Our Goddard School Teachers

Education: I hold a Bachelors Degree in Education from Winona State University. Experience: I worked as an Elementary Educator in the Johnston Community School District for seven years before opening the Goddard School in Waukee in 2016. A Little About Me: I love spending time with my family. I have two boys who keep me very busy. I enjoy traveling, watching the boys play sports, and spending as much time as possible outdoors. Favorite Children's Book: One of my all-time favorites is one I received when my first child was born, "You Are My I Love You" by Maryann Cusimano. It spoke to the absolute irrevocable love I was experiencing in that moment. A love that I did not know existed before I had my first child. The book reminds me of the role I will forever play in my children's lives as well as the role they will forever play in mine.

Educational Background: Bachelor's Degree in Inclusive Education (endorsed to teach Birth - grade 3). Experience: I've been working/teaching in Early Childhood since 2007, starting in Nebraska. My husband's job relocated us to Illinois for a year before we settled here in Iowa! A Little About Me: I love spending time with my two boys and my husband. We enjoy traveling around the Midwest to visit family and friends, but love a good beach trip! Favorite Children's Book: "Very Cranky Bear" by Nick Bland. It's a silly rhyming book that teaches kindness and empathy.

Educational Background: I received my Bachelor’s degree in Family, Community, and Social Support from the University of Iowa. Experience: Throughout my career, I have worked with children in many different environments, beginning in 2014. I have been a snowboard instructor, tutor, nanny, and teacher. I have worked at Goddard Schools in Colorado, Chicago, and Waukee! A Little About Me: I love adventure, be it a trip to a new city with my wife, Elisa, a walk in the park with my family, or a solo excursion around Des Moines. I love a good cup of coffee (almost always iced), attempting DIY projects, and I really love sports—especially soccer! Life is extra full and joyful these days as my wife and I are raising our twins, who keep us laughing and on our toes. Favorite Children's book: “Love Makes a Family” by Sophie Beer

Education: I first earned a Bachelor’s degree in Children’s Ministry and Family Studies, and then went on to complete a Master’s in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology from North Central University. Experience: Prior to joining Goddard in 2025, I worked as a nanny, in before- and after-school programs, and in Autism Therapy. These experiences gave me valuable insight into supporting children in a variety of settings. My Favorite Book: "Skippy John Jones" He goes on so many adventures!

Education: I graduated from DCG High School in 2010 and am working on continuing my education. Experience: I started working in childcare in 2007. I worked at the same center for 12 years where I worked in the infant room, and taught preschool, finishing my time there as assistant director and on-site supervisor. I started my journey at The Goddard School of Waukee in 2020! Interests/Hobbies: In my free time, I am very involved in my church. I am on a leadership team and serve on the Worship Team. My family and I enjoy camping and bike riding on the weekends. Personal Information: My husband, Kevin and I live in Adel with our two sweet daughters. We also have a spunky cat named Axton! Favorite Children’s Book: "I Love You, Stinky Face" by Lisa McCourt. This is my favorite children’s book because it shows the mother's never-ending love for her little boy, regardless of all the questions he has. It’s heartwarming and a reminder of how pure a child’s heart is!

Experience: I started working with children at a very young age, beginning with my younger siblings (I am the second oldest of 8). Since then, I have nannied for 2 families and then began working at a center in 2017. I have always enjoyed working with infants and toddlers. I have been a member of the Goddard family since 2023. A Little About Me: I enjoy reading and doing crafts like cross stitch and bullet journaling. I also love to pour myself into the students in my classroom. Favorite Children's Book: "The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear" By Don Wood. It is a super funny book that always makes the kids laugh.

Experience: I have worked in childcare since 2015 in a variety of settings and began my journey with The Goddard School in 2023. I have loved spending my days with the one-year-olds! About Me: In my free time, I enjoy exploring the city and trying new foods with my partner. I also love building Legos, discovering new games, and setting aside time for painting and drawing. Favorite Children’s Book: "Oddkins" by Dean Koontz. I love all the adventures in the story, and it brings back special memories of my Abuela sitting and reading it with me.

Experience: I have been working at Goddard since early 2025 and bring with me experience from daycares across Iowa. Children’s education is incredibly important to me, and I am passionate about helping each child grow in confidence as they learn and explore the world around them. In our classroom, we nurture this growth through a variety of fun and educational activities that spark curiosity and joy. About me: Outside of school, I enjoy gardening, crocheting, cooking, and spending time with my husband and our two kids. Favorite Book: Going on a Bear Hunt

Education: I am currently working toward my CDA (Child Development Associate) credential. Experience: I have worked with children of all ages, from infants to 13-year-olds. My journey began babysitting in 2010, and since then, I have worked as a floater, lead toddler teacher, and unit director. I joined The Goddard School in 2025 and absolutely love working with the two-year-olds! About Me: I love spending time outdoors and taking in nature. When I’m not outside, you can usually find me in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes or creating my own dishes. I also have a pet snake named Noodles. Favorite Children’s Books: "The Magic Tree House" and the Judy Moody Series. I love these series for their creativity, imagination, and engaging stories that spark curiosity in young readers.

Education: I hold a Certification in Intermediate Child Care from the Nanny Institute. Experience: I have worked with children in multiple settings: as a community connector for children with Autism, as a paraprofessional in preschool and kindergarten classrooms, and in a Toddler classroom at a local center. I joined The Goddard School in early 2025 and have loved being part of the team ever since. About Me: I have a wonderful husband, three daughters, and a son-in-law. I moved from Colorado in 2023 and enjoy reading, cross-stitching, spending time outdoors, and being with my family in my free time. Favorite book: "The Poky Little Puppy"

Educational Background: I am pursuing my Early Childhood Education degree at DMACC Experience: I have been working in childcare since 2016, at Goddard since 2020 A Little About Me: I love to have fun and get messy with the kiddos! Art is one of my favorite activities to do in school and on my own time. I love Yoga, hiking, reading and painting. I love working with young children and helping them grow and develop into whoever they want to be! Favorite Children's book: I love you Stinky face

Education: I earned my Associate’s Degree from North Iowa Area Community College and am currently working toward my Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Services. Experience: I began working in childcare at 16 and have since gained experience as a nanny, in infant and toddler classrooms, and as a para in an elementary school. In 2025, I was excited to join the Goddard family and continue supporting children as they grow and learn. About Me: I love spending time with my friends and family. Since moving to Waukee, I don’t get to see them as often, but I enjoy visiting my big, extended family full of kids whenever I can. I also enjoy working out and running—I’ve even completed a half marathon and try to keep up my training. Favorite Children’s Book: The Little Critter series. I love how each story is relatable for children, and it was my favorite growing up. My mom would read me a new one every night, and we still have the whole collection!

Educational Background: CDA (Child Development Associate Credential) from Rasmussen College. Experience: For years, I volunteered as a Candy Striper at IMMC Blank Children's Hospital until I was old enough to work in their childcare center. I have been working with infants through preschool age children for 15+ years, and was an Assistant Director for two of those. After working in childcare for years, I found my perfect fit right here at Goddard when we opened in 2016. My love for children is endless. About Me: I love spending time with my family. I have a teenage daughter named Aaliyana and a husband named Joey. I love being in or around nature, animals, and music! I believe each of these can do so much for the mind, body, and soul! Organizing is also a passion. I love being surrounded by beauty and for things to look their best! Favorite Children's Book: I love rhyming books and books that touch on social-emotional development. My favorite author is Jez Alborough!

Educational Background: I graduated from Grand View University with my Bachelors degree in Art Education with an emphasis in painting and graphic design. Experience: I have been working with children since 2006. I have been at Goddard since we opened in 2016. I inherited my love for children from my mom who is a retired Kindergarten teacher. A Little About Me: I am the middle of three children. I have been married since 2013 to my husband, Dirk. We are a loving family of four with our kittens Diesel and Carrots. I love painting and doing anything artistic. I believe that everyone is artistic in their own way; they just need to find a way to express it. That's why I love teaching art. Some of my other hobbies are concerts and music, hanging out with my friends, and anything to do with the Iowa Hawkeyes. Favorite Children's Book: "Uncle Andy's: A Fabulous Visit with Andy Warhol" By James Warhol. It is such a fun way to get a look into Andy Warhol's life as a kid.

Educational Background: I have completed my Associate’s in Early Childhood Education from DMACC and am currently working toward my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Experience: With a career in childcare since 2011, Goddard became home in 2016, starting in the Get Set classroom and later moving to Preschool 2. Over the years, forming meaningful connections with both children and families has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. A Little About Me: In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our daughter, taking our two dogs for walks, cuddling up with a good book, working out, and hitting the golf course. Favorite Children's Book: "Silly Sally". It is just a silly, funny, feel-good book. I also have every word memorized!

Educational Background: I earned my Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education, with a minor in Special Education at UNI. Experience: I have worked with children in many different environments since 2017. In a rural setting, a big city, and the suburbs. I have worked at Goddard since 2022. A Little About Me: I enjoy being outdoors, especially in the country, as I grew up in a rural small town. I really enjoy hanging out with family and friends, playing board games. I also love going shopping and traveling! I really enjoy coffee and making coffee for others. Favorite Children's book: Very Hungry Caterpillar

Educational Background: I have my Bachelor's of Science degree in Elementary Education from Iowa State University. I also hold my teaching license. Experience: I began my teaching career in the public schools as a 4th grade teacher in 1996. I started at Goddard in 2017 and have loved teaching in the PreK classroom. A Little About Me: I am married with a busy elementary-age little boy. I love spending time with my family and traveling. Favorite Children's Book: "Oh The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss. This book has a great message for children.

Educational Background: I currently hold an Associate of Arts degree. Experience: I started taking Child Development classes in high school and fell in love with the field. I continued with ECE classes in college while earning my Associate's Degree. For the past several years I have worked and grown in a couple of different Early Childhood Educational facilities before finding my home here in early 2017, and am thrilled to be a part of the Goddard Team! This is the most rewarding job! A Little About Me: My husband and I were married in September 2016. We have three beautiful children who keep us on our toes! I love playing sports, listening and dancing to music, being outdoors - hiking and exploring, and working on our family farm. I absolutely love playing with children because I am really just a big kid myself! My Favorite Children's Book/s: The Berenstain Bears Series, Junie B. Jones series, and "Goodnight Moon" have always been my favorites.

Educational Background: Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University, Fullerton. I've continued my education and have earned a K-6 teaching license as well as a Pre-K endorsement, which includes Special Education in Early Childhood. Experience: After graduation, I worked for two years at a private school in Orange County, CA, as a teacher’s assistant and preschool teacher. For the next three years I worked as a three-year-old preschool teacher at the University of Dubuque Childcare Center. I've been at Goddard since January of 2017! A Little About Me: My husband, Geoff, a fifth grade teacher, and I are parents to the sweetest boy named Fox. In my free time, I love spending time with my family, attending concerts, collecting movies, and reading Harry Potter! My Favorite Children's Book: One of my favorite children’s books is "Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein, and I love reading anything by Judy Blume.

Education & experience: In December 2022, I graduated from the University of Iowa with my Iowa Teaching License. I have worked at two daycare centers for a total of 4+ years and was the lead teacher at a K-6th Summer Program. I spent January- May 2023 subbing at the Johnston School District to gain more experience before starting at Goddard in the fall of 2023. A little about me: I recently got married to my husband in July and we moved to West Des Moines with our new puppy, Ivy. Favorite children’s book: One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss

Education: Associates Degree in Human Services from Kaplan University. Experience: I started working with children when I was 11! I also have several years of experience teaching preschool and toddlers. I am currently the early childhood director and lead preschool teacher at my church. I have also worked in two orphanages in Mexico. I began my career with Goddard in 2017! A Little About Me: I have four sisters, 1 step-sister, and 1 step-brother. I also have sixteen nieces and nephews, and one great-niece. My interests include painting, cooking, traveling, and trying new foods. Favorite book: My favorite book is "The Witch of Blackbird Pond". It is one of the only books that I have read more than once. I have been reading it since I was a child.

Education: Bachelors in Commerce from the University of Bombay Experience: I worked with children for many years before starting at The Goddard School in 2018. A Little About Me: I have been married for nineteen years and I have two children. I love to paint, maintain my home, read, travel, shop and spend time with my family. Favorite book: I love Harry Potter books. I enjoy reading these books and then see the movies.

Education: Mercy College of Health Sciences, ASN, RN Experience: I’ve worked with children of all ages since 2022. I've worked in centers and as a nanny. These roles have given me a strong foundation in patience, creativity, and nurturing care. I genuinely enjoy watching children grow and being part of their everyday development. A Little About Me: Outside of work, I’m a full-time nursing student at Mercy, working toward becoming a pediatric nurse. When I’m not at work or school, I’m usually relaxing at home, spending time with my sister and friends, or trying out new recipes. I love long walks, rom-coms, and a solid gym session that ends in the sauna. I love finding moments that help me slow down and take care of myself during a busy week. Favorite Children's Book: The Junie B Jones series has always been a favorite of mine. Junie's bold personality and silly adventures make for a fun read. I also love "I Love You, Little Pookie," a sweet book perfect for bonding with little ones.

Experience: I am a mother of three young children and have been working in childcare since 2021. I have been a member of the Goddard team since early 2023. A Little About Me: I love spending time with my kids and hanging out with my siblings and parents. I like trying new foods, but my favorite thing to do is get sushi! Favorite Children's book: "Good Night Moon". I grew up reading this with my dad, I remember he would hide the mouse on each page with his thumb.

Education: I am currently a sophomore in college. Experience: In high school, I had the opportunity to visit different elementary schools to read with students across all grade levels. I have also spent several years babysitting and enjoy coaching youth basketball. About Me: I play basketball in college, which keeps me in the gym often! Outside of sports, I enjoy playing video games, usually with friends. I also come from a big family and am the middle child of five. Favorite Children’s Book: "The Teacher from the Black Lagoon." This book takes me back to when I first started school and felt nervous about meeting new teachers and making friends. It’s also one of the very first books I remember reading!

Education: I am currently enrolled at Mercy College in their nursing program. Experience: I joined the Goddard team in 2023, my first professional role working with children, but I’ve grown up in a big family and have lots of experience babysitting. That background gave me a natural comfort around kids and a strong foundation in caregiving. A Little About Me: I was born in Kennett, Missouri, and I’m the youngest in my immediate family. I love going on walks, spending time with friends, and winding down with a good movie or book. I’m going to school for nursing and am currently exploring different specialties to find the right fit. Favorite Children's Book: "Pinkalicious" is my favorite! I have always related to the main character and her love of the color pink, as well as her big dreams and imagination.

Experience: I have been working with children since 2013, beginning in a local daycare. In 2024, I was excited to begin my journey with Goddard! About Me: I am a happy bilingual woman, fluent in both French and English. I love music, dance, and swimming. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, traveling, serving in my community, and spending time in conviviality with others. My favorite books: "Chicka, Chicka Boom, Boom", "Five Little Monkeys" and any Disney Princess story.

Education: I graduated from DMACC in 2016 with an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education. Experience: I’ve been working with children since 2016, joining The Goddard School in 2024. Over the years, I’ve gained valuable experience supporting children’s growth and development in a variety of settings. A Little About Me: I grew up in Carlisle and now live in Grimes with my husband, Hunter, and our two cats, Salem and Oona. Hunter and I have been married since 2023, but we’ve been together since 2014. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, especially playing with my niece and nephew. I enjoy cooking, watching new shows and movies, and have a fun side hobby in cosmetics, offering skincare and makeup application for friends and family. My Favorite Children's Book: "A Bad Case of the Stripes," By David Shannon. I love this book for the bright and bold illustrations and the theme of being true to oneself, and the value of embracing diversity.

Education: I earned my Associate’s in Psychology from DMACC. Experience: I have been working with and around children for more than half my life. My journey began volunteering in my church and helping with childcare on Sundays during my early teens. Throughout high school, I worked in before- and after-school programs, which led to a position at a local daycare where I truly began learning what it means to be a teacher. In 2025, I was thrilled to join the Goddard family, an amazing opportunity to continue nurturing and inspiring young learners. About Me: I come from a family of three sisters and one brother, who is the youngest. I have lived most of my life in Iowa and graduated from Ankeny High School. In my spare time, I play violin and enjoy sports like volleyball, tennis, soccer, and running. I love working with children—they teach me so much every day! Favorite Children’s Book: The Berenstain Bears Series—I grew up reading these books, enjoying the lessons in each story and the

Education: I currently attend DMACC, working toward a degree in Biology. Experience: I have worked with kids since 2019, working at a summer camp, babysitting, and as a lifeguard. I joined The Goddard School in 2025 and have loved working part-time while continuing my education. About Me: I enjoy staying active, spending time outdoors, reading, and hanging out with my family and friends. I’m very close with my older sister and younger brother, and we always have a great time together. Favorite Book: "Good Night Moon". I used to read it every night with my sister before going to bed.