Please join us in welcoming two new members to the Meadowridge community: Mr. Greg Cargill, our new Design Teacher, and Ms. Crystal Zhang, our new Registrar. We’re excited to have them join Meadowridge and look forward to the experiences, knowledge, and care they will bring to our students and families.
Mr. Greg Cargill
Design Teacher
Hometown:
Ottawa, Ontario
University:
University of Ottawa & University of Victoria (BFA in Sculpture and Woodworking)
What Brought Me to Meadowridge:
I have always felt a strong connection to outdoor education. From the first time I stepped onto Meadowridge School’s campus, I was struck by its emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning in the outdoors. My own teaching practice was shaped through my experience as an outdoor educator, where I built my philosophy around the principle of “challenge by choice,” encouraging students to pursue their interests, embrace meaningful challenges, and develop the skills needed to thrive in a diverse, collaborative community. This approach is already felt with Meadowridge’s own International Baccalaureate-based curriculum and educational values.
Interesting Fact:
Growing up, I was an Olympic hopeful in competitive archery until an injury in 2017 prevented me from attending trials. I still occasionally go to competitions with friends, more for the enjoyment than the competition.
Most Important Lesson Learned:
“Seek first to understand” is the most important lesson I have carried into my teaching practice. One of my earliest mentors taught me that understanding must come before growth. Taking the time to truly understand my students, my colleagues, and myself has continually shaped and strengthened my teaching. It has allowed me to build stronger relationships, adapt my approach to meet students’ needs, and create more meaningful and authentic learning experiences.
Favourite Book:
Favourite Book: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Revisiting this series reminded me of the importance of storytelling and how it shapes us. It also gave renewed weight to C.S. Lewis’s idea that “One day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.”
Favourite Pastime:
Hiking and photography; taking time to enjoy the space around me and slowing down enough to document the beauty we have right here at home..
What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?
I am looking forward to helping my students discover that they can create anything when they set their minds to it.
Ms. Crystal Zhang
Registrar
Hometown:
I was born in China and moved to Coquitlam in 2009, the first city I settled in when I came to Canada. I now call the Vancouver area home and truly appreciate its four distinct seasons.
University:
Simon Fraser University (BA in Psychology) Coventry University, UK (BBA)
What Brought Me to Meadowridge:
I have worked in the independent school sector for several years and knew I wanted to continue growing in educational administration. I have always heard very positive things about Meadowridge from family and friends, and I am especially drawn to the school’s strong academic standards and its 40-year story and history within the community. Having recently moved back to Coquitlam, it also feels especially meaningful to work at a school close to home.
Interesting Fact:
Just last week, while waiting at a traffic light near my home, I witnessed a family of geese crossing the street. The father led the way, followed by five baby goslings, with the mother at the back protecting them. Road workers kindly directed traffic to ensure their safe crossing. It was a simple yet heartwarming moment that reminded me of the care and kindness that exist in everyday life.
Most Important Lesson Learned:
Although I work in an administrative role, one important lesson I’ve learned in a school setting is that every interaction matters. Clear communication, patience, and attention to detail can have a meaningful impact on both students and families.
Favourite Book:
It’s hard to choose just one, but Atomic Habits by James Clear stands out. I appreciate how it breaks down personal growth into small, practical steps and shows that consistent habits can lead to meaningful, lasting change.
Favourite Pastime:
I enjoy volunteering at a Buddhist temple every Sunday with my children. It is a meaningful way to serve the community and a reminder of the value of giving and receiving.
What are you looking forward to in the year ahead?
I’m looking forward to building strong connections within the Meadowridge community and continuing to learn and grow in my role. I’m excited to support the team and help ensure a smooth, positive experience for students, families, and staff.