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 & Managing Director

Javier earned his B.S. in Accounting and J.D. from DePaul University, where he cultivated a strong sense of service and advocacy. After a successful law career, his passion for education and helping children led him to Mathnasium. Now, he channels that passion into making math accessible and meaningful for every student. Javier finds deep joy in supporting families and seeing students grow in confidence. Outside of Mathnasium, he enjoys peaceful weekends in the country, reading, and reflecting on the impact of education. Together with his wife Karen, he raised two sons and continues to give back through learning. 

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. Her early career included teaching and serving as Head Athletic Trainer at Stevenson High School. A lifelong advocate for child development, she coached youth sports, volunteered in scouting, and raised two sons. Now at Mathnasium, Karen brings that same nurturing energy to support students on their math journey. She believes the Mathnasium Method makes math clear and approachable—and that when children understand math, they grow in both confidence and curiosity. She loves seeing kids discover that they can succeed.

Betty Wang

Director of Operations

Betty Wang graduated from New Trier High School and earned a B.S. in Biomechanical Engineering from Northwestern University. With a keen eye for systems and a heart for students, she ensures each Mathnasium center runs efficiently while fostering a warm, engaging atmosphere. Betty is passionate about reducing fear and frustration in learning, and she loves helping students see math as a subject of empowerment, not stress. Her blend of technical expertise and people-focused leadership helps Mathnasium teams thrive. Betty is proud to support a community where curiosity is celebrated and every student can embrace math with clarity and 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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