The Talented Team

Zack has been working in the informal education field in Calgary for well over ten years. He has led teams at the Calgary Zoo, Bow Habitat Station, and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. He is responsible for the oversight and management of all K-12 Programs. Zack has a BSc in Zoology.

“I love the broad-based approach to learning that integrates all the disciplines, and provides the spark of inquiry and the scientific method in students.” – Zack

Prior to joining Spark’s education team, Alan was an elementary school teacher in Calgary. He supports the classroom team of Program Leaders and can occasionally be spotted facilitating workshops. He has a BA in History and Classical Studies and BEd (Master of Teaching) from the University of Calgary.

“I love how the multi-disciplinary approach of STEAM connects science to other subjects in an authentic and engaging way.” – Alan

Donna Kipta holds a BSc in Biological Sciences and a BEd from the University of Calgary. Donna is a self-professed “wonderer” and has been involved in both formal and informal education for many years. She is a widely respected as an expert in STEAM education.

“STEAM inspires learners to be courageous as they explore their own curiosities while discovering how our world is shaped by technology and innovation.” – Donna

Elaine has been in education for most of her career and is excited to taking on outreach programming with TELUS Spark! Originally from the west coast, her prior experience ranges from formal teaching in elementary schools to informal teaching in the environmental education and interpretation field. The only thing she loves more than her houseplants and ice cream is her family, with whom she takes regular outdoor adventures in Calgary and the surrounding area. Elaine has a BSc in Natural Resources Conservation and a BEd with an elementary option.

“I love the real-world connections that can be made for all ages, as well as the abundance of opportunities for hands-on, process-based learning. It's all about the journey, not the destination!” – Elaine

Megan holds a MA in Educational Studies from Montreal's Concordia University and a BA in Anthropology from the University of Victoria. Before joining the Open Minds team, Megan delivered and developed STEAM workshops on TELUS Spark's school programs team. She is passionate about experiential learning, critical methodologies, and spending time outdoors.