Meet the Apollo Beach team

With a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida, Ms. Hernandez is passionate about engaging with families seeking academic support for their children. She is committed to fostering an environment where students build the academic skills and confidence they need to succeed, both inside the classroom and out. When she isn't at Sylvan, Ms. Hernandez is an active participant in her church and its ministries.

Mr. Ben is a passionate educator with a remarkable ability to inspire a love for learning in his students. With over a decade of experience in personalized teaching, he has honed his skills to effectively cater to the unique needs of each student, fostering both academic growth and a lifelong enthusiasm for learning. Specializing in advanced reading and advanced math, Mr. Ben possesses a wide range of tutoring talents. Beyond his work at Sylvan Learning, Mr. Ben is an artist at heart. When he's not at Sylvan, you'll likely find him engaged in one of his many artistic pursuits as a musician and visual artist.

Ms. Carmen is a retired Hillsborough County teacher. She completed her Masters in Education with the Fischler Graduate School of Education at Nova Southeastern University. In addition to her extensive K-12 teaching experience in private and public education, Ms. Carmen has also taught at Hillsborough Community College as a senior development reading and writing coach. Ms. Carmen believes that students can perform and achieve their highest potential with proper instruction and guidance. When Ms. Carmen isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her at home enjoying time with her family.

Ms. Natasha studied Biology at George Washington University. She has several years of teaching experience with all grade levels in the subjects of reading and math including SAT and ACT prep. While Ms. Natasha has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in tutoring math. When Natasha isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her at the beach, brunch, or babysitting.

Ms. Brenda is originally from Michigan and is a retired k-8 educator and collegiate developmental English in-structor. She completed her undergraduate studies in Education at Saginaw Valley State University, graduating magna cum laude. She completed her Master of Education degree with a concentration in Reading Instruction at Dominican University, and a second graduate degree in Education with a concentration in Curriculum Design & Implementation at Central Michigan University. Ms. Brenda believes that every student should be given the opportunity to attain their personal best, and that this is often facilitated by acquiring a love of reading. When she isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her checking in with her grandchildren, riding her bike, or walking her dogs.

Prior to Sylvan, Ms. Kathryn was a full-time Hillsborough County teacher and now works as a substitute teacher in our local public schools. She completed her Bachelor or Science in Public Communication at Syracuse University and Secondary English Education at the University of South Florida. Ms. Kathryn has also taught at Hillsborough Community College as a senior writing coach in the Academic Success Center. When she isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her enjoying a swim in the pool or spending quality time with great friends.

Ms. Pidgeon is a Master’s-prepared professional. She graduated from the University of Tampa, as well as the University of Phoenix. Prior to working in education, she was a public health nurse and RN case manager. Ms. Diana is adored by her students for being very engaging. She is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. When Ms. Diana isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her spending time with her family.

Ms. Gayden holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Services and has nearly 20 years of experience in school readiness, teaching beginning readers, and as an academic interventionist. Ms. Gayden is passionate about creating an emotionally responsive and supportive environment for the individual development of children. When she isn't at Sylvan, you'll find Ms. Gayden spending time with family and traveling.

Ms. Johnson-Pradieu is from the Virgin Islands. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in English Education from Florida International University and her graduate degree from the University of the Virgin Islands. She is an educator with over twenty years of experience teaching the elementary and middle grades. While Ms. Johnson has many tutoring talents, she enjoys language arts and writing the most. When she isn't at Sylvan, you'll find Ms. Johnson spending time with her family and involved in ministry at church.

Mr. Ruiz attended the University of South Florida (Go Bulls!) and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership. He is a Hillsborough County Public Schools educator, endorsed by the Florida Department of Education in reading, ESOL, and ESE. Mr. Ruiz is also a National Board-Certified Teacher in ESE. He has 18 years of teaching experience in grades K-5, specifically as an academic intervention specialist. Mr. Ruiz believes all students have the potential to rise and shine.

Ms. Zirfas holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Sociology from Western Maryland College in Westminster, Maryland. She joins Sylvan with over 25 years of experience in education, including extensive work as a Reading and Literacy Resource Teacher. Ms. Zirfas is certified in Elementary Education (K–6), Exceptional Student Education (K–12), and holds endorsements in Reading and ESOL. She currently teaches K-5 here in Hillsborough County. She is passionate about helping students build strong literacy skills, develop confidence in their abilities, and grow into lifelong learners. When she isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her playing with her German Shepherd fur baby or Ballroom Dancing!