Our Goddard School Teachers

I’m Taylor Pope, the on-site owner of The Goddard School at The Wharf in Washington, DC—and a proud third-generation Goddard franchisee. Born and raised in Hampton Roads, VA, my family also runs a Goddard School in Virginia Beach. I met my wife, Ashley, at Marymount University, where I earned my Business degree. We live in Alexandria with our playful pups, Penelope and Nelson, and our two daughters, Lyla and Nora, who both attend the school—giving me the chance to provide families with the same high expectations I have for quality childcare. We have two great locations at The Wharf welcoming little ones as young as 6 weeks, featuring an indoor playground and a private outdoor space perfect for play and learning. I’m excited to bring quality childcare to Southwest DC. Come join the Goddard @ The Wharf family—let’s grow together!

Hi, I'm Nita. I am the Executive Director of Operations over our 7th Street and Maine Avenue locations in SW DC. I have worked with children ages 0-5 years old for over 20 years in various capacities. My degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Early Childhood from Kaplan University. I have a passion for children and creating an amazing learning experience for them. I enjoy working with children because they teach me to slow down and enjoy the little things. You will find me in the classrooms often building with blocks, drawing pictures, dancing or reading books. I am a native Washingtonian. I have a daughter who is in college studying veterinary medicine. My favorite children's book is "Oh The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss.

Hello, my name is Denisha, and I am the Director at The Goddard School on 7th Street. For more than twenty years, I have been deeply committed to helping make the world a better place by educating tomorrow’s leaders. While that mission may sound familiar, it is one I live out with intention and passion every day. I believe every child deserves an excellent education, dedicated teachers, and a safe, nurturing community where they can truly thrive. Having taught children ages one through five, I understand that strong partnerships between families and educators are essential to supporting each child’s growth and reaching their fullest potential. As a lifelong learner with a constant curiosity for new ideas, I strive to ensure our school remains innovative, responsive, and aligned with the needs of our teachers, children, and families.

Hi! I am Jhane, the Director at Maine Avenue. I am passionate about early childhood education and creating environments where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from North Carolina Central University, where I developed a strong foundation in child development and family engagement. My education, along with my hands-on experience in early childhood settings, has shaped my approach to working with children and supporting families during these important early years. I am also the proud mother of one beautiful boy, which gives me a personal understanding of the trust families place in educators. Being both a parent and an educator allows me to lead with empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to every child’s well-being. Early childhood education is more than a career to me—it is a passion and a purpose.

Hi! Im Chanell, and I am the Director of The Goddard School on Maine Ave. I am a proud Washington, D.C. native and the mother of two amazing children who inspire my passion for early childhood education every single day. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Norfolk State University, where I developed a deep understanding of how meaningful early learning experiences shape a child’s future. Over the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of working with young learners in a variety of educational settings, gaining hands-on experience that has strengthened my commitment to building high-quality, nurturing learning environments. As a school director, I am committed to fostering a warm, supportive community for children, families, and staff. My goal is for every child to feel safe, valued, and excited to learn each day. I believe in strong family partnerships, open communication, and a school culture that nurtures curiosity and creativity.

King Street - Old Town

King Street - Old Town

L'Enfant Plaza

L'Enfant Plaza

Metro Center

Metro Center

Foggy Bottom - GWU

Foggy Bottom - GWU

Potomac Avenue

Potomac Avenue

Friendship Heights

Friendship Heights

Woodley Park - Zoo

Woodley Park - Zoo

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

Patriotic Puppies

Patriotic Puppies

Diplomatic Ducklings

Diplomatic Ducklings

Legislative Lambs

Governing Goats

Governing Goats

Representative Rabbits

Representative Rabbits

Campaigning Calves

Political Ponies

Political Ponies

Presidential Piglets

Presidential Piglets

Presidential Piglets

Lobbying Llamas

Lobbying Llamas

I support all classrooms at Maine Avenue.

I support all classrooms at Maine Avenue.