Meet Our 2026 Teacher of The Year!
Ms. Melissa, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten
Ms. Melissa is a compassionate and highly intentional lead Pre‑K teacher at The Goddard School of Wayne, NJ. Her classroom is warm, organized and thoughtfully designed to help young learners feel safe, valued and excited to explore. Families trust her deeply because she sees each child as an individual and fosters growth with patience, insight and genuine care.
Melissa brings learning to life through engaging, hands‑on experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. She partners closely with families, communicating with sensitivity and transparency while turning challenging moments into opportunities for inclusion and connection. Her commitment to safety, emotional well‑being and responsive teaching sets a high standard for excellence.
Ms. Melissa doesn’t simply teach. She uplifts. She protects. She inspires. She partners. She grows alongside her students and colleagues. Her dedication to excellence in early childhood education, combined with her compassionate spirit, makes her an extraordinary educator.
2026 Northeast Regional Winners
- Ms. Taylor, Infant Classroom
- Ms. Kaylee, Toddler Classroom
- Ms. Melissa, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
- Ms. Kerry, Kindergarten Classroom
Ms. Taylor, Infant Classroom
The Goddard School® of Hershey, PA
Ms. Taylor is the heart of the Infant program at The Goddard School of Hershey, PA, where she creates a warm and nurturing environment for the littlest learners. Her calm, responsive approach helps babies feel secure, supported and confident as they explore, learn and meet early milestones. Families trust her deeply because she communicates with care, anticipates needs and ensures safety with exceptional consistency.
Ms. Taylor is admired for her individualized attention using strategies like early sign language to help infants express themselves and build independence. She also fosters an inclusive classroom where every child and family feels welcomed and represented. A dedicated learner herself, she continues to strengthen her practice through ongoing professional growth, including earning her child development associate certification.
Ms. Taylor embodies the compassion, professionalism and thoughtful teaching that define extraordinary educators.
Ms. Kaylee, Toddler Classroom
The Goddard School of Fairfield, NJ
Ms. Kaylee is the beloved Lead Bridge teacher at The Goddard School of Fairfield, NJ, where she is known for her calm presence, intuitive understanding of toddlers and exceptional ability to build trust. Her classroom is a warm, thoughtfully designed environment where young children feel secure as they navigate new independence, big emotions and rapid developmental growth.
Kaylee’s strong family partnerships are a defining part of her impact. She communicates with empathy and clarity, helping families feel supported during important milestones. Her teaching blends curiosity‑driven exploration with the Wonder of Learning® curriculum, creating fun, meaningful experiences that foster confidence and emerging social, emotional and academic skills.
A collaborative teammate and mentor, Kaylee lifts others with her positivity and professionalism. Ms. Kaylee has presence, passion and authenticity that cannot be taught but is deeply felt by everyone fortunate enough to experience her work.
Ms. Melissa, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Wayne, NJ
Ms. Melissa is a compassionate and highly intentional lead Pre‑K teacher at The Goddard School of Wayne, NJ. Her classroom is warm, organized and thoughtfully designed to help young learners feel safe, valued and excited to explore. Families trust her deeply because she sees each child as an individual and fosters growth with patience, insight and genuine care.
Melissa brings learning to life through engaging, hands‑on experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. She partners closely with families, communicating with sensitivity and transparency while turning challenging moments into opportunities for inclusion and connection. Her commitment to safety, emotional well‑being and responsive teaching sets a high standard for excellence.
Ms. Melissa doesn’t simply teach. She uplifts. She protects. She inspires. She partners. She grows alongside her students and colleagues. Her dedication to excellence in early childhood education, combined with her compassionate spirit, makes her an extraordinary educator.
Ms. Kerry, Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Wayne, PA
Ms. Kerry is a beloved and highly respected Kindergarten teacher at The Goddard School of Wayne, PA, where she has been shaping young learners since 2011. Her mornings begin with personal greetings and emotional check‑ins, fostering trust, belonging and authentic connection from the moment children start their day.
Kerry tailors instruction through personalized assessments and the Wonder of Learning curriculum, ensuring every child receives individualized support that nurtures confidence, independence and a love of learning. She immediately develops warm and collaborative relationships with the children and families in her classroom and outside of it. In fact, during yearly curriculum nights, Kerry consistently has a full house with every single family from the School in attendance.
A mentor and leader within her School, she’s truly one of those teachers that has a lasting positive impact on the children in her School and community.
2026 Midwest Regional Winners
- Ms. Katlin, Infant Classroom
- Ms. Madison, Toddler Classroom
- Ms. Lilly, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
- Ms. Nicole, Kindergarten Classroom
Ms. Katlin, Infant Classroom
The Goddard School of Chanhassen, MN
Ms. Katlin is a trusted, nurturing lead teacher in the Infant classroom at The Goddard School of Chanhassen, MN. She plays a pivotal role in helping new families feel confident and supported during their child’s first school experience. Known for her calm presence, strong interpersonal skills and exceptional developmental insight, she creates a warm and responsive environment where infants flourish.
Katlin thoughtfully adapts the Wonder of Learning curriculum for her youngest learners, introducing sensory-rich experiences and engaging materials that promote curiosity and early developmental milestones. Her communication with families is unmatched. She consistently captures and shares meaningful moments that deepen family trust and connection.
A natural leader, Katlin supports her team, contributes ideas that strengthen classroom operations and consistently upholds high health and safety standards. It’s often the intangibles that make someone, or someplace, special. Parents often choose Goddard based on how it “feels.” And it feels good because of teachers like Katlin.
Ms. Madison, Toddler Classroom
The Goddard School of Carmel – West, IN
Ms. Madi is a deeply dedicated Toddler teacher at The Goddard School of Carmel West, IN, where her joyful energy, strong work ethic and genuine love for children shape a classroom full of trust, curiosity and growth. Her room consistently meets the highest standards of health and safety, and she leads by example by modeling best practices for new teachers, serving as “Pod” leader for the entire toddler team.
Madi builds meaningful relationships with families by offering reflective communication, updates and personalized support during transitions. Her care extends far beyond the classroom; she volunteers at a children’s hospital and supports community organizations, reflecting her profound commitment to children’s well‑being.
In the classroom, Madi observes closely, individualizes instruction and thoughtfully implements the Wonder of Learning curriculum. Her dedication to her class, her students, and her co-workers makes everyone feel loved and supported when working with her.
Ms. Lilly, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Overland Park – Stonepost, KS
Ms. Lilly is a compassionate and highly skilled teacher. She creates a nurturing, inclusive environment where children feel emotionally safe, celebrated and empowered to learn. Her strong commitment to health, safety and individualized support is especially evident in the way she meets the needs of children with allergies, sensory differences or unique developmental needs.
Lilly builds meaningful partnerships with families, offering empathy, steady communication and lots of encouragement. Her classroom is filled with engaging, child-driven activities inspired by the Wonder of Learning curriculum, supporting early literacy, problem solving and confidence building every day.
A dedicated learner and team contributor, Lilly mentors colleagues, supports new teachers and helps strengthen her School community. Her professionalism, kindness and passion for the foundational years of education make her an invaluable member of her School and community.
Ms. Nicole, Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Plainfield – Shorewood, IL
Ms. Nicole is a beloved and highly skilled Kindergarten teacher. She’s known for her warm presence, thoughtful classroom design and strong commitment to health and safety, creating an inviting, well‑organized space that supports independence, curiosity and academic confidence.
Nicole builds strong partnerships with families through meaningful projects, cultural celebrations and community connections that enrich each child’s learning experience. She incorporates hands‑on exploration, data‑driven instruction and the Wonder of Learning curriculum to tailor lessons that meet the needs of every learner. Her focus on social‑emotional development, clear expectations and conscious discipline fosters a supportive classroom where children feel valued and empowered to be their best selves.
Nicole exemplifies the important role private Kindergarten plays in our communities. She ensures that her students are not only prepared for first grade but also exceed expectations academically, while being socially and emotionally equipped to face the world.
2026 West Regional Winners
- Ms. Joy, Infant Classroom
- Ms. Janelle, Toddler Classroom
- Ms. Zaraya, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
- Ms. Jennifer, Kindergarten Classroom
Ms. Joy, Infant Classroom
The Goddard School of Buckeye – Verrado, AZ
Ms. Joy is a cherished Infant teacher whose gentle presence, calm demeanor and attentiveness create a warm, nurturing space for the youngest learners. Families feel immediate comfort placing their babies in her care. Her communication, thoughtful questions at drop‑off and detailed daily updates build trust and strong partnerships from day one.
Joy embraces the Wonder of Learning curriculum through meaningful interactions, early literacy experiences and intentional activities that celebrate each milestone. Her ability to balance warmth with responsive caregiving ensures every child feels safe, loved and supported.
A dedicated learner and reliable teammate, Joy stays current with trainings, mentors newer educators and maintains positive relationships across her school community. Former families regularly return to visit, a testament to the lasting connections she builds. Her ability to carry out responsibilities with a balance of love, care and patience make her an asset to the School.
Ms. Janelle, Toddler Classroom
The Goddard School of Kirkland, WA
Ms. Janelle is a talented Toddler teacher whose nurturing presence and exceptional teaching skills have made her one of the school’s most trusted and beloved educators. Families consistently praise her ability to truly see each child for who they are, celebrating their personalities, sharing meaningful anecdotes and building lasting partnerships along the way.
Janelle treats health and safety as foundational, creating a calm, predictable environment that makes toddlers feel secure and confident. Her classroom blends structured learning with joyful warmth, and her storytelling, creativity and fun-loving spirit mean each day is engaging and memorable.
She uses developmental data with intention, tailoring instruction to each child’s needs. A lifelong learner and natural leader, Janelle elevates her teaching team by sharing knowledge, modeling best practices and fostering a culture of kindness. Janelle represents what Goddard promises to families: excellence, safety and a love for learning that begins with a kind heart.
Ms. Zaraya, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of New Braunfels, TX
Ms. Zaraya is an exceptional Preschool whose calm leadership, professionalism and heartfelt care have made her an invaluable part of The Goddard School. Known for her thoughtful supervision and structured routines, she maintains the highest health and safety standards.
Zaraya builds strong, trusting relationships with families through two-way communication, dependable consistency and loving warmth. She runs her classroom with intention and purpose, balancing structure with nurturing guidance that empowers children to develop confidence and independence.
She skillfully uses assessment data, adapting instruction to meet learners’ needs and ensuring her students transition to future classrooms academically and socially prepared. Zaraya brings the Wonder of Learning curriculum to life with inquiry‑based experiences that spark curiosity and joyful exploration. In her classroom, children feel secure enough to explore, confident enough to lead and supported enough to grow. Zaraya’s impact extends beyond her classroom walls — it shapes her School’s culture and strengthens their community.
Ms. Jennifer, Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Justin, TX
Ms. Jennifer is a deeply respected Kindergarten teacher whose warmth, professionalism and decades of expertise make her a beloved leader within her School community. With nearly 30 years in early childhood education, she brings exceptional skill, consistency, intentionality and heart to her classroom each day. Jennifer’s morning greetings double as wellness checks, and her proactive approach to routines — like reinforcing safe habits and age‑appropriate hygiene — creates an environment where children feel secure, supported and ready to learn.
Her relationships with families establish trust, transparency and care. Parents appreciate her thoughtful communication and the lasting connections she builds—many former students continue reaching out years later. Jennifer skillfully uses assessment data to guide instruction, tailoring learning experiences to meet each child’s needs.
Her tender, “Mama Bear” personality translates into a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued and inspired.
2026 Southeastern Regional Winners
- Ms. Ashley, Infant Classroom
- Ms. Derricia, Toddler Classroom
- Ms. Yelsika, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten
- Ms. Liza, Kindergarten Classroom
Ms. Ashley, Infant Classroom
The Goddard School of Cary – Lochmere, NC
Ms. Ashley is a highly trusted Infant teacher whose calm presence and strong instincts make her an invaluable part of her School. Since Goddard in 2025, she has created a nurturing, emotionally secure environment where children feel safe to explore and grow. She approaches health and safety with thoughtfulness and creativity, most notably introducing an individualized seating solution to protect a child with severe food allergies while maintaining full inclusion during mealtimes.
Ashley builds strong, supportive relationships with families navigating childcare for the first time. Her patient guidance, detailed communication and heartfelt celebrations of each child’s milestones quickly establish trust. She intentionally supports developmental progress, helping many children achieve early milestones like independent walking and self-feeding through close observation and individualized care. At a stage where children cannot yet fully express their needs with words, Ms. Ashley ensures they’re understood, valued and loved: the foundation upon which all meaningful learning is built.
Ms. Derricia, Toddler Classroom
The Goddard School of Fort Mill – Gold Hill, SC
Ms. Dee is a dedicated Toddler teacher whose warmth, professionalism and unwavering commitment have made her a beloved member of The Goddard School for six years. She prioritizes health and safety with exceptional consistency, including supporting children with medical needs through compassionate care. Families trust her wholeheartedly because she communicates openly and provides thoughtful daily updates that reflect her dedication to every child.
Dee approaches teaching with patience and intention, adapting instruction based on observation, feedback and developmental data. Her classroom is a place of happy exploration where toddlers learn through hands‑on experiences supported by the Wonder of Learning curriculum. She embraces growth, welcomes feedback and continuously strengthens her teaching practice.
Dee’s care for children extends beyond her own classroom; when children move on, she continues to visit them in their new classrooms to maintain strong connections and support their transitions. This reflects her deep commitment to relationships, continuity and community.
Ms. Yelsika, Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of Falls Church, VA
Miss Yelsika is a standout Preschool/Pre‑K teacher whose calm leadership, inclusive practices and strong family partnerships make her an exceptional educator. She maintains impeccable health and safety standards while embedding emotional safety into daily routines, including individualized check‑ins during transitions to ensure each child feels seen and supported.
Her expertise in assessment and data is strengthened by her Master’s degree in Neuroeducation. She collaborates with therapists, integrates developmental strategies into the classroom and creates personalized tools like her My Happy Hands book to support children’s confidence and emotional growth. She embraces diversity, incorporates native language words into instruction and introduces enriching experiences like martial‑arts‑based self‑regulation lessons.
A thoughtful communicator and collaborative mentor, Yelsika uplifts colleagues, strengthens family partnerships and enriches her School community. She’s proactive, solution-oriented and deeply invested in children’s success, making her invaluable to Goddard.
Ms. Liza, Kindergarten Classroom
The Goddard School of South Tampa, FL
Ms. Liza is a founding teacher at The Goddard School of South Tampa, where she has shaped the culture and heart of the School since 2021. As the lead Kindergarten teacher, she is known for her unwavering dedication, meaningful relationships with families and deep commitment to every child’s success. Her classroom reflects the highest standards of health, safety and organization.
Liza blends the Wonder of Learning curriculum with individualized instruction, creating thoughtful, engaging lessons that support strong developmental progress across all learning domains. She communicates consistently and intentionally, celebrates milestones and maintains caring partnerships with families. Her leadership extends beyond her classroom through mentoring peers, supporting school initiatives and fostering community connections.
Her steady presence and leadership have helped every student in her care complete the kindergarten program exceeding expectations, a fact echoed in countless parent emails and reviews from grateful families. Resilient, compassionate and deeply devoted, Liza is a truly outstanding educator.