Meet Our Team

Maureen

Teacher

Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Maureen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History from the University of Waterloo and a Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Ottawa. With over 20 years experience teaching and tutoring, Maureen has lived and taught in 4 different countries, including 2 years in special education right here in the Kent School District! With a specialty in primary education and learning support, she is passionate about bringing out the very best in her students and seeing them succeed.

When Maureen isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family, traveling, or enjoying a good book.

Ashley

Teacher

Ashley has been part of Sylvan since 2015! She studied at Western Washington University, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with an emphasis in secondary education. She has special expertise in tutoring and assisting students with their abilities in Reading, Math, and Writing. Friendly and kind, Ashley has a great ability to work with and relate to our students.

When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find Ashley either enjoying her time spent with friends or family, playing video games, shopping, or enjoying nice walks.

Melanie

Teacher

Melanie has been in education for over 30 years! She is a grandmother who loves working with children and has experience in teaching, substitute teaching, and tutoring in both public and private sectors. Melanie holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Washington State University and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from City University. She has experience as a Reading specialist but also enjoys teaching Math and Writing.

In her free time, Melanie enjoys swimming, hiking, dancing, and church activities. Her goal is to help each student grow and reach their potential as tomorrow’s leaders.

Alyssa

Teacher

Alyssa joined Sylvan in 2022 and also works as a Paraeducator in Auburn School District. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English in 2022, and now helps students develop their skills in Reading and Writing. Alyssa has a great passion for writing, and loves to help her students find ways to connect with their writing.

When not at Sylvan, Alyssa can either be found with her nose in a book or busy writing her own.

Gerald

Teacher

Gerald has a gift of understanding numbers and relating that gift through tutoring. He has been tutoring math throughout his entire adult life. Gerald attended the University of Memphis where he received his Engineering degree. He joins Sylvan after retiring from a 39-year career at Boeing.

When Gerald is not at Sylvan, you can find him spending time with his lovely wife, actively involved in church activities, and walking his dogs. He also enjoys baseball, basketball, and being on the golf course.

Sammie

Education Support Specialist

Sammie is a dedicated advocate for early childhood education and the championing of equality for differently abled and neuro-divergent children and adolescents. With a decade-long background in early childhood education, Sammie brings a wealth of experience and passion to Kent Sylvan.

Sammie is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a focused concentration in Child and Adolescent Development, a minor in Sociology, and a minor in Special Education. Her journey is driven by a profound commitment to ensuring every child receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

Sammie is deeply invested in the success of our educational programs and the well-being of the families we serve. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Sammie strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.

Shukri

Teacher

Shukri holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from the University of Washington and an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Green River Community College. With a diverse background in customer service, administration, and education, she excels at fostering a positive and engaging learning environment. As an Academic Support Specialist, Shukri helped students with reading difficulties, providing targeted assistance to improve their literacy skills. She also designed and facilitated creative educational activities for younger students, ensuring their engagement and growth.

Passionate about helping students succeed, Shukri thrives in roles that emphasize inclusivity and student development. When she’s not working, Shukri loves exploring new food, hanging out with her cat, Dr. Grey, and reading to expand her knowledge.

William

Teacher

William recently graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry. He has been tutoring and teaching in high school, and enjoys working with students to strengthen their STEM and English skills. With experience working with diverse communities and a strong belief in the power of education, he strives to create an encouraging environment for all learners. Outside of teaching, William enjoys cooking and trying food from different cuisines!

Adrian

Teacher

Mr. Adrian is an experienced coach with a passion for gaming in competitive titles like League of Legends and Valorant. He is skilled in mentoring players, analyzing, and fostering team development. He has served as a substitute teacher for K–6 students, bringing patience, adaptability, and communication skills to both classroom and coaching environments.