Our Team
Malika Bell, M.S. Owner, Founder, Director
EMAIL: SantaCruzLearningCenter@gmail.com
My experiences as a student have had a lasting influence on the way I teach. As a child, I struggled with reading, writing, and focus, and those challenges affected my confidence even though I was curious and wanted to do well.
My career has taken me through health care, scientific research, and education. I worked as a phlebotomist, earned my EMT certification, studied chemistry at UC Santa Cruz, and later worked in STEM education and diversity programs. Today, alongside my work at Santa Cruz Learning Center, I teach chemistry at Cabrillo College and Hartnell College.
I founded Santa Cruz Learning Center in 2009 to create a place where students could pursue challenging academics in a flexible, supportive environment. I teach, mentor, and develop hands-on programs while building a close-knit learning community. More than anything, I want students to gain confidence, discover how they learn best, and recognize their own potential.
Jennifer Schacher
EMAIL: JennSCLC1@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Ms. Jenn. I discovered my true calling when I began homeschooling my two children and realized how naturally my love for nature blended with my passion for teaching. I thrive on creating learning environments where curiosity can blossom and where students can develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
There’s nothing I enjoy more than guiding students through hands-on projects that inspire them to explore, learn, and grow. I’ve studied science through a variety of programs, including Ecology through the University of Queensland and Marine Biology in the Florida Keys. Over the years, I’ve taught a range of STEM and nature-based classes, always bringing my enthusiasm for lifelong learning into the classroom.
I believe children naturally view the world with wonder and curiosity—and I love helping them carry that sense of discovery into their everyday lives.
Jason "Jay" Dane
EMAIL: JaySCLC@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Mr. Jay. I’m an educator with 25 years of experience working with students of all ages, from first grade through high school, across a wide range of learning levels, backgrounds, abilities, and educational needs. I began my teaching career in Trenton, New Jersey in 2001, and I first joined the Santa Cruz Learning Center team in 2017. Over the years, I’ve taught a wide range of subjects, including English, history, government, science, and astronomy, and I’m grateful to continue being part of a one-of-a-kind school community that values creativity, growth, and individualized learning.
My goal is to create a classroom environment that is positive, relaxed, and engaging, where students feel comfortable being themselves while also staying accountable and productive. I strive to make my classes a place students look forward to coming to, where learning feels meaningful, personal, and connected to real life. To me, a class should be more than just a subject on a schedule; it should be a life experience that helps students better understand themselves and the world around them.
Outside the classroom, you’ll usually find me active, whether I’m exploring new hiking trails, working in the garden, or enjoying the natural beauty of the Central Coast. I also love good food and listening to all kinds of music, especially chill-hop and downtempo, which I often bring into the classroom experience. I’m looking forward to another great year with the students and families of Santa Cruz Learning Center.
Melanie Clark, M.A.
EMAIL: MelanieSCLC@gmail.com
My name is Melanie Clark and I am an instructor here at the Santa Cruz Learning Center. I have an extensive background in teaching and interacting with all types of different learners. I have a Master’s of Arts in Educational Psychology and a BA in Communicative Disorders and Sciences with an emphasis in speech-language pathology. I really love working at the Center for many reasons. I love all the varieties of information we are able to convey to our students. I also love that giving and building confidence are really important for all teachers here. This ensures that we are able to have fun and give tons of exciting hands-on experiences. We have snakes, dogs, and other sweet little animals that we get to interact with on a daily basis. Overall I really appreciate the care and thoughtfulness that goes into all of our lessons and relationships here at the Santa Cruz Learning Center (SCLC).
Come be a part of our learning. SCLC Rocks!!!!
Tiffany Smith
EMAIL: TiffanySCLC@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Ms. Tiffany—a dedicated educator and homeschooling mom with a dual degree in Special Education and General Education. I’m passionate about creating inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environments where every child can thrive. I truly believe that each student deserves a classroom tailored to their unique needs and strengths.
My teaching style blends high expectations with empathy. I use differentiated instruction and evidence-based strategies to help each student reach their full potential, and I find so much joy in watching them grow and succeed.
Outside the classroom, I love spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking a scenic trail or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. I also have a deep appreciation for music, art, and the culinary arts. Exploring new cultures through travel is one of my favorite ways to expand both my personal and professional horizons. I cherish life with my wonderful family and our beloved dogs, and I bring that same warmth and inspiration into everything I do as an educator.
Susana Bajo Marcos
EMAIL: spanishsclc@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Su. I was born and raised in León, Spain, in the heart of the Castile region—the birthplace of the Castilian Spanish language. Growing up in a close-knit community while also welcoming visitors from around the world shaped my appreciation for both local connection and cultural exchange.
As a native Spanish speaker and a homeschooling parent of three bilingual children, I understand how naturally language learning can become part of everyday life. In my classes, students learn practical Spanish they can use to speak, text, and communicate with confidence. We also explore the traditions, history, and cultures of Spain and Latin America. My goal is to create a relaxed and supportive classroom where students feel comfortable participating, taking risks, and learning from every step of the process.
Outside the classroom, I love spending time outdoors. During the winter, I work as a ski instructor in Lake Tahoe, and when I’m in Santa Cruz, you may find me surfing. I also enjoy cooking, trying new recipes, and learning about cultures from around the world through their traditional foods.