Meet the Team

Our Dedicated Staff

Cassandre Winterburn

Director/ Educator

My name is Cassandre, and I am the owner of Mini Mallards Daycare & OSC.

After many years of reflecting on the direction I wanted to take in life, I pursued a degree in Geography at university. However, I eventually realized that this was not the path I was meant to follow. After much consideration, I chose to dedicate my career to child care.

I chose this field because I believe that children are our future, and we should nurture their dreams and interests. I wanted to share in their excitement for life and support them with the knowledge and care they need as they grow and explore the world around them.

I aspired to be someone children could turn to—whether they were curious about why ladybugs are called ladybugs, or simply needed a safe, welcoming space. Through this journey, I’ve come to appreciate that children ask the most fascinating questions and are full of wonder. Being part of that world has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

I look forward to continuing to learn and grow through each and every child who comes through our doors. When asked why I chose this career, my answer is simple: I strive to be the person I needed when I was a child.

Eva Hildebrandt

Assistant Director/ Preschool educator

Hello, my name is Eva Hildebrandt. I choose to work in childcare because I have always loved children, but only after I started working in childcare did I learn that I love to see and support the development of each individual child and to care for such little people brings me so much joy and opportunity to become the best version of myself that I can be. Choosing such a rollercoaster of a career has brought so much meaning into my life. Some of my hobbies outside of work that help keep me sane are sketching, nature walks, and baking. I was born in 2005 and am working to further my education in early childcare.

Alex Peterson

Educator

I’m thrilled to be part of the

team at Mini Mallards! I’ve always enjoyed spending time with children and animals, and I’m excited to

bring that energy into a nurturing, playful, and supportive environment. My goal is to work in the field of

education , and this role is a

meaningful step on that journey.

Having faced my own learning challenges and a complex health journey, I bring mindfulness and compassion to my work. I understand that every child

experiences the world in their own way, and I want to create a space where they feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. Whether we’re exploring new ideas, learning through play, or simply sharing a laugh, I’m here to help each

child thrive.

When I am not at work, you can find me spending time on the farm in Andrew with our animals, visiting rodeos throughout Alberta, fishing, curling, golfing or skating.

Nancy Giesbrecht

Floor Lead

Hello, my name is Nancy Giesbrecht, and I am one of the floor leads at Mini Mallards Childcare and Out-of-School Care. My main interest in early childhood education stems not only from my love for children but also from a desire to understand brain development at every stage of their growth. This understanding helps in preventing social and mental health challenges later in life. I hope to raise awareness about why the first five years of life are crucial for our future outcomes. Together, we can seize this golden opportunity to create a happier, more nurturing community. As I get to know the children and their parents, I look forward to collaborating on what is best for the children and supporting their brain development. I believe that working together and maintaining open communication is key to ensuring that your children thrive at our daycare.

Diane Kopp

Babies

My name is Diane Kopp, and I have always had a passion for working with children. Over the years, I have gained a wide range of skills in the childcare field, which has always been my favourite and most fulfilling career choice. I have experience working with various age groups, but I have always enjoyed caring for babies and toddlers. I find it incredibly rewarding to watch children grow, learn, and develop their unique personalities. Throughout my years in childcare, I have enjoyed getting down to the children’s level and helping them learn through play. I believe this approach not only supports their development but also helps build trust and connection. I am excited to be joining the Mini Mallard’s Childcare Center, and I look forward to seeing how the center grows within the community. I truly believe in the importance of investing in our children’s future. I look forward to working with the children and families, and seeing their smiling faces each day!

Staci Bryks

Educator

Coming Soon