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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Holly brings a passion for literacy, learning, and student growth to her role at Connections Learning Lab. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Language Arts and spent seven years as an elementary school teacher, where she developed a strong foundation in supporting students across all learning styles. Holly also served for one year as a Reading Specialist, helping students strengthen their confidence and skills in reading and comprehension.
Outside of the classroom, Holly is the proud mother of three children who are all actively involved in sports. Her experiences as both an educator and a parent fuel her dedication to creating supportive, engaging environments where students feel encouraged to grow, take risks, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Holly is passionate about helping every learner reach their potential and believes that strong relationships, encouragement, and curiosity are the keys to meaningful education.
Nathan is a student at Auburn University studying Finance. He loves working with kids and helping them learn and grow. During high school, he had the opportunity to serve as a teacher’s aide at Miracle Academy, where he gained experience mentoring young kids with special needs. In his free time, he enjoys playing baseball, learning guitar, and spending time with friends and family. He’s excited to be part of the summer program and can’t wait to have a fun and great summer with everyone!
My name is Shannon Blaeske. I am a 39 year old mother of three; I have 18-year-old twin boys who just graduated from Athens High School, and an almost 16-year-old daughter who has Down syndrome. For the past 5 years, I have worked as a paraeducator for the Troy School District in an ASD Level IV program, and prior to that I worked behind the chair as a licensed cosmetologist for 17 years. I am currently working on my Bachelors in Special Education at Alma College. I absolutely love working with children and am excited to join the CLL for this summer program!