Megan Pahl

Center Director/Director of Education

Megan graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a degree in Elementary Education. She then began working at Sylvan three days later. She loves her job and all the new "challenges" it brings each day. Most of all, she loves seeing the kids smile and light up when they get an answer correct. Megan loves to see the children's self-confidence go up and seeing those "success" moments that happen because of the progress that a student makes in their program. These are the true reasons why she became a teacher and enjoys every minute of what she does!

Breann Hershberger

Instructor

Breann has been instructing students at Sylvan for two years. She received her Bachelor of Art in Elementary Education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Breann teaches Beginning Reading, Academic Reading, Academic Writing, Math Essentials, Study Skills, Algebra I, Advanced Reading Skills, and ACT Prep. “I enjoy watching students as they grow in their knowledge and master skills. Just as one student is meeting their goals and completing their program, another student is just beginning their Sylvan story!”

Sandy Smith

Instructor

Sandy is Kearney’s veteran tutor, and has been helping students achieve success for over eight years. She graduated from Hastings College with a B.A. in English, Journalism, and Spanish Education. She teaches Beginning Reading, Academic Reading, Study Skills, and Academic Writing. Sandy loves the opportunity to work with students individually and help them reach their potential. She remembers one student who had really struggled with vocabulary lessons and would often insist she “couldn’t do it”. After working with our Sylvan teachers she has increased confidence, is working through each lesson, and has greatly improved her independence level.

Judy Walker

Instructor

Judy Walker has been teaching students of all ages at Sylvan for over two years. She attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney and graduated with a B.S. and M.S. in Education. She says “My daughter (who attended Sylvan) is now a freshman in college and plans to go into the medical field in prosthetics and orthopedics. Without Sylvan a chill goes down my back, she would not have the confidence, ability, and determination that she has today." She remembers working with a student who had little understanding and great frustration with fractions. After working together, the light bulb went on! It was an awesome experience for both teacher and student.

Abigail Om

Instructor

Abby holds a degree in mathematics from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Most of her time at Sylvan is spent helping students tackle upper level math topics including Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, and ACT math prep! She enjoys making mathematics a positive learning experience Sylvan students. Abby is also a talented artist and enjoys taking care of her horse in her spare time.

Paige van Winkle

ACT Instructor