Meet the Team
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Kathy Ylostalo
My name is Kathy Ylostalo. I’m the founder and lead coach at UHL. Read below to meet all of our excellent tutors!
Here’s just a bit about me:
I’ve been teaching since 1999; in Finland, New Orleans, and the Temple/Belton area. I specialize in non-traditional learning, focused on a learners' goals, desires, learning styles, and needs. My teaching certifications are EC-8 Generalist, Special Education EC-12, English as a Second Language (ESL/ESOL), and Gifted & Talented (GT/GATE).
One of my super powers is helping clients find the root of their struggles, and leading them to a solution. In addition to offering Life/Light Coaching and Reiki, you will find me collaborating with and supporting our tutors in all the main subjects of public, private, college, and homeschool.
Some of my favorite pastimes are spending time with my husband and daughters, exploring nature, studying Truth, and discussing curious topics over coffee.
Fill out our interest form to set up your first consultation. I look forward to seeing you succeed!
Keep scrolling to meet our fabulous tutors! And fill out the interest form below to start a conversation with us!
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Dr. Joni Ylostalo
PhD in Biomedical Sciences
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry, Master of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
University research since 2000, and university classroom teaching since 2014.
I offer tutoring in Biology, Chemistry, and Math for high school and college.
Also, graduate and professional level tutoring (PA, PT, Nursing schools, etc…)
Trusted UHL Tutor since 2023
My name is Dr. Joni Ylostalo. I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry, MS in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Oulu in Finland, and my PhD in Biomedical Sciences from Tulane University. My many years in university teaching and research provide practical expertise to my students. I offer tutoring in various sub-disciplines of Biology and Chemistry at the high school and college levels, as well as graduate and professional levels (PA, PT, Nursing schools, etc.).
Some of my favorite pastimes are spending time with my wife and daughters, playing disc golf, trout fishing, and listening to great 80’s hair metal.
If you need help passing a class, or prepping for an upcoming class or test, I can help. Fill out my tutoring interest form to take steps toward your success.
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Serena Ylostalo
Honors student studying Neuroscience - Pre-Med
Tutoring in high school & college level math and science
Proofreading services on essays and writing assignments.
Coaching on good study practices, organization, and note-taking
Dance choreography and cutting music
Trusted UHL tutor since 2022
Hi! My name is Serena Ylostalo. I am an honors student at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, here in Belton. I am really enjoying my Neuroscience BioChemical courses.
Math comes to life in the sciences, and I love teaching it to others. In addition to high school- and college-level tutoring in math, I am also an amateur line editor/proofreader for a local author, so I offer assistance in proofreading essays and writing assignments. I can also assist you with studying for tests & exams, as well as coach you in organization and note-taking. Need help with dance choreography or cutting music? I do that, too!
Some of my favorite pastimes are dancing with the UMHB dance team, spending time outdoors, and reading complex dystopian fiction.
Fill out the tutoring interest form to get things started. I look forward to working with you soon!
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Sydney Skaggs
Student at University of Mary Hardin Baylor, studying Education Advocacy, with a focus on Art
Experienced in tutoring elementary students
I tutor in elementary math, reading, writing, and photography
Photographer + mixed-media artist
Trusted UHL tutor since 2025
Hi! I’m Sydney Skaggs, an Education Advocacy major at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor with a passion for helping young learners succeed. I have experience tutoring elementary students in both math and reading, and I enjoy finding creative ways to make learning engaging and fun.
I believe that every child can reach their full potential with the right guidance and encouragement, and I strive to build confidence and curiosity in each student I work with. Whether your child needs help mastering foundational skills or tackling new challenges, I’m here to support their growth every step of the way.
I have been a freelance photographer since 2020 and have a great love for helping people find their passion.
I am so excited to work with you! Fill out the interest form below, and I’ll reach out soon!
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Taylor Mason
Elementary Education student at UMHB
Experienced in planning lessons, classroom management, and building social-emotional skills
Available to tutor elementary core subjects
Joined the UHL team in 2026
Hi! My name is Taylor Mason, an Elementary Education major at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor. I am passionate about creating engaging, supportive environments where students feel confident to ask questions, make mistakes, and discover a love for learning!
I have extensive experience working with children through teaching Sunday school, serving as a camp counselor, and participating in hands-on teaching clinics through my education program. These experiences have helped me develop strong classroom management skills, creative lesson planning strategies, and the ability to connect with students of diverse personalities and learning styles!
In my free time, I participate in all things creative! I am a member of the UMHB dance team, I love to pick up new artistic hobbies, and I enjoy cooking.
Please fill out the interest form below, to let me know how I can help you!
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Ashlie Hoover
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Art from the University of Texas at Tyler; Associates of Fine Arts from Kilgore College
Currently a student in Graphic Design
Tutoring in all levels of Reading, Writing, and English, as well as beginner and intermediate Art and Music.
Began tutoring with UHL in 2026
Hi! My name is Ashlie Hoover. I’m a trauma-informed educator with experience teaching and mentoring children and at-risk youth through my years of advocacy work. I have a love for writing and English. I especially like studying music in other languages. I am enthusiastic about opportunities to teach art and music. I love to inspire kids to discover and explore their imaginations, inside and outside of the classroom. I want learning to be an Adventure. I desire to engage students and equip them to embrace their exciting dreams for the future. I try to bring a fresh, creative approach to building safe spaces for students to learn and grow. I am especially passionate about supportive learning environments for all levels of learning, especially kids with special needs.
Please fill out the interest form below to get started! Talk to you soon!
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Join the Team
Do you enjoy learning and growing? Do you have a natural heart for teaching others? Click the “Interest Form” button below to start a conversation about potentially working together.
Interested in more information?
Fill out the interest form by clicking the button below
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