Meet Our Team

Kulvinder Griffin

Executive Director

Kulvinder Griffin received her Bachelor of Arts and Teaching Credential at Minot State University in Minot, North Dakota. She taught grades three through five before becoming a Reading Recovery teacher. Kulvinder has been with Sylvan for over fifteen years in the positions of Teacher, Test Administrator, Director of Education and Center Director in the Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, Claremont, Glendora and Chino centers. As the new owner of the Corona Center, Kulvinder is very excited to work with the students, parents, and the community. When not working, you will find Kulvinder trying to keep up with her two young sons Brycen and Shane.

Esmeralda Iribe

Director of Education

Esmeralda received her Bachelor’s of Science in Neuroscience from the University of California, Riverside in 2022. She has worked alongside Sylvan since 2019, starting as a Teaching Assistant and now as a Lead Teacher. She loves bringing some fun into learning for her students and getting to know all the families. When she’s not at Sylvan, you can find Esme reading, running, or finding new ways to entertain her two cats.

Maggie Cortez

Teacher's Assistant

Maggie enjoys getting to work at Sylvan everyday and  getting to meet new students. She also loves being able to interact with the kids and getting to know them as well. When she’s not working at Sylvan she is spending time with family or friends. She loves to go to the beach and enjoys listening to music.

Hasan Azam

INSTRUCTOR

Hasan received his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from California State University, Fullerton. He enjoys working with the students, getting to know them, and helping them learn. When he’s not in Sylvan, you can find Hasan reading or playing with his cat.

Thomas Gatewood

INSTRUCTOR

Thomas is currently working on his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics: Computer Science at UCSD. He believes that anyone is capable of learning and being good at mathematics, and enjoys showing students how it is important in our daily lives. When Thomas is not at Sylvan, they spend their time programming their own personal projects, or having fun with friends and family.

Samantha Cortes

INSTRUCTOR

Samantha received her Associate’s Degree in Social and Behavioral Studies and a Certificate in Assistant Teacher at Norco College. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Society, and Human Development at UC Riverside hopes to receive her teaching credentials after graduating. She has worked with Sylvan since 2022 and enjoys helping students with reading and writing the most. When Samantha isn’t at Sylvan, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family.

Brock is currently working towards his associates degree at Santiago Canyon College in Elementary Education and Liberal Arts for Transfer. Once he finishes, he will go for a bachelor’s degree at Cal State Fullerton for Education. He enjoys helping students learn and grow. When he is not at Sylvan he enjoys traveling, spending time with friends, and writing.