Meet Our Team

Xavier Johnson

Certified Tutor/Professor

Xavier is a professor in Washington DC with a gift for working with kids. While Xavier has many tutoring talents, he finds the greatest joy in tutoring reading and social studies. He completed his bachelor’s degree in French and African Studies at Howard University and his master’s degree in Applied Anthropology at the University of Maryland. When he isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him teaching Capoeira Angola in the greater DMV, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

Michael Chiong

Certified Tutor/Engineer

Michael Chiong is an engineer in Waldorf, Maryland. With a gift for working with kids. While Michael has many tutoring talents, he finds the greatest joy in Engineering tutoring. He is currently continuing his Education at the University Of Maryland. When Michael isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him at the library or gym.

Shafaq Ali

Center Director

As Center Director, Shafaq leads and manages daily operations for Sylvan of Alexandria. As a former teacher & homeschool director, Shafaq chose a career in the tutoring business because of her genuine desire to contribute to education, support the growth and development of students & make a difference. She studied from Old Westbury in New York. When Shafaq isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her in the outdoors enjoying nature.

Esther is a dedicated Center Assistant in Alexandria, VA, with a wealth of experience and a passion for educational support. Combining administrative expertise with a deep understanding of the learning process, Esther ensures smooth operations and a nurturing environment for all students. Her exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to student success drive her work. Outside of Sylvan, she enjoys playing tennis and exploring D.C. real estate.

Becka Garrett

Center Assistant/Tutor

Becka Garrett is a tutor and administrator working at the Alexandria DelRay Center in Virginia. She has a lifetime commitment working with children beginning at age 11. She has been a Social Worker, Community Health Educator, Counselor, Teacher, Tutor, and Retail Worker in public schools, national stores, local hospitals, domestic violence shelters, private companies, and in higher education environments over the years. Becka has worked with children on an individual level as well as leading groups and doing family counseling. Her greatest accomplishment is watching individuals gain confidence and pride in the positive changes in their lives. She is a transplant to Virginia recently after living in Arizona for over 20 years. Becka has worked with Sylvan for over 23 years in Cincinnati, Phoenix, and now Alexandria. When not at Sylvan, She loves movies, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and drama series.