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 am Jhane, the Director at Maine Avenue and 7th Street. 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 and 7th Street. 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.

Hello, my name is Denisha, and I am the Education Director at The Goddard School. 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.

I serve as the Quality Assurance representative responsible for ensuring that both schools meet District of Columbia Child Care Licensing Office requirements and Goddard Systems, Inc. standards.

Patriotic Puppies

Patriotic Puppies

Diplomatic Ducklings

Diplomatic Ducklings

Legislative Lambs

Legislative Lambs

L'Enfant Plaza

King Street - Old Town

L'Enfant Plaza

Metro Center

Metro Center

Governing Goats

Governing Goats

Representative Rabbits

Campaigning Calves

Political Ponies

Political Ponies

Potomac Avenue

Presidential Piglets

Presidential Piglets

Presidential Piglets and Lobbying Llamas

Lobbying Llamas

Lobbying Llamas

I support all classrooms at Maine Avenue.

Friendship Heights

Potomac Avenue

Woodley Park - Zoo

Friendship Heights

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

Woodley Park - Zoo

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

Foggy Bottom - GWU

I support all classrooms at 7th Street

I support all classrooms at 7th Street.