A Lifelong Learner Finds a Home at Bialik

Getting to know Himel Branch Principal Natalie Vine

After a long career working in the Toronto District School Board, Natalie Vine has found a way to merge two parts of her life. As the Himel Branch’s new principal, Natalie’s professional life as an educator and continuous learner is now blended with her Jewish home and family life.

“I went to public school as a child, so most of my learning of Judaism came from camp and family,” she says. When it came time to enrol her own child in school, she chose a Jewish day school. Now 16 years old and moved on to the public school system, Natalie’s son, Danel, is fluent in Hebrew and frequently challenges her on her knowledge. She loves to get his perspective on her work.

This merging of her parent and educator hats is aligned with the educational philosophy that she upholds. “The educator, Rita Pierson, said that every child needs a champion and deserves one. I believe that’s my job as both a parent and an educator,” says Natalie.

In her quest to provide the support that kids need to thrive through learning, Natalie’s career has spanned many roles. From her early days teaching Grades 5 and 6 in Toronto’s inner city to consulting in a professional development capacity, Natalie has always been driven to learn more. This guided her to take a leave from the TDSB and teach in Israel. She also obtained a guidance counsellor qualification and helped with anti-bullying and digital citizenship initiatives. Ultimately, her focus on staff development led her to apply for a vice principal position, beginning her progress into school leadership.

“I see so many things at Bialik that I very much appreciate. There is a richness of resources here,” she says, adding that this enables educators to provide children with the best learning opportunities. She values the professionalism and enthusiasm that Bialik staff devote to their development, saying it’s “quite energy boosting” for her.

As a leader, Natalie is committed to creating comfort and openness for people to come and talk to her. She is willing to listen and work collaboratively, whether to solve issues or seize opportunities. When it comes to connecting with students, she regularly reads what they do — for instance, Fatty Legs for Grades 5 and 6 — and watches all the Star Wars spinoffs in preparation for hallway conversations.

Her focus now is on building relationships with the community.

“I have very high expectations for everyone — for families, kids, staff and myself. I set the bar high,” she says. Natalie’s 30-year passion for education continues as she seeks to learn from the expertise and experience of Bialik’s staff and families who have already been most welcoming to their new Himel Branch Principal.

When it comes to connecting with students, she regularly reads what they do — for instance, Fatty Legs for Grades 5 and 6 — and watches all the Star Wars spinoff s in preparation for hallway conversations.