Andrea Heidema
Grades 5-9
Coursework & Executive Functioning
Sandi Meyerhoff
Grades 7-12
Coursework & Executive Functioning
*excluding
Gr. 10-12
Math & Science
Lucinda Beshay
Grades 9-12
Math & Science
Therese Mekhail
Grades 7-12
Math & Science
*Executive Functioning- scheduling, goal-setting, & Planning
Zoom 1-1 pre-booked appointments
Booking calendar for Zoom: https://calendly.com/taryn-mcpherson/literacy-support-centre
I moved from Ontario to BC in 2009, and for 13 years, I called BC home; family brought me back to Ontario in 2022.
When the weather cooperates, I love gardening, hiking, camping and road-tripping; otherwise, I enjoy a good book, puzzle, or cup of tea with a friend.
I am passionate about sharing my love of learning with others and helping my students reach their greatest potential.
I am encouraged, knowing that no matter what life throws at me, I never have to tackle life alone (Philippians 4:12-13).
I love helping students fill their toolboxes with skills they can use in all parts of life!
I love creating schedules and goals so students can manage their time well!
I am a super planner and organizer! I love helping students get started!
I love Science (well, Physics a little less!) and many aspects of Math (comfortably helping students into Middle School).
I love helping students in other key areas of the journey, for example, connecting with teachers, preparing for tests, researching for assignments, and writing and proofing work!
ADST (TechLAB, Textiles, Media Design, Food Studies, etc.)
Arts Education (Studio Arts, Musical Theatre, Instrumental Music, Drama, Dance, etc.)
Career Education & Work Experience (CLE, CLC, WEX)
Christian Studies
Electives (Student Council, Adventure Discipleship, Leadership, etc.)
English Language Arts (Lit Studies, New Media, Composition, First Peoples, etc.)
Math (Grades 5-10 Maths & Upper-level Workplace Math)
Physical & Health Education (PE, Outdoor Ed, Fitness & Conditioning, Active Living, etc.)
Sciences (Grades 5-10 Sciences, with some Grades 11 & 12 comfortability; Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Life Sciences, Psychology, etc.)
Second Languages (Coursework Only - ASL, French, Spanish, etc.)
Social Studies (BC First Peoples, Comp Civ, Political Studies, World History, Physical Geography, etc.)
Academic courses - comprehension, higher-level thinking, step-by-step instruction
Accountability and check-ins to help you stay on track
Building confidence due to anxiety or insecurity
Executive functioning - organization and planning, scheduling and goal-setting, time management, breaking down assignments into smaller parts
Motivation - pinpointing distractions and discussing strategies to kick procrastination to the curb
Navigating Platforms - Brightspace, Study Forge, Encom, and Google Workspace
Preparation for Literacy and Numeracy Provincial Assessments
Skill-building – critical thinking and problem solving, note taking and essay writing, study and test preparation, communicating and advocating needs
Zoom 1-1 pre-booked appointments.
Booking calendar for Zoom: https://calendly.com/andrea-heidema-ea/learning-support-clone
I was born and raised on Vancouver Island, where I live now with my husband and two school-aged children.
My love for homeschooling began a few years back when I had the opportunity to teach my son through HCOS; I am excited to be homeschooling both my children again this school year!
I have worked with kids and teens in a variety of settings (within her community, at Christian summer camps, and in both public and private schools) for almost 20 years!
In my spare time, I love to be near the ocean, exploring the beach or fishing with my family. I also enjoy gardening, baking and curling up with tea and a good book.
I love making connections with my students, helping them grow in confidence and work towards meeting their learning goals.
I am a whiz at helping students with executive functioning - planning, time management, setting goals, and helping to hold students accountable!
I love proofreading students’ work and helping them with their research and writing assignments.
I am passionate about helping students discover a love for reading (supporting phonics, fluency, comprehension).
ADST (TechLAB, Foods, etc.)
Arts Education (Music, Drama, Dance, etc.)
Career Education
Christian Studies
English Language Arts
Math (Grades 5-9; online and textbooks)
Physical & Health Education
Sciences (Grades 5-9; Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science)
Second Languages (Coursework Only - ASL, French, Spanish, etc.)
Social Studies
Academic courses - comprehension, higher-level thinking, step-by-step instruction
Accountability and check-ins to help you stay on track
Building confidence due to anxiety or insecurity
Executive functioning - organization and planning, scheduling and goal-setting, time management, breaking down assignments into smaller parts
Motivation - pinpointing distractions and discussing strategies to kick procrastination to the curb
Navigating Platforms - Brightspace, Study Forge, Encom, and Google Workspace
Preparation for Foundational Skills Assessment (FSA)
Skill-building – critical thinking and problem solving, note taking and essay writing, study and test preparation, communicating and advocating needs
Zoom 1-1 pre-booked appointments
Booking calendar for Zoom: https://calendly.com/sandi-meyerhoff-ea/ssc-literacy-ef-support
I have over 20 years of home education experience and continue to support the youngest of my three children, who is set to graduate in 2026. This journey began with HCOS in 2004 - the year the school started!
I began working as an EA with HCOS back in 2019. In addition to providing in-home support, I have been a part of the Nanaimo CC, CC+ and Teen CC.
I returned to school in 2023 to complete my Education Assistant Certificate at Vancouver Island University, focusing on executive functioning and learning strategies.
I love to spend time in nature—whether walking trails, kayaking, or relaxing with family and friends. I also enjoy reading, writing, and making art as part of my creative expression.
I am especially drawn towards English and Humanities courses, and am skilled at assisting with writing assignments.
I love coming alongside students, helping them build their executive functioning, critical thinking, and communication skills.
I am passionate about helping students build their “life toolboxes” - promoting social-emotional learning and a growth mindset that contribute to increased confidence.
I am constantly inspired by the resilience and potential of students, believing every student can thrive with the right support, structure, and encouragement.
ADST (TechLAB, Textiles, Media Design, Food Studies, etc.)
Arts Education (Studio Arts, Musical Theatre, Instrumental Music, Drama, Dance, etc.)
Career Education & Work Experience (CLE, CLC, WEX)
Christian Studies
Electives (Student Council, Adventure Discipleship, Leadership, etc.)
English Language Arts (Lit Studies, New Media, Composition, First Peoples, etc.)
Math (Grades 5-9)
Physical & Health Education (PE, Outdoor Ed, Fitness & Conditioning, Active Living, etc.)
Sciences (Grades 5-9 Sciences, with some Grades 10-12 comfortability; Life Sciences, Earth Sciences)
Second Languages (Coursework Only - ASL, French, Spanish, etc.)
Social Studies (BC First Peoples, Comp Civ, Political Studies, World History, Physical Geography, etc.)
Academic courses - comprehension, higher-level thinking, step-by-step instruction
Accountability and check-ins to help you stay on track
Building confidence due to anxiety or insecurity
Executive functioning - organization and planning, scheduling and goal-setting, time management, breaking down assignments into smaller parts
Motivation - pinpointing distractions and discussing strategies to kick procrastination to the curb
Navigating Platforms - Brightspace, Study Forge, Encom, and Google Workspace
Preparation for Literacy Provincial Assessments
Skill-building – critical thinking and problem solving, note taking and essay writing, study and test preparation, communicating and advocating needs
Zoom 1-1 pre-booked appointments.
Booking calendar for Zoom: https://calendly.com/lucinda-beshay-ea/math-and-science-support-center
I am a former HCOS graduate (2017) and UBC graduate (2021).
Returning to HCOS feels like coming full circle; I am excited to contribute to the very environment that played a crucial role in my own education!
My love and wonder of Science started at an early age as I marvelled at how God intricately designed every aspect of our world with precision and detail.
Outside of work and studying, I enjoy playing the piano, going to the gym, serving at my church's youth group, and reading a book with my headphones on.
My wide range of Math (including Pre-calculus) and Science (including Biology, Life Science, Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Psychology) skills will blow you away!
I love helping students identify their strengths as they reach for their goals!
I enjoy helping students with their coursework - lessons, practice questions, assignments, projects, labs - and preparing for their tests!
I have a deep passion for student wellness and personal growth.
Math (Foundations, Workplace, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Accounting, etc.)
Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Life Sciences, Geology, Psychology, etc.)
Academic courses - comprehension, higher-level thinking, step-by-step instruction
Accountability and check-ins to help you stay on track
Building confidence due to anxiety or insecurity
Executive functioning - organization and planning, scheduling and goal-setting, time management, breaking down assignments into smaller parts
Motivation - pinpointing distractions and discussing strategies to kick procrastination to the curb
Navigating Platforms - Brightspace, Study Forge, Encom, and Google Workspace
Preparation for Numeracy Provincial Assessments
Skill-building – critical thinking and problem solving, note taking, study and test preparation, communicating and advocating needs
Zoom 1-1 pre-booked appointments.
Booking calendar for Zoom: https://calendly.com/therese-mekhail-ea/ssc-meeting-with-therese
I completed high school and university in Ontario.
I enjoy connecting with each student personally and tailoring each solved problem to their preferred learning style.
I am a Math and Science expert and love helping students see how God’s creation connects beautifully to the patterns, logic, and wonder found in these subjects.
God’s creation in nature is amazing and full of beauty, from the tiniest flower to the vastness of the stars. Yet He made each of us as His favourite creation, unique and loved beyond measure.
Connecting with students on a warm & friendly level.
Giving students the confidence to grow in their studies.
Deep knowledge of math and science concepts across multiple grade levels.
Ability to explain complex topics clearly and in relatable ways.
Skilled at breaking down challenging problems step by step.
Makes lessons engaging by showing practical applications of math or science in nature and everyday life.
Math (Foundations, Workplace, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Accounting, etc.)
Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Life Sciences, Geology, Psychology, etc.)
Second Languages (French)
Academic courses - comprehension, higher-level thinking, step-by-step instruction
Accountability and check-ins to help you stay on track
Building confidence due to anxiety or insecurity
Executive functioning - organization and planning, scheduling and goal-setting, time management, breaking down assignments into smaller parts
Motivation - pinpointing distractions and discussing strategies to kick procrastination to the curb
Navigating Platforms - Brightspace, Study Forge, Encom, and Google Workspace
Preparation for Foundational Skills Assessment (FSA) and Numeracy Provincial Assessments
Skill-building – critical thinking and problem solving, note-taking and essay writing, study and test preparation, communicating and advocating needs
Get to Know Sherie:
Sherie has been in the field of education for 25 years, with over a decade devoted to online learning. She has taught students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, specializing in Physical Education, Social Studies, and French as a Second Language.
Outside of her administrative role, Sherie is a lifelong athlete. She played women’s varsity hockey at the University of British Columbia, serving as team captain. Athletics run deep in her family—her oldest daughter is the starting goalkeeper for the Lakehead University women’s varsity soccer team, and her youngest is a competitive FIS-level ski racer with the Windermere Valley Ski Team. Sherie feels most connected to God when she is outdoors. Time in nature—whether hiking, skiing, or simply being surrounded by God’s creation—deepens her sense of peace, purpose, and gratitude.
In her role as Assistant Director of Innovations, Sherie supports both teachers and students at HCOS. Her responsibilities include observing online classes, guiding teacher practice through professional development, supporting families with student concerns (including ethical AI use), and helping shape online course offerings and scheduling. She also teaches PHE 10, Christian Studies 10, and Active Living 11 for high-performance athletes and continues to work with families as a support teacher.
Sherie loves helping students discover joy in learning, grow in character, and pursue excellence in both academics and life.
Get to know Kaylee:
Kaylee is married to Jordan and has three energetic sons. Outside of her professional responsibilities, she enjoys camping, spending time with her family and friends, beach days, and finding new coffee shops. However, the majority of her week is spent at the football field, cheering on her three sons.
Since August 2023, Kaylee has been employed at HCOS as the Innovations Assistant and Assessment Coordinator. She has thoroughly enjoyed her time here and has begun updating the SSC website. While Kaylee does not book with students directly, she is actively involved in the SSC’s website’s maintenance and updates