We're thrilled to offer our outstanding STEAM program to our community. With two children of my own, I deeply value a secure, high-quality, loving, and learning environment. With a background in Business Administration and over a decade of management experience, I've operated The Goddard School of Lake Forest since 2016 and am excited to open a new location in Tustin. My focus is on creating a nurturing atmosphere where children thrive socially and academically. Our curriculum integrates Yoga, Chess, Robotics, Spanish, Mandarin, Sign Language, and more. Seeing children's joy and receiving their hugs is the highlight of my day. I invite you to visit, meet our dedicated teachers, and learn about The Goddard approach. Let us show you how we support children's growth and development.

Education: BA Interdisciplinary Studies; Studies in Alternative Medicine BA Dance BA Psychology 15+ Post-Secondary Units in Early Childhood Education Experience: Since Jennifer joined The Goddard School of Lake Forest in 2019, she has worked in many different capacities supporting children, families, and teachers. She has 8 years of experience in Administration, Event, and Marketing Management for early childhood facilities in NY, MD, DC & Northern VA. Prior to Goddard, she was a lead teacher for 10 years for ages 12 mo-5 yrs in a preschool and focused many of those years creating curriculum for Early Childhood Music, Dance, Art, Science & Enrichment programs. She is also a mom to a beautiful little girl and little boy. "I am so honored to serve the children in my community and lend support to Moms and Dads, Grandmas and Grandpas, Nanas and Papas, and all my neighbors. Let us all remember that 'Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.'"

Education: AA Early Childhood Education Experience: Ms. Delmy's journey in education has been fueled by her love and passion for helping children grow and reach their full potential. When she landed her first teaching job 12 years ago, she realized that teaching was her calling. Ms. Delmy worked with various age groups ranging from infants to pre-kindergarten. Her experiences in the classroom not only solidified her belief in the importance of nurturing children but also sparked a desire to support and inspire the educators around her. Recognizing the need to remind teachers why they chose this profession, Ms. Delmy seized the opportunity to become a preschool administrator. Her role as a Director at a preschool in Fullerton for over three years equipped her with the necessary skills and experience to take on new challenges.

Education: BA Civil Law Experience: Once Lana had children of her own, she realized how important it is to provide them with a great foundation before they head to school. "I believe that the first six years of their lives are the most important, and a loving and caring environment is a key to children’s success in life." In 2015, she and her husband opened an indoor playground. For over a decade, she also volunteered in her children's school to learn new techniques and methods of communication and effective teaching. Unfortunately, due to COVID pandemic, they had to close the playground. "For the last year, I was looking at various opportunities with early childhood education and came across the Goddard School. I was very impressed with how the school operates and its curriculum. I am truly honored to join the Goddard team, and look forward to sharing my experience and growing together!"

Education: M.S. Early Childhood Development/Educational Leadership, B.S. Early Childhood Development Experience: After volunteering in a classroom, Ms. Vicki knew that teaching young children was going to be her career for life. Ms. Vicki has been an educator and mentor for over 25 years mentoring children from infancy through 1st grade. She has also worked as a literacy intervention specialist and a literacy coach for educators directly. She says, "Watching children explore the world as they're filled with excitement and wonder is priceless to me! Moving into an administrative role will provide me with the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences with children, families, and teachers...Here's to growing together!"

Education: BA in Child and Adolescent Development with a focus on Early Childhood Experience: Ms. Lindsay became interested in early childhood development as a college undergrad, discovering her passion for teaching little ones. She has been working with young learners for over 8 years, predominantly infants and toddlers. She believes that quality care and education starts with a nurturing environment in which the child feels free to explore, as they are so naturally curious! Ms. Lindsay enjoys planning and implementing age appropriate activities and watching the children reach their milestones. She is dedicated to facilitating each child’s overall development and helping them discover a love for learning!

Education: Post-Secondary Early Childhood Development Coursework Experience: Ms. Teresa has been working with children for over 25 years from infants to 6 years old. She is extremely passionate and dedicated to children and the work that she does with them. She is excited to share her love, create a well-trusted environment for children, and leave a positive impact on all the children and families she works with here at The Goddard School.

Education: Law Degree, Post-Secondary ECE Coursework Experience: Ms. Ana is a native Spanish speaker from Trujillo, Perú with a law degree from the Universidad Antenor Orrego. Most recently, Ms. Ana was a teacher and Director of a Spanish language bilingual daycare program in Temecula and has worked as a Spanish teacher for school-age programs in Northern CA. “I love teaching kids to develop skills to maximize their learning potential, and instill the confidence needed to be happy and successful students.”

Education: B.A. in Liberal Studies and English Literature; M.A. in Education: Learning and Teaching (in progress) Experience: Ms. Maria always knew growing up she wanted to become a teacher so she took any opportunity she had. She has experience in a 1st grade classroom while completing her Liberal Studies degree at the University of Redlands. "The opportunity I had to work with young children helped me understand the importance of providing a loving, safe, and supportive environment for children to learn and grow. I believe every student is special and unique and they should be provided an environment where they feel supported and given personalized instruction where they can learn and grow at their own pace." Ms. Maria joined the Goddard School Infant and Toddler program in January 2022 and has already been nominated for Goddard System's Teacher of the Year.

Education: Post-Secondary Early Childhood Education Coursework Experience: Ms. Lizet has been a teacher with the Goddard School since joining the team in 2016. She has worked with many age groups, from infancy to preschool, although she has taken on a co-lead role in the Infant and Toddler program since 2019. She enjoys teaching children and loves the light that they bring.

Education: Post-Secondary Coursework Specializing in Early Childhood Education & Infant Care Experience: Originally from Turkey, Ms. Rana has a true passion for nurturing our youngest learners as they progress in all areas of development: academic, social, language, and motor skills. She is a mother to two children who are very active in sports and she enjoys reading, cooking, and relaxing at the beach. Ms. Rana is fluent in Mandarin, Turkish, and English. "I look forward to working together with you as partners in your child's growth and development!"

Education: AA Human Development California Teacher Permit Experience: Brenda has been teaching and working with children for over 10 years and has worked with all age groups. Most importantly, she is a mother to two beautiful children. She believes that children learn by playing and exploring on their own and strives to maintain a safe and loving environment for them to feel comfortable learning and growing. She has been one of those most loved teachers at The Goddard School since 2018.

Education: AA Liberal Arts: Art, Hum & Comm AA Liberal Arts: Social & Behavioral Science AS Early Childhood Education Child Development Certificate: Infant/Toddlers Child Development Certificate: Preschool Experience: Ms. Sonia has been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 10 years and has had experience teaching children from 2 - 5 years of age and has been an adored teacher at The Goddard School since 2019. She has been nominated twice for Goddard System's Teacher of the Year. Sonia truly believes that as a teacher she has the power to create a safe learning environment for children. By establishing a loving and nurturing relationship with children, she will then be able to use the curriculum to facilitate their growth and guide them so they can reach their full potential in preschool.

Education: BA Psychology Minor Child and Adolescent Studies Experience: Ms. Alejandra has been working/volunteering with children since 2010. She started out volunteering at the youth summer recreation program in her community and went on to work in the school setting at the afterschool program in an elementary school. Ms. Alejandra loves creating trusting relationships with the children where they felt safe and comfortable asking questions and learning about the world around them through fun activities. She has been a beloved teacher at The Goddard School since 2019.

Education: BS Early Childhood Education Experience: Ms. Debbie has been teaching and working with children for over 20 years from infancy to Pre-K. She received her Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education in 2001. She believes children learn the best when they have a loving and safe environment. Ms. Debbie has worked as a support to all age groups at The Goddard School since she joined the team in 2019. She enjoys working with children because they brighten her day everyday.

Education: M.B.A. & Post-Secondary Early Childhood Education Coursework Experience: A self-proclaimed "dedicated advocate for early childhood education." Her MBA journey equipped her with strategic thinking and organizational skills to be integrated into the realm of early childhood education. "As a parent myself, I've witnessed the incredible impact of early education on my own child's growth. This firsthand experience has fueled my commitment to providing young learners with a solid foundation that extends far beyond the classroom."

Education: Post-Secondary Studies in Early Childhood Education Experience: Ms. Vanessa's love for childcare and teaching grew when she became an Aunt. "That is when I realized I wanted to become a teacher." Ms. Vanessa has worked as a lead teacher for over 2 years in both a developmental curriculum and Montessori. She started working with the Goddard School in 2021.

Education: AA Degree in Human Services Experience: Ms. Isabel has worked as a preschool teacher since 2019 and she has loved every minute of it. She was inspired by her mother, who is also an ECE professional. She is very hard-working, creative, passionate, and caring for all children that she works with. Ms. Isabel "loves the opportunity to nurture, and help guide children as they grow."

Education: BA in Child & Adolescent Development Experience: Ms. Rosa has worked with children for over 3 years in both academic and psychological settings, ranging from the ages of infants all the way to TK. She is dedicated in providing the safest developmental learning experience while continuing to nurture a growth mindset. She is so excited to be a part of a team that helps your children grow and learn in a loving and safe environment. "I am honored to continue to share this passion with the staff at The Goddard School and to have the opportunity to serve the children and families of my community." Ms. Rosa has been a valued part of the Goddard School since 2022.

Education: Masters Microbiology; Advanced Post-Graduate Diploma Clinical Research; Post-Secondary Early Childhood Education Coursework Experience: Prior to Ms. Shree becoming a mother herself, she worked in the pharmaceutical industry. She now has two beautiful children. She began to volunteer in a Kindergarten classroom as well as at a language school and that is when she realized how much she loved working with children in an educational setting. "Seeing these kids grow and learn, helping them reach their full potential brought me immense joy and satisfaction. I feel truly honored to be working with your kids in their academic, language , motor and social development and will strive to create a healthy and positive environment for learning and growth."

Education: BS Child and Adolescent Development with Emphasis in Early Childhood Experience: Ms. Vivian has been with the Goddard School Preschool program team since 2019 and prior to Goddard, she worked with preschoolers for 2 years. One of the most important things to her is teaching children about social and life skills so they can be ready to take on any challenges in life. She believes being patient is crucial and is one of her most important values, especially when working with young children. She believes that providing safe, supportive, and high quality environment will help children thrive and grow to be the best person they can be.

Education: ECE coursework in Early Childhood Education AA in Early Childhood Education AS in Business and Marketing California Associate Teacher Credential Certification Experience: Ms. Carol started her career working with children through yoga. She developed a children's yoga program in 2016, creating fun and engaging yoga classes teaching yoga poses, stories, and games. She moved on to become a preschool teacher assistant for two years while beginning her Early Childhood Education courses. “One of the best moments in teaching is witnessing a child understand something new. You see when it clicks for them and their faces light up. They are eager to share what they have learned and explore further into the experience. Being a part of those continuous moments has nurtured my passion for being a part of the classroom.”

Education: Post-Secondary ECE Coursework, Occupational Program, Additional Health & Safety/CPR Certifications Experience: Princeen has over 30 years in Child Development both as a lead teacher as well as a Director of a successful preschool. “Working with children, teachers, and parents has been a great enjoyment for me. I am dedicated to the social and emotional development of each child and I believe that all children deserve the best care and love they can receive."

Education: BA Psychology Child Development Associate Teacher Permit Early Childhood Associate Teacher, COP Teacher's Aide Certification from Irvine Adult School Continuing Education in Early Childhood Education Experience An integral part of The Goddard School since 2018, Ms. Chetana has been a lead teacher for over 10 years, teaching preschool and Kindergarten children ages 3-7 years old. She sees herself as a motivated and enthusiastic educator with a strong desire to foster cohesive student learning in a safe and fun environment. The focus in her classroom has always been on maximizing learning opportunities and implementing age-appropriate curriculum. She believes that young children learn best through play and exploration and embraces this belief in all that she does in the classroom. Ms. Chetana has been nominated for Goddard System's National Teacher of the Year.

Education: Masters in Sociology, Early Childhood Education Teaching Certificate Experience: Ms. Monika has been over 8 years as a teacher in Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten and she enjoys watching children grow and achieve great things. She is passionate about positive motivation in life, as well as in the classroom. Positivity can motivate children and encourage them to grow. "I see each child as a unique individual with a great capacity to learn and capable of making positive contributions to those around them. My goal as a teacher is to create a rich, joyful learning environment in which children feel safe to explore, initiate learning and feel free to express themselves." She enjoys science, hiking, snowboarding, camping and gardening.

Education: BA in Early Childhood Education Experience: Ms. Amy first started volunteering in children’s programs when she was in middle school and that is where she realized she wanted to be a teacher. Since then, she has worked with children from infancy through 6th grade and through that she found a special joy in working with the littlest ones. She loves their excitement, warmth and curiosity for learning. She has been a lead teacher in The Goddard School's acclaimed Pre-K program and Preschool programs.

Education: M.A. Early Education B.S. Child and Adolescent Studies After School Program Associate Teacher Certificate Experience: Ms. Tanya has extensive experience in Early Childhood Education with over 10 years of experience working with Pre-Kindergarten through school-age. Being a mother herself, Ms. Tanya believes in creating an environment where children have the opportunity to reach their full potential all while exploring their world through play. She aspires to be the best teacher, role model and administrative figure for all children, families and teachers. Ms. Tanya has also been nominated for Goddard System's Teacher of the Year.

Education: BS in Child Development Experience: Miss Gisell has been teaching for 5 years with ages 6 weeks to school age. She found her love of teaching at a young age and began volunteering in classrooms which lead her to pursue a career in Child Development. Her passion for children and being apart of their educational journey continues as well as her focus on providing them with a loving, engaging, and safe environment they are excited to come to every day.

Education: Bachelor's Early Childhood Studies Coursework and additional post-secondary coursework specializing in Infant/Toddler Care Experience: Ms. Veronica has worked with children for over 8 years. She has worked with closely with children with special needs, completed a university guided internship with infants, led a youth summer camp group and taught in a preschool classroom environment. Ms. Veronica loves getting to know each child’s personality and discover how she can attend to each of their needs. She wishes to provide a safe environment for all children so they can feel seen and heard. Ms. Veronica finds joy in connecting with children through reading and arts and crafts the most!

Education: Child Development Associate Credential Experience: Ms. Noor is a dedicated teacher's assistant with over four years of valuable experience in educational support. Throughout her time in this role, she has contributed to creating engaging learning environments and providing essential assistance to both teachers and students. "My passion for fostering academic growth and helping students succeed has been a driving force behind my commitment to excellence. I'm excited to continue making a positive impact in the realm of education."

Education: BA Child Education (in process) Experience: Ms. Savannah has a love for teaching children and helping them learn about the world around them. She has over 7 years of experience working with children in an educational setting between the ages of 3 and 14 years. "I believe in cultivating a warm and welcoming environment where every child feels secure to explore and learn. Throughout my educational journey, I've embraced the philosophy of building meaningful relationships with each student. I know how important it is to get to know & understand their unique personalities and needs, allowing me to structure an educational experience that addresses their strengths and learning opportunities."

Education: Bachelor of Arts: Interior Design and Expressive Arts; Post-Secondary Early Childhood Education Studies Experience: Ms. Sandra started working with young children in 2019. Her love for children's artistic imagination started even before that. During college, she began decorating and designing children's birthday parties and was designing scenes and characters for a cartoon movie. This love for children's creativity expanded even more when her daughter was born. Ms. Sandra says, "I love using creative arts, crafts and coloring in my teaching technique. Singing a song and reading books with funny interesting voices always grabs the attention of the children. I always do my best to understand children’s emotional needs and develop a relationship with both children and parents."

Education: Child Development Associate Certification Experience: Ms. Diana has worked as a teacher for children of many different ages and abilities since 2014. She began her education career as an assistant teacher in a school catering "to students with Autism, Down’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, Dyslexia, auditory processing problems and expressive and receptive language delays." She has worked as a lead teacher in a preschool setting since 2018. Ms. Diana is "committed to creating a safe and inspiring learning environment for all students" and believes that the most important thing a teacher can do is "teach with patience, love, and perseverance."

Education: Experience: Ms. Maribel has spent over 20 years as a preschool teacher as well as a Spanish and folklore dance instructor to grade school children. After finishing my education in the tourist industry I worked as a travel agent and tour guide in Los Cabos, Mexico. Through her work in that industry, she often witnessed children suffering from the lack of a proper education. With this in mind, she was inspired to further her own education. "It is my mission to instill in students a love of learning and I always strive to teach my subjects with love and passion so that my students develop a desire to become lifelong learners." In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending quality time with her family and her dog Max in Mexico.

Education: B.A. Psychology, minor in Special Education with a focus on learning styles and cognitive processes. Experience: Ms. Sara is both a mother and a teacher and has been working with children for over 20 years. In 2013, she found her love for teaching and nurturing preschool-aged children and devoted the following years to focusing on the learning styles of 3 and 4 year olds. While in her post-secondary studies, she was a part of multiple research projects focused on young children’s learning techniques in the classroom. She says, "I believe teaching our friends about their feelings and emotions is just as important as ABCs and numbers. I want to create an environment where the children feel safe and secure while teaching them the tools to work through the big emotions they are going to experience in life. I am so happy to be given the opportunity to teach at The Goddard School and look forward to the meeting and learning about each and every student."