Director/ Owner & Educational Therapist
Bonnie became the owner of The Family & Learning Center in 2005, after spending five years as an Educational Coach while being closely mentored by Dr. Kristine Laverty, Neuropsychologist and founder of TFALC. Bonnie holds a BS in Biology from UCSD, a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, as well as a Masters Degree in Education from National University. Additionally, she has completed extensive coursework and training in Educational Therapy techniques through the UCSD Extension Program, as well as through a variety of professional organizations. She has trained, mentored, and supervised over 30 Educational Coaches. Bonnie is an active member of IDA, LDA, AET, and CHADD. Outside of working with students and running TFALC, Bonnie enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and many pets! She is actively involved with Breakthrough T1D and serves on the Board of Directors for Scripps Theatre Arts.
Educational Coach
Danika joined The Family & Learning Center team as an Educational Coach in 2002, and has served as the Assistant Director since 2010. Danika received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from UCSD, and holds a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Masters of Education Degree from National University. Danika works closely with Bonnie to incorporate new materials and techniques into our programs and assists with training and supporting our Educational Coaches. Outside of TFALC, Danika enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.
Educational Coach
Samantha graduated from UC San Diego with a degree in Neurobiology and is currently studying Speech and Language Pathology at CSU San Marcos. Before joining the TFALC team in 2022, Samantha was a content tutor for UCSD’s Academic Achievement Hub and an Instructor at Mathnasium, as well as providing private tutoring to middle and high school students. Outside of working with students, Samantha enjoys trying out new recipes and playing board games with her friends and family.
"Just before the beginning of 5th grade, our son was diagnosed with dyslexia and some visual spatial learning disabilities. We set up an intensive remediation plan with TFALC and by the middle of 5th grade, the change in our son was dramatic! He not only no longer would melt down crying and call himself stupid, but had a newfound confidence in his ability to succeed. His academic independence was growing and his grades were steadily climbing. It was like he'd been living in a fog and TFALC was the sunshine removing that fog from his daily life. We can hardly wait to see the heights of where TFALC takes him next! We wholeheartedly believe that TFALC is changing the course of our son's life. In our eyes, their work with our son has been truly priceless."
-- Gratefully, Parents of a MUCH happier 5th Grader