Erica Wahlgren
Director
The team makes all the difference.
Every instructor comes to us with strong credentials. What sets ours apart is how they connect with children and how well they understand the way learning actually works. Training is extensive, and each instructor is taught to be an expert who can adjust a session in real time.
Leadership
Sydney Burns
Founder
- M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Literacy specialist for over 10 years
“I believe every child deserves instruction that fits who they are. I created Arcadia as an environment built entirely around what children need to thrive as readers and learners, and I personally hand-pick and train every member of the team.”
Syd Doest
Assistant Director, Program Coordinator
- B.A. Behavioral Health Sciences
- Trained in LiPS, Seeing Stars, Visualizing & Verbalizing
- Trained Executive Function coach
- Certified in Zoo-phonics
“I love to incorporate my students' special interests into their sessions, creating a low-stakes environment that reduces stress and amplifies productivity. The goal is for each of my students to find a little joy in the midst of our work and to build confidence.”
Elizabeth Michel
Program Coordinator
Jenna Burch
Program Coordinator
Instructors
Every child works with a small team of instructors, not one tutor alone.
Adelo CampoInstructor
Ben HarwoodInstructor
Brittany LundbergInstructorBrooklyn BondInstructor
Eden EllisInstructorErin MalesInstructor
Grayce DusharmInstructor
Haylee ReedInstructor
Jacoby RandolphInstructor
Jules SchumanInstructor
Kara GillipsieInstructorMichaela BrennanInstructor
From the founder
I believe every child deserves instruction that fits who they are. That's why I value tailoring learning to each individual, adapting to different styles, personalities, and needs, so kids can not only grow but also enjoy the process. With an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I've developed a deep understanding of how children learn, think, and connect.
I created Arcadia Literacy & Learning as an environment built entirely around what children need to thrive as readers and learners. For over ten years I've worked with kids in reading, and my love for it has only grown stronger with time. I personally hand-pick and train every member of my team to ensure they share the values that guide me: putting the individual child first, seeking a deep understanding of behavior and development, and creating an environment where learning feels both safe and empowering.
Sydney Burns, Founder
Talk with our team
Tell us about your child and a program coordinator will get back to you. No pressure, just a conversation.