Meet the Tampa - Carrollwood team

Dr. Judy Johnson opened Sylvan of Carrollwood August 1, 1985. My how time flies. We must be having fun! She has a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Roosevelt University in Chicago, M.Ed in Biology-Secondary Science from the University of Arizona in Tuscson, an M.A. in Counseling from Ball State University in Indiana, and a PhD. in Special Education with a focus on Neuropsychology from the University of South Florida; where she was also a professor in the Department of Special Education for seven years. Prior to 1985, Dr. Judy taught overseas in Embassy schools for 15 years. For fun, Judy is a licensed Boat Captain. "I love the water!"

Sandy has been with Sylvan since 2007. She oversees educational program effectiveness; along with community outreach. She has a Master's Degree of Science in Early Childhood Education with an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Queens College in New York. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Communication from Albany State. She was granted the Teaching Staff Credential by the FLDOE. Sandy taught at-risk children in New York City. She loves helping beginning readers unlock the secrets of how to read. She fulfilled a "bucket list" dream of traveling to Spain. Favorite quote: By learning, you will teach...By teaching, you will learn.

Rob has been working with Sylvan since 2008. He started off as a lead teacher in math, reading, and SAT/ACT Prep. Rob graduated from The University of Tampa with a Bachelors' degree in Secondary Math Education. He believes Sylvan saves lives. "We have the ability to work with a variety of students across all grade levels and ages. There is no greater feeling than seeing the eyes of a student light up when they grasp a concept." Outside interests: playing golf and going to tournaments and going to see the Lightning and the Rays play. He enjoys traveling and is originally from upstate New York. "i would much rather be outside with a golf club in my hands than a snow shovel."

Miss Rose came to Sylvan of Carrollwood January 2012 with previous Sylvan experience in Greenbelt, MD. Rose's teaching experience spans more than 20 years at elementary through college levels. She is certified to teach K-12 and has a Master of Education in Leadership and Supervision from Howard Univ., Master of Arts Degree in Instructional Systems Development from the University of Maryland, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Administrative Leadership with a specialization in Teaching and Learning from Walden Univ. Awarded 2011 Hillsborough County Middle School Reading Coach of the Year. Favorite Quote: There's only one way to succeed in anything, and that's to give it everything.

Christine came to Sylvan of Carrollwood in October, 2012. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from State University of New York (SUNY) at Potsdam and a Masters of Arts degree in Spanish from SUNY at Buffalo. She was a senior high school teacher for 30 years. She has really shined as a reading tutor. Her patient, caring nature easily connects with students from age four through high school. She has a pitch-in attitude with a willingness to try new ideas with any student put before her. Favorite activities: Spending time with her precious grandson and shopping! Favorite quote: Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.

Jonathan Gonzalez started with Sylvan of Carrollwood in April of 2024. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science and a minor in Astronomy. His teaching background includes teaching high school Biology and Environmental Management classes. Jonathan's interests include traveling and learning new languages. He speaks English; as well as Spanish, Italian and French. He has been an excellent asset when students come in for homework support with foreign languages, mathematics (through college math) and SAT/ACT prep, science, and reading. His zest for life (joie de vivre), sense of humor, easygoing manner and genuine love of learning and sincere interest in helping his students do well inspires his students of all ages to come along with him to work through challenges and enjoy acquiring knowledge. Favorite quote: “Ad Astra per Aspera” (“Through hard work, to the stars”.)

Tyler Brooks started with Sylvan of Carrollwood in August of 2025. He has an Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies, a Bachelors of Science in Public Administration and is currently in a doctorate program for School Psychology. He has five years of teaching experience and won the Rookie Teacher of the Year Award his first year of teaching. Spent his first four years of teaching at an alternative education school for children in the Juvenile Justice system; inspiring them that they have the power to change. He has carried over this experience to help his current students meet and overcome their academic challenges. His hobbies include ping pong and history. Favorite quote: “Tough times don't last, tough people do.”

Susan Forbes started with Sylvan of Carrollwood in 2021; bringing the same curiosity and joy of discovery she finds in gardening, reading, painting, piano and travel. Her greatest inspiration comes from her four grandchildren; whose wonder reminds her daily why learning matters. With over 40 years experience in Early Childhood Education as a reading specialist; she loves helping children gain confidence, master skills, and enjoy learning; partnering with families to work together to help every child thrive. Favorite quote: “Roots and wings are the greatest gifts we can give our children.”

Leslie Deese started with Sylvan of Carrollwood in March 2025. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education and a Masters Degree in Education. Her teaching experience includes 7 years as a Music Teacher, 6 years as a mainstream teacher and 7 years as a special education teacher. Leslie's calm, patient demeanor and willingness to pitch in on some of the more challenging situations, makes her a valuable asset to our team. Hobbies include biking, enjoying the beach, and getting together with friends. She also enjoys learning about other cultures and languages and is currently learning how to speak Thai. Favorite quote: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change and wisdom to know the difference.”

Deysi Salazar started with Sylvan of Carrollwood in March of 2025. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Criminology and Psychology. She enjoys tutoring language arts and math from kindergarten through fifth grade. Her easygoing spirit and positive demeanor encourages students to work with her to conquer their challenges. Her hobbies include painting and doing research on cybersecurity and in the legal system. Favorite quote: Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”