Meet Our Managers

April Parrett RECE

SITE MANAGER

With over 40 years dedicated to the early learning field, there has been a lifelong passion for creating high-quality programs, supporting staff, and fostering safe, nurturing environments where children and families feel valued and cared for.

As Site Manager at a licensed child care centre, a team of 23 staff members is guided with a steady, approachable style, clear communication, and a focus on building a positive, collaborative workplace where everyone feels empowered and supported. Daily operations, staffing, compliance, and program quality are overseen with dedication, ensuring the centre runs smoothly and meaningfully.

Deeply committed to continuous improvement, taking an active role in health and safety leadership, policy review, and strengthening team practices. Decades of hands-on experience are used to guide and support the team, keeping the focus on what matters most: nurturing children’s growth, well-being, and a lifelong love of learning in a warm, inspiring environment.

In my spare time, I enjoy going for long nature walks with my dog, tackling home renovations, and gardening, bringing the same care, creativity, and attention to detail into my personal life.

Parisa Nabati RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

Serving as Assistant Site Manager at Avenue Road and a proud graduate of George Brown College with an Honours diploma in Early Childhood Education. With over 20 years of experience supporting children of all ages, deeply passionate about creating nurturing, engaging environments where every child feels supported, confident, and inspired to learn.

Since joining Graydon Hall Nursery Schools in 2022, the dedication has been to foster high-quality programming, encourage strong team collaboration, and build positive, trusting partnerships with families. Supporting communication in Farsi helps create an inclusive, welcoming space where children, families, and staff feel understood and valued.

Belief in the power of safe, respectful, and encouraging environments drives the work every day, guiding both children and educators to reach their full potential in a caring, collaborative community.

In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, going for long walks, and shopping, bringing the same energy and creativity into my personal life.

Caressa Lo RECE

SITE MANAGER

Thrilled to be part of GHNS – Bayview Gardens, with a journey that began in May 2011 and continued into a leadership role on the management team in 2014. Now proudly serving as Site Manager, with a strong connection to the children, families, and educators who make this community so special.

A graduate with Honours from Seneca College in Early Childhood Education, and a proud registered member of the College of Early Childhood Educators. Ongoing professional growth remains a priority, with a focus on learning new strategies to support all children within a caring and inclusive environment.

Every child is seen as capable, full of potential, and deserving of opportunities to grow and succeed. Working closely with teaching teams, the goal is to create a fun, safe, and engaging program that nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of well-being.

Creative moments, especially through arts and crafts, bring joy and encourage self-expression and confidence in children. Building meaningful connections with families is equally important, with a love for hosting interactive parent appreciation events that strengthen partnerships and a sense of community.

Outside of work, there is a passion for cooking, baking, and swimming, bringing the same creativity and joy into everyday life

Min Jung Goh RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

A passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Educator, with a specialization in Early Childhood Education from George Brown College. Since joining Graydon Hall Nursery Schools in 2022, the commitment has been to support children during their most important developmental years. Currently serving as Assistant Site Manager at Bayview Gardens Child Care, contributing to both the educational and operational aspects of the school.

Every child has unique strengths and unlimited potential. With the right environment, encouragement, and meaningful learning experiences, children can truly flourish. The approach centers on creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging space where children feel confident, valued, and inspired to explore.

Incorporating arts and crafts into the classroom is a particular passion, as creativity supports cognitive growth, emotional expression, and fine motor skills. Arts and crafts also serve as a personal source of inspiration and calm, enriching every child’s learning experience with warmth and imagination.

Outside of work, there is a love for baking, cooking, and going for walks, bringing a sense of balance, creativity, and joy into everyday life.

Marissa Lazzaro RECE

SITE MANAGER

Graduated from Seneca College in 2006, beginning a journey with Graydon Hall Nursery Schools as a support educator at the Stouffville Village location. By June, transitioned into the role of toddler educator, gaining hands-on experience supporting children and families. In January 2009, joined the Management Team as Assistant Site Manager at Stouffville Village.

In spring 2010, relocated to Sheppard Square, and by October 2011 became Site Manager, working closely with families and children from infancy through school age. This time allowed for building strong relationships and cultivating deep experience in early childhood education. After 15 years, transitioned to the Finch Business Park location, continuing to support children, families, and educators while fostering continuity and consistency in their experiences.

Also serving as chair for the GHNS Assessment Team on the Quality Improvement Committee. This role fosters collaboration with site managers and teaching teams to ensure high-quality consistent programming across all GHNS sites. The greatest joy comes from witnessing children grow, supporting families, and empowering educators to thrive in a positive, nurturing environment.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching movies, trying new foods, and playing sports with my children.

Samanta Campbell RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

Serving as Assistant Site Manager at Finch Business Park Childcare. Obtaining a diploma in Early Childhood Education from George Brown College (2008) and a certification in Autism Studies from Seneca College. Since joining Graydon Hall Nursery Schools in 2008, there has been the joy of supporting children of all ages and witnessing their curiosity, growth, and unique personalities unfold.

In 2014, became part of the management team at Avenue Road, and in November 2023, transitioned to Finch Business Park, where every day brings the privilege of working alongside a team of compassionate educators who inspire, support, and grow together.

Deeply committed to creating inclusive, welcoming environments where diversity is celebrated, exploration is encouraged, and every child feels valued, confident, and inspired. Honored to serve as a representative for the Holland Bloorview Committee with Graydon Hall Nursery Schools, which includes hosting parent events and raising awareness to create meaningful opportunities for children with disabilities. Nothing brings more joy than seeing children thrive, families feel supported, and educators flourish in a nurturing, positive space.

In my spare time, I enjoy going for long nature walks, listening to music, and traveling,

Charlene Maikantis RECE

SITE MANAGER

A proud graduate of George Brown College, earning a Diploma in Early Childhood Education in 1992, with a lifelong dedication to the field of child care. Decades of experience have been guided by a deep commitment to supporting the growth, development, and well-being of young children.

Ongoing learning and professional development remain a priority, with current certifications in CPR and First Aid, Food Handling, Train the Trainer, WHMIS, and Occupational Health and Safety. Serving on the GHNS Holland Bloorview Committee is both an honour and a meaningful way to contribute to leadership and community involvement.

A genuine passion for nurturing young minds is at the heart of this work, creating supportive and enriching environments where children feel safe to explore, learn, and thrive.

Beyond the centre, time is often spent cooking and baking, enjoying meaningful moments with family and friends, reading, and continuing to grow as a leader in order to better support children, families, and staff.

Naeema Khatoon RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

Serving as the Assistant Manager at Graydon Hall Child Care Services, with a background in Early Childhood Education and Autism Behavioural Science from George Brown College. A deep passion guides the creation of nurturing, respectful, and responsive environments where children, families, and staff feel supported, valued, and truly seen.

Strong, positive relationships are at the heart of this work, along with fostering a collaborative atmosphere where every child is encouraged to explore, grow, and reach their full potential. Supporting and empowering educators to feel confident, inspired, and fulfilled in their roles is equally important.

Outside of the centre, time is often spent enjoying music, travelling, and exploring new cuisines. A continued commitment to strengthening leadership and management skills reflects a dedication to growing as a compassionate and effective leader in the early learning community.

Lucy Di Benedetto RECE

SITE MANAGER

Serving as the Site Manager at Sheppard Business Park, with a dedicated journey at Graydon Hall Nursery Schools that began in January 1985 as an Assistant Teacher at the Avenue Road location.

An honours graduate of Canadian Mothercraft with a diploma in Early Childhood Education, along with a Social Service Worker diploma from Humber College, brings a strong foundation rooted in both education and social support. Early experience as a social worker continues to shape a compassionate, family-centered approach within the child care field.

Having supported all seven Graydon Hall Nursery Schools locations, along with leadership roles at Avenue Road and Sheppard Square, there is a wealth of experience working with children from infancy through school age. Each stage of development has deepened a commitment to creating environments where every child feels understood, supported, and empowered.

A true passion lies in supporting families of children with special needs—fostering acceptance, offering guidance, and walking alongside families through both challenges and milestones with empathy and care.

With over 41 years of dedication, it has been a meaningful privilege to be part of an organization built on strong values, working alongside devoted colleagues, supportive families, and the remarkable children whose presence leaves a lasting impact each and every day.

Outside of work, time is joyfully spent crocheting, gardening, and reading—simple, grounding moments that bring peace, creativity, and balance.

Elif Firtina Araz RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

As a graduate of Seneca College in 2024 with a diploma in Early Childhood Education, a career with GHNS commenced in January 2025.

Pursuing a career working with children stems from a deep commitment to helping every child—regardless of their abilities—feel supported, valued, and capable of reaching their full potential.

Working closely with colleagues, families, and leadership teams ensures high-quality care through collaboration, respect, and continuous learning.

Fostering strong relationships promotes a supportive, respectful, and inclusive team environment.

A safe and nurturing environment provides meaningful experiences and promotes excellence through compassion, clear communication, and leadership.

Dedicated to creating safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environments where children can thrive and educators feel supported.

Outside of work, participating in activities that challenge both the mind and sense of adventure are enjoyable and meaningful. This includes long drives and brainteasers that help keep the mind sharp. These experiences are both rewarding and fulfilling

Tracey Van-Pedro RECE

Site Manager

Graduated from Seneca College in 2014 and began a journey at Sheppard Square Childcare, working in the toddler program. Every day spent with children in those early years brought joy, curiosity, and the privilege of forming meaningful, lasting relationships with families.

In 2016, transitioned to the role of Assistant Site Manager, growing leadership and communication skills while supporting both staff and families in a collaborative, nurturing environment. Now serving as Site Manager at Sheppard Square Childcare, dedicated to creating a space where educators feel appreciated, supported, and inspired, and where their hard work is recognized every day.

Deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to explore, learn, and grow. Passion lies in helping children flourish while supporting families and staff, building a caring community filled with trust, warmth, and connection.

Outside of work, time is spent playing video games, weightlifting, and enjoying quality moments with sisters and nieces, bringing energy, balance, and joy to my life.

Aditi Pandit

Assistant Site Manager

Serving as Assistant Site Manager at Sheppard Square Childcare, with over 12 years of experience in early childhood education and a deep passion for supporting young learners. Children thrive in safe, nurturing, and respectful environments, and the goal is to create a classroom community built on trust, kindness, and encouragement.

Strong partnerships with families are valued, recognizing parents as essential collaborators in each child’s growth. The focus is on working together to support academic, social, and emotional development, helping every child feel confident, inspired, and excited to explore the world around them.

Outside of the classroom, time is spent with family and friends, and staying active through badminton, bringing energy, balance, and joy to both work and life.

Shannon Young RECE

Site Manager

Graduating from George Brown College in 2000 marked the beginning of a journey in early childhood education, guided by a heart full of passion and purpose. After four rewarding years gaining hands-on experience, joining the Sheppard Square community in 2004 felt like finding a true home, surrounded by children, families, and colleagues who inspire every day.

In 2011, stepping into the role of Assistant Site Manager brought opportunities to grow as a leader while nurturing children, supporting families, and mentoring educators. These experiences paved the way to becoming Site Manager at Stouffville Village in 2016, a role embraced with pride, care, and dedication.

Creating strong, trusting relationships is at the heart of quality childcare, and every connection with children, families, and staff is treasured. Supporting educators to thrive ensures that every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to explore, learn, and grow in a warm, inclusive environment.

Outside of the classroom, inspiration comes from traveling to new places, exploring creativity through crafting, and capturing life’s special moments through photography .

Megan Christou RECE

ASSISTANT SITE MANAGER

Serving as Assistant Site Manager at Stouffville Village Child Care Centre and a proud graduate of Georgian College (2015). The journey in early childhood education began through hands-on experience in child care centres and as a nanny, caring for children from infancy through school age. These early experiences shaped a deep appreciation for nurturing, responsive, and meaningful care.

Before stepping into a leadership role, experience as a weekend manager strengthened understanding of the CCEYA and licensing standards, laying the foundation for leadership that balances both compliance and compassion — ensuring every child and family feels safe, supported, and welcomed.

Joined Stouffville Village in January 2018 as a Senior Preschool Educator, quickly finding a place close to the heart, and transitioned to Assistant Site Manager in March 2018. Committed to supporting children, mentoring educators, and building strong partnerships with families.

Passionate about early learning, with a belief that every child deserves to be seen, valued, and inspired each day. Supporting educators in their growth and collaborating with families to create meaningful experiences brings joy and purpose to every day.

Outside of work, time is spent hiking, camping, travelling, and exploring new adventures with a son, who brings inspiration, energy, and a deeper understanding of what children and families need to thrive.