Meet Our Team

Melanie Bowers, EdS

Franchise Owner

Melanie is the Owner of the Sylvan Learning Centers in Columbia, MO; Lee’s Summit, MO; Lawrence, KS; and Overland Park, KS. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Central Missouri, a Master’s in School Counseling, and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Lindenwood University. She is currently completing her Doctorate at William Woods University.

With a background that includes teaching in the Pattonville School District, serving as a school counselor in the Francis Howell School District, and working as a psychological examiner with Columbia Public Schools, Melanie brings a wealth of educational experience to her role. She is deeply passionate about helping students learn, grow in confidence, and achieve academic success.

Melanie is committed to upholding Sylvan’s high standards and ensuring families experience the full value of Sylvan’s programs. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending Mizzou sporting events, supporting her husband’s chiropractic business, and staying active in her community.

Jamie Webb

Director of Business Operations

Jamie leads Sylvan Learning of NE Kansas in implementing smooth business operations across the franchise. A former teacher at Sylvan, Jamie chose to further his career in the tutoring business because he enjoys working with students, maximizing potential, and working with the community. He studied at the University of Kansas and has a degree in Elementary Education. When Jamie isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him watching sports, doing outdoor activities, and spending time with friends and family.

Melissa Patton

Center Director

Melissa is so excited to be at Sylvan! She is a Lee’s Summit local that is ready to give back to the community by working with students and families. As Center Director, she works directly with the team in center and manages student programs since 2020. When Melissa isn’t working she likes to nerd-out playing table top games or cosplaying.

Dorene Peel

College Prep/Tutor

Dorene has worked for Sylvan Learning of Lee’s Summit, MO since August of 1995. Dorene has her Master’s degree in Behavior Management and Curriculum Development. As an expert in College Prep, Dorene teaches ACT Prep courses, Speed Reading, Study Skills, Academic Reading, Math Essentials, and Writing. Dorene also enjoys traveling, quilting, sewing, scrapbooking, crafts, and reading.  Her best friend Louise is her 4-legged friend and you can find them walking on sunny days enjoying the outdoors.

Corinne Zager

Tutor

Corinne is new to Sylvan, but she is not new to teaching. She earned her Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Tennessee.  She has also earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Mathematics Education from the University of Missouri.  She has her Math Specialist Certification, and is currently wrapping up her LETRS certification.  She has taught each grade level from Kindergarten to sixth grade, and enjoys every minute of teaching.  When she is not working in a classroom, you will see Corinne reading, exercising, or spending time with her husband, son, and two cats.

Kim has been teaching at Sylvan of Lee’s Summit since 2020. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education and her Educational Specialist Degree in Elementary Leadership from Central Missouri State. She earned her Master of Arts in Elementary Leadership from Webster University. In the 35 years that she has been teaching, Kim has taught various grades in the Kansas City MO Public Schools, Kansas City KS Public Schools, and in the United Arab Emirates! She now teaches Special Education in Kansas City. In her spare time, Kim loves to be with family, travel, and shop!

Randy is a well-rounded teacher that has been with Sylvan for 19 years! He loves that Sylvan helps students grow as learners. Randy is a graduate of Truman State University and loves being a teacher in the classroom as well as at the Sylvan table!

Alicia is excited to tutor with the students and staff at Sylvan! A graduate of UCM and educator in the Lee’s Summit district, Alicia has been working at Sylvan since 2021. When not working with students, she enjoys reading, singing, and baking!

Kim is an amazing tutor from the Lee’s Summt/Blue Springs area. She has special expertise in reading, writing and study skills tutoring. Friendly and kind, Kim has a background in working with special needs students. When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family in Nebraska.

Karen is originally from Iowa, but has lived in the Kansas City area since 2011. She has two brothers and sister- in- law, who she enjoys getting to spend time with.  She is a current teacher in the Lawrence School District. In her free time, Karen enjoys watching television and going out to eat!