Our
Team
Darrick Garcia - Chief Executive Officer
(714) 614-1025
Sheila Dunphy - Program Director
(949) 939-1118
Barbara Eames - Site Director Westgrove
(714) 235-2806
Roxanne Ochoa - Site Director Harbor Light
(951) 346-7548
Darrick Garcia
Executive Director
Darrick is an experienced education professional passionate about bringing Christ to the educational system. With 29 years of service in the public school setting, Darrick has significantly influenced the lives of students, families, and staff in Orange and San Bernardino counties. He has held various roles throughout his career, including Special Education Teacher, Principal, and Assistant Superintendent.
Driven by his deep faith and desire to share the Gospel, Darrick seeks to bring Christian values and teachings to as many children as possible through the educational system. He is dedicated to growing Christian schools and learning centers, where parental choice, access, and affordability are prioritized.
In Loving Memory: Tom Pollitt
Founder of Orange County Christian Learning Centers
Tom's Vision
Tom Pollitt, Founder and Executive Director of Orange County Christian Learning Centers, was a visionary leader driven by a deep passion for providing affordable, Christ-centered education. He recognized the growing need for an alternative to the public school system, where growing concerns about curriculum, policy, and parental rights were prompting families to seek other options. Tom's vision was to create a haven for these families, a place where their children could receive an excellent education grounded in Christian values.
In 2021, Tom's dream became a reality. He and a group of Christian business men and women, united in prayer, established Orange County Christian Learning Centers. Their mission was built on four core values:
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Affordability: Tom believed that Christian education should be accessible to all families, regardless of their financial situation. He worked tirelessly to keep tuition costs low, understanding the challenges faced by working parents, single parents, and homeschooling families.
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Christ-Centered Education: Faith was at the heart of everything Tom did. He ensured that biblical principles permeated the learning environment, with daily homeroom activities including pledges to the American and Christian flags, the Lord's Prayer, Bible memorization, and devotions emphasizing character development.
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Flexibility: Tom understood that children learn at different paces. The smaller class sizes, supported by a teacher and teacher's aide in each classroom, allowed for individualized instruction, enabling students to excel in their strengths and receive extra support where needed.
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Excellent Education: Tom was committed to providing a high-quality academic experience. He recognized that families had choices, and he was determined to offer a program that met and exceeded their expectations.
Orange County Christian Learning Centers began with 14 students in September 2021 and quickly grew, doubling in size by the end of the year. The success continued, with a second campus opening in Garden Grove in March. This rapid growth is a testament to Tom's dedication and the positive impact the learning centers had on the community.
Tom's commitment extended beyond administration. He fostered strong partnerships with local churches and recruited volunteer teachers, many of whom were retired educators eager to share their skills, talents, and experience in a Christian environment. His ability to connect with and inspire others was instrumental in building the foundation of Orange County Christian Learning Centers.
Tom's legacy lives on through the learning centers he founded. His passion for Christ-centered education, his commitment to affordability, and his dedication to providing a nurturing and academically challenging environment will continue to shape the lives of countless students for years to come.