Meet Our Team

Adria Bondanza

Director

As the Owner and Director of Education, Adria leads the instructor training and instructional programs at Sylvan Learning of North Wilmington. Adria has a Bachelor’s degree from Millersville University in Biology Education, a Master’s in Education from Villanova University and completed coursework in Curriculum and Instruction at University of Massachusetts Lowell. A high school science teacher since 2001, Adria is excited for this new venture as a Sylvan franchise owner. “I have seen how students struggle in high school when they do not have the proper foundations in reading and math. I love that I have this opportunity to help students reach their potential and get the most out of their education. Education is everything!” Adria prides herself on her positive, can-do attitude and her ability to bring out the best in her students and staff. In her free time Adria enjoys traveling, attending plays and concerts, cooking, being outdoors, working out, and spending time with Michael and their dog Roxy and cat Holly. 

Michael Walters

Director

As the Owner and Center Director, Michael is in charge of all of the daily operations and working with our families at Sylvan Learning of North Wilmington. He helps to guide families in selecting the right program for their child, scheduling their sessions, and monitoring their progress. Michael previously served in the Navy submarine force and has worked in sales and management for over 20 years. Most importantly, Michael is a parent. His son Mac is currently attending University of Aberdeen in Scotland. Watching his son progress through his schooling, Michael has witnessed firsthand the value of education. “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” Michael prides himself on his resilience. After surviving an almost fatal car accident in 2022, Michael had to learn to walk again. The experience inspired him to make a positive change in his community by helping children to further their education. In his free time Michael enjoys traveling, reading, playing pool, and spending time with Adria, their dog Roxy and their cat Holly. 

Tasha Moore

Instructor

Miss Tasha has been teaching for over 20 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She currently works as a reading and math specialist at Carrcroft Elementary. Tasha loves helping students reach their highest potential. “It brings me great joy when a student learns something new or finally understands a skill that they haven’t been able to grasp.” Tasha prides herself on making her classroom fun and engaging for her students. In her free time she loves to travel and explore new places with her kids and dog. She also loves crafting and making things with her Cricut machine. 

Grace Keeley

Instructor

Miss Grace recently graduated from Immaculata University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education. She is continuing her education at Immaculata in the Educational Leadership graduate program, with a concentration in Social, Emotional, Behavioral, Wellness. Grace prides herself on her ability to adapt her teaching style to meet the diverse needs of her students. This ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive and to have fun while learning. “What I love the most about teaching is witnessing the ‘aha’ moments when students grasp new concepts and seeing them grow and succeed academically and personally.” In her free time she enjoys attending Phillies games and spending time at the beach with family and friends.

Derek Calabrese

Instructor

Mr. Derek recently began his teaching career. He graduated from St. Joseph’s University with degrees in Marketing & Data Analytics. After spending a year as a data analyst, he went back to school to become a teacher, earning a Master’s in Secondary Education from Cabrini University. “What I love most about teaching is the relationships between the students and I. It is a special feeling helping someone struggle through a tough problem and being there to assist every step of the way. The ‘lightbulb’ moments once a student masters the content is what keeps me going in education.” In his free time Derek enjoys listening to music and running. He prides himself on his mental toughness, which he gains from running and brings into the classroom.

Miss Alyssa has been teaching since 2019. She has a Bachelor’s degree from West Chester University in Elementary and Special Education. Currently she is earning her Master’s degree from LaSalle University in Elementary Education, with a focus on technology. Alyssa teaches 2nd Grade at Nether Providence Elementary. “I love seeing students have their “ah-ha moment” and begin to understand a skill.” She prides herself on incorporating her students’ interests into her lessons. It allows them to engage in the lesson and make connections. In her free time Alyssa loves to sing and spend time with her family and pets, Chase and Callie.

Mr. Eric is a proud Delawarean. He is a graduate of Mount Pleasant High School and received his Bachelor’s degree from University of Delaware. He went on to earn his Master’s degree from London School of Economics. He previously taught U.S. History, Civics, and World History at the high school and college levels. Eric enjoys developing connections with his students, teaching them innovative ideas and developing their critical thinking skills. “Most importantly, my goal is to further his students’ love of learning. Knowledge is power!” Eric prides himself on his commitment to his students’ success. In his free time, he enjoys following sports, going to movies and plays, and spending time with friends and family, especially his many nieces and nephews.