experience supporting children with autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression. She holds an Education Assistant Certificate from Kwantlen Polytechnic University and has training in trauma awareness and FASD support. Demelza excels in IEP planning, classroom support, and utilizing various software tools to enhance learning environments. Demelza also holds a BA in Theatre Arts and, before transitioning to education, she had a long and successful career as an actor, which developed her skills in navigating complex interpersonal dynamics.

Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Erica completed a BSc in Molecular Biology & Genetics at McMaster University and a Master of Teaching at the University of Toronto. She’s passionate about warm, fun, and inclusive STEM learning, and strongly believes everyone can succeed in STEM. Outside of school, she’s an avid reader, painter, and ballet dancer. She loves junk journaling, traveling, and hanging out with her kitty, Kendrick Lameow.

Hannah has just completed her BA in Psychology, along with certificates in Human Services and Leadership, and she’s already gathered a wealth of experience working alongside young people. She has supported at-risk teens in Ottawa, collaborated with therapists at the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation, and led programs that focus on connection and growth. What stands out most is Hannah’s mix of patience and creativity—she has a knack for spotting the quiet strengths in others and designing activities that bring those strengths to the surface. Whether she’s encouraging a teen through a tough moment or celebrating small wins, Hannah makes young people feel capable, seen, and proud of what they can do.

A UBC Psychology graduate with a background in kinesiology and coaching, Hannah brings a relationship-focused, strengths-based approach that helps youth feel seen, supported, and encouraged in their learning and growth. She has coached sailing, swimming, skiing, and ultimate, and her extensive experience in adaptive sports reflects her creativity and care in meeting young people where they are. Most at home outdoors—whether hiking, canoeing, fossil hunting, foraging, or birdwatching—Hannah draws on her love of adventure and the natural world to spark curiosity and joy in those around her.

Haya Fadda – Educator

Haya grew up in Amman, Jordan and has been passionate about teaching from an early age. From teaching her teddy bears what she learned at school, to leading study groups with her classmates. Haya holds a BA in English Language and Translation from Petra University and an MA in Applied Linguistics from Trinity Western University in Canada. Haya loves learning new things and anything handmade. You’ll often find her trying her hand at a new craft that captures her interest. During summer, you’ll find Haya chilling on her paddleboard on a lake. At Whytecliff, she shares her passion for teaching with care and creativity, inspiring students through her love of learning.

Ivan brings a rare mix of energy, creativity, and care to his work with young people. A BC-certified educator with a background in both Physical Education and Drama, he has taught, coached, and mentored students across Vancouver Island and beyond. From directing full-scale theatre productions to coaching volleyball and basketball, Ivan thrives on helping youth discover their strengths—whether on stage, on the court, or in the classroom. He is equally at home leading a chess club, tutoring academic subjects, or supporting students one-on-one with patience and encouragement. With a thoughtful approach that blends expertise and empathy, Ivan meets students where they are and helps them move forward. Outside of work, he’s passionate about sports, outdoor adventure, and finding new ways to connect learning with life.

Joel holds a BSc in Nuclear Engineering (Oregon State), an MSc in Physics (Erasmus Mundus, Europe), and a PhD in Experimental Plasma Physics (University of Saskatchewan). He’s taught around the world—from running a tutoring company to teaching in South Korea and Thailand—and is known for tailored support and genuine enthusiasm for math. He enjoys the performing arts, reading, cooking, and long runs.

Marcus Malone – Youth Development Worker

Marcus has been a Youth and Family worker since 2012. He has shown on multiple occasions what “ethics of care” truly means. He started off his career by pursuing business and discovered his true passion was to help others, meaning that his commitment to the kids’ well-being is second to none. Marcus draws upon his approachable personality in active listening and hands-on learning. Marcus’s love of animals and nature is obvious, and he tries to incorporate his passion by integrating these into the program and when engaging with the youth. His goal this year is to help youth gain a better mind-body connection through physical activity, learning breathing techniques and key workouts in the gym. He is a key member for fostering growth through support in new experiences.

Melina Arzua – Administrative Assistant

Melina was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In 2016, she earned a Bachelor’s in English, and in 2021 she moved to Langley, British Columbia to complete her Master’s in Linguistics. Melina has previously worked in a variety of different educational settings in Argentina and Germany, and after graduating from her Master’s program, she started working at Whytecliff. She has a passion for travelling, nature, and sports, including running and CrossFit; in 2017, Melina ran the Buenos Aires half marathon.

Rachel Sorsabal – Educator

Rachael Sorsabal was born and raised in Southern California, growing up to love the outdoors. She finished her education with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biology, wherein she discovered a passion for teaching science. After college, she spent some time in North Carolina raising beautiful twin boys, finally returning to Washington State. In Washington she spent eleven years coaching high school track and field and working as a Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor. She is a passionate SCUBA diver, photographer, horseback rider, and outdoors woman.

Rachel holds a BA in Counselling Foundations and is currently working towards her Masters in Theology and Leadership. She comes to us from Christian Life Assembly where she was working as a Youth Pastor. She has a wealth of experience working with young people and is a considerate and effective communicator who builds strong relationships with all ages. Rachel also has experience in event planning where her strong coordinating skills allow her to empower people to work to the best of their abilities.

Robert Kissner – Executive Director, Principal (Burnaby)

Executive Director Robert Kissner, B.A. (Hons), M.A., Ph.D., R.S.W. is a specialist in stress and trauma with an interest in innovative ways to facilitate resilience and emotional recovery. He has experience in clinical practice, agency administration, teaching, research, and as a social innovator and entrepreneur. He served as President of the BC Association of Social Workers and was BC provincial representative to CASW. He was awarded the CASW Distinguished Service Award in 2012. Robert taught a wide range of subjects for the University of Chicago, SFU, Trinity Western University, UCFV and Douglas College, including courses in social work, education, criminology, and sociology. Bob is also a BC certified teacher (psychology). He has travelled extensively, lecturing and writing on developmental approaches, working with youth, addictions, stress and emotions. In 1975, Robert founded Focus Foundation of British Columbia, an addictions and education agency working with adolescents with complex needs and youth who are unsuccessful in the public school system.

Shauna combines strong training in social services with a deep commitment to supporting young people with diverse needs. She holds a Community Support Worker diploma and has completed additional training in Applied Behavior Analysis, crisis intervention, and early childhood education. Her experience includes providing respite care and working closely with youth and young adults with developmental and neurological differences, where she is known for her patience, compassion, and ability to build trust. Alongside her social services background, Shauna also brings skills from leadership and customer service roles, giving her a practical, adaptable approach to working with people in many different settings. At Whytecliff, she is dedicated to creating safe, supportive spaces where young people feel understood and encouraged in their growth.

Shelley Donald – Principal (Langley), Educator

Shelley earned a B.A. degree in neuropsychology and a BSc. Degree in computing right after high school. While at SFU she played on the soccer team and worked part time for a small building repair company. After graduation she continued to work in the trades for the next 25 years before returning to SFU to get a teaching degree specializing in education and learning disabilities. After five years teaching in public schools, she found a home at Whytecliff, where she gets to teach math, science, robotics, and carpentry.

Stephen Paras – Educator, Site Coordinator (Langley)

A proud father of six, Steve has been working in the field of education for more than 40 years. He holds a Bachelor of Education Degree (B.Ed.) as well a Master of Arts Degree (M.A.) in Science Education, both through the University of British Columbia. Stephen enjoys applying this postgraduate education to positively influence students’ acquisition of science concepts, enabling them to achieve excellent grades while enjoying the learning process. In his spare time, he likes to travel (hopefully to some remote an unexplored part of the globe). If not travelling, Steve may also be found cooking, baking, renovating, or reading novels.

Tak holds a BSc specializing in Psychology from the University of Alberta and is currently working towards his Masters in Counselling Psychology. He has recent experience as a Mental Health Worker and brings an extensive knowledge of therapeutic techniques to the Youth Development role. In this role he was also responsible for outreach and helping to foster group and family support structures. He has experience working with neuro-divergent teenagers where his empathetic communication and active listening shine through. Tak is a dedicated martial artist with a strong passion for boxing. He also has a deep love for the outdoors, frequently embarking on overnight hikes and enjoying skiing during the winter months.

Vanessa Stanley – Educator, Vice Principal (Burnaby)

Vanessa was born and raised on the BC Coast. She studied at Vancouver Island University earning a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Post Bachelor in Education. After leaving school she travelled and taught for several years in the UK. On returning to Canada, she founded a Forest School program on Vancouver Island and has spent the last several years inspiring a love of nature in young people in her community. Over the past decade she has been involved in the creation of other modern education programs that are rooted in the belief that education should be self-directed and holistic. Her educational philosophy is passion-focused, place-based and student-led, and focuses on the individual needs of the student and their connection to themselves, their community and the beautiful place we all call home. When not in school, Vanessa can be found spending time in nature, gardening, reading, acquiring new knowledge, and learning new skills.