Having taught Science and Math in independent schools in Vancouver and Whistler for the last 12 years, my family made the move to the Cowichan Valley. I have a passion for teaching and learning, including Inclusive Education practices. This school has incredible teachers, EAs and leadership that makes working here a joy. The sense of community and strong relationships between students and staff aligns with my pedagogical values.

I left my home in New Zealand when I was 22 and came to Canada. I worked as a nanny for a couple of years and then became a permanent resident. 30 plus years on Vancouver Island, I think I can call myself a local! I completed my ECE in Victoria in 1997 and I have worked as an Early Childhood Educator or an Educational assistant for the last 20 years. In 2018 I moved up to the Cowichan Valley and started working part time at Evergreen School as an Educational Assistant. I am now the teacher for Cedar class. I enjoy providing an environment for young children where they can play, learn, and begin to develop their social and emotional skills in a safe way as they connect with other children their age.

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I have two adult sons. When not hanging out with 3 and 4 year olds, you will find me on a mountain or maybe on one of the beautiful nature trails we have around here. I also enjoy paddle-boarding, swimming, and bike riding.

I am the Pine teacher at Evergreen, teaching Kindergarten and Grade 1 this year where the students’ favourite activities in the classroom include time on the indoor swing and rings! I have a Bachelor of Education from Vancouver Island University and am certified to teach K-12. I’ve taught locally and abroad, and continuously recognize how unique Evergreen is. So much so that both of my own children attend the school!

When not at work I love reading, board games, and trying to keep our kittens from following us on walks to the lake.

I started teaching at Evergreen in the fall of 2021. I was attracted to the school because of its focus on community and educating the whole child. I value the leadership and social skills our students develop as they interact with students of all grade levels. I have a Bachelors of Education from the University of Victoria and I am thrilled to have found a school to teach which matches my educational philosophy.

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When I'm not at work I can usually be found driving one of my children to their various activities, walking my dog, Gus, or singing songs around a campfire. 

I was drawn to Evergreen Independent School's community focus, engaging environment and inclusive nature.  I am looking forward to being part of this close knit community.  

Prior to moving back to the Cowichan Valley, I spent 35 years teaching in the Similkameen Valley.  During this time, I taught students in grades K-7 French and provided support services.  I raised my family, skied, boated, traveled, had a farm and "wrestled" with the occasional rattlesnake and cactus patch.  I even took a year off to immerse myself in French.

Now that I am back home, I enjoy forest walks, time by the sea and visits with family and friends.

Evergreen Independent School is a wonderful place to teach and learn. As a staff and community we strive to celebrate and nurture each student to see the gifts within themselves; to support and honour their individual educational journey. As a teacher, I feel inspired to work at Evergreen, a place that provides students with the confidence to know themselves and the skills to be future leaders.

I have been teaching at Evergreen Independent School for nine years and have had opportunities to work in a variety of classrooms. While I enjoy teaching all subjects my passions lie in Outdoor Education, Art Education and Physical Education. 

Around the community I am usually out in nature, exploring all the wonderful places the Cowichan Valley has to offer.

My name is Tamara Service, I have been a teacher at Evergreen school for the past 5 years and this year I am currently teaching grade 5, 6, 7 students in the Spruce classroom. I have worked with children for over 25 years in varying capacities, though teaching is my truest vocation. I value my role as a teacher because it offers me the privilege to support students' growth and develop holistically. Evergreen's whole child philosophy is one huge reason I love teaching at our school as it honours and celebrates each student's individuality.

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I also have the privilege of being a part of our Inclusive Ed and Learning Assistance team. Supporting the inclusion of all students in an environment that honours their unique gifts, and offering a program that supports alternative ways of learning, deeply connects to my passion for supporting neuro diverse learners. 

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When I’m not teaching, I spend time with my husband, and two daughters who both attended Evergreen since preschool and they are now thriving happy teenagers. I love my animals, 3 dogs and 4 cats to be precise, and when I’m not teaching I enjoy photography, travelling, designing, and being near the ocean.