Who We Are
Maria Samuels
Executive Director
Maria Samuels was brought on as Executive Director in April 2023. With over 10 years of experience as a Supervisor,believes as an educator there is great importance in fostering the continued growth and instilling confidence in the children in her care. Maria oversees the day to day operations of the daycare, including the oversight of 150 children at two locations.
Over the course of her Early Childhood Educator years, Maria has shared her passion for learning and development with children from infant to grade 6. ,
Maria holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Seneca College.
Melissa Ireland
Program Manager
Melissa was appointed Program Manager at South Drive Children’s Circle in October 2025. In this role, Melissa oversees classroom programs to ensure educators provide an enriching experience for all the children, managing 150 children across two locations.
With over 10 years of supervisory knowledge, Melissa brings a wealth of expertise in HDLH and Pedagogy as a daycare leader.
Melissa holds a diploma in Early Childhood Education from Centennial College.
Our Staff
Committed, experienced, caring
South Drive Children’s Circle staff consists of an Executive Director, Program Manager along with teaching and support staff with many years of experience in the field.
South Drive Children’s Circle has a total of 16 staff, 11 of whom are registered ECE and certified with the College of Early Childhood Education. Two are currently working towards these qualifications.
South Drive Children’s Circle is also a Co-operative Learning Centre for the Toronto Board of Education and we train students in Early Childhood Education programs from Centennial, Humber and Seneca Colleges. Students participate in our program in two placement schedules per year: September to December, and January to April.