Meet Our Instructors

Cindy Tapp, Senior Program Specialist, Early Childhood Education

As a lifelong resident of Torrance, I am proud to serve the community that has always been home to me. My journey with the Early Childhood Education program began in 2002 as a teacher for the Fun and Friends and Lollipop Tree classes. Over the years, my passion for early childhood education and program development has grown into a leadership role dedicated to supporting children, families, and staff.

As the Senior Program Specialist for Early Childhood Education, I oversee a program that provides high-quality, enriching experiences designed to support each child’s social, emotional, and developmental growth. I am committed to creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment while fostering collaboration, creativity, and meaningful connections with families. My goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to build confidence, develop foundational school-readiness skills, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

Shannon Gonzalez, Program Specialist, Early Childhood Education

I am a Torrance native who is happily raising 3 amazing children here with my husband. I began working for the Torrance Early Childhood Education department as a parent volunteer and came on board as a teacher shortly after. I love our programs here and am dedicated to creating a joyful and engaging learning environment for our students. My approach combines creativity, patience, and individualized attention to support each child’s unique growth and development. I believe in fostering curiosity through play, hands-on activities, and a positive atmosphere that encourages exploration and confidence. My goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning in every child and build a strong foundation for their future success.

Kate Hughes, Program Leader, Early Childhood Education

Originally from the Midwest, I have called Torrance home since 2018. I live here with my husband and three children, who are past and present students in the ECE program. I’ve worked with children in multiple capacities in the past and am delighted to be back in a classroom setting. appreciate that this program gives children an opportunity to practice sharing, working together, and developing friendships all while laying the groundwork for their educational journey. My goal is to give students the confidence they need to succeed in the future - both academically and socially.

Remy Garcia, Program Leader, Early Childhood Education

I was born and raised here in the South Bay where my family and I currently live. I am a mother of two amazing kiddos and one furry pup. I’m happy to have the opportunity to be with the children in the classroom and help them along in their development. I’m committed to making their days here both joyful and educational. I think each child deserves a space where they feel safe to explore, discover, and learn from their peers as well as their educators.

Danielle Pearson, Program Specialist, Early Childhood Education

As a lifelong member of the Torrance community, I’m proud to serve the city where I was raised, where I’m raising my two children, and where I’ve spent many years giving back through a variety of school and community volunteer roles.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which supports my whole-child approach to teaching and helps me nurture the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. I believe children thrive in warm, play-based environments where they feel safe, supported, and free to explore. In my classroom, I strive to create a space where every child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn.

It’s a joy and a privilege to support each child’s growth during their early years, and I’m committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning