Ms. Valkanas holds an Honours Bachelor of Science and a Master of Teaching from the University of Toronto, as well as a Master of Education from the University of Ottawa. A dedicated and passionate educator, she has been teaching since 2021 and brings a strong background in music education as a certified Music Specialist.

Her musical journey began at a young age, learning piano from her mother. She later transitioned to trumpet—an instrument she studied extensively through her post-secondary education in music. With formal training in trumpet performance throughout university, Ms. Valkanas developed both technical proficiency and a deep appreciation for music’s role in education and personal growth. She has since taught herself to play guitar and drums, and has gained a foundational understanding of all the band instruments, further broadening her musical expertise and ability to connect with students across diverse musical interests.

Ms. Valkanas is deeply passionate about community music-making and is committed to making music education accessible to all learners. She believes that engaging in music together fosters connection, inclusivity, and empowerment. During her Master of Education, she researched the effects of music performance on mental health and wellbeing, further strengthening her understanding of music’s transformative power beyond the classroom.