We were the kids who were too chatty, too restless, daydreaming too much, and yearning for deeper connections at school.
In adulthood, we decided that we wanted something different; an alternative educational experience for our children. One with forests and small ratios, classrooms with big kids and little kids, mentorship and connection, all while gently and respectfully following the lead of our kids.
We are first and foremost parents, organizing alternative education for our children. Secondly, we are community members, inviting those likeminded folks in Petrolia and surrounding areas to join us on this journey. Thirdly, we are competent, passionate and resourceful women, creating and delivering a high quality and heartfelt program.
Jenna Simpson, Founder & Principal
Jenna has been yapping about alternative ed to anyone who will listen for at least 20 years. A lifelong learner, world traveller, third generation family business owner, and wife and mother, Jenna is always finding inspiration in her kids and testing her theories about education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, a Master’s of Environment and Sustainability from Western University, and Montessori certification in ages 3-6 from the North American Montessori Center. Jenna also did some work at the doctoral level but pivoted due to life!
“You know after high school when everyone forges their own path and we breathe a collective sigh of relief that we aren’t all forced to fit in the same box anymore? Let’s do that from day one. We follow your child as they forge their own unique path from kindergarten.” – Jenna Simpson
Nicole Jackson, Educator
Nicole is a Montessori teacher who has lived and loved the Montessori method for over 20 years. She has seen first hand the way children thrive when given the freedom to make their own choices and is passionate about helping children shine.
Nicole started her journey with alternative education in Toronto in 2000 where she studied the Montessori Method through the Association Montessori Internationale – the teacher training program founded by Maria Montessori herself. In fact, Maria Montessori’s granddaughter signed Nicole’s diploma! From there, Nicole taught at several schools and opened her own Montessori program as well. Nicole returned to Chatham-Kent to be close to family and continue on her path as an educator and life-long learner.
Nicole brings her wisdom and expertise to Petrolia Primary School as a full-time Educator.
Justine Herder, Educator
Justine has worked in many facets of education. She began her career as an Early Childhood Educator in 2018. As an ECE, Justine shared her creativity and passion for the early years with children and their families. From there, she spent time as a Registered Early Childhood Educator and Educational Assistant for the public school board. In her search to meet the needs of each child, she discovered Montessori and decided that she wanted to work in a Montessori setting.
In 2020, Justine completed Montessori certification in ages 3-6 and began working as a Montessori Directress. Justine believes that education should be hands-on, engaging, and at the child’s pace and developmental level. Justine thrives on guiding children to discover their true intrinsic potential. Outside of PPS, Justine is a mother of two and spends time creating art and adventuring in the outdoors.
Jenna Cumming, Educator
From her first moments in the Petrolia Primary School classroom in 2022, Jenna knew she had found her calling. She shares a love for learning and exploration with children.
Jenna is a mother to an energetic little girl who inspires her everyday with her curiosity and each new thing she learns. She has always had a passion for education, tutoring many different children over the years. She attended the University of Windsor and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Professional Studies and recently completed a Master of Science in Childhood Education program.