Our staff is built to teach each student individually, to develop the skills they need to thrive in mathematics, and to foster a love of learning.

Javier Steve Santacruz

Owner and Managing Director

Javier earned his B.S. in Accounting and his law degree from DePaul University. His passion for improving children’s lives led him to Mathnasium, where he discovered the power of making math make sense. He finds tremendous joy in helping kids build confidence through learning. 

Javier and his wife, Karen, are enjoying time together after raising their two sons, Austin and Dylan. Outside of Mathnasium, he loves reading and spending time in the countryside. He describes his journey with Mathnasium as “one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

Karen Santacruz

Owner

Karen holds a B.S. in Physical Education from Western Illinois University and a Master’s in Exercise Science and Cardiac Rehabilitation. Before joining Mathnasium, she taught physical education and served as the Head Athletic Trainer at Stevenson High School.

While raising her two sons, Karen coached youth sports, volunteered with Boy Scouts, and taught part-time. She is passionate about helping kids learn in a way that makes sense to them. “The Mathnasium Method does this so well—it allows kids to ‘work out’ their minds while building confidence and a love for learning.”

Betty Wang

Director of Operations

Betty graduated from New Trier High School and earned her Bachelor of Science in Biomechanical Engineering from Northwestern University. Her passion for learning and problem-solving led her to Mathnasium, where she found a perfect match for her educational philosophy. 

Betty loves how Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans help students make sense of math in a fun and nurturing environment. She believes that when fear and frustration are removed, students thrive and build lasting confidence.

Our Mathnasium Mission

Teach children math so they understand it, master it, and love it. Math can change their lives, and they can change the world.

Quote Quote
What I love about Mathnasium is the ability to teach problem-solving skills and make math make sense, while also making a student smile.
Amber W., Mathnasium Instructor

Schedule Your Math Skills Assessment Today

Student using math cubes to solve fractions
Student working with a math tutor at a local math learning center

Want to join the Mathnasium team?

Are you interested in changing lives through math? We're looking for outstanding individuals with a high level of commitment who are passionate about teaching math. Find out if there's a Mathnasium position that's just right for you!

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