About Us

Connections Learning Lab offers a nurturing and personalized learning environment for children aged 5-12 located in Sterling Heights, MI. We believe in tailoring education to each child’s individual needs, fostering a love of learning in a small, supportive setting.

Cll Students And Teachers

Our Mission

Our community organization provides an innovative educational experience through small group instruction and individualized learning programs. We empower children of all abilities while providing support to the educational and social needs of a lifelong learner.

Our Vision

We are dedicated to fostering a community that celebrates diverse ways of learning, thinking, and growing with the whole child approach. Ensuring that every learner feels valued, supported and equipped with the skills needed to succeed.

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Meet our team

We’re proud to showcase our dedicated educators, including our two passionate founders who lead with experience and vision. Alongside them, our talented teachers and tutors are committed to nurturing each child’s growth and curiosity. Together, our team creates a supportive and inspiring learning environment where every child can thrive.

Katie Teal Headshot

Mrs. Katie Teal

Co-founder and Teacher

Mrs. Katie holds a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Wayne State University and brings over 9 years of experience working in school settings. After exploring alternative education in 2021, she helped co-found Connections Learning Lab with a vision of meeting children where they are academically and helping them grow with confidence.

At CLL, Mrs. Katie teaches both math and phonics instruction, supporting students in building strong foundational skills in numeracy and literacy. She is passionate about helping children of all abilities reach their goals and believes deeply in empowering students to use their voice and advocate for themselves.

She currently resides in Hazel Park with her husband Ian, their dog Kaya, cat Sam, and four chickens!

Amie Oliveira Headshot

Mrs. Amie Oliveira

Co-founder and Teacher

Mrs. Amie is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with degrees in Elementary Education and Physical Education. She has over 11 years of experience teaching children of all abilities and is passionate about educating the whole child.

At Connections Learning Lab, Mrs. Amie teaches both math and phonics instruction, helping students strengthen their foundational literacy and numeracy skills through structured, research-based practices. With a strong passion for literacy and the Science of Reading, she loves guiding children toward confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Mrs. Amie resides in Troy with her husband Phil, their three children, and their two adorable dogs.

Allison Decapite Headshot

Mrs. Allison

Teacher

Mrs. Allison is a dedicated and experienced educator who brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our team. She graduated from Miami University (Ohio) with a degree in Elementary Education and also holds a degree as a Physical Assistant, specializing in pediatrics, from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center.

Mrs. Allison has taught internationally in Germany and South Korea and brings a global perspective to her classroom. At Connections Learning Lab, she teaches both math and phonics instruction, supporting students as they build strong academic foundations in both literacy and problem-solving.

She is excited to share her love of learning and discovery with the children at Connections Learning Lab.

Victoria

Miss Victoria

Tutor

Miss Victoria has been an educator for 8 years, graduating from Lee University in Tennessee. She has worked with students in grades k-8 and currently is a early-childhood special education teacher. Miss Victoria loves using hands-on learning with her students. She has a dog named Theo and loves spoiling her nephew!

Lindsey

Miss Lindsey

Tutor

Miss Lindsey has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan University, and brings hands-on experience from student teaching at Wass Elementary right here in Troy. Following her student teaching, she served as a dedicated Title One Teacher at Wass for several years, honing on skills in individualized instruction. Currently she works as a Secretary to the Assistant Principal at Smith Middle School in Troy , where she has been blessed to work at for the last 7 years. Miss Lindsey has two daughters and is a Troy resident!