Meet the Minnetonka team

Jean specializes in teaching how to read, write, and speak. She also teaches middle and high-schoolers writing composition skills. Jean also works with children with learning disabilities. She values and endorses the Sylvan Learning Curriculum as it provides customized learning and allows ample time for additional targeted instruction. Jean has undergraduate degrees in Elementary and Special Education and a MA in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of MN.

Lisa became a teacher for her second career. Her first career was in IT where she specialized in e-learning. After COVID, she decided to change directions and pursue teaching fulltime. Lisa teaches at an English Language Immersion school and specializes in teaching English Language Arts and Social Studies in both English and Spanish. She is finishing a Master's degree in Dual Language Immersion Education and has a Master’s in Learning Technology from the University of Minnesota. Teaching specialties: English Language Arts for English Language Learners (ELLs), Social Studies, Spanish

Mary is a substitute middle school teacher who is currently pursuing her teaching credential in English Language Arts. She is passionate about helping kids with their reading and writing skills. Prior to her current career in education, Mary studied political science at Macalester College. When Mary isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her playing trivia, at a concert, or spending time with family. Teaching specialties: English Language Arts, Writing, Social Studies

Nate is a master’s student at the Minnesota Robotics Institute (MnRI), University of Minnesota Twin Cities. He is a graduate of San Diego State University where he received a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Nate currently works as a paraprofessional at a high school in their alternative learning program and as a guided study teacher with at risk students. His favorite part of teaching are the connections he builds with students, helping them feel comfortable and finding enjoyment in learning. He spends his free time mentoring a local First Robotics Competition team, 3D printing, cooking, baking, reading, and working on cars or motorcycles.

Genevieve is passionate about language and literacy. She is currently completing a post-baccalaureate program in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She studied journalism as an undergraduate student before working in advertising for six years. Genevieve loves reading and enjoys helping children strengthen their language skills.

Lori holds an Elementary Education degree with a minor in Early Childhood, as well as a Master’s in Educational Leadership. With years of experience teaching kindergarten and first grade—and more than three years working with Sylvan students—she brings both expertise and heart to every session. Her specialties include early reading, phonics, and comprehension, where she loves guiding students to those magical “aha!” moments. Whether in the classroom or through private tutoring, Lori thrives on helping young learners discover confidence and joy in their learning. She believes nothing compares to seeing a child’s eyes light up when they finally say, “I get it!”