Meet Our Team

Deena Porter

Owner/Executive Director

I hold certifications in Elementary Education, Reading, and Science and earned a Master’s in Elementary Education with a Specialization in Reading from the University of Florida in 1997. From 1998 to 2008, I worked at Sylvan Learning in various roles, including Director of Education, Center Director, and District Manager. Afterward, I managed YoungBiz, teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship to teens and organizations, and gained 15 years of classroom experience. In 2022, my husband and I purchased this Sylvan location and we look forward to growing the Sylvan legacy!

Dr. Andrew Porter Ed.D.

Owner/Instructor

Director

My wife, Deena, and I purchased this Sylvan Learning franchise in 2022 with the goal of continuing the Sylvan tradition in Lakeland for another 30 years. I hold a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Florida Southern College, where I also teach as an adjunct instructor. With nearly 30 years of experience, I have taught English, Business, and Foreign Languages at both the high school and college levels.

Michelle Eddy

Director of Education

Director

I graduated from Southeastern University in 2006 with a B.S. in Elementary Education and have been with Sylvan for over 15 years. My favorite aspect of working at Sylvan is the personalized approach, getting to know each student and watching their confidence grow as they begin to succeed.

Jeff Eddy

Instructor

I have been teaching at Sylvan for three years, specializing in ACT/SAT courses as well as upper-level math. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter and volunteering at my church. In the classroom, I leverage my background in psychology to connect with my students and enhance their learning progress.

India Johnson

Instructor

I have been with Sylvan for over twenty years and have enjoyed every minute. Both of my children have been students at Sylvan and have benefited greatly from the guidance provided here. I have worked as an AP and IB Psychology teacher and currently work at a middle/high school.

Ray Thompson

Instructor

I have over 30 years of experience in education, having taught students from third grade through 11th grade. I renewed my undergraduate degree at Florida State University (FSU) and recently completed my Doctorate in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Assessment from the University of West Florida (UWF).

Margaret Stephens

Instructor

I taught math for 30 years, 29 of which were in Polk County. My experience is with grades 7-12 as well as a couple courses at Florida Southern College. During those years, I also tutored privately. Throughout my several careers, the driving force for me has been involvement and excellence to the best of my ability.

Gabrielle Nutt

Instructor

Hello, my name is Gabrielle. I am a recent graduate of the University of South Florida and plan to begin my master’s degree this fall. I am passionate about helping others learn.

Jennifer Smith

Instructor

Hello, my name is Miss Jennifer. I have been teaching for over 20 years and believe every child has the ability to learn. It is a privilege to help students reach their full academic potential and develop a joy for learning at Sylvan Learning Center.

Alyssia Godfrey

Instructor

Hello, my name is Alyssia. I have a passion for math and teaching, and I strive to make math fun and exciting. I am dedicated to helping students enjoy the learning process

Rebecca Moretta

Instructor

Hello, my name is Rebecca. I studied engineering and have been tutoring math for about two years. I am passionate about helping students grasp new mathematical concepts.

Tanya Williams

Instructor

Hello, my name is Tanya Williams. I have been teaching in the Hillsborough County School District for 21 years. I hold a master’s degree in Reading and English and am state-certified in Biology. I am passionate about student learning and helping them reach their full potential.

Katie Halfhil

Instructor

Hello, my name is Miss Katie. I have been a primary teacher in Polk County for six years and have thoroughly enjoyed every moment. I am excited to work with your student to help them achieve their academic goals!

Mary Ann Baker

Instructor

My name is Mary Ann, and I am a retired Polk County teacher with years of experience in elementary education before transitioning to a school-based reading coach. I cherish the opportunity to work one-on-one or in small groups, providing individualized instruction. I love reading and am excited to continue fostering a love of reading in the next generation.