Getting to Know Ms. Sali

If there is one word to describe Angie Sali, head junior kindergarten teacher, it is joyful (indeed, “joyfully” is her email close!). Passionate about early childhood development, Ms. Sali’s dedication and enthusiasm for her junior kindergarten students is infectious. I ventured to the Annex recently to learn about her unique and inspired curriculum, her penchant for design, her soon-to-be-released children's book, and the wonders of 4- and 5-year-olds.

Q: How long have you been at WPGA? Where you were before?
A: This is my fifth year here. Before WPGA, I taught at a Montessori preschool. I’ve always been a preschool teacher—I have always been drawn to this age group.

Q: What is it about this age group that excites you?
A: There is so much potential for growth and development—literally! This age group has what’s called an absorbent mind. It sounds like a cliché, but children at this age are sponges, absorbing everything in their environment. It's a time of rapid brain development, and research shows that 80 percent of our personalities are formed during this stage. It’s a privilege to help create a rich learning environment that meets each learner's needs. I always say that 4-year-olds can change the world!

Q: Never underestimate the power of a preschooler! Is there a big difference between 4- and 5-year-olds?
A: Oh, yes! For example, at age 4, children are just starting to form commonalities and relationships with peers, bonding with perhaps one or two others. By age 5, they are far more self- and community-aware, developing more friendships with like-minded individuals. They have a deeper understanding of concepts and relationships.

Q: Interesting! I know you adore teaching junior kindergarten, but what do you like most about teaching at WPGA?
A: For one thing, I love our administration. Like me, they truly respect and value this age group. They've allowed me the freedom to grow and develop this program, such as having our outdoor garden and African Market, an annual fundraiser that supports imagine1day, an international outreach program. Our children actually help to support self-sustaining schools in Africa. I also appreciate our parents, who are involved, supportive and warm.

Q: I just watched a video of last year’s junior kindergarten opera, which I understand is based on a children’s book you and Ms. Corcoran wrote. Tell me about that.
A: Yes, Ms. Corcoran and I wrote Benjamin’s Extraordinary Seed, which engages children in community service. It’s at the illustrator’s now, and we hope to have a hard copy in the spring. The book will be incorporated into our curriculum. This year our JK classes are also writing and filming their own movie--a first for JK curriculum in B.C. at least! A local marketing agency, Make, has donated their space and red carpet for the premiere, which will be a thrill.  

Q: Gee, I wish I could go back in time and be in your junior kindergarten class! Your daughter Dante is in grade 10 at WPGA. How do you like having her at WPGA with you?
A: I feel so blessed to have her here. I get the insider’s view of both the teacher and the student, and it’s all positive! She loves WPGA, too.

Q: Between developing your curricula and volunteering with imagine1day, not to mention being a parent, you are incredibly busy. When you have spare time, what do you enjoy doing?
A: Well, I mostly read books on child development, but I do enjoy kicking back with a glass of wine and Vanity Fair! I also enjoy writing fiction, running, practising yoga and eating French food (or anything with butter!). I’m also into decorating and design. I’m always on the lookout for antiques and vintage pieces, particularly designer vintage clothes.

Q: Do you have any favourite furniture stores? I am decorating my place and could use some guidance.
A: Well, there are so many in Vancouver, but Full House, Mint, Parliament, Front & Company, Sidestep, and Upscale Resale come to mind. I am actually working with a furniture designer to design a new take on classroom furniture. I always say that the classroom is the third teacher; children deserve and appreciate a meaningful sense of design and a beautiful aesthetic.

Q: You have such a developed, urban sense of style. Did you grow up here?
A: No, I grew up in Rockhaven, Saskatchewan. Population 35.

Q: You mean 3500?
A: No, 35 people! Needless to say, I was on every sports, drama and extracurricular team in school!

Thanks, Ms. Sali, for sharing more about junior kindergarten and your own life. I look forward to reading Benjamin's Extraordinary Seed and to watching your JK classes' (undoubtedly Oscar-worthy) film production. Like everything you do, I am sure it will be impressive!