Our Goddard School Teachers

Liz Scott is the On-site Owner of the school. She has a Bachelor's Degree from Georgia Tech and an MBA in Real Estate & Corporate Finance from Georgia State University. She and her family have lived in Ponte Vedra Beach for over a decade after moving to the area from Atlanta. Their love for the community lead them to opening the Goddard School of Ponte Vedra Beach in June 2016, buy the Julington Creek Goddard in 2020, build our Baymeadows Goddard in 2022 and now build a new school in the Nocatee area. Liz and her husband, Trey, have three children, a son and twin daughters. As a family they love to travel to new places, enjoy time on the beach and watching their children discover new hobbies! "I am honored to be a part of such a high quality pre-school program in this community. I am honored to be a part of a program that helps shape the early childhood development for so many children in this community where children can grow and develop a lifelong love of learning." -Liz Scott

Marie Ann is the Regional Director for Goddard Ponte Vedra Beach, Goddard Julington Creek & Goddard Baymeadows/ETown. She has been part of the organization since 2016 and has three decades in the Early Childhood Education field. Marie Ann has a Bachelor’s in early childhood education from an English university, where she grew up. Additionally, she holds a National CDA in Early Childhood Education and a Director’s License. In 2002 she created and launched a language school known as “Kids Club – Vilajuiga” located in Catalunya, Spain, predominantly teaching English to non-native speakers. During this time, she also worked as a consultant language teacher for local schools and became a qualified and recognized examiner/invigilator for Cambridge University. Though originally from England, Marie Ann moved to the states in 2011 and has called it home since! Marie Ann and her husband have five grown children.

Donna Tavares, joins us as our Executive Director and brings over 30 years of expertise in early childhood education and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in the field. Hailing from Fall River, Massachusetts, Donna is driven by the joy of witnessing children’s wonder as they explore new concepts and the pride they feel with every milestone achieved. Her career began in 1993 as a family child care provider, eventually growing into running her own private preschool in Massachusetts. Known for her dedication and warmth, Donna is especially fond of teaching her favorite children’s song, "The More We Get Together," in sign language. When she’s not enriching young minds, you’ll find Donna crafting or spending quality time with her family, which includes her two children, 17-year-old grandson, and two adored Chihuahuas. A fun twist in her story—Donna reunited and married her high school sweetheart 34 years after they first met!

Maria Cooks joins our school as our Director of Operations and Compliance, and we’re excited to have her on our team. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Maria has been working in early childhood education for over 15 years. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Management and a Director’s Credential, bringing both experience and heart to everything she does. Maria loves creating a positive, supportive, and engaging environment where children can thrive and teachers feel encouraged and valued. She’s passionate about teamwork, growth, and making sure our school runs smoothly for everyone. When she’s not at work, Maria enjoys spending time with her husband, three daughters, two dogs, and one cat. She’s a huge Philadelphia Eagles fan, loves sea turtles, and loves exploring new places and making new memories.

Hannah Rogers serves as the Associate Director of Curriculum and Compliance at The Goddard School, bringing a decade of teaching experience, primarily in VPK, and a passion for early childhood education. A Jacksonville native, Hannah finds joy in supporting teachers and fostering their professional growth. She is dedicated to collaborating with each team member to understand their unique needs and create a thriving, enriching environment for every child. Outside the classroom, Hannah loves spending quality time with her daughter, exploring nature through hiking, and diving into a good book. Her commitment to family, community, and educational excellence fuels her enthusiasm for this role, where she aims to make a meaningful impact across The Goddard School.

Christina joined the Goddard family in Feb of 2022 as our Director of Business & Marketing. Christina oversees all admissions for all three schools with a focus on managing and growing enrollments and welcoming new families to the schools. She is also responsible for all marketing initiatives and will be the point person on all billing and accounts receivable processes. Christina's background is in admissions and marketing with charter schools within the public sector in Duval and St. John's Co and she is excited to be a part of the early childhood education industry! We are SO thrilled to have Christina join our team as she has already made such a difference for our new families and in her efforts to support the management team at all three locations!

Amelia is the Regional Director of Compliance and Standards. She has her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from the Univ. of North Florida and a Master's in Educational Leadership. As the Regional Director of Compliance & Standards Amelia is responsible for ensuring licensing and compliance within all the school as well as maintaining the Quality Assurance program in regards to health and safety which the Goddard brand is known for. Amelia has spent many years working in the Early Childhood Development arena at several highly respected schools. She joined the Goddard PVB family in early 2019. She has two young children, a son Vaughan and a daughter Vivian.

Tracie is a Lead VPK Teacher in our Innovators classroom. She joined us in 2021 at the St John's location. With over two decades of experience, she has her CDA and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Tracie's educational career also includes living and working in Italy for five years where she was a Youth Activities Director. In 2011 Tracie and her family moved to Jacksonville from New York. She has been married for over 40 years and has two adult daughters and three grandchildren. When she's not in the classroom, Tracie enjoys reading and working on professional development.

Ms. Robin has been in the childcare career field for over 20 years now, and taught VPK the last 16 years. She recently transferred from our PVB location. She is CPR certified, holds an Associates Degree and FL Director's Credential. Ms. Robin loves watching the children learn and grow, especially when the understanding of a new concept finally clicks. Outside of work she like spending time with her 2 adult children, her dog, doing jigsaw puzzles and crafting.

Ms. Tashe’ is originally from Albany ,Georgia where she earned her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Paraprofessional and Program Administration. She has always had a passion for teaching. She believes that every child has a special heart an d mind and they are unique in their own special way. It touches her heart watching children accomplish different milestones in their lives. Ms. Tashe’ loves spending time with her husband, daughter, her maltipoo Dash and family, shopping and cooking. Her favorite quote is, “I touch the future. I teach!”

Ciara is originally from Pennsylvania, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She joins our Goddard family with over 10 years’ experience in the field of early childhood. When not in the classroom, she loves gardening and spending time with her two chihuahuas, Raven and Romeo.

Ms. Taylor brings creativity and dedication to her classroom. Originally from Jacksonville, she started in culinary arts before shifting to early childhood education five years ago. She holds an associate degree, CDA, director’s credential and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree. With a background in both cooking and childcare, Ms. Taylor’s teaching style centers on small-group instruction, allowing her to connect closely with each child. She loves hands-on science projects and her favorite children’s book, The Leaf Thief, is a classroom favorite. Outside of school, she enjoys baking, reading, and spending time with her son, Beckett.

Ms. Tia was born in New York and raised on the beautiful island of Antigua in the Caribbean. With 9 years of experience in teaching and interacting with children, she holds her 45 DCF hours and CDA. Outside of teaching, Ms. Tia enjoys traveling and doing her makeup. Her classroom is a welcoming space where children can explore their emotions, build strong connections, and develop independence. Ms. Tia looks forward to exploring new and fun activities with your child.

Ms. Liz is the lead teacher in the Voyagers classroom. She has been both a teacher and as a director with more than 15 years of experience in the classroom. She came from the CR 210 location and is excited to be part of the new Goddard school here at Baymeadows. Liz has a daughter and a 120-pound fur baby. She loves to spend time outdoors with her family. Her hobbies include crochet and getting crafty. Her favorite part of teaching preschool is letting the kids get messy and be creative to explore arts and sensory activities

Ms. Hunter was born and raised right here in Jacksonville. She has 5 years of childcare experience and has been teaching performing arts for 3 years. She even has some of her very own art pieces displayed in downtown exhibits right her in Jacksonville. Ms. Hunter has a passion for sharing her knowledge of music and creativity with her students and believes that creating an environment full of ways for children to express themselves will build confidence at a young age and give them the necessary tools to mindfully manage emotions.

Originally from Chesapeake, VA, Ms. Rianna has called Jacksonville home for the past 3 years. She brings 3 years of Early Childhood Education experience, along with her CDA and First Aid/CPR certification. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Ms. Rianna’s teaching style is loving, disciplined, and understanding. Her favorite classroom activities are music & movement and literacy. Fun fact—she plays the flute! She has one son and loves exploring new things in her free time.

Ms. Erika is originally from New York; Erika is new to Jacksonville and brings 8 years of Early Childhood experience to our team. She holds a CDA and is working toward a bachelor's in Elementary Education. Erika’s teaching style is hands-on, playful, and curiosity-driven, with a love for art and sensory activities. Her favorite book is The Snowy Day. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, walking, cooking, and painting. Erika lives with her cat and poodle and describes herself as charismatic and nurturing.

Ms. Miryam Corbett, originally from Yorktown, NY, has a degree in Computer Science and six years of childcare experience, Miryam has seamlessly transitioned her passion for technology into a love for early childhood education. Beyond her professional achievements, Miryam is a proud mother of three. Her home is shared with a playful cat named Apollo and a loving dog named Kassy. Mimi loves to travel and learn new cultures. Fun Fact about Mimi is she got married in Paris and honeymooned in the French Riviera.

Ms. Darby is originally from Tennessee,, moved with her family to Florida two months ago. She brings with her 5 years of work experience in the field of Early Childhood Education. She plans to pursue a degree in the field and is excited to start working on her Child Development Certificate. . Ms. Darby likes to engage the children with fun and consistency. She loves to see how their minds work and be able to celebrate when they learn something new. In her spare time she likes to volunteer for different organizations. Being kind, and teaching children to be kind is incredibly important to her.

Ms. Alexis or “Lex” is originally from Green Cove Springs and has called this area home for over 10 years. She’s been in the early childhood education field for 3 years and is currently pursuing her CDA. With a fun, high-energy teaching style, Ms. Lex loves watching children learn and grow. Her favorite children’s book is Rainbow Fish. At home, she enjoys time with her husband, daughter, two dogs, and two cats. In her free time, you’ll find her at the beach or park soaking up the sunshine!

Leidy is a Lead Teacher in the Mighty Musks classroom and joined us in 2020 from the Julington Creek Goddard. She is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education and holds over a decade of experience working with children. Born and raised in Columbia, Leidy is fluent in both Portuguese and Spanish. In 2011 she moved to Jacksonville from Columbia. Outside of work, Leidy loves to dance! It's one of her greatest passions.

Brianna is a resource teacher currently pursuing her college degree. Hailing from Tampa, FL, she enjoys working with children and values the strong relationships she has with her colleagues. Teaching children new things and experiencing their boundless energy brings her great joy. Brianna has three cats that she considers her children, and her favorite song to sing with the little ones is "Baby Bumblebee." In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends and playing soccer. She is most often described as calm.

Originally from Kansas, Ms. Da’Zha joins our Goddard School team with one year of early childhood experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts and is currently working toward her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. In the classroom, Ms. Da’Zha’s favorite activity is dramatic storytelling—she loves bringing stories to life and sparking children’s imaginations. Her favorite children’s book is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, a story she enjoys sharing with her students. Ms. Da’Zha describes herself as joyous and finds great fulfillment in seeing the world through the eyes of children. Outside of school, she enjoys watching HGTV and exploring her passion for interior design

Denisse is the Lead Teacher in the Fabulous Fords classroom and joined Goddard Baymeadows upon its opening in 2022. She transferred from the PVB Goddard to head up the infant team at Baymeadows. She is originally from the Dominican Republic but moved to Jacksonville in 2012. She has over a decade experience in the early childhood arena. While Denisse is passionate about early childhood education for all ages, she has a special fondness for the toddlers. She believes that, in order for children to learn and grow, they must feel safe and loved within the classroom.

Ms. Stephanie is a Jacksonville native and has proudly called it home her entire life. She holds an Associate’s Degree and is currently working toward her Bachelor’s. With 34 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Ms. Stephanie brings a passionate, positive approach to teaching. She loves art and reading, especially the book Mouse Paint for its celebration of color and diversity. Outside the classroom, her heart belongs to her family, and she enjoys traveling whenever she can.

Ms. Tiffani is originally from Cheyenne, Wyoming but moved back to Jacksonville in 2023. She has over 8 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. While Tiffani is passionate about the education of all young children, she has a special fondness for our littlest learners. She believes that in order for children to learn and grow, they must feel heard and understood.

Roberta recently joined our team and brings over 20 years of experience working with children. Originally from Pennsylvania, she spent most of her life in Atlanta before relocating to Jacksonville, FL. A proud mom of four—two boys and two girls, ranging in age from 8 to 30—Roberta has also been a dedicated foster mom. She’s passionate about child development, family time, decorating, and travel. She is currently pursuing her CDA as part of her professional growth

Originally from Indiana, Ms. Madi has called Jacksonville home for the past several months. She is currently pursuing a degree in education and has been working with children for a year. Her teaching style is both loving and firm, and she especially enjoys art activities and sharing stories with her students. Outside the classroom, Ms. Madi stays busy with her son, Apollo Blue, and her dog, Nipsey. She’s a wonderful singer with a bubbly personality and loves traveling, drawing, and exploring all the fun Jacksonville has to offer. We’re thrilled to have her on our team!

Ms. Cara joins our Goddard Team with 5 years of experience in the early childhood education field. She is a Jacksonville native. One day she would like to be an early elementary teacher, working with children with learning differences. Working with a speech specialist when she was in kindergarten has given her a passion to help others. She loves children, writing, music and theater. She has lived in several other states and has traveled to Northern Ireland. She believes that any child can learn.

Kristie is a Lead Teacher in the Discoverers room. Originally from Virginia, she has lived in Jacksonville for the past 10 years. She has a bachelor's degree in the field of Elementary Education. As a mom of two children, she understands the importance of quality childcare and is excited to be a part of the Goddard team.

Kayla is originally from South Jersey and joins our Goddard team with seven years of childcare experience. Her favorite children’s book is Pete the Cat, and she loves bringing stories to life through reading, singing, music, and movement with the kids. Kayla enjoys getting to know each child in her care and feels rewarded watching their growth and development. In her free time, she loves to DJ, shop, clean, and spend quality time with her son. We’re so excited to have Ms. Kayla as part of our Goddard family!

Originally from St. Lucie, Ms. Chelsey has called Jacksonville home for the past 12 years. With over 12 years of experience in education—including 5 years in a charter school—she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the classroom. She holds a paraprofessional certification and has completed the DCF 45 hours of training. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Chelsey is a proud mom to four amazing children through adoption and a devoted pet parent to two dogs. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, and making memories with her family.

Ms. Paraskevi, who also goes by Ms. Evi, is a teacher in the Baby Bells classroom. Although new to Goddard in 2022, she has over a year of prior experience in childcare. Ms. Evi loves working with infants because they are experiencing so many things for the first time in their little world and you get to be part of their journey in their development. She moved to Jacksonville, FL from Brooklyn, NY in 2021. Outside of work, she enjoys focusing on fitness, crafting invitations, and traveling around the world. Fun fact: she has traveled to 9 countries outside of the United States.

Julie is the assistant teacher in the Early Einsteins room. Originally from Jacksonville, FL, she loves working at Goddard because of the amazing staff culture and the fun, friendly atmosphere. Julie is passionate about working with young children, as she enjoys seeing the world through their eyes and watching them learn and experience new things. A fun fact about Julie is that she has an extra vertebrae. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies with her family.

Ms. Deja who is originally from Long Island, New York, brings with her over 7 years experience in the field of Early Childhood Education. Ms. Deja has her Associates Degree and is actively working on her Bachelors Degree. Ms. Deja was born profoundly deaf. She has had cochlear implants and one of her biggest passions is teaching the young ones about the deaf culture and sign language, so that they might be better able able to communicate with them. She loves watching the children learn new things and achieve milestones.

Ms. Andreina, originally from Venezuela, brings 13 years of experience in early childhood education to our team. She holds an Associate Degree and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Annie has been part of our local community for the past three years and is passionate about nurturing the youngest learners—infants are her favorite age group to work with! With a warm and caring teaching style, Annie finds joy in witnessing the incredible developmental milestones of early childhood. Her classroom is often filled with music, her favorite activity, and you’ll frequently hear little voices singing along to her favorite children’s song, "If You’re Happy and You Know It." Outside the classroom, Annie enjoys crafting, spending time with her dog Belinda, and enjoying life with her husband and two grown sons.

Originally from Colombia, Ms. Esmeralda has called the Jacksonville area home for the past six years. She holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and has a passion for working with infants and toddlers. Her goal is to one day pursue her director’s credential and continue growing in the field. Ms. Esmeralda loves creating fun, engaging learning experiences for little ones—especially through music, her favorite activity. One of her favorite songs to sing with the children is La Iguana Tomaba Café. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time at the beach and cooking delicious meals. She describes herself as funny and warmhearted. While she doesn’t have any pets, her family is spread around the world—her brother lives in Japan and her parents are still in Colombia.

Ms. Jourdan Romans, born and raised in New York, comes with over 20 years of heartfelt experience in childcare. Jourdan's journey began as a dedicated babysitter, evolving into the role of a nurturing nanny and invaluable mommy's helper. Despite not having children of her own, Jourdan has loved every child she has encountered throughout her remarkable career. Ms. Jourdan shares her home with a delightful trio – one dog, two feline friends, and even a Koi Fish. Beyond the classroom, Jourdan aspires to make a difference in the field of Deaf Education, showcasing her dedication to inclusivity and diverse learning environments.

Ms. Ro holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and brings over 4 years of experience in early childhood education. A Jacksonville, FL native, Ms. Ro enjoys working with different age groups and watching as children develop through the various stages. She is passionate about helping children grow and become confident in themselves. A fun fact about Ms. Ro is that she played the clarinet throughout middle and high school. Currently, she is pursuing her graduate studies in English Language Arts with an ESOL endorsement to further her career in education, with the goal of shaping the minds of future generations.