Meet our Kansas City Tutoring Staff

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Great Teachers Inspire

Our tutors and staff in Kansas City North consist of passionate educators who love inspiring children to succeed. Warm, caring and great at relating to kids, our tutors in Kansas City 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 Kansas City North!

  • Barbara Nickless, Center Director

    Barbara Nickless

    Center Director

    Barbara joined Sylvan in 2004 as Director of Education, and transitioned to Center Director in 2014. As Center Director, Barbara wears many hats to ensure our families receive the best educational support. A former teacher, Barbara chose a career in the tutoring business because connections with students and families are greater. Her greatest joy is seeing each child reach his/her goals. Barbara earned her Bachelor's of Education, Elementary and Middle School Mathematics, at Northwest Missouri State University. When Barbara isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her enjoying walks with her dog, watching classic films or Netflix, checking out local restaurants and spending time with friends and family.
  • Karen, Instructor

    Karen

    Instructor

    Karen is a retired special education/elementary education teacher in Kansas City, MO with a gift for working with kids. While Karen has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in Reading and Math tutoring. She studied at Adams State University in Colorado. When Karen isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her  spending time with family, gardening and reading.
  • Theresa, Lead Math Tutor

    Theresa

    Lead Math Tutor

    Theresa has taught middle and high school students for over 20 years, and currently teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry in Hickman Mills. At Sylvan, Theresa has a gift for working with kids of all ages teaching Academic Reading, Math Essentials, Homework Support, and ACT Prep. While Theresa has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in tutoring students in math. Theresa earned her undergrad from Missouri Western State College (now University) and completed graduate work through William Woods. When Theresa isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her watching Netflix, playing with her dogs, or floating in her saltwater pool during those lazy summer days.