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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 Student Satisfaction an integral part of our organization."
Our Mission Statement
Theoria Technical College is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible, and innovative early childhood education programs that prepare students for successful careers as skilled and ethical early educators.
We foster a dynamic learning environment focused on practical, job-oriented training, ensuring that our graduates excel in meeting the needs of diverse communities. Our programs lead to an associate degree and certifications that address critical workforce development demands while empowering students to pursue lifelong learning and professional growth.
Through a commitment to academic excellence and inclusive education, Theoria Technical College empowers students to transform not only their own lives but also the communities they serve, contributing to a more equitable and impactful future.
INSTITUTIONAL LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs)
Upon completion of their educational experience at Theoria Technical College, students will be able to:
ILO 1: Professional Competence & Workforce Readiness
Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors required for successful employment in early childhood education and related human service fields.
ILO 2: Effective Communication
Communicate clearly, professionally, and compassionately with children, families, colleagues, and community partners across diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
ILO 3: Ethical Practice & Accountability
Apply ethical standards, reflective practice, and responsible decision-making in their work with children, families, and professional peers.
ILO 4: Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Analyze situations, apply evidence-based practices, and make informed decisions to support child development, learning environments, and program operations.
ILO 5: Cultural & Community Responsiveness
Demonstrate respect, cultural humility, and culturally responsive practices that promote equity, inclusion, and meaningful engagement with diverse communities.
ILO 6: Lifelong Learning & Professional Growth
Engage in reflective practice, pursue ongoing professional development, and adapt to evolving workforce standards in early childhood education.
At Theoria Technical College, we are passionate about equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to embark on fulfilling careers as Early Childhood Educators. We know that emotional, social, and physical development in early years shapes not just childhood but the future well-being of our society.
Our Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education provides a comprehensive foundation in child development, curriculum planning, and classroom management. We prepare our students to become the teachers of tomorrow. We empower them to inspire young minds, strengthen communities, and contribute to a stronger America.
As President and Co-Founder, I believe in providing the integrity, clarity, and tools our students need to stay competitive and make a meaningful impact. By joining our program, you are not just advancing your career. You are becoming part of a mission to elevate early education and positively influence the next generation.
Join us today and help shape the future one child, one classroom, one community at a time.
-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."
Interim Chief of Academics (CAO)
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.
Director of Business Development and Outreach
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.
Administration Department
April Holman, Accountant
Chief Financial Officer
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.
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.
Director of Mandarin Studies and Student Engagement
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 making 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.
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.
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
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.
Academics Program Manager
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.
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.
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.
Administration Assistant and Registrar
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.
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.
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.
Student Services Advisor
Nichole Reese
Bio coming
Curriculum Committee Vice Chair
Adjunct Professor
Mrs. Christine Collins, M. Ed
Masters of Arts in Education, Ashford College
Specialization: Early Childhood Education, currently pursuing a Ph.D in Organization Leadership
Christine Collins has earned a Master 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, Health and Safety, Creating Engaging Learning Spaces, Managing Employees with Care, and Leadership Excellence. Christine currently works as a Preschool Director, where she has been for the past 13 years. Christine has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for 19 years. Christine has experience serving as a CAO.
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. 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.
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.
Board of Trustees
Elisha M. Valentine, Chairwoman
Valentine & Associates – Child Care Building Consultants
Yulinda Washington
Facility Director
Health Services
Hazel Martinez
Non-Profit Director
Mikayla Smith
Childcare Program Manager
Sunita Charles
HR Specialist
Burnett Specialist
Next Board Meeting - March 20, 2026