Joan Ffrench is a teacher with the Toronto District School Board.  She received her training at the MICO teachers’ College (Jamaica), the University of the West Indies (Jamaica) and St Stephen’s College (Alberta). These combined training qualifies her for teaching, as well as Pastoral Counselling.

While pursuing her MA, Pastoral Counselling, Joan did research that highlighted the importance of protecting children and garnering them with the information that will allow them to make wise decisions that chart their course to a bright future. Her training has been instrumental in her involvement in summer camps, writing training manuals, planning and organizing events that help young people understand their roles and purpose.  With this as a back drop, Joan has taught, at the Middle School level for the 8 years she has been in Canada, and her teaching involves guiding, challenging and motivating students to be the best person and contributor they can be.

Her 35 years of experience have allowed her the opportunity to advocate for personal development, community development and social justice. She recently collaborated on planning a parent workshop that catered to some 300 parents across Region 2 schools in Toronto.

Joan has made education her choice.  She prides herself on being a lifetime learner and has committed herself to using every opportunity to change people’s mindset about the power of being informed.