Our Goddard School Teachers

Education: Mr. Jay holds a B.A. in Economics and Public Policy and a J.D. from Duke University.

Experience: After 21 years of practicing law in Atlanta, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., Mr. Jay transitioned to early childhood education by becoming the owner of The Goddard School in Sandy Springs. His priority is ensuring parents feel confident that their children are nurtured, educated, loved, and protected. He is actively involved in the school's classrooms and daily operations. As a father, he understands the importance of providing a high-quality alternative to standard childcare.

Affiliations: Mr. Jay is a past Vice President and former Board Member of the Georgia Child Care Association

Education: Ms. Thonja holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She has obtained her Director Certification from Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning and a Technical Certificate of Credit in Early Childhood Care Program Administration from Atlanta Technical College. Committed to lifelong learning, she continues her professional development in early childhood education.

Experience: Ms. Thonja began her career in the legal field before transitioning to childcare in 2007. She started as an after-school teacher and was soon promoted to Assistant Director, where she discovered a passion for administration. She joined The Goddard School in May 2008, initially as a teacher, before moving into her leadership role as Director of Education

Education: Mrs. Queneshia holds a B.I.S in Human Learning and Development from Georgia State University. She also holds a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University. She is looking to further her education by pursuing a Doctoral degree in Early Childhood Education.

Experience: Mrs. Queneshia began her career by working part-time for a family child care in 2009. She then transitioned into childcare as an infant teacher. Throughout her career, she has gained hands-on experience in all classroom environments from after-school to Georgia Pre-K and has also served in administrative roles, including Assistant Director and Georgia Pre-K Director.

Education: Ms. Lisa holds a Diplôme d'Études Collégiales in Languages & Literature with a certificate in bilingualism, a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. She is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.

Experience: With over 25 years of experience working with children from preschool to high school, Ms. Lisa specializes in teaching art and global cultures. She is passionate about fostering creativity in young minds.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Lisa believes that there is no “one size fits all” approach to education. She celebrates the diversity of learning styles and strives to create an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

Education: Ms. Mikeya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development from Tougaloo College and a Master’s in Public Administration and Human Resources from Belhaven University.

Experience: With five years of experience teaching children, Ms. Mikeya has also worked as a mentor and tutor for elementary students. She is passionate about nurturing and educating the next generation.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Mikeya believes that children thrive in a safe and welcoming learning environment. She encourages exploration of meaningful, real-life experiences within a structured setting.

Education: Ms. LaTeachia earned her degree in Criminal Justice from The University of Phoenix.

Experience: With over 20 years of experience working with children, Ms. LaTeachia has dedicated her career to fostering young minds in a nurturing environment.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes that each child is unique and should be encouraged to express their individuality while growing in a supportive and enriching classroom.

Education: Ms. Jessica holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Business Administration.

Experience: With five years of experience working with children, she enjoys creating a nurturing learning environment.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes in child-guided learning and providing a lot of TLC. She finds teaching to be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Experience: With over 5 yrs working with children, Ms.Keylyn has developed a real passion when it comes to little ones. Her warmness and gentleness is an asset that touches every room.

Education: Attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, NJ.

Philosophy of Teaching: Ms. Keylyn started working with children at the age of 15 years old and realized that she enjoyed working with children. Her philosophy of teaching is to create an environment that allows for supervised exploration. She believes that students learn through hands on and real life experiences.

Education: Ms. Mahawa has completed extensive coursework in early childhood education and child development.

Experience: She has several years of experience working with young children in a structured learning environment.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Mahawa believes that children thrive in a classroom filled with love, patience, and encouragement. She strives to create a supportive atmosphere where every child can flourish.

Education: Ms. Samantha is a graduate of Riverwood and is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.

Experience: With over five years of experience working with children, she is also a mother of four.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes that the early years of a child’s life are the most critical for development. She strives to create a secure and stimulating learning environment that feels like home.

Education: Ms. Brittany has her high school diploma and continues to further her knowledge and skillset by enrolling in child care courses.

Experience:Ms. Brittany has over 3 years of nanny experience. She’s worked with infants and toddlers. With her hands-on experience, Ms. Brittany provides a fun, safe, and nurturing learning environment. She continues to thrive and challenge herself.

Teaching Philosophy:Ms. Brittany believes that children learn best by being in a positive and engaging environment. She also believes in gentleness and kindness.

Education: Ms. Natasha has completed professional development courses in early childhood education.

Experience: With six years of experience working with children, she is committed to fostering a supportive classroom environment.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes in the saying, “It takes a big heart to help shape little minds.” She strives to be patient, loving, and a guiding force in her students’ daily lives.

Education: Ms. Maleesha attended Meadow Creek High School and started to continue her education at Gwinnett Technical College. Since the classroom is new to Ms. Maleesha, she has committed to evolving and expanding her knowledge in childcare courses.

Experience: Ms. Maleesha is new to the classroom but being a mom has allowed her to have first hand experience when it comes to caring for little ones. Coming into the classroom, Ms.Maleesha is able to be a part of the experience and growth of each child.

Philosophy of Teaching: Ms. Maleesha believes in creating a nurturing, child-centered environment that fosters a love of learning through play and exploration, while also recognizing each child's unique individuality. This involves providing a supportive space where children feel safe to explore, experiment, and develop at their own pace, while also encouraging social interaction and emotional growth.

Education: Ms. Maria holds a degree in Business Administration.

Experience: She has three years of experience working with children and is passionate about fostering positive learning experiences.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Maria believes in showing kindness and genuine care for each student. She recognizes that every child is different and has their own way of expressing themselves.

Education: Ms. Krystal holds a Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies and Special Education.

Experience: With over twelve years of experience working with children, Ms. Krystal brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her teaching.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes that every child brings a unique gift to the classroom. Her goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where students feel free to express themselves and learn.

Experience: Ms. Kimberly has over 3 years of experience working with children from being a tutor and teacher in the classroom. It is a rewarding experience to see children develop and grow throughout the years. Philosophy: Ms. Kimberly believes that every child learns more while they have fun.

Education:Ms. Nekiah earned an Associate of Business Administration from Mercy University in New York. She proceeded to continue her education at Penn State.

Experience:Ms. Nekiah has over 6 years of experience working with children from the early ages of toddlers to elementary. With her background experience being a classroom teacher, summer youth program coach, and school executive assistant, Ms. Nekiah is certain of the academics and development that she can bring out of each child she encounters.

Teaching Philosophy:Ms. Nekiah believes that education should be stimulating and engaging. She’s a firm believer that structure in the classroom is important while allowing children to become independent so that they can build confidence, resilience and essential life skills.

Education: Mr. Jonatan attended Clark Atlanta University.

Experience: Although new to the classroom, Mr. Jonatan comes from a large family where he has gained experience in caregiving and mentoring young children. He is eager to bring his enthusiasm and fresh perspective into the learning environment.

Teaching Philosophy: Mr. Jonatan believes that children learn best at their own pace and should be encouraged to express themselves freely. He is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, nurturing classroom where children feel safe and supported in their educational journey.

Education: Mrs. Mariangela earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rafael Urdaneta Maracaibo University in Venezuela.

Experience: With over eight years of experience working with children diagnosed with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, she is dedicated to supporting their unique learning needs.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes that children learn best through play and self-expression. Her goal is to create an inclusive classroom where every child feels empowered to explore and grow.

Education: Ms. Jacqueline graduated from North Springs High School.

Experience: She has experience working with children in various settings and is passionate about helping young learners discover their potential.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Jacqueline believes that every child is unique and has something special to bring to the classroom. She considers it an honor to assist children in embracing their individuality and fostering self-confidence.

Education: Ms. Dao has completed professional development training in early childhood education.

Experience: With over five years of experience in the childcare field, Ms. Dao looks forward to coming to work each day to see the smiling faces of her students. She is passionate about fostering a warm and engaging classroom environment.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Dao believes that children absorb the energy of their teachers, which is why she always brings positivity and enthusiasm into the classroom. She strives to create a nurturing and encouraging space where children feel comfortable to learn and grow.

Education: Ms. Noelle has completed early childhood education training.

Experience: She is excited to be part of The Goddard School family and enjoys working with young learners.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes that every child is special and enjoys reading to students and supporting them in any way she can.

Education: Ms. Loba holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

Experience: With over ten years of experience working with children, Ms. Loba is passionate about early childhood education and fostering a love for learning.

Teaching Philosophy: She believes young children learn best through hands-on experiences and exploration. She also emphasizes the importance of addressing different learning styles and incorporating diversity into the classroom.

Education: Ms. Linda holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

Experience: Ms. Linda has extensive teaching experience at the collegiate level and is now expanding her expertise to early childhood education. She has enjoyed working with younger students, finding it to be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Teaching Philosophy: Ms. Linda believes that education is a lifelong journey and that every child has the potential to learn and grow. She enjoys adapting her teaching style to meet the needs of different age groups and believes that hands-on learning plays a critical role in a child's development.

Years of Experience: 2 years

Education: Ms. Deepika has a Bachelors in Computer Science

Philosophy of Teaching: Ms. Deepika believes in having a play- based and hands -on learning environment where she also creates a supportive atmosphere so that students can learn on their own.