Meet Our Admin Team

Our admin team works  to support families, educators, and children — keeping things organized, welcoming, and running smoothly so everyone can focus on what matters most, the children.

 

Executive Director

Natasha Rogers 

 

 

Hi, I’m Natasha!

I am passionate about child-led learning, messy play, and exploring the natural world with children. I believe meaningful learning happens through hands-on experiences, curiosity, and a strong connection with nature.

As a mom of four, plus three stepchildren, family-centred, child-focused care is at the heart of my practice. I value building strong relationships with children and families and believe that true partnership is essential in supporting each child’s growth and well-being.

When I’m not here, you’ll likely find me camping, scavenging along ocean shores for treasures, or enjoying a simple movie night at home.

Assistant Director

Courtney Strong

 

Hi! My name is Courtney, but most people know me as Ms. Courtney.

I’ve been an Early Childhood Educator in the beautiful Annapolis Valley for over 21 years, and I truly love what I do.

I’m passionate about creating welcoming, play-based learning environments where children feel safe, valued, and excited to explore. I believe children learn best when they have a strong sense of belonging, and I place great importance on designing thoughtful learning spaces that encourage independence, curiosity, and confidence.

Through warmth, consistency, and collaboration with families and colleagues, I strive to support each child’s well-being and foster a lifelong love of learning.

 

Inclusion Coordinator

Laura MacBride

 

Hi! I’m Laura, and I will be working at Dare to Dream as the Inclusion Coordinator.

I have worked in childcare for about 20 years in a variety of roles, including centre-based childcare, a consultant with family home childcare, and a practicum supervisor with the Nova Scotia College of Early Childhood Education.

I love sharing my passion for nature-based play and exploring the world with children and families in all types of weather. I bring whimsy, connection, and curiosity into my practice while using a child-centred approach that helps children and families feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to be themselves.

 

Meet Our Yellow Team

Our yellow team works together to create a warm, play-based learning environment for our 3-5 year old children. Where they feel safe, supported, and inspired, building relationships, guide learning, and helping every child grow with confidence.

Early Childhood Educator 

Erika Ells

 

Hello! I’m Erika!

I am an Early Childhood Educator in the preschool room and have been working with children since I was 15. I graduated from the ECE program in 2017 and have been working as an educator ever since.

I have a strong passion for supporting young children as they learn, grow, and explore the world around them. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy playing softball, camping, fishing, and spending quality time with friends and family.

I’m looking forward to meeting our families, welcoming new children into the classroom, and sharing some of my favourite children’s books — including Little Critter, Franklin, and Pete the Cat.

Early Childhood Educator 

Amber Brooks

Hi everyone, I’m Amber!

I’m a proud mom of two — my daughter is 12 and my son is 4. We also have two dogs, two snakes, and a pet house duck!

I have been working in the ECE field for about eight years and have always had a love for children. From an early age, I knew this was the path I wanted to follow. I graduated from NSCC in 2019 and am currently completing my Bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Study at MSVU.

I’m so excited to build meaningful relationships with the children and their families here at Dare to Dream.

Early Childhood Educator 

Rebecca Kelly

 

Hello! My name is Rebecca, but everyone calls me Becca!

I am a Level 2 Early Childhood Educator and have been working around children since I was 13 years old. I graduated from NSCC’s Early Childhood Education program in 2024 and am so excited to meet all the families and build strong relationships with the children.

When I’m not working, I enjoy being outdoors and soaking up the sun. I love going out on the four-wheeler, getting muddy, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and spending quality time with friends and family.

 

Meet Our Blue Team

Our blue team works together to create a warm, play-based learning environment for our 18month to 3 year old  children. Where they feel safe, supported, and inspired, building relationships, guiding learning, and helping every child grow with confidence.

Early Childhood Educator 

Tammy de Wit

 

I am a mother of two — my children are 21 and 17. My oldest is currently living in Utah for the next year, and my youngest is finishing high school. I also have a cat named Smokey.

I have been working in early childhood education for about 25 years and have experience in many different types of centres with children ranging from 0–12 years old. My favourite part of working with children is what they teach me. I love their honesty, their energy, and the way every day becomes a new adventure. I truly believe each day is an opportunity to learn something magical together.

I’m so excited to get to know the children and share wonderful adventures with them here. When I’m not at work, I love to sing — music is life! I have been apart of several choirs and choruses and am currently singing in the mass chorus for the new Stage Prophets production of Cinderella. So you may hear me singing around the classroom now and then! I also enjoy gardening and exploring new places, and I’m always up for a road trip to discover a new beach or waterfall.

I look forward to meeting all of you!

 

Early Childhood Educator 

Paige Sheffield

 

Hello, my name is Paige.

I graduated from NSCC Kingstec with my Early Childhood Education Diploma in June 2025. I have always enjoyed being around children and knew early on that I wanted to work in early learning — especially with toddlers.

I’m a mom to a three-year-old boy who is my pride and joy! My son will also be attending Dare to Dream, and we are both looking forward to making new friends, learning, and going on new adventures every day.

When I’m not working, my son and I love taking day trips to explore the many wonderful places and activities throughout the Annapolis Valley.