Lynne Harris

Lynne Harris

Principle / Teacher

My teaching career has spanned over many years and two provinces. I convocated from the University of Regina in 1985. I hold specialities in Reading/Language Arts, Music and Early Childhood. Teaching is my calling. I love to this day, being in the classroom teaching Music to all grade levels. Every single child and student that I have had the privilege to teach, are in my eyes, valued human beings. Throughout my career, I never was totally satisfied with what I had to teach. Curriculums were lacking. Thus, in 2010, I began First Steps And Beyond, teaching a self developed curriculum. Our school continued to grow through our reputation. In 2013 we moved to our current location and became a Registered Private School, followed by the designation of an Independent Accredited School in 2016. The role of Principal was never in my plans. But as they say, when a door opens you walk through it. The lives that our school was touched and will continue to touch, carries us on. The school and classroom is where I am meant to be. I love what I do. When I am not at school, my time is spent with family, biking, gardening, and enjoying the outdoors.

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Maninder Kaur

Maninder Kaur

Teacher

I am a dedicated and enthusiastic educator with a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.). I have experience teaching pre-kindergarten students, along with experience teaching Mathematics to older students. My passion lies in making learning engaging, interactive, and meaningful for children of all age groups. With a strong interest in Math and Science, I aim to develop curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence in my students through creative and student-centred teaching methods. I am committed to fostering a positive learning environment that supports both the academic and personal growth of every child.

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Aila Santos

Aila Santos

Teacher

I am a passionate educator, music lover, and creative at heart with over 12 years of teaching experience from preschool to Grade 12. I hold a Bachelor of Music Education from the Philippines and have built my career around one purpose: helping students grow in confidence, creativity, and joy in learning.

Originally from Ontario, I now call Red Deer home, where I’ve lived for the past three years.

Music has always been my language. I bring energy, rhythm, and connection into the classroom every day, turning learning into something students can feel, not just learn. I also love hands-on arts and crafts, where creativity comes alive, and students are encouraged to explore, build, and express who they are.

Outside the classroom, I’m a proud mom of two amazing kids. Our family loves road trips, hiking, camping, and turning every moment into lasting memories.

Fun fact: I’ve been singing on stage and competing in vocal & choir competitions since I was 4 years old, and I’m also a voice coach.

Teaching is more than my career. It’s how I connect, create, and inspire.

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Natasha Rutledge

Natasha Rutledge

Teacher

I graduated from the University of Alberta with my Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in 2005. I grew up in Edmonton, and I was a substitute teacher in Jasper, Hinton and Whitecourt for a few years before coming to the Red Deer area to teach. I loved living in the mountains and being surrounded by nature for hiking and swimming in the lakes.

I am a mom of two teenage girls; one has graduated, and the other attends high school. I have over 15 years of subbing experience in Alberta schools and several years of teaching full-time at First Steps Elementary Academy as a grade 7-8 teacher. I am the lead teacher and mentor to the new teachers at our school this year as well.

My major is Social Studies, and my minor is English Literature. I enjoy studying history, writing and being outdoors all summer. One of my favourite parts of teaching is greeting the parents before and after school. Students of all ages inspire me each day as I watch them grow in new skills and confidence. Prior to teaching, I worked in Jasper in the Hotel and Tourism industry, in which I developed a love for meeting people from all over the world.

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Anshu Goyal

Anshu Goyal

Teacher

I'm a Grade 1 & 2 teacher at First Steps & Beyond Elementary Academy. Originally from India, I bring over 7 years of teaching experience and a Master's in Chemistry to my classroom. I'm passionate about early literacy, hands-on STEAM learning, and building a warm, inclusive community where every child feels valued and capable. I'm trained in the Science of Reading and am committed to helping every student discover the joy of learning. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy connecting students to their community through real-world learning experiences.

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Megan Christensen

Megan Christensen

Teacher

I am the grade 3/4 teacher. I am passionate about fostering a safe, caring, and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and capable of success. I graduated from the collaborative Middle Years Program through the University of Alberta and Red Deer Polytechnic. I live in Delburne with my husband, son, and our two dogs. I am excited to support students as they learn, grow, and build confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

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Katrina Bulger

Katrina Bulger

Teacher

I am the Kindergarten teacher at First Steps Elementary Academy. I recently moved back to Alberta after attending school in New Brunswick. I absolutely love working with my little learners each day. I enjoy motorcycling, hiking, travelling, and learning new things. I am excited to get to know all the students, parents, and staff at FSEA every year!​​​​​​

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Narjes Mohammed

Narjes Mohammed

Teacher

I’m a compassionate Educational Assistant dedicated to supporting students with diverse learning and developmental needs. I am passionate about creating a positive, inclusive environment that helps children build confidence, independence, and academic growth.

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Role Name
Board Chair Cindy Bower
Vice Chair  
Secretary Dayna Goruk
Treasurer Patricia Repas-Barrett
Board Member Lane Harris
Board Member John McKenzie
Board Member Vanessa Dunning
Board Member Linda McLevin
Principal Lynne Harris