Meet the Castro Valley team

As Director of Education, Madison oversees the educational integrity of our programs and meets with families to share student progress. Madison earned her degree in Elementary Education. Her favorite subject to teach is reading. She loves working with students because of the relationships that are built and they are a constant source of imagination. Her favorite thing about working at Sylvan is watching students build confidence and believe in themselves throughout their Sylvan journey! Outside of work, Madison loves to hike, read, and lounge with her cat.

Michaela is our Senior Director of Education, and she has been with Sylvan for over a decade. She brings a holistic approach, with a background as a therapist and life coach. Michaela has a Masters in Educational Psychology, Counseling and she is a Board Certified Life Coach. Michaela loves seeing students grow in not only academic skills, but in confidence. In her free time, Michaela is a Girl Scout troop leader and she loves making collage art.

Jonadel’s warmth is carried with her wherever she goes. Whether she’s with her fur-baby Akina or with students, Jonadel sends laughter and joy into the air. Her passion for education is matched with her desire to see the world as a better, more caring place. When she’s not at work, Jonadel and Akina explore the local horizons on their dozens of hikes. That is, of course, when she’s not trying any new local coffee place. When she’s at Sylvan, she ensures a steady and fun workplace as one of our Administrators.

LuAnn is patient, caring, and highly experienced within the education field since she graduated from California State, Hayward. During her eighteen years at Sylvan, LuAnn has utilized her many tutoring talents to find the greatest joy in our Beginning Reading Program. She is both calm and patient, assuring all students benefit deeply from her lessons with the leading philosophy that no student is left behind. She is a true expert in education that cherishes moments of student success. Outside of work, LuAnn is also a master of crafted-arts, often crocheting or knitting various projects.

Nic is a reading, writing, study skills and test prep instructor. Nic is extremely creative and dedicated. While Nic has many tutoring talents, he finds the greatest joy in our Academic Writing tutoring program. He studied at the University of California, Santa Cruz with a BA in American History and an MA in Education with Honors. When Nic isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him reading books or binge watching Netflix.

Deven’s mind never strays from curiosity. He sought to understand the world from a deeper, more complex perspective. Through his journey, he achieved a degree in Mathematics from California State University, East Bay. During this time, he learned how he comprehends information and developed a strong urge to encourage the next generation of students to pursue higher education. Deven ensures students can truly learn mathematics, regardless of their initial understanding. He relates with the students through mutual interest in video games and popular culture. Students that work with Deven feel comfortable and grow beyond their own expectations.