Meet the Falls Church team

Emaan holds a degree in Biology and brings hands-on experience in education support and program coordination. Fluent in three languages, she has a natural ability to connect with families from all walks of life and ensure every student feels understood and supported. Her passion for learning and personal growth drives her commitment to creating clear, structured plans that keep students on track and moving forward. As our Education Program Coordinator, Emaan works closely with families to align each student's learning plan with their goals — so you always know your child is in good hands and making real progress.

With more than 12 years as a Sylvan certified teacher, Ms. Kay is a true veteran of helping students unlock their potential, and she does it across nearly every subject. From a young learner’s very first steps in Beginning Reading to a high schooler tackling SAT/ACT English, Kay covers Reading, Writing, Math, and Study Skills with equal enthusiasm and expertise. Kay holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and spent 16 years in Pontiac, Michigan, teaching K–3 gifted and talented students while also leading professional development for fellow teachers. In other words, she’s not only taught bright young minds but has also trained other educators to do the same! Whether your child needs to build a strong foundation, stretch beyond grade level, or sharpen test-taking skills, Kay brings the experience, creativity, and encouragement to make it happen.

With more than 20 years in the classroom, Ms. Katherine is a passionate educator whose warmth and dedication leave a lasting mark on every student she works with. Her secret? She knows that real growth starts with real connection, and she builds the kind of trusting, supportive relationships that help kids feel confident enough to take on any challenge. Here’s the best part: Katherine is a former Sylvan student herself! She knows firsthand how the right support can change a child’s path, and she brings that personal understanding to every session.

With roots that stretch from Alabama through Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana, Ms. Melissa has called the Falls Church community home for more than ten years and is proud to be a true local. Melissa brings a unique blend of scientific curiosity and specialized teaching expertise to every session, holding a Bachelor of Environmental Science from The Ohio State University and a Master of Special Education from George Mason University. That combination means students get a teacher who loves exploring how the world works and knows how to meet each learner exactly where they are. Whether a student needs a confidence boost, a fresh approach to a tough concept, or a little extra spark, she has the tools and the heart to help them thrive.

Mr. Antonio is a physics graduate from George Mason University with a genuine passion for math and science, and his calmness makes his students feel real 'chill'. Patient, encouraging, and great with kids, he can guide students through everything from math fundamentals all the way up to college-level Calculus. Whether a student is building confidence with the basics or conquering derivatives, Antonio makes tough concepts click. Outside of Sylvan, he volunteers as an EMT, proof that his dedication to helping others goes well beyond the classroom.

A recent Virginia Tech graduate, Shriya studied Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in French, so she brings a real understanding of how young minds learn and grow! Patient, calm, and genuinely interested in getting to know each student, she creates a relaxed, encouraging space where kids feel comfortable taking on new challenges. Shriya is strong across a wide range of subjects, from early literacy and writing to math that spans the fundamentals all the way through Calculus. When she’s not helping students shine, you’ll find her reading, writing, playing sports, exercising, or unwinding with yoga.

Andrew is a self-proclaimed STEM nerd with a genuine love of learning, whether he’s exploring something new on his own or helping the people around him understand it. He’s about to finish his degree in Computation and Data Science, and his studies have shown him how much clear, effective communication matters when introducing new ideas. That’s exactly what he brings to every session, breaking down tricky concepts so students can see how it all fits together. A lifelong Northern Virginia local, Andrew is proud to support students in the community where he grew up.