Team

Teachers & Administration

Our team is made up of passionate educators and professionals who bring together a rich blend of international experience, academic excellence, and a shared commitment to nurturing language, culture, and community. With backgrounds spanning education, music, early childhood development, and leadership, each member of our team contributes unique strengths that enrich the learning experience for every child.

From certified teachers working in local school districts to experienced artists, dedicated parents, and community leaders, our team is united by a common goal: to create a supportive, engaging, and inclusive environment where children can thrive. We believe in meeting each child where they are, fostering curiosity and confidence, and building a strong connection to Polish language and heritage.

Together, we are proud to support not only our students, but also their families—helping to build a vibrant, connected community that celebrates culture, learning, and growth.

Ania Korolczuk

Director of Education & Lead Teacher

Ania is the Director of Education at the Polish Canadian Family Association. She is a certified teacher with a Master’s degree in History from the University of Wrocław (2005), qualified to teach at both the elementary and high school levels. After moving to Canada in 2005, she began her teaching career and has been working in the Surrey School District since 2016. In 2020, she completed a postgraduate diploma in Inclusive Education, enhancing her ability to support and engage diverse learners.

Krystyna Krystecki

Music Teacher

Krystyna received a master’s degree in teaching and composition from the Academy of Music in Gdansk, Poland. Her work experience in Poland includes performing and travelling with the Gdansk Philharmonic Opera. Christina has been a music director and organist for several churches in Vancouver and is a Royal Conservatory of Music Affiliate Teacher. An active performer, accompanist and soloist, Christina constantly searches for new ways to nurture her students’ artistic development and is passionate about sharing her experience. She also never forgets to have fun, and that progress takes time and requires patience.

Ola Korolczuk

Teacher

Aleksandra is originally from Białystok, Poland, and has been residing in Canada for over ten years. She is the mother of a young daughter, Lara, and is deeply committed to early childhood education and the promotion of the Polish language among preschool-aged children. Professionally, she has built her career in the information technology sector, where she serves as a product manager.

Veronica Meneses

Resource Manager

Veronica is a BC-certified teacher currently working in the Coquitlam School District, teaching Grade 1/2. Over the years, she has had the privilege of teaching a variety of subjects and grade levels, including Kindergarten, high school Biology, Composition, English as an Additional Language, and Spanish. She graduated from Simon Fraser University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and obtained her teaching certificate from the University of British Columbia in 2008.

Sylwia Ura-Polak

Grants

Sylwia is the Director of Grants at the Polish Canadian Family Association. She brings together her professional background, multicultural life experience, and deep commitment to the emotional and cultural well-being of Polish-Canadian families.

Trained as a midwife in Poland, Sylwia has always held a heart-level dedication to supporting women, mothers, and young families—especially those navigating life across cultures.

Alina Podkolinska

School Administrator, Communications & Social Media

Alina is the School Administrator and President of the Polish Canadian Family Association of BC, where she leads initiatives that support and connect Polish-Canadian families. She oversees school operations, programs, and community partnerships, helping create a welcoming and inclusive environment for students and families of all backgrounds. With an international background in design strategy and leadership, and an MFA in Design and Technology, Alina brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to program development, community engagement, and organizational growth. She is passionate about fostering cultural connection, supporting language education, and building a strong, vibrant school community.