Our Teachers

It has always been Kim’s lifelong dream to run and operate her own business, and The Goddard School was the perfect fit for her and her family. Kim was thrilled when she found a franchise that would combine her love of young children with her passion for education. As the mother and stepmother to 2 sets of twins, Kim has always adored children! She majored in Elementary Education at Florida Atlantic University and previously managed small businesses prior to opening The Goddard School several years ago. Kim loves the family-oriented community in Monroe and is proud to serve the surrounding towns as well. She believes that a quality early childcare experience will help to set children up for success and allow them to thrive in the future. She always loves to see how excited and happy all the students are to come to her Goddard School each day! In her opinion, there is no better way to contribute to society than to support families as their young children learn and grow.

Heather has been working with children since she can remember, always looking to follow in the footsteps of her mother who was a preschool teacher for about 25 years! She began her career in Early Childhood at The University of Connecticut’s Child Development Laboratories where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development and Education. Through these experiences, she has learned that providing a warm, nurturing environment in the classroom is key to children’s ability to grow and learn. She started her Goddard career as a toddler teacher, working with them for 6 years before accepting the Assistant Director position. She recognizes the significance of developing family relationships and looks forward to creating relationships with the families here at Goddard. In her free time she enjoys running, going on hikes, spending time with her dog Zeke and visiting with her family.

Mariah was born and raised in Bridgeport, CT. She went to the University of Connecticut and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Psychology. She has a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Mariah has always had two passions in life, which are helping people and working with children. For 7 years, she worked at an after school and summer program called The Lighthouse Program in her hometown. Working there has taught her patience and has only instilled her love for children. Mariah also babysat her 5 younger cousins who are all 2 years apart, which kept her on her toes! In her free time, Mariah enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family and gaming. She is excited to be working at the Goddard school, and can’t wait to see these young minds grow!

Liz began her journey working with children in 2010 as an assistant dance teacher, quickly realizing her passion for nurturing young minds. She has since gained extensive experience in various childcare settings, including before and after school programs, running a summer camp in Trumbull, and serving as a lead teacher in a childcare center in Rhode Island. Liz holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Rhode Island and has worked with children ranging from 6 weeks to 16 years old. Liz is thrilled to be working close to her hometown of Trumbull. In her free time, she enjoys visiting Cape Cod and spending time near the beach. Having been with Goddard for some time now, Liz is excited to continue supporting the growth of her colleagues’ teaching careers and fostering meaningful connections with Goddard families.

Heather was born and raised in Connecticut. As the youngest of four siblings, she has spent the past 18 years caring for her nieces and nephews. With over 13 years of professional experience in childcare, including three years as a nanny for infant triplets, Heather brings a wealth of expertise to her role. In her spare time, Heather enjoys reading mystery novels, participating in outdoor activities, and spending quality time with family and friends. Recently, she welcomed her own baby girl, who now attends The Goddard School. Heather is passionate about her work at The Goddard School and takes great joy in supporting the growth and development of the infants in her care.

Vanessa has been dedicated to childcare since 2007, gaining experience through babysitting, volunteering at elementary schools, and working as an infant/toddler teacher. She is deeply passionate about her work in childcare, striving to help young children reach their milestones while having fun and creating lasting memories. In her free time, Vanessa enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her two children. She is excited to be a part of The Goddard School team and looks forward to building strong bonds with the children and their families.

Diana has many years of experience working with children. From being a private nanny to a learning support specialist to being a preschool teacher she has worked with many different age groups and enjoyed every single one! However, infants hold a special place in her heart! Diana’s dedication to making sure that each child feels included, seen and heard, shows how much she cares for her students. She has taken a personal interest in learning all about child development and the importance each stage is for children. Diana also loves to spend time outdoors especially when it comes to being with dogs!

Kimora has an extreme passion for working with kids. She has previous experience as an infant teacher which has given her the skill set to help and assist in developing their fine and gross motor skills and give them the care, they all need as individuals. Kimora wants her students to have the opportunity to learn and grow in the world that surrounds them. Her teaching philosophy is that teaching is not only her passion, but it is her life.

Lisa wanted to be a teacher for as long as she could remember and has been working with young children for over 20 years. She began her career after obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree and becoming certified in Special Education. In addition to teaching Pre-Kindergarten, Lisa really enjoys teaching art and working at a Summer Camp. Lisa is so happy to have joined The Goddard School of Monroe community!

Heather has 35 years of experience with children, from 6 weeks old all the way up to 18 years old. Her experience ranges from 24-hour childcare, home childcare, nanny, preschool, infant and toddler, before and after school, Sunday school superintendent and youth group leader. Some of Heather's greatest pleasures working in the childcare profession has been when former students have come back to work with her, and she has cared for their children. Heather truly loves to travel and has been to Germany, France, England, Scotland, Canada, Czech Republic, Austria, and many different states. Heather is eagerly looking forward to getting to know the children and their families here at Goddard.

Brittany went the University of Connecticut and graduated with her bachelor's degree in psychological studies. She just finished her teaching assistant job at the UCONN child development labs where she had the opportunity to have a hands-on experience with observing developmental milestones. Brittany is very excited to be working here at the Goddard School and looks forward to making connections with her students and families.

Maria was born in Bridgeport, CT. She has several years of early childhood teaching experience with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. She began working in centers at the age of 18, has experience working as a nanny and for the last 12 years has worked at early childcare centers in Monroe. Her favorite part of working with children is watching their faces light up from learning new skills and observing the innocence of their play. Maria is very fond of Monroe and the community. Maria and her husband moved here over 18 years ago and raised their 6 children here. She also has 2 granddaughters that are growing up here as well. Maria cherishes spending time with her family. Her interests include football, home decor, plants, going to the movies, the beach and dancing. She is thrilled to be a part of the Goddard School and faculty. She is looking forward to building strong bonds and relationships with the children and families.

Kimberly was raised in Bridgeport, CT. With a bachelor’s in Sociology and Women’s Studies, Kimberly has grown very passionate about the development and well-being of all people and in particular, children. She has experience working in before/after school care programs and has been a babysitter since she was 18. Her favorite part about working with children is watching them grow confident in themselves and their abilities! Outside of work, Kimberly is creative at heart and loves to sew, read, write, and dance. She is excited to be a part of the Goddard School and to nurture the creativity of the students here!

Melanie was born in The Bronx, NY, and lived there until the age of 18 when she moved to Connecticut for college in 2020 where she graduated in May with her undergraduate degree in Sport Management with a minor in Psychology. Following graduation, Melanie’s plan is to obtain her masters in lower education and become a full- time lower elementary school teacher. She has experience coaching children from ages 4-17 in softball and baseball and also has experience with her younger family members who range in age from 10 months to 11 years old. Melanie has a strong interest regarding children’s communication skills and enjoys focusing on teaching them how to express themselves in their own individual ways. Melanie is excited to begin this new journey at the Goddard School!

Stefania grew up in Monroe and has lived in Trumbull since 2002. She is a graduate of Sacred Heart University with a B.S. in psychology. She has previous work experience with Kings Highway Elementary School in Westport and the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. She is passionate about children and helping them be their best selves. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, walking and spending time with friends and family. She has two children, ages 19 and 8. Stefania is looking forward to joining the Goddard team and getting to know her students and their families.

Miss Carrie has been working in the Goddard System since 2007. She loves how different each age group that she has worked with can be but always focuses her classrooms on safety, respect, and fun. She believes that every emotion is important, even the less than pretty ones, and works hard to show her students how to navigate every phase themselves. She was raised in Milford, went to college in Maine, lived in North Carolina, and now calls Newtown home where she lives with her family. In her spare time she loves antiquing, reading, and going to different festivals and fairs.

Emily was born and raised in Connecticut and graduated from Clark University last year. She has a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a minor in Education. Emily has always enjoyed working with children. She began babysitting at 13 years old and also has experience as a teacher’s aid for second graders. In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with her friends and family and reading! Emily is looking forward to helping her students learn and grow here at the Goddard School!

Trinity has a Bachelor’s in Social Work and minor in Psychology. She has always had a love for working with children and has done so since her high school career, through daycare programs, before and after school programs and working at the Department of Children and Families. In her free time Trinity enjoys spending time with her friends, reading, writing, and crafting. She looks forward to working with all of the children and families here at the Goddard School!

Lexy has worked with children for the last 22 years. She has always wanted to work with children since she was little, as she always played school and babysitter. Once her baby cousin was born when she was about 8 years old, she was able to put her passion into action as she helped take care of her. This is how her journey into childcare began. Lexy enjoys art, as she strives to include it in all aspects of learning. In her free time, she likes to read and spend time with family. Lexy is looking forward to starting this new chapter at the Goddard School!

Megan was born and raised in Bridgeport Connecticut. She has a bachelor's degree from Southern Connecticut State University with a Psychology Major and Sociology Minor. She started babysitting at 16 years old. She has been a nanny to multiple families while in school. She’s worked at after school programs like the Boys & Girls Club and is also a member there. She’s always had a passion for working with children and helping people. Megan is also a certified personal trainer. In her free time, she likes to read ,go to the gym and spend time with her friends.

Meryl is celebrating 6 years at Goddard School in the Tigers preschool room. She is the preschool program lead, and she has worked with kids for over 13+ years. She has a Degree in Early childhood education, and specializes in classroom structure and management. Meryl has a 4 year old son in the Hippos pre-k program, and another son on the way due in November 2024. Meryl loves to provide an environment where learning and safety are the priority, and ensuring children learn teamwork and problem solving skills together. Meryl is always available as a listening ear for support for parents, or providing any advice you may need. She can't wait to help your child grow in the 3-4 years old program, and get them ready for the next level or public schools as their learning journey continues.

Yorladis is a passionate and experienced childcare professional with 9 years of dedicated childcare experience. She has had the privilege of nurturing and supporting children from diverse backgrounds. As a mother herself, she understands the importance of creating a nurturing environment where little ones can thrive both academically and emotionally. In addition to her childcare expertise, she also brings valuable insights from her previous role as a behavioral therapist. This experience has equipped her with a unique set of skills to address individual needs and foster positive interactions among children. She firmly believes that every child's growth and development is a collaborative journey. She is eager to learn from them as much as they learn from her!

Yuliya has always wanted to be a teacher. She found her passion for working with children when she first started to babysit for families in her church back in 2010. Her dedication and passion continued as she worked as a counselor during the summer in NY. Yuliya went to Norwalk Community College and got her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. She has previously worked at a Goddard School so she knows all about the Goddard philosophy! Yuliya is extremely dedicated to helping each student in her class as much as possible as she wants to shape them to be the best they can in the future! In her free time, Yuliya enjoys doing many outdoor activities including hiking and biking with her loved ones. She also enjoys shopping and trying new restaurants. Yuliya is eager to continue her educational career, especially now that she is working with us here at the Goddard School!

Larissa was born and raised in Northwestern Connecticut. She has a bachelor’s degree from Muhlenberg College with a double major in psychology and public health. She has been trained in classical ballet and taught kindergarten ballet classes at Main Street Ballet. Larissa has experience with children and older adolescents as a preschool teacher’s aide at a residential treatment center, a babysitter, and a case manager at a youth shelter. While Larissa was a teacher’s aide she also taught music and movement classes to her students. Larissa also spends some of her time as a soprano soloist and section leader at a church in Waterbury. She is looking forward to building relationships with the children and families here at the Goddard School!

Lorraine has been a member of the Monroe community for 27 years. She studied Early Childhood Education at Housatonic Community College and earned a B.S. in Psychology from Sacred Heart University. Lorraine was a teacher and director of Kiddie Campus Preschool, in Monroe. She also taught Life Skills at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan. Ms. Lorraine believes that children are full of wonder and feels that teaching Pre-K is key to a foundation for children to discover a love of learning, in the hopes that they will be lifelong learners. Lorraine has 3 children and 5 grandchildren. She loves to dance, take walks, and play piano. Her favorite way to spend her time is with her family. She is looking forward to building relationships with her colleges, students, and parents at Goddard.

Melina was raised in Monroe and is excited to teach in the same community she grew up in. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication from Boston University and has been working in various school settings ever since. From working as a high school paraeducator and tutor to discovering her passion for Early Childhood Education, Melina is enthusiastic about fostering a love of learning in young children through creative and engaging educational activities. Her favorite aspect of teaching young children is that they are always so excited and interested in learning new concepts! In her free time, Melina enjoys running, gardening, and spending time with her family and miniature dachshund! Melina is very eager to get to know all members of The Goddard School community and be part of your child’s learning journey!

Leah has a degree in Early Childhood Inclusive Education and values the importance of every child learning with their peers. She enjoys creating fun, hands-on learning experiences and promoting independence to ensure that the children feel confident. Leah has been teaching for six years and started babysitting at the age of twelve. She resides in Oxford with her husband, their two boys as well as their pets! In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors and listening to Taylor Swift. She is excited to be there for your child and to help guide them as they accomplish new goals and challenge themselves to do hard things!

Mary has been working in the teaching field for the last 27 years. She recently moved to the area from San Francisco. The Goddard School shares many similarities to where she used to teach in California, and she is very excited to continue her journey here in Monroe. Her favorite way to teach if through play-based learning and creating curriculum based on each child's needs. She looks forward to creating a classroom where there is always fun and creating that love of learning at the Goddard School of Monroe.

Cassie has always had a passion for working with children of all ages, especially the young crowd! Cassie began her career back in 2004 as a special education para. Since then, she has worked as a special education paraprofessional in public school preschool programs and as a teacher in early childhood centers. She studied Early Childhood at Naugatuck Valley and then transferred, receiving her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Westconn in 2020. Cassie has always had the philosophy and belief that all children are capable and deserve the best and most appropriate education, allowing them to become their best self! In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially her 6-year-old daughter and 3-year-old son the lights of her life! Cassie is excited to continue her career and make new friends here at the Goddard School!

Ms. Ana has been a Connecticut resident since the age of one. She graduated at the University of Connecticut with her Bachelors in Human Development & Family Sciences. She continues her studies in Stratford, CT on the path to becoming a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, hoping to work in pediatrics or OB when finished. Working with children brings her so much joy as she loves watching them grow and see their personalities come to life. On her time off she enjoys a good outdoor activity or watching movies/series with loved ones. She is excited to build connections and make a positive impact here at Goddard!

Anabella grew up in Stratford, CT along with her 3 siblings. She has had a passion for childcare since the age of 13, when her first nephew was born. Since then, Anabella has worked in daycare centers, summer camps, and after school programs. Ani is also a licensed cosmetologist! She loves art, and incorporating it into everyday life. In her spare time, Anabella enjoys traveling and relaxing at the beach. She is so excited to be apart of the Goddard team!

Sabrina has been working in the childcare field since her first job in high school in 1996. She received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. The majority of her career was spent working with infants. Sabrina spent the majority of her life in Norwalk however just recently moved to Shelton with her family. She has been married for 12 years and has young children ages 10, 7 & 5. In her spare time she loves to spend time with her family and play outdoor activities, read, workout and do puzzles. Sabrina is very excited to join the Goddard family.

Jada has experience working with children from across different age groups! She was born and raised in the state of Connecticut and values education in all aspects. She first started her childcare journey as a volunteer camp counselor in 2019. She graduated from Southern Connecticut State University and has her bachelors of science in Early Childhood Education. During her college experience she completed student teaching and completed fieldwork as a requirement for her degree, where she worked with children ages 3-8. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, loves to read, and cook. She is extremely excited to be a part of the Goddard team and can’t wait to be a part of your child’s learning journey!

Victoria was born and raised in Fairfield, CT. Victoria started working with children as a babysitter when she was 13 years old. She has worked in many childcare settings, a previous daycare and their summer camp program, babysitting, and nannying. Victoria is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in business administration. She has experience with all ages ranging from as early as 3 months to 13 years old. In her free time Victoria loves to work out and be with her family. Victoria is very excited to start her journey at the Goddard School and is looking forward to seeing the children grow and learn!