Meet Our Team
Great Teachers Inspire
Our tutors and staff in Grand Rapids consist of passionate educators who love inspiring children to succeed. Warm, caring and great at relating to kids, our tutors in Grand Rapids know how to engage and motivate each child in a personal way—building confidence and smiles, as well as skills and better scores. We selectively choose tutors who know local curriculum and can link Sylvan lessons to what’s being taught in school.
Get to know our tutors and staff in Grand Rapids!
Eric Verstraete
Director
Director
As a Director at Sylvan of Grand Rapids, Eric oversees the educational integrity of our programs, managing and training our team of tutors and day-to-day operations. As a former non-profit leader and public speaker, Eric chose a career in the tutoring business because he believes that all students have the right to be heard and have the potential to do great things. He studied at Calvin College for his undergrad work in Student Development and studied at Geneva College for his Masters in Higher Education and Educational Leadership. When Eric isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him spending time with his boys, and sitting by a campfire.
Dr. Wayne Ruman Jr.
Director
Director
As a Director of Education at Sylvan of Grand Rapids, Wayne oversees the educational integrity of our programs, managing our team of tutors and overseeing day-to-day operations. A former public school administrator, Wayne chose Sylvan because he feels that every student deserves the chance to learn, grow, and understand the skills needed to further their life. Wayne studied at Bowling Green (Ohio) State University and the University of Akron (Ohio) earning a doctorate degree in education. When Wayne isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him spending time with family; particularly loving his grandfather role. He and his wife also enjoy taking road trips exploring the beautiful state of Michigan.
Jenn Koenes
Director of Community Engagement
As the Director of Community Engagement at Sylvan, Jenn oversees the educational integrity of Sylvan programs and works directly with schools and organizations to provide high-quality educational assistance to local students. A former associate editor, Jenn chose a career in the tutoring business because her greatest joy is helping students succeed in their dreams. She studied Spanish, English, and ancient literature at Oral Roberts University and Wheaton College, and her dream has always been to have a full-time career in education. When Jenn isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her salsa dancing with her husband, baking, and sampling every type of coffee she can get her hands on.
Start your child on the path to academic success today
Give us a call at (616) 552-8179 or fill out the form to discuss your child’s learning goals.
