Certified teachers, local school know-how, and a director who reviews every student’s plan personally. These are the people your child will high-five on the way in.
Your first hello
Center director
Maura Ciasulli
Director
I am a former elementary school counselor. I worked in public school systems here in North Carolina and in Florida for a combined 11 years. When I left the schools, I knew I still wanted to work closely with students and their families. I found that Sylvan gave me a wonderful opportunity to not only help students with their academic success, but also provided me the opportunity to continue building relationship with students and their families. I started working at Sylvan in 2024 as an Education Manager and I am looking forward to continuing my journey at Sylvan as Director.
Traveling has become one of my favorite passions! I have visited so many amazing placed like Iceland, St. Maartin, Exuma, Scotland, and the US Virgin Islands. And I have so many more on my bucket list! When I'm not jet setting, I enjoy spending time with my family and working on new crochet projects.
Say hi to
Our Teachers
Wendy SchusterRegional Director
As Regional Director, Wendy oversees our centers in Charlotte – Mooresville, Huntersville, Ballantyne, Matthews, & Union County. A former classroom teacher and administrator, Wendy chose a career in the tutoring business because she wanted a more personal experience with the children. She obtained her Master’s in Ed. Leadership at University of GA. When Wendy isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her walking her dog at the park or watching UGA football.
Julia BourdonTeacher
I have been tutoring for a little over two years. I have tutored mostly upper level math, but I am a nerd, so I love all subjects. In my spare time, I like to read, write, and play with my pet parrot. Give us a call at (704) 246-5459 or fill out the form to discuss your child’s learning goals. * Indicates required field Loading testimonials… Call us today: (888) 338-2283 Find a Location Call us today: {{phone}} Your Center: {{marketing_name}} Change Location Your Center: {{marketing_name}} Discover, book, and track classes, camps, and parties; keep the whole family’s schedule in one place; and celebrate every milestone along the way. Download the app to get started: Tutoring by Topic Home Office (888) 338-2283
Brianne BermelTeacher
I am a retired teacher of 24 years with an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a Masters degree in Special Education. I began working at Sylvan Learning Center in 2024. What I love most about Sylvan is having the opportunity to work closely with the students. I enjoy getting to know them and being an integral part of their academic growth. It is so rewarding to see the joy a student has when they gain confidence in their skills. I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful adult children. I love spending time with my family. I have a passion for reading and keeping active. I enjoy spending time at the Mooresville YMCA. If you see me there, take the time to say hi!
Kirsten GoodwinLead Teacher
My education journey started in spring 1999. I taught in the public school system in NC and SC for approximately ten years working with preschool children including those with disabilities. I worked at Sylvan in Charleston, SC for many years as a tutor and lead teacher before moving back home to NC. My Sylvan journey in Mooresville started in November 2020. I love working at Sylvan because I get to witness students overcome learning obstacles that give them strategies for educational and life success! I am currently the lead teacher working alongside our center director, Maura Ciasulli. I am a wife, mother, and daughter of God. Our 20 year old son is on the autism spectrum along with ADHD. I have first hand experience working with students on the spectrum personally and educationally. I enjoy scrapbooking, making cards, and fellowshipping with my sister and friends.
Claire SolegoTeacher
Andrew HarringtonTeacher
Hello, My name is Andrew Harrington. I have been with Sylvan since 2023. I have been working with students as a k-6 teacher since 2002. I enjoy working at Sylvan because the staff is amazing and the students are a blast. My favorite is when the students have that ah hah moment, and you see things click for them. My current interests include keeping exotic reptiles and high end audio.
Kathy MillerTeacher
Courtney DusharmTeacher
My name is Courtney Dusharm. I was born and raised in Pilot Mountain, NC, and moved to the Lake Norman area after graduating from Catawba College in May of 2005. Right after college, I began working at Lowe's Hardware Corporate office in Mooresville, NC, where I spent 13 years in Marketing and Advertising. In July 2019, I decided to follow my dream of becoming an educator. I began my career at Park View Elementary School in Mooresville as a teacher assistant, while working to get my teaching license through the NC Teachers of Tomorrow Program. In July 2021, I took my first teaching position as a 3rd-grade teacher at Landis Elementary School in Rowan County. I worked there for a year before moving back to teach in the Mooresville area. In January of 2023, I began working at East Mooresville Intermediate School, and I proudly call this school and district my home. I have spent the last year and a half teaching 4th grade. I have taught all grade levels K-6. In the spring of 2026, I decided to supplement my income doing what I love doing most and that is helping kids; so I joined Sylvan Learning Center. I was a Sylvan student myself in 7th and 8th grade and in High School for help with SAT testing. Sylvan helped me to become more than I thought I could be; and that is my intention as an employee. I love working with kids. My hope is to be a positive influence in children's lives and help them grow to the potential that I know they can achieve.
Emily GilliganTeacher
Kelsey DorrTeacher
I enjoy helping students develop a greater understanding of the subjects they study. With a bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, I particularly enjoy helping students grow as readers, writers, and critical thinkers. Whether I'm working with elementary students on reading and writing or helping high school students prepare for standardized tests, my goal is to help each student recognize their potential and develop skills that extend beyond the classroom. When I'm not tutoring, you can usually find me running through obstacle courses at the dog park with my energetic sidekick, Tango, grabbing boba at B&K with friends, or enjoying a night in with my incredible husband!
Carrie ReinerTeacher
This is my third year teaching at Sylvan. I am third grade teacher, but have taught first,s econd, fourth and fifth grade. I live and work in Catawba County and have been teaching for 23 years. I enjoy many activities including reading, camping and traveling with my family. I am a huge IndyCar fan and have traveled to many racetracks around the country and in Canada. I enjoy working at Sylvan so much because I love to watch students grow and see great success for all their hard work. I really enjoy getting to know the students, their hobbies and interests.
Come meet us in person
Stop by for a free Insight™ Assessment
You’ll meet the team, tour the center, and leave with a clear picture of your child’s strengths and gaps — whether or not you enroll.