Sparkle Spot Learning Educators

Julie Hannan, Founder

Julie Hannan

Julie Hannan is an experienced, passionate educator with over 25 years of teaching experience. She is both a certified K-8 teacher as well as a certified PCI Parent Coach. In 2011, Julie left the classroom to work individually with elementary aged kids and their families.

Her teaching experience includes many years in the classroom at both private and public schools. An avid learning enthusiast, she has taken countless classes, continuing to hone her craft by putting the latest research into practice. Creative and fun, Julie is a master at combining the art and science of teaching. Julie is married and the mother of 3 adult children. Outside the classroom, she has been a Girl Scout leader, volunteered in schools and church, designed curriculum, facilitated PEPS groups, and coached many parents. Julie is a graduate of the University of Washington with a BA in Psychology, K-8 teaching certificate, and a M.Ed in Learning and Technology. In 2013 she earned her Parent Coach Certification through the Parent Coaching Institute affiliated with Seattle Pacific University.

Chrystol White, Literacy Specialist

Chrystol White is a skilled and experienced reading teacher. She has over 10 years experience working as a reading interventionist and classroom teacher in both public and private schools. Chrystol is a graduate of the University of Washington with a BA in Interdisciplinary Visual Art and of Seattle University with a K-8 teaching certificate and a Master’s in Teaching.  She has completed advanced training in Wired for Reading and well as LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling). Her teaching style tailors lessons to the needs and learning style of each student, utilizing research backed curriculum and methods. When she is not teaching, Chrystol is busy playing with her two young boys, making art, knitting, and working in her community garden.

Colleen Palkert, Literacy Specialist

Colleen Palkert is a skilled educator with experience across a variety of education settings throughout her 20 years in the field. She has worked in various special education positions and spent many years as an elementary classroom teacher. First Grade is her favorite! She left her teacher leader position in 2015 to care for her newborn daughter and her aging parents. She is delighted to now be in the role of learning specialist and tutor so that she can combine research-based practices, her passion for teaching literacy, and her many hours of experience to have the most impact on individual student growth.

Colleen is a certified K-8 teacher with an M.Ed in Reading and Special Education from the University of Portland. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a BA in Psychology and a BS in Elementary Education. Colleen strives to work as a team with families and teachers to provide an integrated support system that helps children gain confidence and skills.