Lakeville

Ms. Ellen (Hinck) - English and math teacher

Bachelor’s in Literature with Writing Emphasis and Psychology 

Master’s in Teaching

I’ve taught Language Arts in grades 6-12 for seven years. I’ve taught at Best Brains for 3 years. 

I love teaching all facets of language arts, from the basics of grammar and morphology to the advanced concepts of literary analysis and descriptive writing. I’m currently enrolled in LETRS training, which is a professional development program that equips educators with deep knowledge of the science of reading to effectively teach literacy through phonics and fluency.

I work at all our Best Brains locations (Apple Valley and Lakeville).

Ms. Jessie- Math Teacher

I’ve been teaching math over 15 years, mostly to middle school students. I started working for Best Brains in August 2025. I like meeting students where they are at and helping with any math confusion- you are not perfect, either am I, we will make mistakes but all we can do is try our best. I currently work at the Apple Valley and Lakeville locations.

My name is Yvette Toko! 

I am passionate about inspiring students to reach their highest potential and see themselves as confident, capable learners. For over 20 years, I have taught in K–8 classrooms, including teaching oral English in Togo and Cameroon. Today, I’m proud to teach 8th grade English at Eden Prairie Schools, where I blend creativity, rigor, and cultural awareness to engage and challenge my students.

I earned my B.S. in 5–12 Communication Arts from Metropolitan State University and my M.A. in Creative Arts from Baker University.

I started teaching Math and English at Best Brains Apple Valley location
in the late summer of 2025. 

 Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with family, reading, art, and poetry.

Hello! My name is Ms. Valdivia and I am a 3rd grade teacher. I teach both English and Math.  I love working in small groups and getting to know all my students.  My favorite things to do in my free time is spend time with my daughter, get an iced coffee and go for long walks! I am currently teaching at the Apple Valley and Lakeville locations.