Program Staff

The Incentive Outdoor Program is primarily staffed by three full-time Incentive teachers and is part of A.R. MacNeill Secondary School. The program consists of three grades, Grade 8, 9 and 10 and employs a cohort model. This model involves students moving together through their courses, as well as engaging in a variety of outdoor activities together to create a special and lasting bond. The cohort model, coupled with a multi-grade environment, creates a supportive environment where students can grow, take risks, and develop their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.

Ms. Capalad

Incentive English 8-10, Career Life Education 10, Outdoor Ed 9

I am proud to be a Filipino-Chinese immigrant, and a Canadian. I’ve lived in Richmond for most of my life and have enjoyed working for my home district. Prior to teaching, I have worked with all ages at community centres, including being a day camp leader and youth worker.

As a beginner in the “outdoorsy world,” the last few years have been a huge adventure of learning for me! It has been such a pleasure trying new things with the students from the program, and challenging myself in my own outdoor skills.

This summer I got a chance to do my first backpacking trip. I hiked up Mt. Seymour and watched the sunset, then the sunrise! Although it was quite chilly for a summer morning, it was a beautiful 360 view at the peak of the mountain.

I have developed such a passion for the outdoors. It brings me so much calmness. One of my favourite and understated trips we’ve been on is walking around Pacific Spirit Park trails. I loved being amongst the trees and being in the forest. I feel super lucky to be part of such a wonderful program where I can explore.

Mr. Thorsen

Incentive Social Studies 8-10, Independent Studies 8/9, Outdoor Ed 10

I have Northern European roots, hence the name and the fiery red beard. Since I graduated from McMath Secondary and was born and raised in Richmond, I have loved working at this school district!

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved the outdoors. When I was younger, I used to go to summer camp at Evan’s lake, and then I became a staff there, before coming a teacher. I love exploring local hikes! I love all things outdoors, whether it be rock climbing, running, kayaking, camping, skiing or simply playing soccer.

This past summer I did some hiking in Squamish and relaxed for a few days in Salt Spring which was a nice little getaway!

My favourite part of the program last year was being able to learn how to sail with the program. It was cool because I’ve never done sailing before. It was fun to learn alongside the students. I did not fall in once (even though I thought we totally would have)!

Mr. Li

Incentive Science 8-10

I am also raised in Richmond and grew up in this district.

My favourite outdoor activity is to go fishing. One of my biggest accomplishments this year was catching a large Pink Salmon from Richmond.

Even though, I don’t teach an Outdoor Education class, I am lucky enough to be a part of all the trips. I got to experience snow sports for the first time with the Incentive students. I learned how to carve down the hill on a snowboard!