Meet the Team at Mathnasium of Marina Hills

Javier Steve Santacruz

Javier graduated from DePaul University with a B.S. in Accounting and later received his law degree from DePaul. One of Javier’s passions in life is working to improve the lives of children . . . with baseball, a very close second. His mid-life crisis led him to Mathnasium which Javier loved for its way of making math make sense to kids. Javier and his wife, Karen, are now enjoying time for themselves after raising two sons, Austin and Dylan. Today, he loves to read and spend time in the country. “The journey of becoming involved with Mathnasium and changing lives through math has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

Karen Santacruz

Karen graduated from Western Illinois University with a B.S. in Physical Education with an emphasis in Athletic Training. She has a Masters in Exercise Science and Cardiac Rehabilitation. Before starting a family, Karen taught physical education and was the Head Athletic Trainer at Stevenson High School. While raising their two boys, Karen taught part-time, coached her sons' sports teams, and volunteered her time in boy scouting. Karen loves working with children, and was excited about the opportunity to open a Mathnasium Learning Center!! She has always been a strong advocate for developing children and knows how important math skills are to the overall educational development of a child. "I've always been a firm believer in teaching kids in a way they can understand. This allows for a love of learning whatever the subject!! The Mathnasium method does this so well, and allows kids to ‘work out’ their minds!”

Betty Wang

Betty graduated from New Trier High School and obtained her Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University in Biomechanical Engineering. Mathnasium's philosophy on learning and teaching resonated with Betty's belief that learning is at its best when it occurs in a nurturing environment where students can cast aside their fear and frustration. "Mathnasium offers a unique learning environment and individualized learning plans to help students make sense of Math. It really makes math fun!"

Shaundrece Dixon

Shaundrece is more than just a manager; she's a catalyst for positive change. At her core, Shaundrece is a people-person, grounded in authenticity and committed to growth—not just as a professional but as a human being. A wife and mother to three kids, she and her husband adore traveling, and Venice, Italy holds a particularly special place in their hearts.