STAFF

Joanne Deidun-Roork is the proud owner and director of The Little Green Schoolhouse, a new eco-friendly, early childhood preschool centre in Mississauga.

This is no ordinary school for young children... It has been designed from the ground up with great care and critical thought given to every last detail to create a unique learning environment. Joanne is passionate about the health and well-being of children, the environment, building relationships in her community and teaching. As a dedicated member of the teaching profession for over 15 years, she has taught preschool through to grade five. Joanne has built a successful career and has earned a well-respected reputation among her colleagues, parents and students, many of which are still part of her life. Joanne believes in giving back relentlessly.

It's no surprise to learn that Joanne’s personal and professional journey is deeply rooted in the heart and soul of The Little Green Schoolhouse. The seed was planted at the age of 10 and carefully nurtured by pivotal life experiences – living with food allergies and environmental sensitivities, the positive influences of many of her teachers, meeting her husband of 23 years, Gary Roork, and the loss of her father, John Deidun, at the young age of 57. Joanne’s father lived a happy and full life with no regrets and he urged his daughter to do the same. Each of these life experiences, particularly her father’s influence, have inspired, shaped and given breath to the creation of The Little Green Schoolhouse.

Among many other achievements, Joanne has her B.A. and B.Ed, and she has also obtained her Specialist in Reading and Literacy and in Special Education. Her focus in child development, learning styles and teaching strategies has left her students with a positive school experience and has also made a difference to their personal well-being and growth, and continuing education.

During her extensive career with the Peel Board, Joanne co-founded Open Book Family Literacy which received funding from Ontario Early Years, Sage Youth and Frontier College. The successful program primarily focused on literacy and school readiness, and assisted parents in supporting their child’s educational journey. The program also reinforced what Joanne clearly understood and holds in high regard, the importance of providing a strong nurturing environment for young children, encouraging positive relationships with families and building community, all within a safe, healthy learning environment.

The Little Green Schoolhouse is rooted in the life journey and deep passion of Joanne Deidun-Roork, who believes in the possibilities of a healthier today and tomorrow - for children, families, communities and our environment.