Meet our Schererville Tutoring Staff

Welcome to Sylvan Learning Center! My name is Kent Kolbow, and I am the owner and one of the directors. I received my college education in Fort Wayne, Indiana. During my educational experience, I completed a bachelor's degree in Math with a strong background in Physics, Chemistry, and Psychology. I also earned an endorsement in education. During college, I taught at Sylvan Learning centers in Fort Wayne, and within a few years, became the Director. In 1997, I decided to purchase the Sylvan centers in Elkhart and Mishawaka. I have since had the opportunity to purchase nine additional centers in Indiana. My goal through working with Sylvan is “Success with Every Student.” 

As Executive Director, Sarah oversees Indiana centers in Mishawaka, Elkhart, Merrillville, Schererville, Valparaiso, Fishers, Carmel, West Indianapolis, South Indianapolis, Fort Wayne North, and Fort Wayne South, and the center in Clermont, Florida. She thoroughly enjoys working with all of the students and their families. Sarah studied at Cedarville University.  When Sarah isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her spending time with her husband and her two beautiful daughters.

As Senior Director, Jen DiTola leads the Sales Team for our Sylvan Franchise since 2009. A former Finance Director, Jen chose a career in the tutoring business because she believes in the Sylvan values and making a difference every day for our families. She studied Business at Valparaiso University. When Jen isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family, traveling for sports, and watching the Hallmark Channel.

As the Director of Operations, Stephenie leads Operations for Sylvan of Schererville. A former General Manager, Stephenie chose a career in the tutoring business because she wanted to combine her love of education and desire to help families find the best fit for additional support outside the classroom. She studied at Purdue University Calumet to earn her Bachelor's in Elementary Education. When Stephenie isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her chasing her two young boys.

Erin is a First Grade Teacher in the Munster School District with a gift for working with kids.  While Erin has many tutoring talents, she finds her greatest joy in Early Literacy.  She earned her Bachelor's Degree from Purdue University in Elementary Education.  When Erin is not at Sylvan, you will find her reading a science fiction novel, enjoying time in her bowling league, and discovering new, innovative teaching strategies. 

Nora is a retired Illinois junior high teacher with a gift for teaching and growing our students. She has been a valued director and teacher with the Sylvan family since 1995. While Nora has many teaching talents, she finds the greatest joy in tutoring math (algebra and geometry) and preparing students for the ACT/SAT, but she is also an amazing English/Reading teacher. She studied at the University of Illinois. When Nora isn't at Sylvan, you'll find her reading, enjoying concerts, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family, especially her granddaughters.

Sue is a professor at Grand Canyon University in their Master's Program.  While Sue has many talents, she finds her greatest joy in teaching ELA.  Sue earned her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees from Ball State University as an Elementary and Early Childhood Education and Reading Specialist.  She went on to earn her Ph.D. from Capella University in Teaching. When Sue is not at Sylvan, you will find her traveling, visiting her grandchildren, or grading papers. 

Cindy is a 2nd Grade teacher for the School City of Hammond.  She has been with the Sylvan family since October of 2018.  While Cindy has many tutoring talents, she finds her greatest joy in reading.  She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Purdue University.  When Cindy is not at Sylvan, you will find her spending time with her family, cooking and baking, and going to concerts or ball games. 

Theresa is a teacher in Schererville, IN.  While Theresa has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in teaching elementary reading and math. Theresa earned her Bachelor's Degree from Aquinas College in Group Science for elementary education and Early Childhood Education.  She went on to receive her Master's Degree from Grand Valley State University in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.  When Theresa is not at Sylvan, you will find her watching Law & Order, shopping, spending time with her family and boyfriend in Michigan, playing the violin, or camping in a tent.

Keelie is a high school math teacher in Schererville, IN.  While Keelie has many tutoring talents, she finds her greatest joy in teaching Math.  She received her Bachelor's Degree from Cal State University - Long Beach and is pursuing her Master's Degree in Secondary Education from Ball State University.  When Keelie is not at Sylvan, you will find her watching movies, exercising, or spending time with family and friends.

Lauren is a Developmental Therapist in Illinois with a gift for working with kids.  While Lauren has many tutoring talents, she finds the greatest joy in Math tutoring.  She earned her Bachelor's Degree in combined Elementary Education and Special Education from Lewis University.  She then earned her Master's Degree in Special Education Teaching from St. Xavier. When Lauren is not at Sylvan, you will find her working her other jobs and being lazy with her cats.