Groves Learning Center^®

Education & Experience: Andrea earned her certification at Groves in 2017 and has been working there ever since. Prior to that, Andrea spent two years volunteering with Minnesota Reading Corps after navigating the public school system with a child with dyslexia. Hobbies: Andrea shares her winter tutoring time as a ski instructor at Hyland Hills.

Education & Experience: Jeannie has been working as a Speech-Language Pathologist since 2016. She is licensed through the Minnesota Department of Education, certified through the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), and certified as a Certified Educator for ADHD. Jeannie's professional career began in the public schools where she worked with middle school students. In 2018, Jeannie joined the Groves team to focus on helping children with learning disabilities and ADHD builds confidence and improves their speech and language skills. Her day-to-day at Groves includes completing speech/language assessments, planning interventions, collaborating with teachers, conducting one-on-one/small group therapy, and teaching summer school courses. In addition to her speech and language work, Jeannie also serves students with executive functioning needs. Hobbies:  Includes drawing and calligraphy, playing frisbee with her dog, Nova, puzzles, playing the piano, trying new restaurants with friends and family.  

Karen holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from the University of North Dakota and a master’s degree in autism spectrum disorders from the University of St. Thomas. She is a licensed special education teacher with certifications in Autism Spectrum Disorders, Emotional Behavioral Disabilities, Developmental Cognitive Disabilities, and as a Teacher Coordinator of Work-Based Learning from Bethel University. Karen was nominated as MN Teacher of the Year in her South Washington County School District in Cottage Grove and Woodbury in 2018 for her teaching in special education. After several years of teaching, Karen pursued additional training in Orton-Gillingham-based reading instruction, completing a practicum with hands-on experience and tutoring through the Reading Center in Woodbury, Minnesota. Most recently, she completed the Online Language & Literacy Academy (OL&LA)—a program that emphasizes personalized, evidence-based literacy instruction. The OL&LA training integrates practical application with reading science and supports a wide range of learners, including multilingual students, speakers of the English language, and students with dyslexia. Karen has extensive experience in virtual instruction and is known for delivering engaging, interactive lessons tailored to the needs of both virtual and in-person learners.

Hobbies & Fun Facts About Yourself:

Karen is a lifelong learner and, when outside of tutoring, she enjoys reading, traveling internationally, crafting with her Cricut machine, boating, and weightlifting. She loves being outdoors in all Minnesota seasons and cherishes time spent with her family.

Cain is a results-driven education professional with over 25 years of experience supporting diverse learners, including those with ADHD and other special needs. Recognized by colleagues and leadership for my adaptability and dedication, he brings a strong background in student services, special education instruction, and human behavior and performance. His work as a special education teacher and coordinator has consistently reflected strengths in critical thinking, clear communication, and a service-first mindset. Cain is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Cain enjoys time with his family and watching movies about Marvel Comics. He also enjoys giving back to the community through his service as a Life Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Cody has a background in mental health, with experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and community diagnostic environments. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and her Master of Science in Psychology Research from Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri. Outside of work, Cody enjoys playing the piano, working on puzzles, and volunteering in her community.

Holli has worked in special education and elementary education for 6 years. She has also tutored students in reading, writing, math, and study skills for many of those years. She is a firm believer of the idea that all children are capable of success, with no exceptions.

Holli has been married for 20 years and has 2 adopted children from foster care and 3 dogs. She enjoys exploring Minnesota with her family, since they recently moved there. She also enjoys keeping her hands busy with Legos and other creative endeavors.

Laura found her passion for teaching and tutoring in a second career, following 25+ years in marketing communications. She began coaching 11th and 12th graders on their college entrance essays, then joined Teach for America and taught tenth grade English in Oklahoma City until COVID hit in 2020. She returned to the Twin Cities and began teaching/tutoring in study and writing skills. She developed summer refresher courses in both for The Blake School, and has taught English to ELL students through Independent School District 271. Laura's philosophy on tutoring is to be a side-by-side coach helping each student find their strengths and build their confidence, then introducing skills to create a solid framework for repeated use.

Laura enjoys time with her family while also XC skiing, swimming, and playing pickleball. She also writes for Medium.com.

Beck earned her MA and PhD degrees in School Psychology at the University of Minnesota. Prior to that, Beck attended Bethel University and earned a BA in Psychology, with minors in Math and Music. Beck started her career as a school psychologist with Minneapolis Public Schools before joining the team at Groves in 2022. When not at Groves, Beck enjoys spending time with her husband, cats, and family. She enjoys reading books and spending time in nature.

Education & Experience:  B.S. and M.S. Degrees from the University of Wisconsin Stout. Completed introductory, intermediate, and extended practicum courses with Orton-Gillingham of Minnesota. Melanie has experience tutoring students online and in person from early elementary through high school. Melanie has been a reading tutor with Groves Learning Center since 2020 and a reading teacher for the Groves summer academic program in 2021. Hobbies:  Melanie previously worked in the hospitality and tourism industry. Melanie has traveled extensively domestically and internationally.

Education & Experience:  David received his bachelor's degree from Bethel University, majoring in linguistics and minoring in teaching ESL. After college, he taught English in Saudi Arabia for three years, then returned to Minnesota, working at two charter schools in the Twin Cities before joining Groves in 2021. In addition to tutoring in the Groves Learning Center, he is pursuing a graduate degree in speech-language pathology through Eastern New Mexico University. Hobbies:  Outside of tutoring and studies, he enjoys playing soccer, running, and hiking. Fun fact: he holds three different passports and grew up between Minnesota and Germany.

Education & Experience: Teri attended St. Catherine University, where she received her K-6 teaching certification, then a Master's Degree from Hamline University in Literacy Education. She recently completed a 20-year teaching career in the Robbinsdale school district where she was a classroom teacher and intervention specialist. Her passion is for students and their families and helping them to have the optimal educational experience wherever they are. Hobbies:  Teri loves to read, spend time with family and friends, and travel.   Get In Touch

I received my M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from St. Cloud State University and have a B.S. in Linguistics with a minor in Psychology from Iowa State University. I began working as a speech-language pathologist at Groves in 2025 and am passionate about supporting individuals in developing and strengthening their communication abilities. Her work includes conducting speech/language evaluations, providing one-on-one and small group therapy sessions to support speech, language, writing, and executive functioning skills, and collaborating with teachers and parents.

Hobbies & Fun Facts About Yourself: In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside, reading books, and spending time with friends/family.

Emily is an Orton-Gillingham trained tutor. She has a BS in Political Science from Texas A&M University as well as an MBA from Lancaster University, United Kingdom. Emily has a diverse international background with more than seven years of experience as an international business English trainer as well as teaching bilingual students abroad. Emily's personal passion for neurodivergent learners led her to a career change to work with students struggling in reading and spelling as an Orton-Gillingham tutor. Along with her husband and three awesome kids, Emily's favorite hobby is traveling! She has visited 42 of the 50 states in the US and lived abroad for 23 years in 5 countries on 3 different continents. Emily's favorite place is Leogang, Austria in the Alps!

Education & Experience:  Susan went to Saint Cloud University, where she received her BS in Elementary Education. Susan has been involved in teaching and tutoring for 25 years and has a warm, assuring manner that keeps kids engaged and encouraged. Hobbies:  Outside of the education setting, Susan enjoys gardening and Twins baseball.

Megan has been teaching for 26 years! Her teaching experience includes classroom, RTI, Title One, coaching, and intervention in grades K-12 as well as ACT and SAT prep. She is certified in LETRS, Groves intervention, Sonday system, and trained in Wilson Fundations 1-3 and Just Words. She enjoys working with students to help them reach their goals.

Megan loves to bike, swim, fish, walk, and enjoy nature up North! In the winter, she likes to ski and snowshoe. She is married and has two children and two dogs. She also enjoys spending time with her family and is looking forward to traveling more in the future!

Education & Experience:  Amelia received her B.A. in English and Secondary Education from Aquinas College in Nashville, TN. After teaching for four years in the South, she returned home to MN to teach at Providence Academy and pursue a Master's in Educational Studies with a concentration in Special Education. She served as an Upper School English teacher and Learning Specialist there for five years before becoming a stay-at-home mom. Hobbies:  Amelia enjoys cross-stitching, drinking coffee, playing with her son, and cheering on her husband at his softball games!

Education & Experience:  Danielle is a Certified Specialist in Psychometry and she earned this designation in 2015. She attended the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities where she earned her BA degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Psychology. She has extensive experience conducting neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations and she currently supports the Diagnostics Team at GLO. Hobbies:  Danielle's interests include reading, running, listening to music, and studying interior design.

Education & Experience:  Amy's previous background consists of a BS in English Education followed by a MA in English with an emphasis in pedagogy and creative writing. She has experience teaching secondary and collegiate level students and then transitioned into a 1:1 educational setting that served students with language gaps and/or learning disabilities where students and their families gripped her heart. Hobbies:  Outside of work, Amy can be found hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or playing tennis with family and friends. She also loves creative writing, reading, and playing with her young, energetic husky.   Get In Touch

Education & Experience: Alaa went to the University of Minnesota where she received her doctorate degree in Educational Psychology. She is licensed by the Minnesota Board of Psychology and is a nationally certified school psychologist (NCSP). She has experience completing comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults in various settings. She is also passionate about identifying best practices in the prevention and early intervention of social, emotional, and behavioral functioning, with a focus on enhancing universal screening procedures in schools to provide early intervention supports and strengthen students' functioning. In addition, she has published peer-reviewed research articles and has presented her research at regional and national conferences. Hobbies:  Outside of her career, Alaa enjoys baking and biking with her family.

Education & Experience:  Molly graduated from the University of Minnesota with an undergraduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Molly has several years of experience working in the field of traumatic brain injury with both children and adults as an educator and case manager. She is also trained and certified as an Orton Gillingham Reading Specialist. Hobbies: Molly has two children and loves spending time with her family and friends. Molly loves to travel and be outside. She also has certification as a yoga instructor and enjoys being active.

Supporting Students in Literacy, Organization, and Confidence

With more than 20 years of experience in education, Ms. James specializes in helping students strengthen their reading, writing, and executive functioning skills to thrive in school and beyond. She offers personalized, one-on-one tutoring that meets students where they are—building essential academic strategies while fostering confidence and independence. Whether students need help beginning to read, writing clearly, reading with purpose, managing their time, or staying organized, she offers compassionate and structured support tailored to their individual learning style. As a longtime host family to many international students from all over the world (Brazil, Hungary, Thailand, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc.) —most of them high school boys— the James family has walked alongside young people from around the world, helping them navigate school, home life, and cultural transitions with success and confidence.

• Targeted Reading & Writing Support – From comprehension and vocabulary to structured, academic writing and editing skills.
• Executive Function Coaching – Helping students build routines, manage time, plan ahead, and develop strong study habits.
• College & Academic Readiness – Drawing on extensive college prep experience to prepare students for higher-level coursework and expectations.
• Multicultural & Faith-Informed Approach – Creating a warm, inclusive environment that honors students’ diverse backgrounds and values.

Ms. James has worked in local and international schools, including Normandale French Immersion School (K-5), The Natural Science Academy (K-5), Totino-Grace High School, Breck School (Lower, Middle, Upper), and St. Paul Preparatory, as a teacher, a tutor, and a college prep advisor. She has helped countless students—from lower school to high school—grow in reading fluency, writing structure, and executive skills such as time management, organization, and goal setting. She is deeply committed to fostering not just academic success, but also personal growth rooted in respect, integrity, and purpose.

Education & Experience:  Hannah has been working as a Speech-Language Pathologist since 2019. She is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Health. She also is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Hannah’s professional career began in a pediatric outpatient clinic, where she worked with clients of all ages, needs, and ability levels. Following this experience, Hannah transitioned to providing speech/language services in multiple charter schools throughout the Minneapolis area. In 2022, Hannah joined the Groves team. She works with students to increase their confidence with speech and language skills, supporting them within the school setting and at home. Her work includes conducting speech/language evaluations and providing one-on-one and small group therapy sessions to support speech, language, writing, and executive functioning skills. She is passionate about building relationships with students and their families and helping students reach their full potential. Hobbies:  Hannah enjoys reading a good book and spending time outdoors in her free time.

Education & Experience:  Missy holds a Master's Degree in Human Development with a concentration in Learning Differences and Leadership from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. She has MN teaching licenses in birth to grade 3 and parent & family education. She has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, early head start, and supporting children & families experiencing poverty or homelessness. Hobbies: Missy enjoys reading, traveling, concerts, and all things breakfast. She enjoys exploring the Twin Cities with her husband and dog, Bandit.

Katie completed her undergraduate education through Minnesota State University Moorhead, mastering in Psychology and minoring in Women's Studies and Social Work Services. She then attended graduate school at Kent State University, achieving her PhD in Clinical Psychology with emphasis in Child & Family Studies and Neuropsychology. She completed internship at the University of Minnesota, followed by 2-year postdoctoral fellowship in Pediatric Neuropsychology. She most recently was employed for 6 years as a Pediatric Neuropsychologist for a hospital system before joining Groves Learning Organization. Katie has experience completing comprehensive evaluations from birth to young adulthood with diverse histories and goals for evaluation. She also has provided presentations and published peer-reviewed research articles. In her role at Groves Learning Organization, she continues her passion for providing individualized and compassionate care for children and teens through assessment services - with the ultimate goal to help encourage areas of strength and support areas of difficulty to help each client achieve their own best outcome. Outside of the time she appreciates working with children/teens and their families at GLO, Katie enjoys spending time with her husband and two children—going for walks, taking in sunny days on the lake, participating in community activities, and spending time with extended family.

Julie began her practice as a Special Education Teacher in 2008, serving in both the public and private sectors. Julie’s professional development includes training in LETRS, accredited by the International Dyslexia Association and aligned with Orton-Gillingham principles of instruction, and in Fundations, a program by Wilson Language emphasizing a structured literacy approach grounded in the science of reading. As a parent of children with dyslexia and ADHD, Julie brings a deep, personal understanding and compassion to teaching children with neurodiversity by fostering a growth mindset during her sessions. Julie has extensive experience in virtual instruction and provides engaging and interactive lessons for students needing a virtual or in-person option. Julie enjoys continuous learning, often tuning into a variety of podcasts. She loves spending time in nature with her family, cuddling her puppies, tending to her garden, and developing new arts and crafts skills.

Education & Experience:  Cindi has taught K-6 for 27 years as a classroom teacher and as a Title 1 teacher in North Dakota, Arizona, and Minnesota. Cindi currently teaches education courses at Ridgewater College-Hutchinson. The highlight of her teaching career was helping children overcome anxiety with reading by using social-emotional learning strategies by having children read to horses. Hobbies: Cindy enjoys camping, swimming, kayaking, and spending time with her family.

Kristine has been working in the coaching field for over ten years focusing on EF Skill Coaching most recently. She received her BA in Social Ecology from Fort Lewis College in Durango Colorado and went on to accumulate many certifications to support her focus over the years. Kristine loves being outdoors and doing just about anything! She loves to bike, ski, skate, swim, rock climb, walk her dog, and hang out in her hammock. On a sunny day, you can find her on a deck or patio listening to music and chatting.

Tryce has over 20 years of experience teaching children, teens, and adults. Her most recent experience provided valuable opportunities to develop skills in literacy intervention, which has since become her passion. She is currently a special education teacher and loves creating meaningful learning experiences and empowering children to make gains in learning!

Tryce enjoys rollerblading, running, and staying active. She also loves reading and learning about education. She has a 16-year-old daughter who keeps her busy with transitional things like driver's education and college preparation.

Maggie received her M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from St. Cloud State University and has a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Rockhurst University. She began working as a speech-language pathologist at Groves in 2025 and is passionate about empowering others to find connection through communication. Her work includes conducting speech-language evaluations, providing one-on-one and small group therapy sessions to support speech, language, writing, and executive functioning skills, and collaborating with teachers and parents.

In her free time, Maggie enjoys spending time outdoors, playing tennis, and trying out new restaurants.

Education & Experience:  Christina attended the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire where she received her BS and MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She then began working as a speech-language pathologist in 2021. Christina works with students who attend Groves Academy and who receive speech/language services through the Learning Center. Her work includes conducting speech/language evaluations, providing one-on-one and small group therapy sessions to support speech, language, writing, and executive functioning skills, and collaborating with teachers and parents. Hobbies: Christina enjoys being outdoors and hanging out with friends and family.

Meghan started her career as a Speech-Language Pathologist in 2014. She is licensed through the Minnesota Department of Health, certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and a Certified Educator for ADHD. Meghan began working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and, through that work, found an interest in literacy instruction. As the Learning Center Director of Individualized Programs, Meghan leads the Tutoring, Summer, and Speech-Language Programs. She has experience evaluating and providing one-on-one and small group support for students, teaching classes, providing professional development, and developing a curriculum focused on executive functioning and writing. Her passion lies in helping students reach their full potential by supporting reading, writing, and executive functioning skills.    

For the past twenty-five years, Theresa's passion and work have served the reading needs of children and young adults. She worked as a special education teacher for over twenty years before becoming an Orton-Gillingham reading specialist and private tutor. Her classroom and one-on-one teaching experience drive her teaching philosophy that every student should be seen as an individual-- "one-size-fits-all" instruction does not work when learning to read. Theresa has worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, facing a multitude of learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, autism, and behavior and emotional challenges. Hobbies In her time off, Theresa enjoys pilates, yoga, Minnesota Twins baseball, and spending time with her family and four grandchildren.

Nativida received her BA in Studio Art from Gustavus Adolphus College and earned her Elementary Education License from Augsburg College, which led to teaching positions with Minneapolis Public Schools across grades two through six. She later completed her K–12 Reading License at Hamline University. Guided by her belief that reading should be accessible to all learners, she trained in Orton Gillingham with Orton Gillingham Reading Specialists, earning certification C-OGRS-1. Building on this foundation, she now integrates with Structured Word Inquiry (SWI), a Science of Reading–aligned approach that helps students understand how English orthography is built on meaning, structure, and history.

Beyond teaching, Nativida finds joy in handwork—especially knitting and weaving—and in nurturing connections with family, friends, and the outdoors. One of her favorite guiding quotes is Robin Wall Kimmerer’s reminder that “all flourishing is mutual.” She also enjoys speaking Swedish and cherishes her family connections in Ecuador.

Education & Experience: Diane attended the University of St. Thomas where she received a BA in International Business as well as an MBA. Diane enjoyed a 30-year career in the corporate world in a variety of roles including marketing communications, corporate responsibility, and human resources. Diane fulfilled a goal of early retirement and became an Orton-Gillingham tutor - a career she enjoys every day! Hobbies: Diane, her husband, and their dog spent 3+ years living in England for Diane's career. Travel and reading are her favorite hobbies.

Jay is a passionate and hardworking educator with over 20 years of experience and has a proven record of commitment to students, families, and the communities he has been lucky enough to join. In his career, he has been a classroom teacher, administrator, and learning specialist. His joy and passion is to support students (and their families) to learn more about themselves, help them thrive in their settings, and help them embrace a love of life-long learning.

Hobbies & Fun Facts About Yourself: Jay enjoys spending time with my family and friends. While I pretend to be in my mid-life, I am perennially a video game enthusiast, a horror movie aficionado, and a pug fan. He enjoys quiet things such as playing cards and board games, or reading. He equally enjoys loud things, having lost track of the number of concerts he has attended.

Lisa holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of North Dakota, a MN 5-12 I hold a bachelor's degree in English from the University of North Dakota. I hold a MN 5-12 Communication Arts/Literature license. I hold a MN K-12 Reading Certificate. I worked as an Americorps reading tutor. I have worked in a variety of middle school classrooms as a language arts instructor. I have worked as a tutor privately and for Groves. I have taken up my old hobby of painting jeans once again. I also have started rollerskating I I love paddle boarding and Zumba. I am an avid reader and concert goer (particularly at outdoor festivals and smaller venues).

Margie earned a Bachelor's degree from North Park University in Chicago, majoring in Education and minoring in German and Music. She completed levels 1-3 of Orton-Gillingham instruction from Orton-Gillingham of Minnesota. After serving as a classroom teacher in schools in Chicago and Minneapolis, Margie started providing Orton-Gillingham services to families and schools. For more than 20 years, she has worked with children with dyslexia and similar challenges using Orton-Gillingham and Sonday System methods. She has also served as a supervising teacher for new O-G instructors. Margie enjoys helping families and students discover the confidence and joy that comes from literacy. Margie enjoys photography, gardening, music and singing, traveling, and spending time with her husband and their four young adult kids.

Education & Experience:  Gloria's Bachelor's degree is in Psychology from Hamline and has an M.D. from the University of Minnesota. Hobbies:  Gloria has three children and three dogs. Gloria loves reading, taking walks, movies, and hanging out with friends and family.

This is my first year at Groves. I worked at Breck the last few years and also have a Parent Education company.

Hobbies & Fun Facts About Yourself: I love to be outside, exercise, and garden!

Education & Experience:  Meagen has a B.S. in Finance from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Meagen worked for 15 years in the Business Office at Groves Academy and now supports the learning center for Groves Learning Organization as the Director of Operations handling client care, scheduling, and payments. Hobbies:  Meagen enjoys camping, decorating, and spending time with family and friends.

Education & Experience:  Eric earned a B.A. in Communication at Pacific Lutheran University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing at Hollins University. He previously taught and coached middle school boys for five years in Virginia and has also worked coordinating study abroad travel for college students and managing the guest services department at a cruise line. He moved back to the Midwest in 2021, after many years away, and joined the Groves team. Hobbies:  Eric is a passionate reader. When not lost in a book, he spends a lot of weekends hiking with his family, playing board games, or watching the Twins!

Education & Experience:  Catherine has worn many hats in her 12+ years as an employee of Groves Learning Organization. She began her career as a Lower School teacher serving the youngest students at Groves Academy. In her last few years as a Lower School teacher, Catherine also held the position of Co-Division Director of the Lower School, providing guidance, support, and leadership to the Lower School faculty. Catherine eventually moved away from the classroom to join the Learning Center team as a Wilson Reading tutor. From there, Catherine took on the role of Tutoring Program Coordinator and now serves as the Tutoring Program Manager for the Learning Center. Hobbies:  Catherine and her husband, Robb, live in the Excelsior/Chanhassen area and enjoy spending time with their three children, Dylann, Ashlynn, and Ryker, and two dogs, Cocoa and Luna.  

Education & Experience:  KP graduated from UW-LaCrosse in Elementary Education with a Minor in Special Education. Over the course of nine years, KP taught first, second and fourth grades in Wisconsin. Shortly after moving to the Twin Cities, KP worked as a teaching assistant in a St. Paul public Montessori school for 15 years. KP has also taken several graduate-level courses at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in special education. KP began tutoring at Groves in the summer of 2020. Hobbies:  KP enjoys baking, especially cakes and cookies. KP also enjoys running with friends several mornings a week and going to listen to live music.

Education & Experience:  Shoshana taught for 25 years in the Edina Public School System. She was the district's 2003 Teacher of the Year. Shoshana has spent the past five years focusing on evidence-based reading programs including Orton-Gillingham, LETRS, Sonday, and Hill-Rap. Hobbies:  Outside of Shoshana's career, she enjoys baking (apple pies are her specialty), reading while snuggling with her two golden retrievers, running with her daughter, biking with her husband, and playing pickleball with her entire family!