Pleasantville Business Spotlight: Sylvan Learning

PLEASANTVILLE, NY — Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that's the belief behind this Patch series — to shine the spotlight on local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Meet Natalie DiPaolo, who was a biology teacher in Yonkers but always dreamed about owning her own business. She opened a Sylvan Learning center in Pleasantville Dec. 9. She has plans to open three Sylvan Learning centers after getting this one off the ground.

Business: Sylvan Learning

Owner: Natalie DiPaolo

Address: 57 Wheeler Ave, Pleasantville

Patch: Why did you choose to go into the tutoring business?

DiPaolo: I am an educator at heart. I have been working with students for over 20 years. That passion started when I chose to become a tutor during my undergraduate years. I love working with individuals and small groups, so it was natural to couple that love with another, owning a business.

Patch: How does Sylvan Learning stand out?

DiPaolo: Sylvan is technologically advanced and provides individualized learning plans to meet each students’ needs. The method engages children and builds confidence. It has been proven to work.

Patch: Why did you choose Pleasantville?

DiPaolo: I chose Pleasantville because I am from Westchester, so I was excited about the opportunity to open a Sylvan in a location that is centrally located in the county. Pleasantville is a beautiful community! People are friendly and family-oriented. I love the feeling I get just walking down the street.

Patch: What's most important about the people you're hiring?

DiPaolo: I am looking for people who are patient with students, enthusiastic about teaching and, of course, are masters of their academic subjects.

Patch: What's different about students today from when you were teaching. What's the same?

DiPaolo: Today’s students use technology, such as smartphones and iPads daily. They are not passive learners. They prefer to engage with others and learn using these devices. However, students still have some of the same struggles in school, including struggles with math, reading, self-esteem, and concerns about getting into college and their future. We are here to support students to help alleviate some of these anxieties.

Patch: Where else are you looking for the future?

DiPaolo: I hope to bring our services to students in neighboring towns. All students can benefit from tutoring or enrichment programs.

Would you like to see your small business spotlighted in this series? Email lanning.taliaferro@patch.com