Alumna Spotlight: Patrice Hall-Johnson (BA, Early Childhood Studies ’10)

Patrice Hall-Johnson brings a diverse range of experience across multiple sectors, applying strong transferable skills to each role she holds. Currently, she works as a full-time Kindergarten teacher with the Ottawa Catholic School Board, a part-time professor in the Early Childhood Education program at Algonquin College, and a part-time therapist with Nurish Psychotherapy, where she specializes in supporting children and youth.

How did your experiences in the ECS/ECE undergraduate program impact your career trajectory?

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to work with children and pursue a career in education. My goal was to become a teacher and explore the opportunities that path would bring. While researching programs, I was drawn to Ryerson University’s (now Toronto Metropolitan University) Early Childhood Education program, which at the time was one of only two programs of its kind in North America. Its unique and competitive structure offered both community and school-based streams, along with annual practicum placements, including an optional international placement in fourth year. These experiences not only provided diverse, hands-on learning but also invaluable networking opportunities.

This program thoroughly prepared me for Teachers’ College and was recognized by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT), granting me advanced standing in primary education. Upon entering the workforce, I was able to gain experience as an early childhood educator, special education worker, and eventually as a teacher after registering with the OCT.

My foundation in Early Childhood Education continues to shape my pedagogical practice, enabling me to approach teaching through both curricular and developmental lenses. I prioritize differentiated, multimodal strategies that meet the needs of diverse learners and continue to challenge my wondering and desire to support children. I later pursued a Master's of Arts in Counselling Psychology and became a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), specializing in supporting children and youth, which is a vulnerable demographic that will always need support.

This background also opened the door for me to teach in Algonquin College’s Early Childhood Education program, write curriculum for the Eastern Ontario Catholic Curriculum Corporation, teach in the Faculty of Education at the University of Ottawa, and mentor teacher candidates and teachers through practicum and the New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP). It has truly brought my journey full circle, as I now help prepare future educators.

Is there anything else you want to share about how the School of ECS/ECE undergraduate program influenced or inspired your career path?

Moving from Ottawa, the Nation’s Capital, to the vibrant city of Toronto was an important transition in my journey. I quickly embraced the city’s diversity and found a sense of belonging within TMU’s program. The professors were exceptionally supportive, many encouraging me to pursue further opportunities and continue along a path of lifelong learning. I am especially grateful to Dr. Marni Binder, Dr. Jason Nolan, and  Laura Schein, whose mentorship and ongoing support have been invaluable throughout my career.

My years at TMU were truly transformative, shaping my philosophy of education and reinforcing my commitment to inclusive, student-centred practice. Over my 16 years in education, I have been honoured to receive several recognitions, including Educator of the Year (2025), the Director of Education Commendation Award (2024) (external link) , the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence (2023) (external link) , and Professor of the Year (2022) (external link) .

Giving back remains central to my professional and personal values. I actively contribute to community building and volunteer initiatives while serving in leadership roles. Currently, I am the Kindergarten Department Lead and Indigenous Representative at my school, a member of the Accessibility, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Committee for the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA), and Co-Chair of the Black Employee Network for the Ottawa Catholic School Board.