Banyan Tree Staff is trained to not only provide academic and learning assistance, but to integrate the instruction into a nurturing environment, building a caring relationship with each student. By developing a trusting relationship, students feel valued, respected and successful, which can enhance academic and emotional growth.

Nanci has a BS in Speech and Language, credentials in Learning Disabilities, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and General Education. She also has a M.Ed. in Education. She received a Certificate in Educational Therapy from UCSD and is a member of the Association of Educational Therapists, Learning Disabilities Association, and Council for Exceptional Children. An educator for over 30 years, she has experience as a Special Day Class Teacher, Resource Specialist, and Mentor Teacher. She opened Banyan Tree in 1993, in an effort to help students who "fall through the cracks" and find frustration with learning. Currently, she is the site administrator and educational therapist at the Point Loma location.

Kay has a M.Ed. and credential in Learning Disabilities. An experienced and talented educator, she has worked in public schools both as a classroom teacher and a special education teacher, was director of a franchised learning center, and had her own educational therapy business prior to joining Banyan Tree in 1998. She specializes in assessment, homeschool programs, and working with students who need educational therapy.

Laura has BA and her credential in Special Education. She has had experience as a Resource Specialist in public schools. She has been with Banyan Tree since 2000. She is the site administrator at the Scripps Ranch location, and responsible for intake, enrollment, and case management of NPA students.

Instructors come to us with a variety of backgrounds, from BS in Psychology or Speech, to general education credentials, to special education experience. Depending on prior experience, they go through 2 to 4 weeks of training in our special programs, learning theory, and our philosophy, with ongoing training and support. We work as a team to foster professional growth and match instructor's expertise with student's learning styles and individual needs.