It takes a village
Our Faculty
Finnley Penningroth
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Finnley has been training in the arts for 9 years studying in the areas of drama, art, dance, and music. From Fiddle to Break Dancing, and everything in between, Finnley’s wide-ranging exploration of the arts has not only earned her a variety of creative skills and techniques but also exposed her to many different teaching styles and tactics. Finnley has taken years of drama classes, musical theatre, playwriting, acting for the camera, and has participated in countless plays and productions.
As the oldest of five, Finnley has had a lot of experience working with children. She has a special understanding of students struggling with anxieties and believes that the arts are a great way to build self-confidence and self-worth. Finnley’s compassionate and observant nature allows her to cater to various learning styles with patience and care. Finnley's goal as a teacher is to create a fun and positive space where students can build skills and grow as individuals.
Before becoming a drama teacher Finnley volunteered as an assistant teacher in art, dance, and drama classes and was hired to sub classes like drama and dance as needed. This will be Finnley’s second year on faculty at Creative Edge School of Arts. In addition to her role as a theatre instructor, she has also been appointed assistant director for our full-scale production of Newsies. She can't wait to share her knowledge and have some fun in drama class this year!
Brandie Penningroth
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Brandie has been working with kids for over 25 years. She earned her Bachelors's degree in Psychology from Washington State University and a Masters's degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. She began working with children within the schools of western Washington, then relocated to Los Angeles, California specializing in art and play therapy with high-risk kids and their families. Brandie feels strongly in letting children express themselves through art and writing, finding their own voice and style. Making learning fun, helping to foster ideas, and watching them grow and develop skills as well as confidence that they can carry with them even outside of the classroom.
When Brandie isn't teaching, she is homeschooling 5 crazy kids, chasing chickens and other furry creatures. She is excited to spend this time with the students at Creative Edge School of Arts sharing the joy of learning that will last a lifetime.
Gabrielle Musseau
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As a child and teenager, Gabrielle competed regularly in Abbotsford and Chilliwack piano festivals, often taking first place. Gabrielle completed her Grade 10 RCM piano exam in 2000, scoring first class honours with distinction, as well as completing all the corresponding theory by age 12. She studied under Bernard Duerksen. Gabrielle has been teaching piano since she was 14 years old .
For Gabrielle, music is both extremely serious and profoundly joyful. In her teaching Gabrielle leans towards a classical approach, but she is flexible and happy to adjust her teaching methodology to suit each individual student. Gabrielle loves working with advanced students (e.g., Grade 5 RCM and higher), but she also enjoys setting a strong foundation for newcomers to piano. Successful students with Gabrielle strengthen their piano technique through daily practice, and also deepen their love and appreciation for all music.
When not teaching piano, Gabrielle is busy taking care of her six children. Her ten year goals include; completing her ARCT in piano performance, and completing her bachelors degree in nursing .
Sarah Whitehead
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Miss Sarah is a new addition to our Preschool Family, although you may have seen her friendly face around the studio over the years. Miss Sarah is a dance Mom of two daughters who enjoy classes at Creative Edge.
Sarah graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley and has her Early Childhood Educator Certificate and Community Care First Aid. After working in Japan as a Preschool English Teacher, Sarah knew that her passion was working with Children. Miss Sarah has worked in-home daycare for the last 9 years. After being a stay-at-home Mom, Miss Sarah is excited to return to a career she loves teaching Preschool.
Amanda Blaquiere
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Amanda has been in the Early Childhood Education field for over 15 years. She graduated from Vancouver Community College with her Basic ECE, Special Needs and Infant Toddler Certifications.
She is also a certified Preschool and Kindergarten Montessori Teacher with the North American Montessori College.
Over the years she has worked in a variety of settings such as, preschool, parent participation preschool, progressive Montessori preschool, toddler programs, out of school care programs.
For almost 10 years, she was a Consultant with The Vancouver Supported Child Development Program.
Amanda has 2 daughters in elementary school, that love sports, animals and doing art! When her family moved to Abbotsford, her youngest daughter attended preschool at Creative Edge, which makes working here even more special!
When not at preschool, Amanda can be found outside running, hiking and exploring with her family!