Meet Our Team

Kimm Emerson

Center Director

Kimm earned her B.A. in Education from San Diego State University and her California Teaching Credential from California State University, San Marcos. Kimm came to Sylvan Learning Centers as a parent looking for help for her then 10-year-old daughter, Kaylee. She was impressed with Sylvan’s approach as well as with Kaylee’s progress. Kimm started her employment with Sylvan as a teacher and has added to her skills along the way to her current position. Kimm stays busy outside of Sylvan with her husband. She enjoys hiking, traveling to see her kids, cooking, and riding her ebike, like everyone else in Cardiff.

Bonnie Orphanos

Director of Education

Bonnie received a B.A. in Applied Mathematics with Scientific Programming at the University of California, San Diego, and then decided to share her knowledge with children. She received her teaching credential and M.A. from National University. Bonnie has worked with Sylvan Learning Centers since 1995 and appreciates how Sylvan programs and environment enable her to make a difference with students in ways that are virtually impossible in the public school setting. She firmly believes that the students’ successes are her successes, too. Bonnie’s personal interests include French language and culture, travel, photography, and playing music.

Brandon Khieu

Executive Director

Brandon comes to Sylvan with an M.B.A. in Management Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN. His most recent endeavors include being a technical leader and program manager for Hewlett Packard. He concurrently served as Vice Principal of Education for the Lac Hong Organization in San Diego CA. As a married man and father of four school-age daughters, Brandon has always been attentive to academic skills needed for school and life success. His personal interests include family activities, tennis, volleyball, and baking.

Sarah Picollelli

Enrichment Program Manager

Sarah earned her Bachelors in psychology from Randolph-Macon Women’s College. After spending three years as support staff in Maryland, she decided that she wanted to be a full time teacher. Sarah earned her Master of Arts in Teaching in social studies and teaching credentials from the University of Pittsburgh. A product of small group instruction, she understands and appreciates the benefits of the Sylvan student experience. Since moving to California in 2014, she has become addicted to guacamole! She enjoys spending time with her husband and adorable child.