MS. M. POON | PROGRAM COORDINATOR

"As the coordinator of the program, I oversee the intake process, schedule all our events, plan big trips, and liaise with our Parent Group. Most of my time is spent arranging new and exciting adventures for students in our program because I firmly believe that the more experiences students are exposed to, the more they become excited and curious about learning. I teach English 8CHST, Critical Thinking Fine Arts 8CHST, Inquiry & Innovation 9CHST, English 11CHST, and CLC 12CHST. And when the school year is over, I love to spend the summer on my own extended field trip: travelling the world!"

MR. M. VATTA | ENGLISH

"I teach English First Peoples 10CHST. The best part of the course is forming a community, one where each person connects with others so that we raise each other to be our best selves as we consider our place in this world, on this land. Applying to this mini program? Be curious, take risks, and put yourself out there. Fun fact about me: In the Lower Mainland, I am the second-ranked player of the classic video game 'Snow Bros.'”

MS. B. PANESAR | ENGLISH

"I teach World Literature 12CHST and AP Literature. I am also the English Department Head at Hamber. My teaching experience is quite varied, having taught at a couple of Vancouver schools prior to Hamber, and in the East and West End of London, England, which is where I originally hail from, although my family roots extend as far away as Northern India. The core principle guiding my teaching is that language, writing, and storytelling are powerful tools to promote a critical understanding about ourselves, our communities and the world. Literature opens doors to unbelievable worlds! And yes, I’m a huge fan of the Bard, 19th and 20th Century British Literature, and Russian Writers. In my spare time, I like to garden and watch documentaries and Premier League football games!"   

MS. T. YIP | SCIENCE

"I teach Science 8CHST and AP Chemistry—so I get to see Challenge Studio students grow from their first year at Hamber to their senior year. I love watching students think critically in labs and collaborate in groups. I also sponsor Grad Committee and the Ultimate Frisbee team. If you see me playing VUL, come say hi! Stay curious, ask questions, and make the most of every opportunity."

MR. G. SCAGLIONE | SOCIAL STUDIES

"I teach Socials 8CHST and Law 12CHST. My favourite thing is meeting students with so much curiosity and passion for learning. I'm involved in CHST Leadership and help coach the senior boys soccer team. I'm also involved in many field trips! CHST is a fantastic and challenging experience for students—the networking and friendships can be life changing. Fun Fact: I have been teaching at Hamber for 26 years. I have 3 daughters and a dog. I enjoy reading, sports, and travelling."

MS. R. COOPER | SOCIAL STUDIES​

"I teach Social Studies 9CHST and 10CHST, and I used to teach French Immersion Multi-Age Cluster Class (MACC) and International Baccalaureate (IB) History before coming to Hamber. I teach Challenge Studio because I enjoy teaching inquisitive, insightful, and interesting students. I have a Governor General's History Award for Excellence in Teaching. In my spare time, I like to watch old movies, ride my bike, sew, and go to Canadians’ games."

MR. A. WIGHTMAN | SOCIAL STUDIES

"I teach Social Studies 9CHST and 10CHST. Long ago, I was a student who didn't fit in school but loved to learn and help out. After bouncing schools and jobs, I finally graduated from UBC and didn't feel comfortable anywhere. I made a consulting firm, but fell in love with teaching in Taiwan. I finally had purpose: build a better education system to nurture students more.  I wanted education to help people understand their strengths individually and as a community. After teaching at a few schools, both elementary and secondary, I finally found a program that was designed to help brilliant but unique young people find positive places to grow. I am at your child's service, trying to help them find the strengths they have and learn to find their way to contribute to the community. If students want help, my door is open." 

MS. X. NGO | SCIENCE

"I teach Science 10CHST. Because students in Challenge grasp basic concepts quickly, I can do more projects with this class than regular classes. I love seeing the creativity of students when they apply and combine science knowledge with other skills and interests. My advice for students interested in the program would be to apply for it if you truly enjoy learning, working with others and at the same time are independent learners who take responsibility for their learning. Fun fact: my son was in the program many years ago."