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 Santacruz graduated from DePaul University with a B.S. in Accounting and later earned his law degree there. A lifelong advocate for children, he was drawn to Mathnasium’s mission of helping kids understand math in a way that truly makes sense. That mission quickly became his passion—and his second career. 

When he’s not working with the team, Javier enjoys time in the country, reading, and reflecting on the joy of helping others grow. He and his wife Karen raised two sons and now dedicate their time to giving back through education.

Karen Santacruz

Owner

Karen Santacruz 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. While raising her two sons, she also coached youth sports and volunteered in scouting. 

Karen has always been passionate about child development and loves working with students. She believes the Mathnasium Method is powerful because it helps kids develop a lifelong love of learning by making concepts clear and approachable.

Betty Wang

Director of Operations

Betty Wang graduated from New Trier High School and earned a B.S. in Biomechanical Engineering from Northwestern University. She blends her analytical background with a deep appreciation for student support and learning environments that reduce fear and frustration. 

At Mathnasium, Betty helps ensure each center operates smoothly while maintaining the core values of encouragement and clarity. She’s proud to be part of a team that empowers students to embrace math with confidence and curiosity.

Shaundrece Rangel

General Manager

Shaundrece Rangel brings over 20 years of leadership experience to her role as General Manager. She earned her MBA from the University of Iowa and has led strategic change efforts for major organizations across industries. Her passion for building strong teams and fostering personal growth is at the heart of her work. 

At Mathnasium, she ensures each student and staff member is supported, seen, and equipped to thrive. She believes math is more than numbers—it’s a mindset. Her mission is to help students build confidence through math so they can succeed in school and beyond.

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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