Watch our video to learn more about who we are and how we can support schools, educators, and students.
Dr. Julie Middleton
Co-Founder, Bee Happy Mindfulness
Julie has been in education for 25 years as a principal of a private school, and as a public school elementary teacher. She completed her Ph.D. in 2018 and conducted research to understand how instructional coaching, as a form of professional learning, shapes mathematics education. During her Masters research, she investigated ways to create a holistic curriculum, embedding social-emotional learning within the Ontario curriculum. Julie is a Mindful School teacher in training. She believes that children need to play and have fun while learning, and she brings her playful energy into all educational settings.
Email me: julie@bekoa.ca
Natalie Gendron
Co-Founder, Bee Happy Mindfulness
Natalie Gendron has been in education for more than 25 years working with children from pre-school to Grade 6. She is also a Trauma-Informed Registered Children’s Yoga Teacher and a Certified Creative Mindfulness Kids Practitioner. She has delivered mindfulness-based workshops throughout Toronto and Mississauga using play, nature, movement, and breath work. Natalie has a strong understanding of child development and vast experience creating meaningful and engaging programs. She loves to take learning outdoors, using nature to inspire wonder and curiosity. Natalie also loves spending time in the forest with her children and dog.
Email me: natalie@bekoa.ca
Leigh Mitchell
Co-Founder, Koa Kids Mindfulness
Leigh Mitchell is an educator in mental health, mindfulness and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging). She works for York University and University of Guelph Humber and is the co-founder of Bee Happy HR & Mindfulness Co. She is also a certified parenting instructor and recreation professional. Leigh has worked with brands such as Microsoft Canada, SAGE, TELUS, TD Canada Trust, Staples Canada, and Chevrolet Canada throughout her career. Leigh has been featured in the CBC News, The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Canadian Living, Wall Street Journal, and a speaker at numerous industry events. Leigh has a passion for building resilient communities and implementing DEIB values into work and play cultures. Leigh is a nature lover, avid reader and loves spending time at the beach and forest with her family and beagle Carmela.
Email me: leigh@bekoa.ca