👋 Meet the MFM Team

Structured Math Specialists

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Our educators go through specialized training to truly understand and support students with learning differences like dyscalculia. At the heart of their training is the Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) framework, which helps bring math to life through hands-on, visual, and meaningful learning—whether students are building early number sense or tackling concepts like decimals and integers.

Beyond theory, every educator practices what they learn through hands-on teaching models, job shadowing, and a guided mentorship process to ensure they feel confident and prepared with real students.

With ongoing coaching and training in the needs of students with dyscalculia and other learning differences, our team is constantly growing and refining their craft. The result? Educators who know how to meet students where they are, make learning engaging, and create those “aha!” moments that build lasting confidence.

Ria Belia

Ria Belia

Math Specialist

Mom and Cheerleader turning “I Can’t” into “I Got This!”

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Ria is a licensed educator with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education with a major in Mathematics. Her passion for numbers began early and was further strengthened by a remarkable school teacher who showed her that even the most complex problems could be broken down into simpler, more manageable steps.

With a solid foundation in math education, Ria is committed to helping learners grow confidence, logical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for learning. She is known for creating fun and lively classes that keep students engaged, motivated, and excited to learn. Ria strives to make math accessible by providing clear explanations, real-life applications, and supportive guidance tailored to each student.

During her leisure time, Ria is a dedicated mom of one. She spends her free time nurturing her little angel with cuddles, play, and interactive learning essential for early growth and development. If time allows, Ria also enjoys exploring educational content and finding creative ways to blend motherhood with her passion for teaching.

Driven, compassionate, and always eager to learn, Ria aims to continue growing as an educator—empowering all students to discover their potential, develop a love for learning, and achieve meaningful progress in both academic and personal pursuits.

Codi Chua

Codi Chua

Math Specialist

Professional baker of cookies and confidence.

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Codi is an educator who truly loves what she does. With more than eleven years of experience teaching preschool and first grade, she has a gift for meeting children where they are and helping them feel safe, supported, and capable.

Codi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and has spent her career helping young learners build confidence and develop a love of learning. Whether she is introducing a new concept, celebrating a student’s success, or helping a child work through a challenge, she brings patience, encouragement, and genuine care to every interaction.

As a homeschooling mom of three, Codi’s passion for education extends far beyond the classroom. She understands firsthand the joys and challenges of supporting children’s unique learning journeys. Two of her children have developed a love for piano and violin, reflecting the curiosity, perseverance, and enthusiasm for learning that she encourages every day.

When she’s not teaching, Codi enjoys baking, crafting, and spending time with her family. She believes that growth happens when children are given the opportunity to explore, create, and build confidence at their own pace.

Codi is passionate about helping students discover that they are capable learners and that with the right support, every child can thrive.

Pam Daniel

Pam Daniel

Math Specialist

Reigning champion of all-you-can-eat chips & dips.

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After a 20-year career in engineering, Pam’s love for her godson, two beautiful nieces, and her desire to see them succeed academically with their unique learning needs led her to search for a fresh approach to teaching. She received training in a therapeutic, structured Orton-Gillingham-based curriculum for teaching phonics to students with dyslexia. After working with dyslexic students for years, she decided to focus on her love of math and become a dyscalculia specialist.

When she isn’t working, she loves listening to podcasts and audiobooks, especially autobiographies highlighting triumph over adversity. If the weather is nice, she enjoys being outside and going to the lake and beach.

Pam believes everyone can learn math, have fun, and build confidence when afforded a safe, relaxing, and fun space. She can’t wait to work with parents and their children to help them succeed in math and build confidence while having tons of fun!

Erin Evans

Erin Evans

Training Manager

Aspiring Cat Lady. Believes math is meow-gical!

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Erin is a licensed kindergarten through eighth-grade teacher. Between her time in a brick-and-mortar classroom and online teaching, she has over a decade of experience teaching.

Some of Erin’s favorite things include adventurous backpacking trips, evening walks with her family, long naps with her cats, board game parties (with snacks of course), and all things music.

It’s Erin’s goal to help students take pride in their educational accomplishments to foster an enthusiasm for learning. She has witnessed many students use this as a springboard to reach new heights.

While this doesn’t come without challenges along the way, Erin will be there to help students strap on their thinking caps, chinch up their tool belts, and face obstacles head-on.

Nicole Grambo

Nicole Grambo

Math Specialist

Cats, plants, & chilling with her Meeples

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As an educator with over a decade of experience teaching elementary and middle school students, Nicole is deeply passionate about making learning accessible for every learner—especially those who learn differently. She holds a B.A. in Spanish and a Master’s in Teaching in Elementary Education, with specializations in Multilingual Learners and Bilingual Education. Her teaching journey began in a Title I Spanish-English Dual Language program, where she discovered her love for supporting diverse learners through creativity and connection.

Nicole’s commitment to students with learning differences is deeply personal: dyslexia runs in her family, which inspired her to specialize in multisensory structured literacy interventions. After seeing how these methods transformed her students’ confidence and skills in reading, she asked a critical question: “How can we use the same powerful principles to teach math?” This led her to focus on systematic strategies tailored for students with dyslexia and dyscalculia, helping them thrive in math through hands-on and visual approaches. Nicole believes that strong relationships are the foundation of learning and guides her students and families with patience and commitment. Nicole is ready to celebrate EVERY educational moment with her students and make sure they know she is their biggest cheerleader.

When she’s not in the classroom, Nicole enjoys strategic board games like Splendor, Dominion, and Orleans or exploring Washington’s hidden gems on road trips with her husband. Together, they share their home with four cats, a couch perpetually covered in fur—and plenty of joy!

Sean Hammond

Sean Hammond

Math Specialist

School of Rock

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Sean is a dedicated educator with a passion for helping students build confidence and achieve success in mathematics. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Boise State University, he began his teaching career and has spent more than 14 years working with students in a variety of educational settings.

Throughout his career, Sean has taught in middle schools, high schools, alternative education programs, and virtual learning environments. These diverse experiences have given him a deep understanding of the unique challenges students face and the importance of adapting instruction to meet individual learning needs. He believes that every student is capable of success when provided with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities to develop their understanding.

With a strong mathematical background and years of classroom experience, Sean enjoys helping students make sense of complex concepts and discover that they are capable learners. He is committed to creating a positive learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their educational goals.

When Sean isn’t puzzling over an equation, he enjoys spending time with his wife, their two Dobermans, and their pineapple green-cheeked conure. He is also a musician who enjoys playing both the drums and guitar, bringing the same creativity and dedication to music that he brings to teaching.

Enjoy Jimenez

Enjoy Jimenez

Math Specialist

Nature Lover and Movie Enthusiast

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Enjoy has always been deeply passionate about teaching mathematics, driven by her love for solving problems and helping others see the beauty in numbers. She believes math should be an empowering experience for all, including students with unique learning needs. Enjoy takes pride in creating patient, creative, and personalized teaching strategies to help learners gain confidence and develop a genuine love for learning.

A proud holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, majoring in Mathematics, Enjoy is a licensed teacher with over 12 years of classroom experience. Her journey includes coaching students in local and international math competitions, and celebrating their achievements as they brought home medals.

Beyond the classroom, Enjoy cherishes spending quality time with her family, exploring nature, indulging in her love for watching movies, and exploring innovative teaching techniques to continually enhance her craft. She is thrilled to be part of MFM and is ready to inspire students to excel and embrace the exciting world of mathematics.

Janae Korfanta

Janae Korfanta

Math Specialist and Coach

Chilling with my Gnomies

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Janae’s love of teaching began in early childhood when she would play “school” with her younger sister. As she grew up, she learned that teaching was not just bossing her sister around and putting stickers on paper, but helping others learn. Janae enjoys helping others learn so much that she has also worked as an instructional coach for teachers so they could better support their students. Janae’s goal is to help as many people as possible become flexible problem solvers who can tackle any obstacle that comes their way.

Janae has two bachelor’s degrees, one in Business Economics (she briefly thought she might do something besides teaching and quickly realized how silly that was) and one in Secondary Mathematics Education. She also has a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

When Janae is not thinking about education—which is not a lot of the time—you can find her cuddling with her two perfect dogs, leading a garden gnome society, or playing all kinds of games with her husband, family, and friends.

Deb Lawson

Deb Lawson

Math Specialist

Math Cheerleader: Like a teacher, but way cooler.

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Deb has been working with students for over 20 years and is ready to help you flip your mindset and soar to new heights. Think of her as a math cheerleader and magical problem-solver rolled into one. Deb holds a master’s degree in education and has additional training and experience in helping students who learn differently, both in the homeschool setting and in the public school system.

Deb thinks math should feel like a sport—fast-paced, hands-on, and sometimes a little crazy. Deb is all about making learning a blast with games, challenges, and real-life math that actually makes sense. In her class, there is no sitting on the sidelines—everyone is in the game, taking risks, and going for the win!

When Deb is not teaching math, she is coaching competitive gymnastics, literally making kids flip, twist, and fly. Deb knows that in both math and gymnastics, there will be wipeouts and wild moves, but that is where the real magic happens. Deb is also obsessed with her dog, bunnies, snakes, and all things Harry Potter. Don’t be surprised if she sneaks a little magic into math class.

Lisa Pedersen

Lisa Pedersen

Math Specialist and Coach

The Gardening Grandma

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For more than 20 years, Lisa has worn many hats in education—teacher, instructional coach, and administrator—but her favorite role has always been helping students discover that they can do hard things. She loves the spark that appears when confusion turns into understanding and a student’s confidence begins to grow. Those “aha!” moments never get old.

Lisa believes math is more than numbers and formulas; it’s a puzzle waiting to be solved, a pattern waiting to be discovered, and sometimes even a little bit of magic. She is passionate about helping students find joy and success in math through creative, engaging, and individualized learning experiences. Her goal is to make math feel less intimidating, more accessible, and maybe even fun along the way.

When she’s not celebrating math victories, you’ll likely find Lisa tending her garden, where she enjoys talking to her vegetables and encouraging them to grow. She also loves traveling with her husband of over 30 years, seeking out new adventures and creating favorite memories together. Lisa is the proud mother of two grown daughters and a delighted grandparent to one very special granddaughter, who is the sunshine in her world and keeps her smiling every day.

Whether she’s nurturing a garden or a student’s confidence, Lisa believes growth happens best with patience, encouragement, and a touch of wonder.

Juliette Pia

Juliette Pia

Math Specialist

Growing vegetables, flowers, and knowledge.

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Juliette is a certified K-8 educator with a Master’s degree in Teaching and over a decade of experience spanning both traditional classrooms and specialized online instruction. Juliette believes in building relationships with students that cater to individual learning needs and goals. She also enjoys participating in and celebrating her students’ growth on their academic journey.

In her spare time, Juliette is a true “maker” who loves painting, redecorating, and experimenting with home improvement projects (though she’ll be the first to tell you she isn’t a licensed plumber just yet!).

Whether she is trying a new recipe in her Instant Pot, caring for her many plants, or hiking outside regardless of the weather, Juliette brings a spirit of curiosity and persistence to everything she does. She looks forward to partnering with your student to celebrate their milestones and navigate their unique academic journey with confidence.

April Riley

April Riley

Math Specialist

Thinking outside the box, because the cat is already in it.

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April has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and master’s degrees in teaching and data science, and has spent her career supporting diverse learners to take on challenges and turn them to lightbulb moments. April has taught math at the middle and high school levels and homeschooled her own two children, giving her deep insight into personalized learning. Now that her children are grown, April is excited to bring her experience and compassion to students who would benefit from individualized help and encouragement.

When April is not teaching, she enjoys many artistic and creative endeavors, including playing music and learning new instruments. Her four cats ensure there is never a dull moment, occasionally “assisting” at the piano or redecorating the art studio. April especially loves Beethoven’s classical masterpieces and all things Taylor Swift.

April believes that math is for everyone and that there is more than one way to solve every problem.

Archna Vahie

Archna Vahie

Math Specialist

Weekend plans consist of a new dish, a little sketch, and a hint of dancing.

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Archna earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees in business and a PhD in marketing—but her heart quickly led her beyond the university classroom and into working more closely with students. After teaching as an adjunct professor, she transitioned to a high school setting and eventually realized she loved teaching young “adults”. Archna moved to a school dedicated to teaching students with learning differences, where she developed a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of neurodivergent minds.

Archna believes math doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—it can be approachable and fun! She presumes competence and that each student learns at their own pace, and there’s no ‘one glove/box fits all’. Plus, she strives to make each of her students feel more confident in their math ability and skills. Archna loves the challenge and joy of figuring out how each student learns best and helping them experience those powerful “aha” moments.

Outside of her work with students, Archna is a preacher, a role she relishes and embraces wholeheartedly. In her pastime, Archna likes sketching while listening to music, trying to dance to melodious Bollywood tunes, or spending time with her husband, their son, and two dogs. Archna also enjoys exploring recipes from various cuisines and trying out her culinary creations on her family. Having grown up in India, her favorite vacations are often with family in India or in the mountains.

Nichole Van Soest

Nichole Van Soest

Math Specialist and Coach

Wanna take a trip? Already packed!

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Nichole is a certified middle-grades math teacher with dual Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Applied Critical Thought and Inquiry. Nichole’s passion is empowering students to achieve their academic goals through cultivating an unparalleled learning experience centered around the “whole” child. Nichole has served as a mentor teacher, lead teacher and is a former Boselli Teacher fellow expanding her skillset with equity in education, student-centered instruction and educational leadership.

Nichole has spent over 10 years teaching and tutoring neurodivergent children combined with over five years of classroom teaching experience both in person and remotely. Nichole believes in instilling confidence in her students through creating a learning community where students feel welcomed and important. Nichole’s goal is to equip your student with pride, skill, and enthusiasm towards mathematics by expanding their learning toolkit!

Outside of the classroom, Nichole loves to do any and all kinds of crafts. She was a collegiate golfer and continues to love the sport. Nichole enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and experiencing all the world has to offer!

Nichole is SO excited to support your student in their educational journey!

Arlene Yeagley

Arlene Yeagley

Math Specialist

Pickleball and Game Board Champion

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Arlene has always had a passion for teaching and helping others reach their full potential. As a champion for students who learn differently, she enjoys finding the approaches that work best for each individual and empowering them with the tools they need to succeed.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Biology and Natural Sciences. Throughout her career, she has taught students of all ages, from kindergarten through high school, as well as adult learners. With more than 10 years of professional teaching and tutoring experience, primarily at the elementary level, Arlene has developed a deep appreciation for the role math plays in everyday life. She believes math is a great equalizer—an essential skill that touches nearly everything we do, often without us even realizing it.

Arlene and her husband have raised four children and have experienced a wide range of learning needs within their own family, from disabilities to giftedness and everything in between. These experiences have strengthened her belief that every child can thrive when given the right support and opportunities.

When she’s not teaching, Arlene enjoys spending time with her family in the great outdoors, playing pickleball, and gathering around the table for board games.

Arlene lives by the mantra, “Joy in the Journey.” No matter what challenges life brings, she believes there is always joy to be found. She strives to bring that same spirit to her teaching, helping students discover that learning—and math—can be both meaningful and fun.

Administrative Team

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Heather Brand

Heather Brand

Director of Instructional Strategy

Strong Game Board Contender

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Heather is a licensed educator with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She first trained as a reading interventionist to better reach students with dyslexia. Heather then went looking for training on multi-sensory techniques for math and found MFM and fell in love.

Heather has worked in a variety of educational settings with students from K – 12. She has a passion for teaching students who learn differently, especially for twice-exceptional students. Their giftedness and areas of disability make for very unique learning needs.

Heather’s goal is to teach students foundational skills that allow them to understand math processes and become more efficient mathematicians. Heather’s students learn that mistakes are part of the learning process. But most of all, she wants her students to love and appreciate math.

Jennie Boitano

Jennie Boitano

Marketing & Customer Service Representative

Concert and everything bagel enthusiast.

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Jennie loves helping parents and teachers access the latest research in the math education community through monthly newsletters, blog posts, and social media.

Jennie attended Arizona State University and graduated with honors in Psychology and Communication in 2020. She’s a lifelong learner and always on the lookout for her next great read!

Jennie is always open to the next adventure and continuously searching for meaningful connections! Her husband and their English Pointer are her two best friends. When she isn’t scaling the side of a mountain, you can find her at the nearest Twenty One Pilots or Taylor Swift concert.

Rachel Bonell

Rachel Bonell

Customer Service Representative

Found frolicking with felines in forests.

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Rachel enjoys helping families find resources that can help them feel empowered and confident. Her experience of homeschooling her daughter (now attending college) has given her an understanding of both brick-and-mortar and homeschool environments. Rachel is dedicated to finding the perfect Math Specialist match for you and your child!

When Rachel isn’t cat-wrangling, she can be found wandering through forests with her bird-watching binoculars. She loves spending time with her family, especially when it involves the outdoors.

Rachel understands first-hand the journey of navigating mathematics for students with learning differences. She can’t wait to discuss the strengths of Structured Math with parents and to help students get set for their Made for Math journey!

Adrianne Meldrum

Adrianne Meldrum

Founder & CEO

Powered by sunshine, creativity, and walks with Roxy

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Adrianne is the Founder and CEO of MFM. She is a certified teacher with over a decade of experience tutoring middle and high school students in math. She received training from ASDEC.org in Multisensory Math 1 & 2.

With her many years as a tutor and owner of MFM, Adrianne has seen up close how using multisensory math techniques with students leads to more confidence, higher grades, but also a rooted understanding of how math works.

Adrianne’s goal is to bring multisensory math to as many students as possible. To help those who learn differently to have success in the classroom and in life.

Brailee Saunders

Brailee Saunders

Operations Manager

The road to her heart is filled with animals

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Brailee is a licensed science teacher for 6th-8th grade integrated science and Earth Science. She taught for 4 years in public schools before seeking a Masters degree. Brailee loves learning, and now, with her schooling behind her, she seeks to help others learn and grow too.

Brailee enjoys hiking, riding ATV’s, snowmobiling, video games, and is an avid reader of fantasy and mystery novels. Brailee’s life goal is to save all the animals, and volunteers/fosters for her local rescue groups while caring for her own miniature zoo. Although Brailee loves four legged creatures, she loves helping growing humans learn and reach new heights. She loves bringing joy to those around her and teaching is one way she spreads the love. Brailee celebrates each mistake as an opportunity to learn and looks forward to helping her students face the challenges that come their way.

Heather Young

Heather Young

Billing & Fulfillment

Loves the chocolately things of life

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Born and raised in a small farming community in Utah taught Heather hard work, and gave her the love of the outdoors. She attended Utah State for awhile, then received her Dental Assisting Certificate.

After starting her family, she has been a stay at home mom. She is a wife of the best firefighter and the mother of 4 beautiful girls. When she isn’t supporting them in concerts and sporting events, she likes to organize, cook, decorate and make crafts for her home. She enjoys fun outings with her family and loves to serve others through her church and community.