Secondary Learning Center administrators include Dana Rodda and the Secondary Board of Directors that includes educators, former Secondary parents, and health professionals. The Administration of Secondary Learning Center is responsible for both day-to-day and long-range implementation of the school mission. Dana and the Board are involved with all academic programs and various community service projects.
Dana graduated from Virginia Polytechnic and State University with a B.A. in Secondary Science Education. Her student teaching experience in rural public school led to a position at a small private school in Santa Fe. Dana then moved to Madison, Wisconsin where she worked as a secondary science substitute, until hired to investigate a controversial communication technique used with autistic children. She returned to Santa Fe to teach math and science in a multi-graded classroom. In 1993, at the request of parents, she began a small class. This class eventually grew into Ad Astra High School, and, in 1994, became Santa Fe Secondary School.
In 2011, the school and its enrichment programs began the transition to non-profit status under the name of Secondary Learning Center.
Dana teaches all levels of mathematics and science and also directed Santa Fe’s only Kumon Math and Reading Center for the past seven years. Dana’s experience and commitment have resulted in many students who are able to work years above their grade level upon graduation. She is also willing and capable when math remediation are required. She has years of experience with successful college placement for her students and has added Dr. Seth Baranoff to this year’s administrative and college placement staff. Dana Rodda offers personally tailored service to all of her students. Dr. Baranoff will lend his expertise to help place graduating seniors.