Our Team
Malika Bell, M.S. Owner, Founder, Director
EMAIL: SantaCruzLearningCenter@gmail.com
Learning isn’t linear—and neither are the paths we take in life. I know this from experience. As a child, I struggled with reading and writing, and those challenges slowly chipped away at my confidence, even as my curiosity and love of learning continued to grow.
My own path has taken many turns. I trained as a phlebotomist, earned my EMT certification, conducted cancer research as a graduate student in chemistry at UC Santa Cruz, and worked in STEM education and diversity programs. Today, in addition to my work at Santa Cruz Learning Center, I teach chemistry at Cabrillo College and Hartnell College.
In 2009, I founded Santa Cruz Learning Center to create the kind of supportive, engaging learning environment I had once needed myself. I teach, mentor, and design hands-on programs that help students build confidence, curiosity, and independence. Whether they are catching up, moving ahead, or finding a new way to learn, I want every student to feel seen, supported, and capable of success.
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 a veteran teacher with more than 20 years of wide-ranging experience in education. I began my teaching career in Trenton, New Jersey, in 2001 and have worked with students of all ages, from first grade through high school. I first joined the Santa Cruz Learning Center team in 2017, and I’m happy to be part of this learning community.
My goal is to create a positive, engaging, and relaxed classroom where students feel comfortable being themselves while also learning to stay accountable and productive. I believe students learn best when they feel respected, connected, and involved in their own education. I enjoy bringing real-life experiences and practical lessons into the curriculum so students are prepared not only for tests and assignments, but also for the journey ahead.
Outside the classroom, you’ll usually find me hiking, working in the garden, or enjoying good food. I’m also a fan of chill-hop and downtempo music.
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.