Our Goddard School Teachers

My name is Lauren Smallwood, and I am the on-site owner of The Goddard School in South Windsor. Born and raised in Connecticut, I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Connecticut and have always been passionate about education and child development. The Goddard School became a meaningful part of my family’s life when my husband and I chose it to care for our own children. Experiencing its impact firsthand inspired me to bring the same high-quality, nurturing environment to other families. I am thrilled to provide a safe, engaging, and enriching early learning experience for your children. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our school in Evergreen Walk!

Andrea has been dedicated to early childhood education since 2010, beginning her career as an assistant teacher in Massachusetts, where she discovered her passion for teaching. Her commitment and enthusiasm quickly led to expanded responsibilities, ultimately guiding her into leadership roles within the field. As Center Director, Andrea finds great fulfillment in inspiring and motivating fellow educators to excel in their careers. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development from Merrimack College, with a focus on School and Society—an academic track specifically designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions like Center Director. Additionally, she earned a minor in Elementary Education. Andrea joined The Goddard School in February 2023 and is thrilled to contribute to the success of the brand-new South Windsor location.

Ms. Alyssa began her career in early childhood education in 2011 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences from the University of Hartford. She spent six years as a lead teacher in the Goddard Get Set program and is also a proud Goddard parent, which gives her a unique perspective on the importance of nurturing, high-quality early learning. Outside of work, Alyssa enjoys cheering on her son at baseball games and spending quality time with their dog, Missy. Her greatest passion in childcare is building meaningful connections with families and supporting the growth and development of every child in her care.

Ms. Sydney holds an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and is certified as a Head Teacher by the State of Connecticut. Her passion for teaching began as a teenager, when she taught Hebrew to students preparing for their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. With several years of experience in both administrative roles and early childhood education, Ms. Sydney brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. She loves seeing children's faces light up when they grasp new concepts and values the lasting relationships she builds with both students and their families. Outside of work, Ms. Sydney enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, hiking, and reading.

Ms. Jaime began her career in Early Childhood Education in 1997 and continues to grow both professionally and personally in the field. She is currently working toward her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and has also earned her Head Teacher Certification. Ms. Jaime joined The Goddard School of South Windsor when we first opened and has been an integral part of our team ever since. She feels her experience with children has been nothing short of amazing. She loves learning how to care for them and finds that she learns just as much from them in return. She describes children as loving, kind, smart, and fun. Her favorite part of childcare is simply being with the children and building strong, meaningful bonds with them. In her spare time, Ms. Jaime enjoys going to concerts and seeing local bands. She also loves cooking, reading, and baking—but most of all, she treasures spending time with her family.

Ms. Jill began her career in early childhood education in 1989. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Courtland College and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Syracuse University. A fun fact about Ms. Jill is that she was a snow and water ski instructor for over 20 years! Ms. Jill joined The Goddard School of South Windsor when we first opened and has been an integral part of our team ever since. Her favorite part of working in childcare is everything — being around children brightens her day, and she loves sharing smiles and laughter with them. She also loves supporting all of our classrooms, bringing with her lots of excitement and positivity wherever she goes. In her free time, Ms. Jill enjoys being outdoors, running, going to the beach and digging for clams, watching football, and spending quality time with her three children and her husband.

Ms. Elaine began her career in early childhood education in 2020. She attended college for Early Education, where her passion for working with children grew. She has experience working with a variety of age groups, from infants to preschoolers. Ms. Elaine joined The Goddard School of South Windsor when we first opened and now works as a toddler teacher. Her favorite part of childcare is helping children learn and grow, being part of their journeys, and creating meaningful bonds with each child in her care. In her spare time, Ms. Elaine enjoys shopping and spending quality time with her three children.

Ms. Ariel has been an Early Childhood Educator for nearly 20 years! She began her journey as a school-age teacher in high school and continued working with various age groups until finding her niche as a Preschool teacher. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and continues to expand her knowledge through online trainings. When she is not in teacher mode, Ms. Ariel enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Aussie. She loves listening to live music, reading, tending to her many plants, trying new restaurants, watching her favorite movies and TV shows, and cherishing moments with the people she loves most. Ms. Ariel believes that the goal of education is to create a life-long love of learning in every child.

Mr. Moe has been working in early childhood education since 2006. He holds both professional credentials in early childhood education and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services. He has been with The Goddard School of South Windsor since we first opened and has been an integral part of our team ever since. He loves watching children grow, develop, and thrive; when the kids love coming to school, so does he! A talented musician, Mr. Moe enjoys playing a variety of instruments and sharing his love of music with the children. Above all, he loves having fun and creating a joyful, engaging environment for every child in his care.

Ms. Shade began her journey in early childhood education in 2018, starting by babysitting for family friends. In 2021, she worked at a summer camp and in the YMCA before- and after-school program, where her love for working with children grew and led her to The Goddard School of South Windsor. Ms. Shade is a proud mom to her young son, Quincy, who also attends the Goddard School. Her favorite part of childcare is watching children grow and being part of their joyful milestones. In her spare time, Ms. Shade enjoys shopping, makeup, and spending quality time with her son.

Ms. Cassie began her journey in early childhood education in 2022. A proud Goddard mom, she brings her personal experience and passion for early learning to her role in the infant classroom. You can often hear her singing to her students as she engages with them throughout the day. Her favorite part of childcare is watching infants grow, explore, and achieve new milestones. In her free time, Ms. Cassie enjoys taking her daughter to the park, going on hikes, and painting.

Ms. Marie began her career in early childhood education (ECE) in 1998. She earned her Early Childhood Education certificate from Goodwin College in 2007, along with her Head Teacher Certification from the state of Connecticut, and continued her studies in ECE and Human Services at Goodwin College. With over 20 years of experience, Ms. Marie has worked with children of all ages, from two-year-olds to preschoolers. She has also held roles in classroom leadership and center administration, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Her favorite part of childcare is building meaningful bonds with her students and witnessing their growth in countless ways. In her free time, Ms. Marie enjoys spending time with her children, playing with her dog, and cherishing moments with her family.

Ms. Kyla began her career in early childhood education in 2014 and has continued to expand her knowledge through multiple courses at Eastern Connecticut State University. She was a member of our team when we first opened and now works as an infant teacher, currently working toward her Head Teacher Certification, further developing her skills to support young learners in their earliest developmental stages. Her students and families love her so much that you often see them stopping in for a visit even after they have moved on to other classrooms. Ms. Kyla believes that communication with families is the most important part of her job, ensuring that parents feel connected and informed about their child’s growth and daily experiences.

Ms. Mollie began her journey in early childhood education in 2021. Her love for the field comes naturally, as her mother is a lifelong preschool teacher. She has experience working with children of all ages and now works as a preschool teacher. Her favorite part of teaching is being the reason a child smiles and helping them grow academically. She finds the most rewarding moments in watching children overcome challenges and achieve milestones. In her free time, Ms. Mollie enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family, and especially cherishes moments with her son.

Ms. Gayatri began her career in early childhood education (ECE) in 2019, starting at a local elementary school and continuing as a tutor. From 2022 to 2024, she worked in Canada as a French educator in both preschool and elementary school settings. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Mumbai University and has two years of experience teaching Art, French, and English in preschool and Montessori schools. Ms. Gayatri joined The Goddard School of South Windsor in 2024, and her favorite part of childcare is watching children learn and grow every day. She loves the smiles they bring to her face and their boundless creativity and ideas. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, singing, drawing, sketching, going for walks in nature, and spending time with her family.

Ms. Janetsa began her career in early childhood education in 2022, though her love for working with children started earlier while caring for her little cousins and baby sister. This early experience sparked her passion for crafts, games, and creative learning. She has also worked as a paraprofessional, caring for preschool-aged children. Ms. Janetsa’s favorite part of childcare is seeing the children in her class smile, laugh, and explore their curiosity. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, drawing, and spending quality time with her family.

Ms. Amanda comes from a family of lifelong early childhood educators and began her career in early childhood education in 2018. She is a toddler teacher and, as a mother, aunt, and older sister, brings a deep love for children to her work. Her favorite part of childcare is witnessing children learn and achieve new milestones. In her free time, Ms. Amanda enjoys reading, trying different types of cuisines, and spending quality time with her family.

Ms. Laysha began her career in early childhood education in 2018, starting her experience by babysitting her niece, who is also a Goddard student. She joined The Goddard School of South Windsor in 2023 and now works as an infant teacher, where she loves seeing children grow and learn every day. Being part of each child’s learning journey is incredibly rewarding for her. Ms. Laysha is known for her dedication to cleanliness and safety; she is often seen scrubbing classroom floors during nap time to ensure a clean, healthy environment for the children. In her free time, Ms. Laysha enjoys playing video games, shopping, and spending quality time with her family.

Ms. Diana comes from a family of educators and has been nurturing children from a young age, fostering a deep love for helping little ones grow and thrive. She is a toddler teacher at The Goddard School of South Windsor, joining the team in 2024. Ms. Diana’s favorite part of her work is building strong connections with each child and their family, supporting their development and celebrating every milestone. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys listening to music, spending quality time with her family, and playing games.

Ms. Gianna began her journey in early childhood education in 2022. She discovered her love for working with children through babysitting and helping care for her younger siblings. She is a Get Set teacher, working with 2-year-olds, and is currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education with the goal of becoming a lead teacher. Her favorite part of childcare is making a positive impact on the lives of the children she teaches and supporting their growth every day. In her free time, Ms. Gianna enjoys hiking and spending quality time with her family.

Ms. Stephanie began her journey in early childhood education in April 2022. She brings a bright, positive energy to every classroom and loves supporting our youngest learners, always making their day a little brighter with her smile. While she hopes to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education in the future, her passion for teaching is already evident in everything she does. Her favorite part of childcare is creating meaningful moments with children, helping them feel safe, loved, and confident as they grow and learn each day. Outside of work, Ms. Stephanie enjoys going to the beach, exploring nature on walks, and traveling the world.

Ms. Dynasty embarked on her Early Childhood Education (ECE) journey in 2021. She has pursued studies in Social Work at both Southern Connecticut State University and Capital Community College. Her experience with children began with babysitting and as a bus monitor, providing her with valuable insight into the needs of children across various age groups. Ms. Dynasty has worked with children of all ages and is passionate about supporting their physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. Her favorite aspect of childcare is witnessing the development of each child. In her free time, Ms. Dynasty enjoys reading, cooking, and building with Legos.

Ms. Maddy began her journey in early childhood education (ECE) in 2005. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Wheaton College. Her experience spans a variety of roles, including Assistant Director, Program Specialist, Enrichment Program Coordinator, and hands-on classroom experience with infants, toddlers, and pre-K children. Ms. Maddy’s favorite part of childcare is providing children with opportunities to learn, explore, and discover new things. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering in her community, including at the Wood Memorial Library, supporting the high school boys’ soccer team, and coaching youth wrestling. She also enjoys baking with one daughter and crafting with her other daughter.

Ms. Denia began her journey in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field in 2022. She graduated from UCONN with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences. Ms. Denia has experience working with children ranging from 6 weeks to 15 years old. Her favorite aspect of childcare is seeing the excitement children experience when learning and discovering new things. In her spare time, Ms. Denia enjoys listening to music, spending time with her daughter, and customizing and making clothes.

Ms. Swanel began her career in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field in 1997. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Animation, a Bachelor's degree in Web Design and Multimedia, and is currently in the process of obtaining a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education at Walden University. Ms. Swanel has experience working with children on the autism spectrum as an ABA therapist and has also worked as a preschool teacher. Her passion for childcare lies in fostering children's education and watching them develop and master new skills. In her free time, Ms. Swanel enjoys writing poetry and children's stories, as well as drawing and listening to music.

Miss Kai began her career in early childhood education in 2022, though her love for caring for children started much earlier as an older sibling and aunt. She graduated from the Connecticut River Academy in 2021 and initially pursued college studies in business before discovering her true passion in ECE. She is currently pursuing her Head Teacher Certification to further develop her skills. Miss Kai’s favorite part of childcare is watching children grow, learn, and build meaningful bonds. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, being out and about, and indulging in her love for cleaning and organizing.

Ms. Ashley began her journey in the early childhood education (ECE) field in 2021. Over the past four years, she has primarily worked with children aged 2 to 3, assisting with curriculum implementation and collaborating with fellow teachers to ensure each child’s safety and developmental needs are met. Her favorite aspect of working in childcare is watching the children learn, grow, and progress. In her spare time, Ms. Ashley enjoys birdwatching, camping, reading, and playing video games.

Ms. Julia is new in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field but has been working with children since 2022 through teaching tennis and swimming lessons, as well as lifeguarding. Her consistent involvement with kids has fueled her passion for early education. She is graduating from high school and will be attending Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Julia’s favorite part of working in childcare is the rewarding experience of teaching children new skills and watching them grow. In her spare time, she enjoys staying active by going to the gym, walking, and hiking with her friends.

Ms. Kera began her journey in the early childhood education field in 2015. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Connecticut and later obtained her Head Teacher Certification from Charter Oak State College. While she has primarily worked with infants and toddlers, she enjoys working with children of all ages. Ms. Kera’s favorite aspect of childcare is witnessing the joy children experience when they accomplish something new, as well as building trusting relationships with those in her care. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her teenage twins and cheering them on in their sports—cheerleading and baseball.

Maddy R. began her journey in the ECE field in 2016. She is near completion of her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education at CT State Community College. She has a range of experience caring for children from infants to school-aged both from teaching and private nannying experiences. Her favorite part of childcare is fostering a genuine curiosity and love of learning within each child. In her free time, Ms. Maddy loves listening to music, gardening and playing with my dog!

Ms. Maddy is new to the field of Early Childhood Education (ECE) but brings a genuine passion for working with children and a strong desire to learn and grow within this rewarding field. She is dedicated to supporting our students and helping them thrive in every aspect of their development. Ms. Maddy gained valuable experience working with children at the American School for the Deaf, where her interest and love for the field deepened. Her favorite aspect of childcare is witnessing the progress and joy she experiences with the children. In her spare time, Ms. Maddy enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with her dog.

Ms. Jackie officially began her career in early childhood education (ECE) in 2021, though her passion for working with children began in her teenage years. She is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education at the University of Connecticut, with a focus on music. Her favorite part of childcare is observing children learn, develop, and grow each day. In her free time, Ms. Jackie enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and attending gospel concerts.

Ms. Heather began her career in early childhood education in 2011 and holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Outside the classroom, she volunteers with a junior fife and drum corps and enjoys crocheting, playing video games, and going for walks. She also loves marching in parades with her corps! Ms. Heather’s favorite part of working in childcare is watching children learn and make sense of the world around them. She believes that seeing life through a child’s eyes offers a wonderful reminder to appreciate new perspectives and simple joys every day.

Mr. Kai began his career in early childhood education (ECE) in 2010, though his passion for working with children started in his teenage years. He spent several years at a state-funded childcare organization, working with children ages 1 to 10. He is a preschool teacher and is currently pursuing his Head Teacher Certification. Mr. Kai’s favorite part of childcare is helping children develop their social skills and learning from each child he works with, gaining new insights every day.