Our Goddard School Teachers

I have been a resident of Fishhawk for over 11 years. I live here with my husband Shekar and our two boys, Aditya and Adarsh. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from George Mason University, Virginia. I have worked in corporate America for ten years as a professional engineer. I am excited to bring a high quality preschool program to our community. We noticed a clear need for a premier preschool in the area as we shopped for childcare for our boys. I am honored to bring the Goddard program that will help shape the early childhood development for the children in our community.

My name is Amanda. I have been happily married to my wonderful husband, Vince, for twenty-four years! We have three amazing children: Mattie, Camie , and Parker. Both of my daughters are in college, pursuing a pre-medical track. As for my background, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Education from Ashford University. I have spent fifteen years teaching Pre-K, with five of those years here at Goddard! In my last year as a Pre-K teacher, I was honored with the Pre-K Teacher Award for the Southeast Region of all Goddard Schools—an achievement I hold dear. This is my third year as Director, and I absolutely love it! I enjoy mentoring teachers, planning school-wide events, and fostering a positive learning environment for both students and staff. My favorite quote: Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn (Benjamin Franklin)

My name is Shelby, and I am honored to serve as the Director of Operations at The Goddard School Lithia. Originally from Alabama, I met my wonderful husband, Ryan, who is an active-duty military member. Together, we have two beautiful girls who attend our school. Being both a director and a parent at Goddard Lithia gives me a unique perspective that helps me navigate this role effectively. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Troy University and went on to teach 5th grade, 3rd grade, and Kindergarten. After my first daughter was born, I transitioned into Early Childhood education, allowing me to continue my passion for teaching while staying close to her. This shift led me to become a Lead Teacher in both a VPK and a Toddler classroom. Through these experiences, I discovered my true passion for serving families, students, and teachers through Childcare Management.

My name is Emily Murray, and I am the Assistant Director at The Goddard School in Lithia. Originally from Colorado, I moved to Florida at the age of 19 and later graduated from the University of South Florida in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I began my journey in early childhood education at 17, working part-time while attending college. I quickly discovered my passion for working with young children and had the opportunity to begin teaching VPK in 2013—an experience that solidified my love for the field. I recently returned to school to earn both my Staff Credential and Director’s Credential, and in June 2024, I proudly stepped into the role of Assistant Director. I truly enjoy supporting our families and teachers in building a warm, nurturing environment where our little learners can thrive. Favorite Quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Hi, my name is Susan. I have been married for over twenty-five years and have two children in college. I have a BA in Sociology from Wofford College. I’ve worked with children both at home and in school settings for over twenty years. I have been working at Goddard for over a year and I love working in the infant room! Favorite Quote: Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded.

My name is Dianna, and I am a passionate early childhood educator with over five years of experience working with infants and young children. Originally from Cuba, I bring warmth, dedication, and a nurturing spirit to my classroom each day. My professional background in transfusion medicine, including working with neonates, inspired my commitment to supporting children during their earliest stages of development. I am currently pursuing my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and am dedicated to continuing my professional growth in early education. As a mother of three, I value strong partnerships with families and strive to create a safe, loving, and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our three children, and our golden retriever. Favorite Quote: "Every child deserves to feel safe, loves, and supported while thy grow and learn."

Hi, my name is Nikii, and I began my journey in early childhood education in 2019 as a special education aide, where I discovered my passion for supporting and nurturing young learners. I later expanded my experience as an in-home care specialist before joining The Goddard School, where I continue to make a positive impact in the classroom. I have known I wanted to become a teacher since kindergarten, and I bring that lifelong passion into my work each day. I am a graduate of Plant City High School and have pursued studies in Psychology at Life University. I plan to further my education in Early Childhood Education to continue growing in my field. Favorite Quote: "All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them." -Walt Disney

Hello, my name is Ana and I am the Lead Teacher in our Pre-Toddler program. I joined the Goddard School in May 2021 as an Infant Lead Teacher. Shortly after, I earned my Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials and am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. My studies in psychology help me deepen my understanding of children's cognitive development, allowing me to support their education in age-appropriate and meaningful ways. As a passionate and dedicated teacher, I find joy in nurturing young children's curiosity and creating a positive, enriching learning environment. I feel truly honored and blessed to have been recognized with the 2025 Goddard Southeast Infant Teacher of the Year award, an accolade that reflects my commitment to early childhood education. Favorite Quote: "To teach is to touch a life forever."

Hi, I’m Cali! I have always had a love for reading, animals, and working with children, which makes being part of The Goddard School such a wonderful fit for me. I truly enjoy creating a caring and engaging environment where children feel supported as they learn and grow. I graduated from Newsome High School and am currently continuing my education at Hillsborough Community College. I’m passionate about expanding my knowledge and bringing that enthusiasm into the classroom each day. In my free time, I love traveling and exploring new places. One of my favorite destinations has been Hawaii. Its beauty and sense of adventure made it unforgettable. Favorite Quote: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt

My name is Mariella. I have a bachelor’s degree in advertising and graphic design and have my National Child Development Associate (CDA). I am an experienced toddler teacher and am very passionate about creating a safe and stimulating learning environment. I have been a toddler teacher at the Goddard School for over 5 years I am committed to helping my students reach their full potential. Favorite Quote: Every child is an artist (Pablo Picasso)

My name is Damaris and I am originally from Honduras. I am a proud wife and mother of two wonderful children. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music and decorating for the holidays—it brings me joy and creativity! I’ve been working with children since I was fourteen years old and have over twenty-two years of professional experience in early childhood education. I currently hold a National Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and am committed to continuing my education to stay current on best practices in child development. Supporting young learners and helping them grow brings me so much fulfillment. Favorite quote: In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you (Matthew 7-12).

Hi, my name is Marisol. I’m an educator with a passion for helping children grow and express themselves through creative activities. I have many years of experience working with children and hold a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). I continually participate in training to further my education. I love seeing kids explore their emotions and creativity! I also want parents to feel at ease while they are at work, knowing their children are being well taken care of and engaging in fun, enriching activities. Favorite Quote: You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. (A.A. Milne)

Hello, My name is Teresita. I am a dedicated teacher with a passion for working with young children. Helping them learn and grow brings me so much joy. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, creating special moments and memories together. One of my favorite quotes that inspires me is "while we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about" Author Unkown

Hello, my name is Sylvia. I am a proud mother of three and grandmother to 13 amazing grandchildren. My journey into teaching was inspired by my own children, sparking a lifelong passion for nurturing young minds. In addition to teaching, I have a deep love for writing poetry, which allows me to express the beauty and depth of life through words. I hold an Associate's Degree in Human Services, as well as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential specializing in Infants and Toddlers. With over 35 years of teaching experience, I bring both dedication and a wealth of knowledge to early childhood education. Favorite Quote: "Every child is a poem waiting to be read with love and patience."

My name is Patricia. I was born in Long Island, NY and moved to Florida when I was a teenager. I am an avid reader and I love to draw and paint. In my free time, I like to do anything that requires creativity. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. I am compassionate and love to help others. I am currently working on getting my teaching certification in teaching English and reading. My favorite quote: Not all who wonder are lost (J.R.R. Tolkien)

My name is Shadi, which means “happiness” in Farsi. I was lucky to grow up with my amazing parents and four siblings in Tehran, Iran. I lived in California with my husband and daughter for twelve years and moved to Florida in July of 2023. I then started working at the Goddard School in Lithia with the wonderful team and families. I feel this is the greatest treasure I found in Florida! I have a B.S. in Biology and have experience working as a researcher. I started volunteering at my daughter’s school and fell in love working with children. I started taking courses and currently studying to obtain a major in early childhood education. I have now worked in this field for eight years and have achieved a lot of experience. Favorite Quote: Imagine your life as a love letter to the universe. Then go out and express all within your heart.

Hi, my name is Alicia! I’m originally from Massachusetts but moved to Florida when I was 13 years old—and I've fully embraced the Floridian lifestyle ever since! While I've worked in several different fields, including the medical field, I’ve always felt a strong calling toward early childhood education. This passion stems from my own meaningful experiences in an early childhood program, which inspired me to pursue a career where I can help shape young minds. I’m a proud graduate of Riverview High School (Class of 2014—Go Sharks!) and currently hold my 45 DCF hours in Early Childhood Education. I’m excited to continue growing in this field and am working toward earning my CDA. My favorite quote is: "Education is not the filling of a pail, but rather the lighting of a fire." – W.B. Yeats

Hello, my name is Karla. I have been married for twenty-four years and have three handsome boys. I love the outdoors and reading, it’s my favorite way to relax. I have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood. Teaching is my passion, and I have been teaching since I was sixteen. Favorite Quote: A child’s play is not simply a reproduction of what he has experienced but a creative reworking of the impressions he has acquired. (Vygotsky)

My name is Lande. I would describe myself as someone who is highly motivated, and I enjoy working as part of a team. I am a proud mom of an incredible son. I speak English, Creole, and French. I have an Associate Degree in Nursing and am a certified nurse assistant. I have been working in the childcare field since 2021. I am so happy to be a part of the Goddard team and honored to contribute to your child’s education! My favorite quote: Teachers encourage, minds to thing, hands to create, and hearts to love.

Hi, my name is Renee, and I am happily married with three children and four wonderful grandchildren, with more blessings expected in the future. Family means everything to me, and that love naturally carries into my work with children. I have experience working with children from birth to five years old, as well as in after-school programs. While living in Maine, I owned and operated my own in-home childcare center, supporting families and fostering a nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. I hold my CDA, VPK, and Director’s Credential and am committed to providing high-quality early childhood education. In my free time, I miss the mountains, so my family and I enjoy taking our Jeep out to explore new adventures whenever we can.

My name is Olivia and I’m a preschool teacher at The Goddard School. I come from a military family (Marines) where my dad served fifteen years and my older brother for five. I love to spend my free time going to the beach, shopping, or journaling. I graduated from Bloomingdale High School and am now a student at Hillsborough Community College. I have my A.S. Degree in Early Childhood Education, and plan to continue my education at The University of South Florida to obtain my bachelor’s degree. I recently started my childcare career in June of 2024, and I am so excited and grateful to continue my journey with the Goddard family! Favorite Quote: The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all -Mulan

My Name is Kimberly (Ms. Kim). I am originally from Tampa, Fl but grew up in Texas before moving back to Tampa in 1990. We are a proud USMC family. I am a happy wife, proud mom of two adult children, a granny to my amazing grandchildren, and a dog-mom to three large fur babies. I have owned/operated an Accredited/Gold Seal Licensed FCCH for thirteen years and worked for HCSO in child protection. I have been an Early Childhood Educator for thirty plus years and I can’t imagine doing any other job! The past nine years I have been teaching VPK. I have an AA Degree, my National CDA, Developmental Disabilities training, and I continue taking early childhood training classes each year. My happy place is the beach and spending time with family and friends. My favorite hobby is finding fun and engaging activities for my students! Favorite quote: Educating the mind without education the heart is no education at all! (Aristotle).

Hi! My name is Trinity, and I'm so excited to be a part of your child's learning journey this year. I was born and raised in Brandon, FL, and am the middle child of 5. I am a recent graduate with 3 years of experience in child care. I hold my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and I am currently attending community college to pursue a career in pediatric nursing, where I hope to continue supporting children and families in a different, yet equally meaningful way. Outside of the classroom, I love staying active. I am a member of a competitive club volleyball team, which brings me energy and joy! Favorite Quote: "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." -Philippians 4:13

My name is Hope. I was born in Washington State, and because I am part of a military family, I ended up in Florida in 2017. I live with my best friend and our sweet Black Mouth Cur Ross. Any free time I have is spend reading or spending time with my nephew Marshall. I have my preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. Currently I am in school to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been working in this field for five years, and three of the years I have been teaching Pre-kindergarten at the Goddard School. Teaching young children is my passion. Favorite quote: The duties of a teacher are neither few nor small, but they elevate the mind and give energy to the character. (Dorothea Dix)

Hello, My name is Ms. Lexi. I was born and raised in Hungary. I moved to the United States in 2016 with my daughter and husband. We love visiting Hungary and other European countries in the summer. I have a B.A. in English and American studies. I am currently enrolled at the College of Central Florida’s Early Childhood Education Program. I have been working with young children since 2018 and enjoy watching them learn and grow! Favorite Quote: Play is the highest form of research (Albert Einstein)

Hi, my name is Jackie. Along with my husband, I own two companies. One company that we have owned for 25 years, Most Beautiful Weddings, where my role was the wedding director. The other company we’ve owned for thirty years is JJR Janitorial and Carpet Cleaning. While I love both my companies, I have found working in the Early Childcare field so enjoyable! I have been with Goddard School since 2022 and I work as a resource teacher. I am responsible for preparing the snacks for our little learners and helping the teachers as needed. Favorite Quote: Life is too short, live like it’s important.

Hello, my name is Shavita. Florida has been my home for the past three years. I live here with husband and two lovely children. I like to dance, hike, read, and spend time with my family and friends. I have a Master’s Degree in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s Degree in Math and Science with a Post Graduation Diploma in Computer Applications. I am honored to be a part of the Goddard Family and your child’s learning experience. I have been an educator in the past and continue to inspire and support children in their educational, social, and emotional journey. Favorite quote: Learning is a continuous process, and we learn by doing and by creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe and loved.

Hi, my name is Mika, and I have proudly called FishHawk home since 2017. Originally from the Philippines, I have also lived in New Jersey and Iowa, which has given me a diverse perspective and appreciation for different communities and cultures. Prior to joining Goddard, I gained valuable experience working with elementary-aged children in both enrichment programs and academic support settings, where I developed a strong passion for fostering confidence and a love of learning. In my free time, I enjoy attending theatre shows, traveling, and spending time at the beach. I graduated from Newsome High School and am currently pursuing a degree in Biomedical Sciences at the University of South Florida. Favorite Quote: "Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all." – Aristotle