Meet Our Team

Jason Blanshine

Owner & Center Director

Director

Jason Blanshine, Center Director, opened Sylvan Learning of Lewes in September 2020. Before Sylvan, Jason was a Special Education teacher at Rehoboth Elementary School for 9 years and a paraprofessional at Milford High School for 3 years prior to that. Jason opened Sylvan with the vision of providing families supplemental educational services in the area. Jason’s favorite part of Sylvan is seeing children walking in the door with smiles on their faces and interacting with both the students and parents knowing we are making a difference to that family! Jason has a B.A. History from the University of Delaware and a M.A. Secondary Education from Wilmington University.

Chrissy Ockels

Lead Teacher

Chrissy has been with Sylvan Learning of Lewes nearly since the beginning! Before Sylvan, Chrissy taught kindergarten at Lake Forest South Elementary School for 6 years. Chrissy loves working with kids in a smaller setting, seeing them grow as individuals, and become more confident in themselves. Chrissy has a B.A. in Elementary Education (K-8) from Wesley College and M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction from Wesley College. She graduated Magna Cum Laude! When Chrissy isn’t teaching, she likes to spend time with her 3 children who play volleyball, baseball, and junior drag racing! She also loves decorating cakes (and they’re delicious)!

Bonnie Watson

Teacher

Bonnie has been a teacher at Sylvan Learning of Lewes since November 2021. Prior to joining our team, she taught 4th-8th grade in Montgomery County, Maryland and Arlington, Virginia. Working with children gives Bonnie a great sense of pride and accomplishment! Bonnie is a graduate of the University of Maryland and completed her graduate work at Trinity College (D.C.). Bonnie has 2 grown sons and a granddaughter who she loves to spend time with. She enjoys working out, gardening, and of course those Delaware beaches!

Liz joined our team in March 2021, bringing an energetic and creative teaching style coupled with a steadfast belief in the potential of every student. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Delaware State University and pursued further academic achievement with a Master’s degree in English Language Learning from Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, UT. Liz boasts a diverse teaching background, having served as a substitute teacher at Long Neck Elementary School and Indian River School District, as well as a Youth Care Worker and Educational Training Specialist at Delaware Technical Community College. Her classroom experience includes roles as a 5th-grade teacher at Hurlock Elementary School and a 3rd-grade teacher at Dorchester County Public Schools. Liz plays a crucial role in our team’s efforts at Most Blessed Sacrament, in Berlin, Maryland, where we offer after-school tutoring to students in the local community. Her breadth of experience and dedication to student success greatly enrich our educational programs at Sylvan.

Rebekah joined our Sylvan team as a teacher’s aide in 2022 after her successful time at Sylvan as a student! Since then, she has become an integral part of our learning environment. After each session, Rebekah supports students at the activity table, ensuring they have a productive and enjoyable experience. She also assists them in selecting items from the motivation station, fostering a positive atmosphere that encourages engagement and enthusiasm for learning. In addition to her hands-on support for students, Rebekah ensures our teachers are fully prepared for the day ahead. Her proactive approach and attention to detail contribute significantly to the smooth operation of our center. Rebekah’s cheerful demeanor and unwavering dedication make her a true joy to have at Sylvan, not only for our teachers but also for the students who benefit from her warmth and encouragement!

Taylor joined our Sylvan team in 2023, bringing a bright and cheerful spirit that enhances our learning environment. Her supportive nature helps create a welcoming atmosphere. Taylor engages with students at the activity table, assisting them with their projects and other fun activities. She also plays a key role in managing attendance and providing support to our teachers, ensuring they have everything they need to see our students succeed. Taylor’s enthusiasm for helping others makes her an invaluable asset to Sylvan, and both students and staff truly enjoy her presence and positive energy!

Rylee joined our Sylvan team in 2024, and her warm personality has already made a significant impact. She fosters a positive and welcoming environment for both students and teachers. Rylee actively engages with students at the motivation station and the activity table, encouraging them to explore and enjoy their learning experiences. In addition to her work with students, she assists with attendance and is always ready to support teachers with any needs they may have, ensuring that everything runs smoothly throughout the day. Her commitment and enthusiasm make Rylee a cherished presence at Sylvan. Both the teachers and students genuinely appreciate her contributions and look forward to her infectious positivity each day!

Shannon started at Sylvan in 2024, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge from her many years of teaching experience. Shannon is an ILC teacher at W.T. Chipman Middle School. Her passion is teaching Reading & Writing! Shannon also loves spending time with her husband and dog, Oliver. Shannon’s hobbies include spending time at the beach or in her garden!

Portia recently joined our team in 2024, bringing with her a realm of experience that we have never had before at Sylvan. Portia is a 1st-grade Spanish Immersion teacher at Rehoboth Elementary School. Portia is here to help ALL students but we are especially excited to have her here to help our Spanish-Immersion families! When Portia is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She recently took a trip to various parts of Europe as part of a professional development program!