Our Teachers

Liz Scott is the 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, 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 Nocatee 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 Howard is the Managing Partner of The Goddard Schools of Baymeadows and the Regional Director for The Goddard Schools of Ponte Vedra Beach, Julington Creek and Nocatee. With a career spanning 30 years in Early Childhood Education, Marie Ann brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. Originally from Birmingham, England, she holds a BA in Early Education, a CDA, and a Director’s License, all of which reflect her dedication to nurturing young minds. Since joining The Goddard School team, her favorite part has been working alongside such a dedicated team of professionals. Marie Ann finds inspiration in the smiles of the children she works with every day. Known for her love of travel, she often spends her time exploring the world when she’s not at school. Her favorite book, 1984 by George Orwell, reflects her appreciation for literature — a fun fact she embraces with humor and charm!

Amelia is the Regional Director of Compliance & Standards & On- Site Operator, leveraging nearly a decade of experience in Early Childhood Development. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Florida and a Master's in Educational Leadership. Since joining Goddard PVB in early 2019, Amelia has been committed to ensuring high standards in education. Raised in Ponte Vedra, she now enjoys raising her two young children in the same community.

Cezelene, our Director of Education, brings over 20 years of experience and a deep commitment to the field. She holds a Bachelor's in Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Florida, along with an Associate's in Early Childhood Management from Florida State College of Jacksonville. Cezelene has earned two National Child Development Credentials and specializes in Infant, Toddler, and Preschool education. She is also a CDA Professional Development Specialist and holds a Florida Child Care and Education Program Director Credential with VPK endorsement. “I love spending time with my family because it brings me joy, comfort, and connection. I enjoy working at The Goddard School because it offers a supportive environment where I can positively impact children's lives and contribute to their growth through early childhood development.”-Cez

Veronica was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. She started her career as an infant/toddler teacher. She fell in love with what she was doing and worked her way through all ages and decided to get her CDA and that lead to her Director’s Credentials. Veronica has been in the field for 24 years now and can’t imagine doing anything else. She has a passion for children and loves watching them grow. Veronica married her high school sweetheart and they quickly started a family. Her husband joined the Army and then immediately moved to Washington state. After he served for 4 years, they moved back to Florida, eventually settling in St. Augustine. Veronica has now been married for 28 years and has 4 kids and 2 granddaughters. Her family is her life. They love all sports (you will find them at the baseball field most days). Veronica also loves relaxing at the pool. She is so excited to join this team and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Dolly is our Curriculum Coordinator and joined us in 2017. She has a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies, as well as a master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Towson University. She was a Kindergarten teacher for 4 years and a Certified Child Life Specialist for over 10 years In Maryland before relocating to FL in 2017. "I am ecstatic to be part of the Goddard team I am passionate about working with children. Most importantly, I strive to provide them with a fun and nurturing environment and experiences that promote optimal growth and development. I look forward to getting to know you and your child and working with you as a partner In their education." Dolly and her husband have two young children.

Christina joined The Goddard family in February 2022 as the Director of Business & Marketing, bringing her expertise in admissions and marketing from her previous work with charter schools in Duval and St. John's Counties. She oversees all admissions for The Goddard Schools of Ponte Vedra Beach, Julington Creek, Baymeadows, and Nocatee with a focus on managing and growing enrollments while warmly welcoming new families. Christina also leads all marketing initiatives and serves as the point person for billing and accounts receivable processes. Her passion for early childhood education has already made a positive impact on new families and the management teams across all three schools. Outside of work, Christina is a proud mom to a teenage daughter who is an avid lacrosse goalie, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the field.

Savanah Hejl is the Business and Marketing Associate at The Goddard School, bringing seven years of experience in early childhood education. With certifications from DCF and CPR, she contributes her expertise to support The Goddard team and enrich the school community. Originally from Harlingen, TX, Savanah has lived in four different states as part of a military family, with Alaska being her favorite place to call home for three years. Savanah’s favorite part of working at The Goddard School is the school culture and the personal growth she experiences daily. Known as the “ultimate girl mom,” she’s often described as creative, and in her free time, you’ll find her hanging out with her family or shopping. Her favorite children’s book, The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, reflects her nurturing spirit and commitment to creating a positive environment for children.

Ms. Gabrielle holds a bachelor's degree in Healthcare Administration and has been dedicated to childcare since 2016. In 2022, she and her family relocated to Florida after her husband’s transition from the Army. Ms. Gabrielle enjoys spending quality time with her husband and daughter, creating lasting family memories.

Ms. Yinelly has worked in Early Childhood Education for more than 15 years. She is proudly from Puerto Rico where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Ms. Yinelly's family is her pride and best treasure. She loves to laugh, smile, share, and help others. “I can describe myself as a devoted and hard-working teacher. Each year of teaching allows me to give my best to others. I enjoy seeing how children develop in their own special and unique way. There is nothing that makes me feel better than receiving their hugs and smiles every day.”

Ms. Rachel brings a wealth of experience and a unique background to her role as a VPK Teacher. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in political science and minor in French. Though her initial career path led her to work in elementary and middle schools for 10 years, her decision to transition to early childhood education speaks to her passion for nurturing younger children and shaping their foundational years. Ms. Rachel has lived in Jacksonville for 15 years with her husband and three children. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, and spending time with her family. Her love for reading is a great asset in her classroom, as she brings a rich literary background that that is woven into the curriculum.

Ms. Hailey is a St. Augustine native, and holds a high school diploma and is currently working toward a Bachelor's degree in Teaching. With a year of experience in Early Childhood Education, she finds joy in watching children grow and singing with them. In her free time, Hailey enjoys spending time with her family, as well as her two dogs and three cats.

Ms. Shweta is originally from India, and has been in the area since 2013 . She holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Art, along with a teaching certification. With a year and a half of experience in Early Childhood Education, Shweta is passionate about problem-based learning and helping children discover their sense of purpose. Outside of her teaching career, she enjoys watching movies and reading books.

Karen was born in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, and moved to Florida when she was young. She loves teaching children, which led her to earn a degree in early childhood development. With over nine years of experience in childcare, she can teach all preschool classes, including VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten). She has also completed many professional development courses in early childhood education. Karen is dedicated to creating a safe, organized, and fun learning environment where children can explore and grow. She enjoys helping children express themselves and learn about the world. Her favorite saying is, “Children are small but mighty; they love to explore and learn.” If she had to describe herself in one word, it would be "loving," because she works hard to ensure every child feels valued and supported..

Ms. Aaliyah is passionate about early childhood education and is currently pursuing her CDA and Director's Credential. Her commitment to furthering her education in the field shows her drive to continue developing her skills and knowledge to support children and their growth even better. Ms. Aaliyah was born and raised in Jacksonville, creating a strong connection to her local community, which is an asset in creating meaningful relationships with children and families in the area. In her free time she enjoys spending quality time with her son.

Originally from Maputo, Mozambique, Ms. Candice moved to the U.S. in 2011 and moved to Florida two years ago. She holds her CDA and has been teaching VPK since 2022. Ms. Candice is passionate about providing hands-on learning experiences for her students and loves witnessing their milestones and growth. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, gardening, cooking, and going to the beach. We are ecstatic to have her vibrant spirit part of the Goddard family.

Ms. Emma has been working in childcare since 2018 and is excited to be part of our Goddard family. She holds associate credits and is currently working towards earning her CDA. Ms. Emma is originally from Orlando, FL, and moved to the Saint Augustine in 2021 . She newly married to her husband, Josh, and they share their home with two dogs, Mac and Koda. In her free time, she loves reading, watching movies and shows, and spending time at the beach with her family. She is looking forward to a wonderful year ahead!

Ms. India has been a part of the Jacksonville community for 35 years and has dedicated the last four years to working in childcare. She is passionate about learning about each child and watching them grow, fostering their creativity along the way. In her free time, India enjoys singing, engaging in artistic activities, and watching movies. We are ecstatic enthusiasm for nurturing young minds makes her a valuable member of the childcare team.

Ms. Denis, originally from Colombia, has embraced life in this area for the past three years. With a background as a psychologist in Colombia and over five years of experience in Early Childhood Education, she is passionate about creating environments where children learn through hands-on experiences. Denis believes in nurturing curiosity and fostering growth in every child she works with. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys long walks and cherishing time with her husband and two wonderful daughters.

Ms. Natacha has a rich and diverse background to her work in Early Childhood Education. Originally from Venezuela, she’s spent the last 7 years in Jacksonville, FL. She has had time to adapt to a new environment while still holding on to her cultural roots. In addition to her recent experience in Early Childhood Education, she also holds a Law Degree. She incorporates this blend of legal knowledge and early childhood expertise when navigating complex issues, advocating for children, and understanding legal or regulatory aspects of education and childcare. She is currently pursuing both her CDA and ABA Certificate. The ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) Certificate focuses on behavioral interventions and support, which can be a powerful tool in helping children with special needs or behavioral challenges.

Ms. Mercedez joined the Goddard Julington Creek location in September 2023. She has a genuine passion for working with toddlers. Adopted as a young child, she grew up in a large family with twenty-one siblings! Now, she enjoys life with her husband, their two dogs, and their sweet baby girl. On weekends, they love going for strolls, playing golf, spending quality time with family and enjoying the beach.

Ms. Kimberly has over a year of experience in childcare. She is a hands-on teacher who loves to learn about each child’s unique personality. She comes from Winter Haven and has been a resident of St. Augustine for 16 years. Ms. Kimberly enjoys engaging in arts and crafts activities with the children, fostering their creativity. In her free time, she loves shopping and is a big fan of Hello Kitty.

Ms. Jen has lived in Ponte Vedra since 2022 and holds a Master of Arts in Teaching. With over a decade of experience in education as both a teacher and paraprofessional, she is passionate about teaching children and witnessing their joys and "AHA" moments as they learn new topics. In her free time, Jen enjoys traveling, exercising, cooking, and baking. Her commitment to education and enthusiasm for fostering a love of learning make her a wonderful addition to the team.

Ms. Yeimmy is originally from Bucaramanga, Colombia and now lives in St. Augustine, Florida. With a background as a certified Professional Nurse in Colombia, she also holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification and has three years of experience teaching toddlers. Ms. Yeimmy was most recently a Toddler Teacher at Casa de Colores School in Idaho, where she incorporated the Montessori Method to foster a playful, hands-on learning environment. She is passionate about music, art, and the natural curiosity of children. Ms. Yeimmy believes in lifelong learning and the importance of creating a supportive space for young minds to grow. Outside of teaching, she enjoys walking on the beach, exploring new foods, and spending time with her 4-year-old dog, Muñeca.

Coach Mike Teifer joined the PVB Goddard program in 2017 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.