Hi, I’m DeAnna, Founder and Owner of Learning Linx, Inc. I’m an educator, children’s book author, ADHD Coach, Polyvagal Therapy Practitioner, and parent support advocate dedicated to helping students grow academically, emotionally, and confidently.

With a background in Public Health and Education, I specialize in supporting students in reading, phonics, math, writing, and executive function skills such as focus, organization, time management, and planning. I combine customized academic coaching with nervous-system-informed strategies to help students build confidence, emotional regulation, and independence.

My goal is to help every student understand how they learn best, strengthen their unique abilities, and develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life.

Hi! My name is Sarah Metze, and I am a compassionate occupational therapist who is passionate about helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in their daily lives. I focus on supporting children as they build independence, confidence, and meaningful participation at home, at school, and in their communities.

I believe therapy should be engaging, individualized, and built around each child’s unique strengths. I work closely with families to create supportive environments that make therapy fun, motivating, and meaningful for every child.

I have experience working in school settings supporting children with a variety of developmental needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, sensory processing differences, fine motor delays, dysgraphia, dyslexia, and visual-motor challenges.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being active outdoors, and trying new recipes.

Hi! I’m Gwen Sweeney, a speech-language pathologist who is passionate about helping children find their voice and build confidence in their communication skills. I enjoy creating fun, engaging therapy sessions while working closely with families and other professionals to support each child’s unique needs.

I have experience working with both children and adults with a variety of communication needs, including speech sound disorders, language delays, social communication challenges, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and learning differences.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going to the lake, working out, and watching Marvel movies. 😊

Hi! I’m Laine Sterbenz, a Northeastern Illinois University graduate majoring in Elementary Education, with endorsements in Middle School Math and Middle School Science.
I’m deeply committed to helping every child develop a love for learning and grow into a confident, lifelong learner.

I bring a strong academic foundation, along with hands-on experience in tutoring and education. My teaching style is student-centered, encouraging, and adaptable to individual learning needs. I believe in creating a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Certifications & Experience:
• ProfessionalTeaching License (K-5)
• Endorsements in Middle School Math & Science

• Experience with ADD/ADHD

Hello! My name is Jessica Tarullo, & I am excited to join the Learning Linx team. I have been an educator for 15 years, working across a variety of instructional environments. I began my professional journey by earning a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education in 2021. After taking time to focus on my family, I chose to further my expertise by earning a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction. I am also currently completing my Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) endorsement.

I believe students thrive through hands-on materials & engaging experiences. My teaching style is student-centered & encouraging, utilizing differentiated instruction to meet the unique learning needs of each child.

I have worked in diverse educational settings focusing on strengthening students' social and emotional skills. By integrating these lessons into everyday activities, I help children build the essential tools they need for lifelong success.

Hello! My name is Stephanie Helms, and I bring nearly 10 years of experience in education, working across elementary and middle school settings in both general and special education as an LBS1 teacher.

I earned my Master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Concordia University Chicago in 2024. I have experience co-teaching, providing small-group instruction, and supporting students with academic, behavioral, and executive functioning needs. I am also Orton-Gillingham trained, allowing me to deliver structured, multisensory instruction tailored to each student.

I am passionate about building strong relationships and creating a supportive, flexible learning environment where students can grow with confidence and achieve success.

Hi! My name is Alyssa Weldzius, and I’m a junior at Marquette University, majoring in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Dance. I am highly academically driven and passionate about helping students reach their full potential.

I have prior tutoring experience and have also taken child development courses, which have given me a strong understanding of how students learn best. My approach to tutoring is patient, personalized, and encouraging—I strive to make learning engaging and accessible for each student.

Certifications & Experience:
• CPR Certified
• General Education K-12
• Experience with ADD/ADHD