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 is a Florida native and joins our school as the Director of Operations. Her journey in the early childhood field began 14 years ago. Maria holds an associate's degree in Early Childhood Management as well as a Director's Credential. She is passionate about fostering a positive, engaging, and supportive learning environment for both children and teachers. Beyond work, Maria loves spending time with her husband, 3 daughters, 2 dogs and 1 cat. She enjoys relaxing at the beach, getting lost in a good book, collecting sea turtle memorabilia, rooting for her favorite sports team (Philadelphia Eagles), and exploring new places.

Selena Georgeo is our Associate Director of Operations. She is responsible for helping maintain the Quality Assurance program and compliance throughout our school in terms of health and safety. Selena has 22 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Education. She holds a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, Staff Credential, and a Director's credential. A Jacksonville native, she enjoys spending time with her daughter and grandson. They enjoy traveling, shopping, and trying new things/places. Avid sports fans, they hope her grandson, Khyson follows in their footsteps.

Hannah Rogers serves as the 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!

Savanah Hejl joined our team in August as an Administrative Associate. With the announcement of the Nocatee school, Savanah will now step into her new role as Business & Marketing Associate over all school locations - assisting with school admissions, marketing initiatives, faculty engagement, and operational support. Savanah will work out of the Baymeadows location three days a week (MWF) to support the school and assist the management team. If you happen to see her at the front desk or in the classroom, please don't hesitate to say hello or ask for assistance! When she is not working, Savanah enjoys spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their dog, Whalen. Fun fact about Savanah, she has lived in four different states, moving around with her Military family. Her favorite being Alaska, where she lived for three years!

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.

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. Tarisha comes with 15+ years of experience in early education and care. She began her journey in the field after having children of her own. Ms. Tarisha has also volunteered at several schools in DCPS nurturing, mentoring and tutoring students as they grow for success. She believes that it is her job to always assure that the children go beyond their wildest dreams, by laying a strong foundation, by making sure that the children are able to articulate, build and cultivate each lesson.

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!”

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. 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

Hailing from right here in Jacksonville, FL, Ms. Sydney brings a vibrant energy and a passion for early childhood education. When she's not inspiring young minds, you can find her behind a camera capturing beautiful moments, lost in a good book, or exploring new destinations around the world. Fun fact: Sydney used to be a top track star! Her dedication and drive on the track translate into her commitment to providing the best care and education for our little ones.

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.

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.

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.

Ms. Adriana joins our Goddard Team with 4 years experience in the early childhood education field. She discovered her passion for early childhood education while earning her Occupational Therapy Degree. When not at school, Ms. Adriana loves to sing karaoke, play sports, and to spend time with her husband and daughter

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.

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. 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.

Ms. Kayla has lived in Jacksonville for 28 years and brings 10 years of experience in early childhood education. She has completed her 45 DCF training hours and is currently working toward earning her CDA and VPK credentials. Kayla loves watching children grow, learn, and discover new things every day. Her favorite classroom activity is art, where she encourages creativity and self-expression. Outside the classroom, she enjoys doing puzzles, spending time with her dog, traveling, visiting Disney, and DIY crafting.

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.

Originally from Venezuela, Ms. Ana has lived in Jacksonville for a year and a half. She has over a year of experience in Early Childhood Education, has completed her 45 DCF hours, and is working toward her CDA. Ms. Ana’s teaching approach is rooted in care, protection, and hands-on learning. She loves singing and doing arts and crafts with her toddlers. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and baby

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.

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.

Ms. Qira has lived in Jacksonville for her entire life. She has worked in the field of Early Education and Care for the past 4 years. She loves watching the children grow and loves being a part of their formative years. Her favorite thing to do with her class is art, but she also loves to sing with them. Ms. Qira describes herself as quiet, but she has an incredible smile, an infectious personality and a heart of gold.

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.

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.

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.

Originally from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, Ms. Maria has a background in psychology, with more than 10 years of experience working with adults specifically in the realm of Alzheimer's Disease. She comes to our school with energy, creativity and a fun attitude needed to provide care for children. As a mother of two, she knows the need for providing active care to keep the children engaged, happy and safe. Ms. Maria has been happily married for 13 years and loves to spend time with her family. She loves gardening as well as going to the beach or vacationing, especially in Puerto Rico

Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m 25 years old, born in Panama City and raised in Jacksonville. I’m a proud mom to a wonderful 5-year-old son and the oldest of six siblings. I’ve been with Goddard for 2.5 years, where my love for teaching and helping little ones grow has flourished. I’m currently pursuing my AA in college, working toward my dream of becoming a pediatric anesthesiologist. Outside of work and school, I love painting, hiking, reading, fixing cars, and playing video games. I’m passionate about photography and run a small business. With roots in Arabic, Mexican, and White heritage, I love setting challenges for myself to grow and reach new goals. My journey has been filled with learning, family, faith, and creativity—and I’m just getting started!

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. Arielle joins our team with two years of experience in childcare. Arielle is not only CPR and first aid certified but is also actively pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, showcasing her commitment to excellence in early education. Outside the classroom, she shares her love for creativity and expression through painting, and her nurturing spirit extends beyond the human realm to her two furry friends. Arielle's enthusiasm for fostering a positive learning environment is sure to create a joyful and engaging experience for our preschoolers.

Coach Mike Teifer joined the Goddard Baymeadows program in 2022 as our Physical Education teacher. Mike has been a resident of Ponte Vedra Beach for 35+ years. He graduated from Jacksonville University with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and then received a Master's degree in Education Administration from UNF. His career resume includes teaching physical education, coaching high school athletics, and running his own personal training business. Mike has always been heavily involved in coaching local youth athletics, including club baseball and flag football. Mike enjoys working with young children and introducing them to the fundamentals of sports and physical fitness while having fun in a play-based and team-oriented environment. Mike and his wife, Cheryl, live in Ponte Vedra Beach and have three sons – Robert, Chris, and Ryan.