Lindsey Slingsby

Director of Education

I have been working at Sylvan for over five years now, and I am a firm believer in what we do! I started as an instructional aide/test proctor and was gradually able to take on a more involved role in the center. I am now proud to work for Sylvan full-time as the Director of Education. The best part of my job is watching the students become more confident in themselves!

Jill Boaz

Associate Director of Education

I am a San Diego State Graduate with a Bachelors degree in Liberal Studies. In 2008 I received my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I work part-time as a literacy intervention teacher for a local school district. Seeing a student reach their academic potential is very rewarding for me as an educator. My goal as a teacher is to give every student a positive learning experience. In my downtime I enjoy reading, crossword puzzles, movies and volunteering to help our local military.

Christa Calhoun

Program Manager

I started working for Sylvan Learning Center in July 2010 and already love what we are doing here for kids. I am passionate about education and the paths it leads to. It is amazing to the joy on kid's faces when they really start to understand the concepts they are learning. I am a teacher's assistant and test proctor here at Sylvan. I graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University in August 2009 with a B.A. in International Development with a minor in French. I am currently working on getting my teaching credential so I can teach here as well. In my free time I love to travel, speak French, and spend time with my family.

Megan Vowles

Lead Instructor, Program Updater, Test Proctor & Director on Duty

I have been teaching kindergarten through twelfth grade since February of 2008. I have a B.A. in Social Science from San Diego State University, a single-subject teaching credential from Azuza Pacific University, a Masters in Education from Azusa Pacific University and am currently in the process of obtaining a multiple-subject teaching credential. I love working with students of all ages to make sure they get the best education possible!

Danielle Lawrence

Instructor, Program Updater

My name is Danielle Lawrence and I am a math, reading and writing teacher at Sylvan. I graduated with my degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State in 2011. I am about to start my master's degree in Education through Ashford University. My favorite part about working at Sylvan is the ability to work with students in a small group setting. That approach gives me the ability to work with students for their individual needs. I adore working with children and get so excited to see the light bulb 'click' when they understand something new! Being an educator is truly a privilege. When I am not working I love to visit parks with my husband, go to coffee shops and travel.

Kathy Havilan

Instructor

My name is Kathleen Havilan and I am so happy to be an instructor here at Sylvan. I earned my B.S. in Biology from SDSU and my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from USD. I previously worked in research at the Salk Institute and Sea World. While working as an elementary school teacher in San Francisco I also began working for Sylvan and I loved every aspect of it. Working with small groups enables me to know my students better and feel confident that I am really helping them succeed. I especially enjoy helping students with homework and watching them accomplish their goals. It's a privilege to work with all of the wonderful staff and young people who come through our doors everyday.

Lesley Roland

Instructor

I have been a teacher at Sylvan for almost two years now and have loved every minute of it. Helping young people achieve beyond their expectations and gain self confidence in their abilities as a life long learner is the most rewarding experience I could ever ask for. I earned my Bachelor's degree from SDSU and my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from National University. I have taught grades K-5 including all classifications of Special Education. When I am not teaching, I love to read mystery novels, work out at Curves for Women, line dance, and spend time with friends and family, especially my two nephews, Colin and Trevor.

Cynthia Weller

Instructor

I graduated from CSU San Marcos and have a Professional Clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and C.L.A.D. I have in taught elementary school for 15 years. I love teaching! There is nothing like seeing the excitement in a child when they are able to achieve something they have worked hard on. I really enjoy working at Sylvan, especially because of being able to work with such small groups. It allows me to give lots of attention to each child. When I am not at Sylvan, I enjoy playing my guitar and piano, singing, gardening, and spending time with my husband and two kitties. I also have a great time with my three children and four grandchildren.

Judith Nouchi

Instructor

I have worked at Sylvan "on and off" for 10 years. I have a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Masters of Divinity degree. I enjoy watching students gain self confidence as they learn new concepts that they can use at school and in life!

Nathan Mueller

Higher Math Instructor

Hi!  My name is Nathan Mueller, and I tutor math up through Calculus.  Math has been my favorite subject for as long as I can remember.  I could prove 2=1 by the time I was in high school using a method where many people cannot catch the mistake, I completed through Calculus II by the time I finished high school, and I am now studying computer science at UCSD and tutoring math in my spare time.  I love tutoring at Sylvan because every hour is different and no two students are the same.  Seeing a student's face light up when they understand a tough concept really brightens my day.  Other than tutoring, I'm a huge Chargers fan, I love country music, I can juggle, and I'm an expert at rock band.  If you see me tutoring, be sure to say hi!

Kate Aselage

Instructor

I am a credentialed member of San Diego Unified School District and have been teaching mainly primary level students however, I enjoy working with all age groups. I am currently teaching fifth grade and loving it. I enjoy working at Sylvan where we have the resources to help make learning accessible and fun for everyone. In 2006, I earned my teaching credential at the University of San Diego. I have a B.A. in liberal studies with an emphasis on human development. When I’m not working I enjoy finding new spots to see and experience in our beautiful city of San Diego.

Sarah Rodriguez

Higher Math Instructor

I currently teach high school Geometry, PreCalculus, and Calculus. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in math from Cal Poly Pomona and am working on my Master’s in math education at SDSU. There is nothing more rewarding than watching students develop confidence in themselves.

Jeff Lee

Higher Math Instructor

My name is Jeffrey Lee and I am a UCSD graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Science/ Environmental Chemistry. I am currently working on my Masters and Single Subject Credential. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spear fishing, rock climbing, wake-boarding and backpacking.

Ezara Moyer

Instructor

I have been with Sylvan since 2005, occupying the roles of both Instructor and Director of Education. I've taken time off for the birth of my 2 children, but have always come back to Sylvan! I have seen many students come through the program and it's always exciting to see how far they have come both academically and personally. I really enjoy coming to work and noticing the improvements of our students from week to week! I have a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from SDSU and a dual Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Law and Society from UC Santa Barbara. In my spare time I love to exercise, keep up with politics, and spend time with my awesome family!

Minia Goodwell

Instructor

I am a native Minnesotan who still misses deeply breathing in the crisp Autumn air this time of year; raking up huge piles of crunchy colorful Autumn leaves; joyously jumping into the middle of the piles with family and friends; and, once all the laughter and leaves have settled a bit, doing it all over again. I am also an educator who thoroughly enjoys the challenges and the fun of working with children and their families. I am passionate about children and their recognizing and reaching their full potential as learners. I believe it is imperative to work collaboratively with staff, family and communities on behalf of the children being served. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a Junior High Endorsement in English, a Master's Degree in English, and a credential in Education Administration. Additionally I have certification as a Reading Specialist, Learning Styles Coach, specialist in Writing and Dramatics, and certification in Gifted and Talented Education.
I've been in teaching, curriculum development, enrichment programs, classroom management, and administration for the past 25+ years and have thoroughly enjoyed working closely with colleagues, students, parents, families and the community. I continue to work with students and their families in the San Diego Unified and La Mesa areas, and advocate for children and their families through education related issues and concerns.
I enjoy reading, writing, playing the piano, hiking, traveling, creative dance, drama, music, church, community volunteering, and spending as much time as possible enjoying family and friends. It's exciting being part of the Sylvan La Mesa team. It's also exciting and rewarding meeting and getting to know the remarkable children we have the opportunity to work with; helping them become the confident, successful, life long learners that they all have the potential to be.

Lisa Tovar

Instructor

My name is Lisa Tovar. I have been teaching for 26 years. I began my career in 1985 with the La Mesa Spring Valley School District. I have taught grades 1st through 4th during my 26 years here, currently teaching 4th grade. I have been at Sylvan almost a year now, and absolutely love the program. Being able to focus on my students’ individual needs with Sylvan’s small group setting is very rewarding! Teaching is my passion, so I always strive to give my students the best education I can.

Christina Ross

Instructor

I obtained my teaching degree from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, May 2006. My husband and I moved to California in October 2006 when I tested to receive my California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I have worked as a substitute teacher and have taught in grades K-3. Teaching is the most rewarding profession I have ever had. I love watching children light up when they succeed! When I'm not at Sylvan, I love spending time with my family which includes my husband, my puppy Misheau, and my cat Jack.

John Myers

Instructor

My name is John Meyers and I am a Math, Science, Reading, and Study Skills teacher at Sylvan. I have a Teaching Credential in Life Science and Geo-science from Cal State San Bernardino and a BA in History from UCSD. Along with teaching, I have also been a coach for tennis, football, track and basketball.

Jennifer Irabon

Instructor

I have been with Sylvan as a math teacher since March of this year. I am also a substitute during the day, but being able to teach math one-on-one is more rewarding. I enjoy teaching math to students and being able to see the 'ah-ha' moment. I attended college at University of California at Santa Barbara and received my Bachelor of Science in Geophysics and my Bachelor of Arts in History. I grew up in the high desert most of my life before moving to Santa Barbara for college. My interests include animals (I have snakes, birds, and a dog and I absolutely love going to the zoo), science fiction, cross stitching, and baking.

Morgan Hughes

Instructor

I am a 2008 graduate of San Diego State University where I earned my B.A in Liberal Studies with a specialization in Social Science. I recently earned my Multiple Subject teaching credential from National University, and I am currently working on my Masters in Education specializing in Best Practices. I will finish the program in December of this year. I am also currently substituting for two local school districts. I love working with kids! What I enjoy the most about teaching is when students begin to understand a concept they've been struggling with. Their confidence soars, and I love the light they have in their eyes. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also have a passion for traveling.

Kristina Johnson

Instructional Aide & Test Proctor

I am currently a student working toward my B.A. in Religious Studies, and will graduate with minors in German and Geological Science. I have worked at Sylvan collectively for 3 years. I started at the center in Bonita, and am now a proud member of the La Mesa team. My favorite part of this job is testing kids on their first day. I feel like I get to know each student, and love the challenge of helping each one of them feel better about coming to Sylvan. When people ask me what I do, I can proudly tell them, "I work at Sylvan Learning Center, and I love my job!"

Kelley Fennessey

Instructional Aide & Test Proctor

I have a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a specialization in Science from San Diego State University. I have worked in several schools across San Diego County as a volunteer, teacher's aide, and an after school activity leader. I have always loved working with children, and I really enjoy working at Sylvan, a place where I am constantly learning and growing. I finally have a job I love! When I am not at Sylvan I enjoy watching Padres games with my husband, playing with my dog Milo, and reading.

Jordan Harrison

Instructional Aide & Test Proctor

My name is Jordan Harrison and I am currently a student at San Diego State University in progress towards a B.A. in Business Marketing, Political Science, and a minor in Psychology. I am passionate about education and feel so honored to be on a team in which the enrichment of education is specialized on an individual level to truly promote growth. Knowledge really is power. Outside of Sylvan I enjoy serving the community, playing the drums, going to school, playing sports, motivating and encouraging, and I am a youth minister. I am so grateful to be part of the La Mesa team and all the efforts and strides that are being made to set a foundation for a fantastic future.

Cheryl Petersen

Instructor

I obtained my Liberal Studies Emphasis in Education Degree at San Diego State University in 2001. Then I obtained my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Chapman University in 2003. I went back in 2005 for Special Education Teaching Preliminary Credential Emphasis in Mild/Moderate Disabilities.  I have been working for Sylvan Learning Center for the past 7 years. I enjoy watching students gain the knowledge and confidence that they need to succeed in school. Away from Sylvan, I enjoy being a full-time mom to my 2 month old son Michael and his big brother Maxwell who is 1 1/2 years old.

Amy Van Rossum

Instructor

Xavier Martinez

Instructional Aide

My name is Xavier Martinez and I am currently a student at San Diego State University pursuing a degree in Kinesiology and Spanish. It's an honor to work with the wonderful staff of Sylvan La Mesa! I love working at Sylvan because it is a place with a friendly and positive learning environment. In my free time I love surfing, reading, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with my family.

Ana-Patricia F.Lopez

Instructional Aide

My name is Ana Patricia Lopez and I am currently a student at SDSU pursuing a B.S. in environmental engineering. I love plants, animals, and finding new ways to protect them makes my life meaningful. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to teach about these very important things, especially to children. I have been working with children for almost 6 years. I started working at Sylvan in the year of 2005. Along with this job, I am also working for the education department at the Zoological Society of San Diego where I work with lots of kids teaching topics about conservation and wildlife. In my free times I love watching/reading documentaries. I love to learn new things everyday! I believe that being able to go to school and receive education is the most amazing gift anyone could ever have. I love school so much that I am already considering attending graduate school and maybe in the future becoming a teacher just like all these wonderful people working at Sylvan.