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The People Behind the Progress

Meet the Puyallup team

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.

Center director

Jonathan Adams

jonathan@withsylvan.com
Say hi to

Our Teachers

Donna Helgessen
Donna HelgessenInstructor

An exceptional reading, writing and math instructor at Puyallup Sylvan, Donna is a favorite with her students. She has a double major in Special Education and English and a Master’s Degree in Education. She loves watching her students learn and progress through her efforts and influence. Donna is an avid golfer and shopper. She has a high green belt in martial arts and is only two belts away from a black belt.

Sandy James
Sandy JamesInstructor

Sandy has a BA in music and teaching all grades from K-12. She has been a substitute teacher since 1993. At Sylvan of Puyallup, Sandy works with students to improve their skills at reading, math, writing and preparing for the SAT. When asked what she likes most about teaching, Sandy replied, “I like helping students learn and understand more about their world.” Sandy grew up on a farm in Iowa and has 5 grandchildren.

Melanie Hedden
Melanie HeddenInstructor

Melanie received her teaching certification from Pacific Lutheran University. She has taught history and social studies in the schools and loves to work with students in all areas here at Sylvan. Melanie has been to Kuwait, Iraq, Egypt, Germany, Italy, Korea, and the Azores. She has a 6 year old dog and a 24 year old daughter. When Melanie isn’t at Sylvan of Puyallup you will find her reading a good book or playing with her dog.

Nancy WhippleInstructor

Nancy comes to Sylvan of Puyallup with 17 years of teaching experience. She has a BA in Education and a loves getting to know students and helping them learn so they can be successful. She has traveled to 46 states in the US and extensively through the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. She enjoys scrap booking and traveling and helping her family.

Kim CookInstructor

Kim comes to Sylvan with a wealth of experience teaching in the Puyallup, Bethel, and Franklin Pierce school districts. She has her degree in Geology with a teaching certificate in elementary and special education. She has a true gift in helping her students see the “light bulb” when they finally understand new concepts. Kim is an ex Air Force mechanic and is currently working at Brookdale Elementary.

Lori ParkerInstructor

Lori specializes in working with our younger students at Puyallup Sylvan. She has her BA in Special Education and is currently working on her MBA. She loves working with the kids directly and seeing them really grasp new material. She has been participating in a medieval reenactment education group for the last 20 years. When not at Sylvan, Lori enjoys time with her family and playing with her two puggles and 1 terrier. Give us a call at (253) 292-2267 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

Ponni ElangoOwner

Ponni feels privileged to help lead an amazing team of educators and support staff along with her husband. Ponni finds great joy and fun in working with students and teachers.

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.

or give us a call(253) 292-2267
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