Épique's Program Development and Facilitation Team
Chief Executive Officer, Melinda Atkinson, has spent the last 15+ years coordinating behaviour support services for Montreal schools, social service agencies, and local families. Her degree in Communication, study in mindfulness based anxiety prevention, and passion for supporting struggling youth and adults, drives her unstoppable motivation for this work. Prior to coming to Montreal, Melinda was the Coordinator for Community Service Programs at the University of Vermont. Melinda has worked with thousands of students and spoken to audiences of 5 to 500, from Los Angeles, California to Vienna, Austria. "Melinda knows her stuff! My staff team will benefit from the techniques and material." ~RSB Principal
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Executive Director & BREATHE Program Coordinator, Gail Griffith, delivers a powerful message in her workshops for youth and adults through her grounded facilitation style. Gail empowers participants to develop the skills and knowledge to create a healthy and balanced life. Inspiration for Gail’s work stems from a 15+ year career in social services; much of which was dedicated to advocating for the needs of youth in the foster care system. Gail uses themes of compassion, empathy, and respect to inspire participants to take action in their own lives and to make a difference in the lives of others. “Gail is amazing...she was a part of our family!” ~Principal, Margaret Manson Elementary School
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Academic Programs Coordinator, Sharon Klar, has helped thousands of students improve their academic success and confidence over the last 20+ years. Sharon has made it her mission to ensure all students have the skills and confidence to help them learn and master their school work. With proper support, Sharon believes that each student can reach their academic potential. Sharon has a Masters of Education and prior to developing her popular programs, spent years as a resource teacher. "My students learned not only skills that will help them in the classroom, but also in life!" ~Joliette Elementary School Teacher
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SOLUTIONS Program Coordinator, Wayne Yearwood, makes an impact wherever he goes. At over 6 feet tall with a radio-style speaking voice, it doesn't take long for Wayne to get students' attention. A former Olympic basketball player, coach for the Dawson Basketball team, and with a 30+ year career in youth work, Wayne is prepared for any behavioural or social challenge your school might have. His program, SOLUTIONS, encourages students to work together to problem solve classroom issues. "Wayne's dynamic approach with my class helped resolve conflict and create understanding." ~Roslyn Elementary School Teacher
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Kind Kids Program Coordinator, Heidi Markel, brings a warmth to the classroom that is unmatched. With over 20 years of experience educating in school, residential and community settings, she has practical advice for almost any difficult situation a teacher may find themself in. Her gentle but firm facilitation style allows pre-K to grade 2 students to "feel at home" talking about their feelings, while practicing appropriate behaviour and emotion regulation techniques. Heidi offers students a compassionate and creative place to explore their emotions while learning the skills to manage them. "Heidi was so supportive of my students, and me! A truly wonderful resource." ~John Adam Teacher
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Digital Literacy and Diversity Appreciation (LGBTQ2S+) Speaker, Jesse Stong, presents a dynamic approach to helping youth navigate tough topics. His outgoing, caring, and sincere personality allows him to easily connect with any audience. Jesse is a graduate of Social Work and holds a Masters in Art Education. In 2016 he received the Michaëlle Jean Foundation Award for his innovative writing/puppetry workshops for schools and youth groups. Jesse's relatable but frank presentation style engages students, parents and teachers in meaningful discussions around bullying, internet safety and diversity. "The students are really engaged in his message!" ~NFSB Principal
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Behaviour Support & Playground Leadership Programs Coordinator, Demetra Vlouhos, knows that underneath problem behaviours are great opportunities for personal growth. Her extensive background in residential care, counseling, health and fitness paired with a passion for helping children succeed, makes her the perfect solution to lunchtime and school day challenges of all kinds. Demetra has served schools in all 5 local English boards for more than 15 years through specialized behaviour support and training programs. "Demetra empowered my son to turn his energy into leadership!" ~Honoré Mercier School Parent
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Academic Tutoring Specialist, Dorit Levi, has a knack for math that most of us can only dream of. With 20+ years of experience in high school settings, Dorit can tackle the Quebec math curriculum with her eyes closed. She is also well equipped to work with elementary and high school students on their English, French, and social studies homework and test prep to prepare them for success on upcoming exams. Dorit has a special place in her heart for students experiencing behavioural or social skill challenges and her patience and care allows her to connect and make lasting change in the lives of the kids she works with.
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"All About Me" Program Coordinator, Neha Shukla, has spent much of her career supporting at-risk youth in the most northern part of Quebec, Nunavik. She uses her degree in Correctional Intervention and background in youth work and teaching to connect deeply with students on often sensitive and difficult topics. Her program, All About Me, inspires students to put their safety and mental health first when it comes to managing friendships and relationships. She also offers trainings to teachers around creating a trauma informed classroom space and method of teaching to better connect with and support their students.
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All Épique Program Facilitators:
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