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Our Mission
"Our Mission is to be on the leading edge of education in the field of Early Childhood Education by providing, Quality Instruction, New Programs, Clear Focus on Student Retention and Placement, and Making Customer Satisfaction an integral part of our organization."
Our Mission Statement
The mission of Theoria Technical College is to provide quality, convenient, and progressive early childhood education programs; that are vital to the success and career development of our students.
Theoria offers a learning environment focused on job-oriented training and the development of practical and ethical skills required to be highly effective and impactful early educators for young children.
We provide our students a safe and innovative learning environment in which to pursue basic skills, career, and general education pathways. Our programs lead to associate degrees and certificates which meet workforce development needs in diverse
communities.
Our commitment to higher learning and achievement empowers our students to be a reflection of fulfillment that can change the lives of our community as a whole.
At Theoria Technical College, we are passionate about equipping our students with the necessary knowledge and skills to embark on a fulfilling career as an Early Childhood Educator. We understand the importance of adapting and refining these skills to remain competitive in this field. As President and Co-Founder, I am a firm believer that the emotional, social, and physical development of young children is pivotal in shaping their overall growth and development, as well as their future well-being as adults.
Our Early Education Associate degree program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of investing in young children's education. The program covers various topics such as child development, curriculum planning, and classroom management, ensuring our graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality education and care for young learners.
By obtaining an Early Education Associate degree from Theoria Technical College, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact on the lives of young children. Our program will not only enhance your professional growth and development but also give you the opportunity to positively influence the future of our society. Join us today and be a part of this noble mission.
-Mr. Phillip D. White IV
Theoria Technical College, President
"Imagination is everything
and education leads to a progressive future. It is a fundamental part of a person's life."
Chief of Academics (CAO)
Mrs. Meghan M. Hernandez Garcia, MAEd
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology, Ashford University
Master of Arts, Education, Ashford University, Specialization in Higher Education
Meghan has been working in education for well over a decade. She began taking classes and working in Early Childhood Education in 2003 where she taught birth through school age children all over California. She was also a dedicated volunteer of San Diego's Junior Achievement program from 2010 and 2012 where she had the opportunity to educate, inspire, and prepare second and third graders to succeed in a global economy.
In 2012 she earned a bachelor of arts degree in Sociology and in 2014 she earned a master of arts degree in Education. In her graduate program she specialized in Higher Education where she examined curriculum, assessment, and student development in the postsecondary environment. Her career in Higher Education began in 2010 where she planned, developed, conducted admissions interviews, and counseled adults earning their degrees. In student services her responsibilities also included student inquiries, enrollment, database management, student records, and matriculation. The adults she counseled were the inspiration that led her to furthering her own education to become a professor.
Meghan was brought on at Theoria in 2018 as a professor where she specialized and taught Curriculum Theories, Methods, and Materials. She flourished in instructional design and was provided many opportunities to work on small projects for the Operations department. Operations then brought Meghan on as a Director to assist in operational and business procedures where she began to show great initiative and leadership which led her into her latest role, Chief of Academics. She is now directing and overseeing the academic program of Theoria Technical College.
Meghan’s versatile and well-rounded background and education has given her an aptitude and heart for children, adults, and education to its entirety. She truly believes in how a fun differentiated curriculum practice can provide a solid foundation for children and adults. Meghan also feels very strongly about properly training and educating the adults who are responsible for making such huge impacts on our future generations of children.
Chief of Operations
Antonio L. Jones, MBA, MPA
Master of Business Administration, University of Phoenix
Master of Public Administration, University of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science, Health Care Management, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Lean Six Sigma Certificate
Mr. Jones is an accomplished executive leader with senior level management experience in training and development of staff. He is a strategic and creative thinker with exceptional skills in academic oversight, communication, curriculum development, budget management, and implementation of high impact programs. Mr. Jones has a strong record of building relationships in the community and with cross cultural teams of stakeholders. He is high energy, results oriented, with an innovative orientation to learning pedology's.
Adjunct Professor
Mrs. Christine Collins, M. Ed
Masters of Arts in Education, Ashford College
Specialization: Early Childhood Education
Christine Collins has earned a Masters of Arts Degree in Education - Specializing in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education with a Specialization in Educational Leadership and Management from Capella University.
Christine's core competencies include Customer Service, Healthy and Safety, Creating Engaging Learning Spaces, Managing Employees with Care, and Leadership Excellence. Christine currently works as a Preschool Director were she has been for the past 13 years. Christine has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for 19 years.
Christine's experience includes managing a child care center serving families with children ages six weeks to 5 years. She is eager to use her hands-on knowledge of early childhood development industry to teach others in this field.
Adjunct Professor
Mrs. Megan Murphy, M.S. CD
M.S. Child Development, June 2021 University of La Verne
Alpha Chi Honors Society – Top 10 percentile of graduating class
B.A. Psychology, Dec 2016 California State University, San Marcos CA
Megan Murphy has enjoyed working with children throughout her life. She first worked in early childhood education over eight years ago as a substitute teacher and has held multiple positions in the field, most recently being a lead Preschool/Pre-K teacher. Her experience in the classroom inspired her to pursue further education in child development and to learn how events in these early years can impact an individual.
After receiving her Master of Science in Child Development at University of La Verne, she began working in the field of higher education as an Adjunct Professor. Recently, she has taken on a position in the field of Parenting Education as an educator trainer.
Megan continues to love learning about the critical early years of life and enjoys sharing her knowledge with fellow teachers, parents, and parenting educators. As an Adjunct Professor, she appreciates the opportunity to discuss the importance of quality education with other teachers. She hopes to continue positively impacting children’s lives through her work of teaching those who directly influence children daily.
Adjunct Professor
Mrs. Karen Snedden, M. Ed
Masters of Arts in Education, National University
Specialization: Early Childhood Education, San Diego State University
Karen Snedden spent several years teaching kindergarten and elementary age students before becoming a preschool instructor, then director. The experience in the classroom shaped her view of the importance of Early Childhood Education on a student’s preparedness for success in elementary school. Karen holds a California State Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential and earned her Master’s Degree with emphasis in Cross-Cultural Education in addition to holding her Preschool Director’s Permit. Karen has 15 years experience in early childhood education, with 12 of those years as a preschool director. Her belief is that the most impactful teaching comes from teachers who love the field. Karen is eager to help teachers provide the best
quality possible.
Operations Department
Mr. Brendan Tang
B.A. in Cognitive Science, Computer Science, UC Berkeley
Brendan is very detailed oriented and an excellent writer. He is an excellent addition to our Operations Department where he works mostly with policy and compliance. Brendan enjoys video game designing and code writing.
Director of Student Services
Ms. Jenesis D. Hill
A.S. in Business Administration, Mt. San Jacinto College
With over six years of dedicated service at Theoria Technical College, Jenesis has emerged as a key driver in enhancing student success and cultivating a nurturing educational environment. Her expertise in analyzing, improving, and developing student services has been instrumental in supporting student advocacy and collaboration with Early Education professionals. This has ensured that students are well-prepared for careers in Early Childhood Education while achieving their educational goals.
Jenesis holds a degree in Business Administration and is committed to continuing her innovation in student support services. Her core mission remains to foster a supportive and empowering academic environment through her effective management, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
Web Development & Multi-Media
Mrs. Cho Spicer,
Web Development & Multi Media
I've been a professional designer and freelancing full-time since 2008. Well versed in taking not much more than a good idea, and helping turn that into a living breathing entity, from creative concept through to execution. I particularly love working with companies like Theoria, that pioneer an unconventional approach in a traditional industry. Work with me.
Director of Operations
Mr. Jed Hill
B.A. in History, Cal State Long Beach
Jedaki Hill is a SoCal native who has lived his life between Riverside and San Diego County. He is also an active traveler who has found himself journeying through Europe and seeks to acquire more knowledge from different cultures. With his analytical and research background in History Arts he works mainly in research and development of operational procedures. His background in writing, publishing, and Academic procedures directs his insight on institutional policies, as well as compliance. He looks to publish more of his books and design his own historical based video game in the future.
Adjunct Professor
Mrs. Yana Chi, M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction
M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction, Williams Wood University,
B.A. Degree in English Literature, International Christian College Taiwan
Child Development Program Director Permit
Yana Chi has dedicated her career to early childhood education, driven by her commitment to make a meaningful impact on children's lives. Originally from Taiwan, with schooling in Shanghai and Macau, she is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. After teaching preschool in Taiwan for two years, she moved to Missouri to earn her Master's in Education. Now, with over a decade of experience in California public schools and holding a Child Development Program Director permit, Yana Chi not only teaches but also volunteers as a translator for Asian families in her district, sharing her passion for education with aspiring teachers.
Adjunct Professor
Susan Mendez, M.Ed in ECE
Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Northern Arizona University Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Fullerton
Associate degree in Human Development with a preschool option from Santa Ana College, Master Teacher permit holder in California, California Early Childhood Mentor Program
Susan Mendez is a dedicated Early Childhood Education (ECE) professional with over 23 years of experience. Starting her career in 1998 as a Student Assistant at a Children's Center for the Rancho Santiago Community College District, she swiftly moved to her first teaching role as a lead teacher at Family Campus Preschool in Garden Grove by 2000. Susan holds an Associate degree in Human Development with a preschool option from Santa Ana College (2001), a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Fullerton (2009), and a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Northern Arizona University (2021). Since 2013, she has been a Preschool Instructor for the state preschool program at Oka Elementary School in the Fountain Valley School District (FVSD), and in 2021-2022, she worked with four-year-olds at Tamura Elementary School. A Master Teacher permit holder in California, Susan also contributes to the California Early Childhood Mentor Program, enriching the training of future preschool educators through practical, hands-on learning experiences in her classroom. Passionate about her role, Susan is committed to impacting the lives of children and families she serves and eagerly anticipates another year of learning and adventure at FVSD.
Adjunct Professor
Kosal Kat-Lim
Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Special Education
Bachelor’s in Child Development
Child Development Program Director Permit
CLASS reliable in Pre-K, Toddlers and Infant tools
Certified trainer for Zero to Three - Brain Development
Kosal Kat-Lim is an eager childhood education leader with over 19 years of experience in the field. Her interest in this profession sparked when she took one child development course while working on her BA at Cal State University, Los Angeles, and her passion grew from there. In addition to a Bachelor’s in Child Development, Kosal’s educational background also consists of an earned Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Special Education. She holds a Child Development Program Director Permit and is CLASS reliable in Pre-K, Toddlers and Infant tools. She is also a certified trainer for Zero to Three - Brain Development.
Her professional background includes hands-on experiences in the classroom setting, coordination and project management, and administration and oversight of family child care centers and various early childhood education programs such as Head Start and State Preschool. In her previous role as a Network Consultant, she provided guidance and coaching to teachers to support the learning and development of children between 0-5 years old. To demonstrate instructional initiative, she has worked with directors and administrators to develop site goals and provided professional growth trainings, overviews and modeling to increase educator’s knowledge of best practices and common tools. She loves spending time with family and enjoys traveling abroad with her husband. She also
likes to garden and care for her two fur babies.
Professor Assistant
Bianey Garcia, M.Ed in ECE Leadership
M.Ed. Early Childhood Leadership, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ (in progress)
B.A.S Early Childhood Education, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, 2023 A.A. Early Childhood Education, Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ, 2022
CDA Child Development Associate, Phoenix, 2020
My name is Bianey, though many know me as Ms. Bee, and you're welcome to call me either. With over 8 years in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field, I've served as a childcare staff member, preschool teacher, Kindergarten lead teacher, and bilingual educator. These roles have deepened my skills and fueled my passion for advocating for children and families across the US. I specialize in social-emotional learning and applying developmentally and culturally appropriate practices. I am currently finishing my undergraduate degree in ECE at Northern Arizona University and will soon begin a Master of Education with a focus on Educational Leadership. I value collaboration with fellow ECE professionals and am always ready to offer support. A guiding principle for me is “Sowing seeds of greatness.”
Adjunct Professor
Melanie Rodriguez
Master of Science, Child Development, University of La Verne, Specialization in
Higher Education
Bachelor of Arts, Human Development, Pacific Oaks College
Associate Degree, Child Development, Los Angeles Valley College
Melanie has been working in Early Childhood Education for well over a decade.
She began her passion for ECE when she was a sophomore in high school. She has
taught birth through school-age children all over Los Angeles County. Melanie’s
experience includes managing childcare centers serving families with children ages
six weeks old to 5 years old. She has hands-on experience with Title 22, Title 5,
DRDP, ECERS, ASQ, Creative Curriculum, Head Start, State Preschool, and
Curriculum Implementation and has successfully helped license a childcare center.
She holds a Child Development Program Director Permit.
After graduating from the University of La Verne with her Master of Science in
Child Development she began working in the field of higher education. She has
experience working with community colleges in Los Angeles and has supported
her students in transferring, gaining experience in the field, and applying for their
state permits. Melanie hopes to use her diverse experience in early childhood
education to educate and advocate for children, families, and adult learners eager
to join the field. Her goal is for her students to go on and become the best version
of themselves and provide high-quality care in the field of education. She is
looking forward to teaching courses and getting to know her students.
Academics Department Assistant
Alexandria Scott
Alexandria Scott is a dedicated advocate for early childhood education. She serves in the academic department of Theoria Technical College, which is committed to preparing the next generation of skilled educators. With six years of hands-on experience as a nanny, she has developed a profound understanding of children's developmental needs and the importance of nurturing environments. Based in Encinitas, Alexandria values the opportunity to merge her passion for child development with collaborative teamwork, finding fulfillment in a role that positively impacts educators and the children they serve. She is also pursuing her AS in Early Childhood Education.
Adjunct Professor
Matelyn C. Vidulich
Masters of Education Early Childhood Education and Special Education, Director Qualified University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO
Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies Colorado State University (CSU), Fort Collins, CO
Matty has spent over a decade in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, gaining extensive experience across public and private sectors, inclusive special needs institutions, and her own preschool and afterschool program. Her roles have deepened her understanding of classroom and business management, enhancing her ability to support the educational community effectively. After selling her business to focus on motherhood, Matty has collaborated with various organizations to share best practices for children ages 0-8. Currently, she is working with non-profit organizations in Colorado to enhance educational programs and develop curricula that cater to individual children's needs and foster a love for learning. Matty is committed to advancing higher education and supporting students in achieving their educational goals.
Administration Department
April Holman, Accountant
Chief Financial Officer
Academics Department Assistant
Bowen Fan
Google UX Design Certificate
Bowen Fan is a versatile artist, educator, and content creator with a diverse background in the arts and communication. He earned a degree in studio art with a focus on oil painting, while also honing his skills in digital arts and photography. Bowen later obtained a Google UX Design Certificate and leveraged his talents to produce promotional marketing content for a Re/Max real estate agency. With seven years of experience teaching Mandarin, he has instructed students from third to eighth grade, developing comprehensive courses in listening, reading, and writing. His role as a customer service representative further enhanced his communication skills, enabling him to effectively manage customer complaints and collaborate across various departments.
Student Service Department
David Gonzalez
Student Service Advisor - Sesor de Servicios Estudiantiles
My name is David Gonzalez, and I have spent my entire life in North County San Diego, primarily in Escondido. I hold a BA in Criminology and Justice Studies from California State University San Marcos, having completed my general education at Palomar Community College.
Throughout my career, I have worked in educational settings, including roles with non-profits focused on at-promise youth and the San Diego Unified School District. These experiences have reinforced my passion for helping others achieve their educational goals.
As a bilingual speaker of Spanish and English, I have effectively assisted families and individuals in overcoming language barriers in various contexts. I am committed to leveraging my skills in communication and my understanding of cultural nuances to support the diverse student body at Theoria Technical College in reaching their academic aspirations.
General Education Professor
Jake Bills
MBA at California State University – San Marcos
Jake Bills has spent 15 years in Engineering, Operations, and Management. He graduated from Brigham Young University in 2004 with a BS in Manufacturing Engineering Technology and a minor in Business Administration. Post-graduation, Jake moved to Southern California, where he worked as an engineer at large companies known for operational excellence, including one awarded the prestigious Shingo Prize. He also took on roles as an engineer and project manager at a startup electric vehicle company. During this period, he pursued an Executive MBA at California State University – San Marcos, graduating in 2008.
In 2013, Jake returned to his hometown of Salt Lake City, Utah, where he has continued his career in operations management. He is currently part of an organization that was recently honored as Utah Manufacturer of the Year and awarded Utah Best of State. Outside of his professional life, Jake enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in activities such as biking, skateboarding, snowboarding, skiing, and coaching ice hockey. Though he treasures the proximity to the mountains, he remains fond of surfing and the beaches of North County, San Diego.
Professor Assistant
Elise Chan
B.A. Child Development and Education, San Jose State University
Child Development Program Director Permit
Elise brings over eleven years of experience in Early Childhood Education to her role. She started her career as a preschool teacher at a full-inclusion school, where she developed skills in working with neurodiverse children and those with various learning profiles. Elise holds a firm belief in the importance of a child's early years as a critical, formative period that should be valued. In addition to her teaching experience, she has also taken on administrative roles in preschools and has been a Site Supervisor for the past three years. Before her focus on early childhood, Elise taught high school English in Japan. She is currently pursuing a Master's of Education degree and is thrilled to be part of the Theoria team.
Health Professor
Trent Pendergast
Graduate Degree Physical Education, Exercise Sports Science Central Missouri State University
Undergraduate Degree Health and Physical Education Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Bio coming soon.
General Education Professor
Danai Strothers
M.S. in Nutrition, Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas
MBA Prairie View A&M University, Houston, TX
B.S., Communications, Public Relations, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX GRADUATE HOURS - COMMUNICATIONS Spring Arbor University, Spring Arbor, GRADUATE HOURS - COMMUNICATIONS Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX GPA: 4.0 Gained graduate communication hours.
Danai Strother, originally from Houston, Texas and of Jamaican heritage, has extensive teaching experience in speech and business communications at both secondary and higher education levels. In addition to her academic pursuits, Danai is deeply passionate about health and nutrition, operating her own nutrition shop in the Greater Houston area. Beyond teaching, she actively engages with her community by conducting wellness assessments, crafting personalized meal plans, and offering healthy products through her shop.
General Education Professor
April Griffith
Masters in Fine Arts Creative Writing, Chapman University,
Bachelor in English, Creative Writing minor, Writing Specialization, Southern Oregon University
Bio coming soon.
Board of Trustees
Elisha M. Valentine, Chairwoman
Valentine & Associates – Child Care Building Consultants
Yulinda Washington
Facility Director
Health Services
April Holman
Head Accountant
Holman Accounting Services
Darla Delayne
Business Consultant/Retired Teacher
@Darla Delayne
Kasey Kelsey
Retired Child Care Center Director / Administrator / Teacher
T.E.R.I. Inc.
Sunita Charles
HR Specialist
Burnett Specialist
Next Board Meeting - February 1, 2025