OUR TEAM

THE TEAM
aka: “Islanders”

Sea to Sky Outdoor School has developed a reputation within the province and increasingly across the country for providing amazing learning experiences for youth. These programs that touch students in powerful ways are a product of the people who deliver them. What follows are brief 'bios' of the full-time seasonal staff that make this possible.

Emily Mikola - aKA Eagle

Emily Mikkola (or Eagle) found Sea to Sky Outdoor School through Camp Fircom, where she has worked for almost a decade as a Camp Counsellor, Dishwasher, Guest Experience Host, Program Coordinator, and finally Program Director.

After completing her teaching degree on the lands of the Snuneymuxw people on Vancouver Island, she returned to camp excited to explore our interconnection with the natural world alongside students and teachers that come to Chá7elkwnech. Eagle's passion for education and our planet Earth comes from years of playing, learning, teaching, and loving the outside world around her.

Mari Neilson - AKA Slug

Slug grew up on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and shíshálh lands and waters and is happiest when she’s outside enjoying these beautiful places! You might find Slug knee deep in a tide pool, wandering down a trail with a guitar in hand or scanning the treetops for cool birds. She studied Marine Biology and Environmental Studies and came away from her studies convinced that the best way to learn about the natural world around us is to spend more time in it!

Rob Anthony - aKA Condor

Growing up on the traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Shíshálh nations Rob (or Condor) has been playing on tidal flats, paddling the local waters and exploring the forest for as long as he can remember. Rob has been working with Fircom for 5 years in a variety of different roles primarily with Fircom's summer staff. Supporting campers, assisting counselors and leading out trips. Throughout his years at the University of Victoria Rob pursued a bachelors of science in geography and then a bachelors of Indigenous elementary education. Now since graduating and as a licensed BC teacher Rob splits his time between working at Sea to Sky, substitute teaching in Victoria, and guiding outdoor education trips with secondary students across Vancouver Island. Rob is always ready to stick his face in a creek, discuss the rock cycle, or discuss the differences between a raven and crow at any moment.

Iris Perks - aKA Buzzard

BIO: [coming soon]

Testimonials

"Dear Islanders, Thank you so much for teaching me about the importance of Nature. I learned a lot! You taught me that kids can make a difference too. Also thanks for teaching me all the songs. They taught me good lessons."

- Grade 5 Student
"Thank you Islanders for a cool, fun packed week. I had fun and learned a lot about nature, sustainability, ethics and how I can be a difference. I learned a lot and best of all as I learned, I had fun."

- Grade 7 Student
"This trip was meant for educational purposes, but I found it more of a fun camp instead of a school camp. When we played learning games you tricked our minds into thinking it was a fun game instead of a learning experience. I learned a lot from this trip. I hope someday I will become an Islander."

- Grade 6 Student