Meet The "A-Team"

Background

Ivan Lo, Founder & Director of Instruction at Alley-Oop Learning Center, brings over 15 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, instructional leader, and academic coach. With a strong background in childhood education, Ivan specializes in building foundational skills early while designing data-informed systems that support long-term academic growth and student success.

Ivan is deeply committed to helping students reach their full potential through high-quality instruction, targeted interventions, and meaningful relationships. He values self-reflection and continuous learning, using these practices to refine instruction, strengthen systems, and improve student outcomes. His work focuses not only on academic achievement, but also on empowering students with confidence, consistency, and the skills they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Outside of teaching, Ivan enjoys spending quality time with his family and their two dogs. He also loves playing basketball and staying active.

Education

2014 - 2015

University of Washington - Master's in Teaching

2009 - 2013

University of Washington - Bachelor's of Arts in Early Childhood & Family Studies

Teaching & Instructional Leadership

2021 - Present

Alley-Oop Learning Center - Founder & Director of Instruction

Founded and lead a K–12 learning center providing personalized instruction in math and language arts. Design diagnostic-driven learning plans, implement targeted interventions, and monitor student progress using data-informed systems. Develop curriculum frameworks, coach instructors, and partner with families to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction and measurable student growth.

2023 - Present

Abubakr Academy - School Improvement Lead & Instructional Coach

Support teachers and leadership by leading professional development, coaching on instruction, and creating school-wide systems like student interventions, progress tracking, and a teacher evaluation framework to drive staff and student success.

2021 - Present

Seattle Public Schools - Certificated Substitute Teacher

Provide classroom coverage across grade levels and subjects, maintaining instructional continuity and effective classroom management in diverse learning environments.

2015 - 2021

Dearborn Park International Elementary School - Teacher

Taught 2nd–5th grade math and science in a diverse, multilingual setting, raising SBA and MAP scores significantly while serving on the Building Leadership Team

2012 - 2014

Brain Child Learning Center - Teacher

Delivered individualized instruction using structured math and English practice packets, creatively supporting K–8 students’ skill development and progress while keeping them engaged

2013

UW Pipeline Project - Tutor

Tutored K–12 students in Seattle schools through the University of Washington’s Pipeline Project, building academic confidence and providing mentorship in underserved communities.

2011 - 2013

Jumpstart - Corps Member

Supported preschool children’s language, literacy, and social-emotional development through small-group instruction and play-based learning activities as part of the national Jumpstart early education initiative.

2010 - 2011

Dream Project - Mentor

Mentored first-generation and low-income high school students on college readiness, helping them explore higher education opportunities and prepare for postsecondary success.

Teacher

Robert Chow

Robert Chow is a dedicated educator and experienced learning center manager who brings nearly two decades of expertise to Alley-Oop Learning Center. He has served as the Manager at Brainchild Learning Center and Manager at Dartmoor School Personalized Education, where he oversaw academic programs, guided staff, and supported students of all ages in achieving long-term success.

Robert holds a B.A. in Chemistry from the University of Washington and previously worked in a UW research lab studying the effects of air quality on cardiovascular health. Alongside his administrative leadership, he has over 15 years of hands-on teaching experience, specializing in math and science education for children of all ages.

Passionate about helping students unlock their full potential, Robert works closely with learners from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. He combines patience, high expectations, and a love for learning to foster both academic skills and confidence.

In his free time, Robert enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing sports, and staying active.

Teacher

Calvin Hsia

After graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in Economics, Calvin has devoted the past 16 years to teaching and mentoring students. Originally from Taiwan, he has called the Seattle area home since the age of four. Throughout his career, Calvin has taught at Brainchild Learning Center and Dartmoor School, where he specialized in providing personalized and adaptive instruction tailored to each student’s learning style.

When he’s not teaching, Calvin enjoys working out and watching movies. His greatest passion lies in witnessing that “lightbulb moment” when concepts finally click for his students—and in seeing their confidence and skills grow over time.

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