StrongStart

The parent is the first and most important teacher in a child's life.  Campbell River School District supports parents in this important role by providing a free, early learning program, called StrongStart, for young children from birth to kindergarten and their parents or caregivers.  Under the direction of licensed early childhood educators, parents and children participate in early learning activities, such as story time, music, singing, art and puzzles.

Children gain problem-solving skills and build self-esteem and the social skills that will help them when they enter school. Parents and caregivers learn activities that they can do at home to further support their child's learning and nutrition, as well as connect with other parents and caregivers.

While the program is free, parents do need to complete a registration form so that such items as emergency contact information is on file. Please bring your child's birth certificate with you to register. 

Meet our Strong Start facilitator, Audrey Ordano!

Hello, I am blessed and honored to live, work and play on the traditional, unceded territory of the K'ómoks First Nations. I humbly acknowledge the generations of First Nations, Metis and Inuit from all over Canada who embrace these lands and waters as their homes.

Since 2021 I have been the Sayward Strong Start Facilitator. I enjoy working with children and uphold the high standards that the school district maintains. I have two daughters who are over 10 years apart in age, which keeps me grounded as a parent, loving and nourishing them as they learn and grow.

I am a member of the community of Sayward. It has been my hometown for many years.  I am very happy to work in the same rural area in which I live and care so much about. I also like being out in nature, camping, swimming and gardening. At home, I enjoy cooking, canning, baking, reading and playing with my girls.

I have taken over five years of post-secondary education focused around gaining teaching employment. One of my career goals is to help effectively guide our next generation of children, while providing a family friendly environment.

I completed my Early Childhood Care and Education certificate through North Island College and have a British Columbia license to practice. I am constantly participating in professional development courses to further extend my education and as yearly requirements of my ECE license. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts, with a major in Liberal Studies and an Associate of Arts. My pedagogic philosophy includes play-based learning while also following seasonal themes throughout the year to create and engage with children and families.

I have experience volunteering with children at the local school in the past and I enjoy being an active part of the community. Around 10 years ago I had the privilege of assisting Audrey Patton with the Sayward Strong Start. I am committed to quality early learning and have studied child development, family dynamics and community resources.

I believe it is beneficial for both parents and children to participate in the Strong Start program to help prepare pre-Kindergarten students for starting school. It also provides a safe place for social interaction and fosters learning. 

I am hardworking and professional. I aim to build trusting and respectful relationships with children and their families. I have a lot of energy, creativity and patience. I consider myself to have strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbally and written. I am very organized and am a competent planner. I am pleased to be able to share my knowledge and experience with parents, guardians and early learners.