Meet Our Team

Nikka Jalbuena

Director of Education

Nikka Jalbuena is the Center Director at Sylvan of Tarzana and holds a B.A. in Communicative Disorders and Sciences from CSUN with a minor in Linguistics, along with an A.A. in Child Development from Pierce College. She began at Sylvan during college and grew into a leadership role supporting students and families. Nikka works closely with families to design personalized programs that build confidence and long-term academic success. As a mother, she understands the importance of early support and strong educational foundations. Outside of Sylvan, Nikka enjoys visiting Six Flags, spending time at the park with her child, and playing video games with her family.

Todd Crabtree

Executive Director

Todd is our Executive Director and has a life-long passion for helping kids achieve academic success.  Todd is the first to graduate from college in his family and served in the Marine Corp for twelve years.  He has been running learning centers since 1998 and he fully understands the impact a good education can have on a child’s life.  A native Southern California, Todd studied at Cal State Fullerton where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Theater Arts. When Todd isn’t working he’s a full-time husband and Dad, driving his son from one practice to the next.  He fully understands what every parent goes through, trying to help their child become the best he or she can be.

Wayne

Tutor

Wayne holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Utah and has studied at MIT and UC Berkeley. With over 22 years of teaching experience, he has taught engineering, math, and science at the college level. At Sylvan, Wayne enjoys working with students of all ages, helping them strengthen their math and science skills while building confidence and problem-solving abilities. Outside of Sylvan, he participates in orienteering, running, adventure racing, and cycling competitions, and also enjoys playing piano, researching music, and writing about bicycling and Olympic sports.

Ted

Tutor

Ted holds a B.A. from Vassar College and brings a background in television production, along with experience teaching through the Compassion Prison Project. At Sylvan, he enjoys building strong relationships with students and adapting instruction to meet each learner’s needs. Ted focuses on helping students strengthen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills while building confidence. Outside of Sylvan, he is an avid reader who enjoys reading over 100 books each year, as well as hiking, walking, and spending time with his wife and two daughters. He is also working on an independently produced documentary film.

Gabrielle holds a B.S. in Biology from Pepperdine University and was part of the Regent Honors Program. Her background includes research in marine biology, cell biology, and ecology, giving her a strong foundation in scientific thinking. At Sylvan, she supports students in STEM, reading, and writing, helping them build confidence and develop a genuine interest in learning. She enjoys working with students of all levels and learning styles. Outside of Sylvan, Gabrielle is a dedicated hybrid athlete, balancing powerlifting with distance running, and enjoys photography and community volunteer work.

Gina

Tutor

Gina holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master’s in Elementary Reading, and brings over 30 years of experience in education. She also holds a BCLAD credential in Spanish and previously maintained National Board Certification in Early Childhood. At Sylvan, Gina specializes in building strong literacy foundations and helping students grow in both skills and confidence through individualized instruction. She is passionate about helping students move from frustration to success. Outside of Sylvan, Gina enjoys reading, baking, lifting weights, and staying active, and has a background in dance from childhood through college. She is also a dedicated Los Angeles Lakers fan and enjoys spending time with her kittens.

Jennifer

Tutor

Jennifer holds degrees in Chemistry and English Literature from Williams College and has extensive experience tutoring math, science, and writing at both the K–12 and college levels. She is also a certified Spanish-language medical interpreter, allowing her to connect with diverse students and families. At Sylvan, Jennifer supports students in building confidence while strengthening their reading, writing, and math skills through a patient and supportive approach. Outside of Sylvan, she enjoys learning new languages, reading, visiting museums, volunteering, and staying current in the subjects she teaches.

London

Tutor

London holds a B.A. in Global Studies with a minor in Public Affairs. He has experience teaching English abroad and working as a classroom assistant in LAUSD, supporting students from diverse backgrounds. At Sylvan, London helps students build confidence while strengthening their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills in a supportive environment. He values connecting with each student and adapting to their individual learning style. Outside of Sylvan, London enjoys running throughout the San Fernando Valley, consistently training toward his goal of completing a full marathon after already finishing multiple half marathons.

Jonathan holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Houston and a teaching credential in Secondary Mathematics from UT Austin. He also completed medical training in respiratory therapy, EKG, and telemetry, gaining experience in hospital settings. At Sylvan, he helps students break down complex concepts into manageable steps, building confidence in their math and problem-solving skills. Outside of Sylvan, Jonathan enjoys fitness, hiking, skiing, and tennis, and has played guitar for over 20 years. He also enjoys music theory, spending time with his cat, and walking dogs.

Adrian

Tutor

Adrian holds a B.A. in Spanish from CSUN and previously studied Astrophysics at Yale University, building a strong foundation in analytical thinking. He discovered his passion for teaching through mentoring students in academic writing and college preparation. At Sylvan, Adrian enjoys helping students build confidence and celebrates their progress, whether through small improvements or major breakthroughs. Outside of Sylvan, he enjoys attending dance classes, recording guitar and bass covers, and exploring math and science topics through in-depth videos, while also spending time with friends and family.

Rebecca

Tutor

Rebecca holds a B.A. in Art from CSUN with a minor in Jewish Studies and brings over 15 years of teaching experience. She has worked as an art instructor, high school English teacher, and Visual Arts educator. At Sylvan, Rebecca supports students in strengthening their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills while encouraging creativity and confidence. Outside of Sylvan, she runs a YouTube channel featuring book reviews and author interviews, sings with the San Fernando Valley Master Chorale, and is currently learning to play the harp.