Meet our Manhattan Tutoring Staff

Great Teachers Inspire

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

James Niederlander

Lead Sylvan Certified Teacher - Upper Level Math

James is a math tutor in Manhattan, KS with a gift for working with kids. While James has many tutoring talents, he finds the greatest joy in Advanced math tutoring. He is pursuing his PhD. in Math at Kansas State University. When James isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him solving puzzles and reading.
Kirstin Palermo

Director of Educational Operations

Kirstin leads Sylvan Learning of NE Kansas in implementing educational operations and ensuring the academic growth of every student. Previously the Director of Education at Overland Park Sylvan, Center Director of preschools in Johnson Co, Ks, and former teacher in Wichita Public Schools, Kirstin brings a wealth of knowledge to Sylvan. She graduated from Wichita State University in Wichita, KS with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and obtained her Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Emporia State University. When Kirstin isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her daughter and family, camping, and scrapbooking.
Taylor H.

Lead Certified Teacher

Taylor is a teacher in Manhattan, KS with a gift for working with kids. While Taylor has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in phonics and beginning reading tutoring. She studied at K state earning a Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis in English. Her favorite thing about Sylvan is how Sylvan can be more one on one with kids because of how small sessions are, you can really get to know a child. When Taylor isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her reading, being with friends and family and spending time with her dog, Moose!
Vijayalakshmi (Viji) P.

Upper Level Math Tutor

Viji is a teacher in Manhattan, KS with a gift for working with kids. While Viji has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in mathematics tutoring. She worked at Shenzhen University in China and completed her doctorate in mathematics from a University in India. Her favorite thing about Sylvan is that they teach kids with care so they feel more homely environment and have a comfortable zone. When Viji isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her playing with her kid, cooking and spending time with friends.