Think differently. Learn differently. Teach differently.

An individualized, research-based, collaborative approach to education.

Our Team

Elyse Loudenbarger

In the field of education since 2010, Elyse has experience in the public, private, and homeschool environments. She understands learning differences from a personal, parent, and educator perspective. Now, with The Umbrella Classroom, she is cultivating a space to serve families of students who think and learn differently. 

Group Founder & Dyslexia Therapist

Sarah Burns

As a Reading Interventionist and Special Education teacher, Sarah’s passion lies in supporting all students - especially those with diverse learning needs - through evidence-based instruction and a nurturing, student-centered approach. She is deeply committed to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where every child fells valued and empowered to thrive. 

Dyslexia Therapist
Dyslexia Therapist

Lori Thomassy

With a strong background in evidence-based research and individualized care, Lori’s approach is to meet you and your child exactly where you are. She is dedicated to working closely with families, focusing on the whole child while setting and achieving meaningful goals. Her vision is to empower children and families on their reading journey, fostering confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Special Education Consultant & Tutor

Maria Sardis

With real-world experience leading Learning Support teams in the public school system, Maria is skilled at helping families navigate IEP meetings, 504 plans, and collaborating with stakeholders. She is experienced in supporting struggling students and helping them meet grade-level standards.

Learn More About The Umbrella Classroom

  • Mission & Vision

    Our mission is to equip students and their families with the skills needed to learn and grow academically through research-based interventions, strategies, and approaches. Our vision is to support the whole child and the whole family by creating a supportive learning environment and a sense of community through our shared experiences.

  • Inspiration

    One afternoon as Elyse’s kids played in the rain, she noticed one of her boys holding his umbrella in an unconventional way. Instead of holding it by the handle, he was walking around with it upside down. When she asked him what he was doing, he said he was trying to “catch the rain”.

    She couldn’t help but think of the metaphor between the upside down umbrella and students who learn differently. They often stand out in a crowd, they have a unique approach to life, and they hold unexpected blessings.

  • Core Beliefs

    Our core belief is that all children can learn. Our aim is to see children through a strengths-based lens rather than seeing deficits first. We base this on Psalm 139:14 which says, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

    We also believe that learning differences are a natural part of the human experience, as all brains are wired differently. What others may see as weakness, God meant for good. “But he said to me, ‘My Grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest in me” 2 Corinthians 12:9.