Mahj Life Instructor Guild > Teaching FACE-TO-FACE and ONLINE, nationwide!

Shanda is the Chief Tile Wrangler and lead instructor at Ozark Mah Jongg in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where she teaches American mah jongg with an emphasis on clarity, confidence, and genuine connection. Her classes follow a thoughtful, structured learning path rooted in National Mah Jongg League rules—beginning with Mah Jongg 101 and 102 and progressing through Defense and Strategy courses that help players strengthen decision-making and refine their table awareness.

Shanda first learned mah jongg beside her mother during her cancer journey in 2018. Those meaningful hours around the table became treasured family memories and continue to shape her teaching approach today. She brings patience, warmth, and the belief that anyone can learn this beautiful game when supported with clear guidance and encouragement.

Ozark Mah Jongg operates from a dedicated studio open five days a week, where students are welcomed into an ongoing community of learning and play. Once someone takes a class with Shanda, they’re part of the Ozark Mah Jongg family—benefiting from open-door support, in-studio practice opportunities, and a friendly space to sharpen skills and build confidence.

Whether someone is brand-new to the tiles or returning to the game after time away, Shanda’s mission is to help every player build a strong foundation, trust their instincts, and fall in love with the joy, strategy, and connection that make mah jongg truly remarkable.

Student Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

In-Person Group Size: up to 8 players; up to 16 with additional instructional assistance

In-Person Guided Play Size: Up to 12 players with one instructor; any size with assistants

Microcredentials:

First Principles Promise: I promise to teach you the first principles of mah jongg using the official rules, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere.

Variations Awareness Pledge: I pledge to distinguish house rules from the official rules and help you understand their impact so you can confidently adapt and enjoy the game anywhere.

Pride In Excellence Initiative