Our Goddard School Teachers

Meet Jane & Genia, two local moms behind The Goddard School in Deerfield! Their passion for early childhood education inspired them to open Goddard as a high-quality alternative to daycare. With bachelor's degrees in Business and Psychology, and a master's degree in Education, Jane previously was a teacher and worked with a large social welfare not-for-profit organization. Genia holds a bachelor's and master's degree in History, and a teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education. Before joining forces with Jane, Genia spent 10 years in the not-for-profit industry, working with immigrant families on cultural integration. Together, Jane and Genia are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children, offering healthy, nutritious meals, and a wide variety of enrichment classes. Jane lives in Highland Park with her husband, two children & labradoodle, Nika! Genia lives in Deerfield with her husband, three children & their fluffy cat, Motek!

Ms. Rebecca holds a bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Originally from North Carolina, she dedicated six years to teaching preschool and pre-K before transitioning into the roles of teacher mentor and assistant director. In August 2019, Ms. Rebecca relocated to Chicago and spent three years as the director of a Preschool in Lincoln Park before joining The Goddard School of Deerfield. Her true passion lies in creating a nurturing environment that supports the growth and development of children, families, and educators alike. When she's not fostering learning experiences, Ms. Rebecca enjoys exploring her culinary skills through cooking and baking, as well as cherishing quality time with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Haram was born in Mexico and relocated to the United States in her teens. As a young adult, she quickly discovered her passion for teaching young children! While working at the Bunnell House Lab Preschool and another local School District in Alaska, she developed a deep love for nurturing and educating small children. Ms. Haram then pursued and completed her degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She is happily married to her best friend and is the proud mother of three children, Kairi, Ean, and Lia. Known for her creative, energetic, and loving personality, Ms. Haram firmly believes that play, creativity, and imagination are the greatest tools for children's learning and development Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Julia graduated with honors from DePaul University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Growing up in a military family, she lived across the country before settling in Deerfield. With nearly a decade of experience supporting children, young adults, and families, Ms. Julia has served in leadership roles at the Park District of Highland Park and as an academic tutor at DePaul University, where she worked with college athletes, students, and professors to achieve their goals. Ms. Julia is passionate about giving back to the education system that shaped her and is dedicated to fostering emotional literacy, creativity, and curiosity. Outside of work, she enjoys caring for houseplants, writing creatively, and spending quality time with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Nadia earned her bachelor's degree in Performance and Music Education from The Ufa State Institute of Arts in Russia. With a lifelong dedication to working with children, she finds great joy in teaching music to young learners. Witnessing the excitement and enthusiasm children display as they learn and perform is what fuels her passion for teaching. Ms. Nadia firmly believes that music plays a crucial role in children's overall development. Her primary focus is to ensure that children have fun while learning through engaging activities such as singing songs, participating in dances, and exploring dramatic plays. Creating an enjoyable and enriching musical experience for her students is Ms. Nadia's top priority. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Born and raised in Cucuta, Columbia, Ms. Yuliana was a dedicated lawyer with experience in advocating for children’s rights, particularly within migrant communities. Moreover, Ms. Yuliana worked within private households as well as assistant teaching while living in Columbia. She executed several projects focused on families’ rights and sexual abuse prevention. Since moving to the U.S. in 2023, Ms. Yuliana has made it her goal to expand her knowledge and is currently taking English as a Second Language (ESL) courses through the College of Lake County. In her free time, Ms. Yuliana loves to practice sports, go for a run, and enjoys traveling as well. She also loves reading, music, and sharing her culture with children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Maria Socorro Serrano, or Soco as everyone calls her, is originally from Guanajuato, Mexico. Soco has been living in Illinois since 2022 and has a solid background of working in restaurants around the Chicago suburbs. During this time she earned certifications in Food handling and Kitchen Management. Soco's dedication to her work is matched by her deep love for children. Children's innocence, sincerity, and boundless potential inspire Soco daily. Soco is excited to bring her warmth, nurturing spirit, and strong work ethic to the Goddard School of Deerfield, where she feels honored to be a part of a team. Outside of work, Soco feels heavily connected to nature. From walking around in the serene parks of her neighborhood to nurturing a variety of flowers and herbs on her balcony. Soco's strolls and her small garden oasis not only clear her mind but also bring her peace. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ana Fonseca, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, arrived in the United States in June 2023 to reunite with her children and her three beloved grandchildren. She brings valuable experience in food preparation and handling, holding a certification in Food Handling, and has also performed cleaning duties. In Colombia, Ana worked in a daycare for children aged 0 to 6 years old, where she supported daily classroom tasks, including maintaining order and security, providing entertainment, feeding, cleaning, and offering personalized attention to the children. Outside of her professional work, Ana enjoys swimming and has a passion for working with both children and the elderly. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Ellen holds an Early Childhood Certificates from Oakton Community College with over 35 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has nurtured and taught infants, toddlers, and children with special needs. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Ellen finds fulfillment in her personal life. With almost 40 years of marriage to her wonderful husband, together, they have raised two accomplished daughters and their beloved dog, Romeo. Recognizing the importance of giving back, Ms. Ellen and her family actively volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, a cause close to their hearts. During her free time, Ms. Ellen indulges in various interests and activities. She loves shopping (especially for shoes!) watching movies, baking, cooking, and crafting, and especially spending quality time with her family! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Alexis grew up in Vernon Hills. She holds a bachelor's degree in Applied Educational Studies from National Louis University. Her lifelong passion for working with young children has been a driving force in her journey as an educator. Even during her high school years, Ms. Alexis dedicated her time and expertise to the preschool at Stevenson High School, laying the foundation for her career in early childhood education. Throughout her professional journey, Ms. Alexis has enriched the lives of children in various roles, including her time at the park district day camp in Buffalo Grove and as a current figure skating instructor! Her love for figure skating extends beyond the ice rink, as she cherishes every opportunity to spend quality time with her family and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Olivia earned her associate's degree in Early Childhood Education in June of 2020. With a deep-rooted passion for empowering children to unlock their full potential and achieve their individual goals, she finds fulfillment in guiding and nurturing young minds. Ms. Olivia's affinity for toddlers is fueled by their infectious energy, playful nature, and innate curiosity. Ms. Olivia's affinity for toddlers is fueled by their infectious energy, playful nature, and innate curiosity. During her free time, Ms. Olivia enjoys cuddling up to her Pitbull and watching movies with her husband in the cozy confines of their home. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Marwah, was born and raised in Iraq. She relocated to Qatar after she got married, and then settled in the United States. Ms. Marwah has a passion for teaching and working with children. With a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, she brings a unique perspective to her classroom. Ms. Marwah taught the Arabic language in a private school in Chicago and has volunteered in libraries and elementary schools. She strongly believes in providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, cooking, and hanging out with friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Lynda was raised in Chicago, but is originally from Vietnam and can fluently speak Vietnamese! Ms. Lynda's educational journey led her to Western Illinois University in Macomb, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Health Science. During her time in college, she discovered her passion for working with young children and dedicated four years to gaining valuable experience in this field. Beyond her dedication to early childhood education, Ms. Lynda enjoys spending her free time traveling, event planning, and spending time with her family and friends! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Dani has completed numerous courses in early childhood education and has begun taking elementary education courses at the College of Lake County to further her knowledge and passion for working with children. Since graduating from high school in 2016, she has worked with all ages, from infants to pre-K. Her love for children began at the age of 14 when she started babysitting for family and friends, which inspired her to pursue a career in education. Ms. Dani hopes to continue her studies and advance her career in teaching. In her free time, Ms. Dani enjoys spending time with her son, family, and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Maddy holds a degree in Business from the University of Phoenix, however, her true passion lies in early childhood education, which she further pursued through various courses at Carroll University. With a strong belief in the power of education, Ms. Maddy is committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. She understands the importance of celebrating the diverse perspectives of her students and strives to ignite a love for learning in each one of them. Outside the classroom, Ms. Maddy enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones, whether it's making lasting memories, dancing at concerts, or immersing herself in captivating books. She also finds great joy in the company of her feline friend, Grandpa, who never fails to bring a smile to her face. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Eva is a passionate teacher who grew up in Buffalo Grove, and graduated from Buffalo Grove High School. After discovering her love for working with children, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher by enrolling at Harper College. Her passion for teaching was ignited when her fiance's little brother Sammy was diagnosed with autism in 2018. Witnessing Sammy's journey and supporting him in achieving milestones became a pivotal moment in Ms. Eva's life. She found it immensely rewarding and fulfilling, which motivated her to help other children as well. Ms. Eva's goal is to provide support to children and help them accomplish their goals in life. In her free time, Ms. Eva enjoys going on adventures with her fiance, hiking, exploring new cuisines, visiting museums, and spending quality time with her adorable puppy, Obi Wan Kenobi. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Brianna holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from National Louis University and hopes to one day earn her master’s degree to become a children’s therapist. Growing up with three younger siblings, she developed a strong sense of nurturing and a deep love for working with children. She loves watching children grow and learn through play, and especially enjoys seeing the spark in their eyes when they understand something new. In her free time, Ms. Brianna enjoys golfing with her husband, blowing bubbles for her two dogs, exploring nature with her youngest brother, and traveling. She has visited many places, including France, Japan, and various parts of Mexico. Guided by her belief in the power of compassion, she strives each day to make a positive impact on the lives of the children she teaches. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Veronica is a dedicated Lead Teacher in early childhood education, known for her warm, engaging presence and her passion for helping young children grow and thrive. She holds a degree from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology and has set her sights on earning a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. With both training and hands-on experience, Ms. Veronica creates a nurturing and fun classroom environment where children can explore, learn, and build social skills. She is especially known for her creativity, often incorporating crafts and sensory activities that spark curiosity and development. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Veronica enjoys baking and values building strong, supportive relationships with her colleagues. She truly loves her career and is committed to providing excellent care and education to every child she teaches. Flourishing at the Goddard School of Deerfield Since 2025

Ms. Angela majored in Special Education and has spent the past decade working in the field of education. Her career began with ABA therapy, where she supported young children with cognitive developmental disabilities, providing individualized strategies to help them succeed. Over time, she transitioned into teaching in a classroom setting, where she continues to draw on her specialized background to meet the needs of all learners. She believes that every child is unique, with their own individual learning style. By understanding each child as a whole person, Ms. Angela strives to help them build lasting skills and relationships that will benefit them throughout their lives, both in and out of the classroom. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Fatima grew up in Wheeling and attended Wheeling High School. Teaching has been her dream since she was a little girl, and her journey began by babysitting for friends and family. It was during this time that she also lent a hand to her first-grade teacher, engaging with students during circle time and independent work. Inspired by this experience, Ms. Fatima set her sights on a career in education, embarking on her college journey with a passion for shaping young minds. She is currently in the final steps of completing her coursework in Early Childhood Education to become a Lead Teacher, and looks forward to growing as an educator. To Ms. Fatima, children are full of playfulness, happiness, and the joy of life. Making a positive impact on their lives is what drives her passion for teaching. Outside of the classroom, she finds enjoyment in hitting the gym, reading a good book, and cherishing moments with loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School since 2003

Ms. Marisol was born and raised on the north side of Chicago before planting roots in Schiller Park with her husband. With a lifelong passion for working with children, she spent five years at a private daycare, where she earned her CDA and gained meaningful hands-on experience as a lead teacher. She is devoted to creating a safe, loving environment where children can grow with confidence while developing strong social-emotional skills and independence. She finds great joy in watching each child discover their unique strengths and celebrates every milestone they reach. Her nurturing presence helps children feel supported, understood, and excited to learn each day. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Marisol is very family-oriented and enjoys game nights, exploring new restaurants with her spouse, and cozy movie nights at home. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Jasmin has completed numerous courses at the College of Lake County to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education. She hopes to return to school and gain more knowledge in the field. Jasmin has always been drawn to children because they are innocent, curious, sweet, and creative. She believes if children have role models willing to educate, guide, and motivate them continuously then it molds them to become a great individual in life. Aside from having the privilege to work with children, she loves spending time with her family and loved ones. She tries to stay active and take advantage of any free time to catch up on her favorite tv shows. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Brinagh has always had a natural affinity for caring for children, a passion that she developed from a young age. Currently, she is pursuing a psychology degree at Roosevelt University in Chicago and is eager to delve deeper into the field of child psychology through further education. Ms. Brinagh finds great joy in understanding the inner workings of young minds and is thrilled to be a part of The Goddard School, where she can engage with intelligent and captivating children. Outside of her work, Ms. Brinagh finds enjoys reading, drawing, and painting. She firmly believes in fostering creativity and encourages everyone to explore the limitless possibilities of their imagination. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Dulce pursued Early Childhood Education classes during her time in college. However, she made the decision to stay at home and prioritize caring for her own two-year-old daughter. Now, with a renewed passion for teaching, she is planning to return to school to complete her teaching degree and earn her bachelor's degree. With seven years of experience working with children, Dulce truly enjoys witnessing their growth and celebrating their accomplishments. She finds great joy in working with kids and is excited to continue making a positive impact on their lives. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Janice Suero, a native of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, has a substantial background in childcare. Having recently relocated to Illinois, she is enthusiastic about her prospects for professional growth, with aspirations to evolve into a Lead Teacher role. She has a genuine passion for teaching and relishes the moments spent with our youngest learners, celebrating their small yet significant milestones and achievements! Ms. Janice recognizes the importance of effective communication and values open and clear dialogues with both parents and co-workers, recognizing that this enhances the experiences for all involved. Ms. Janice has two children and a dog named Lina, who she enjoys spending her free time with! Additionally, Ms. Janice's enjoys music, dancing, watching TV, and meditation. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Joanna, originally from Poland, relocated to the United States at the age of 19. Her journey in working with children began as a nanny, a role she wholeheartedly embraced for eight years. Ms. Joanna's unwavering passion for nurturing young minds led her to continuously support children in their exploration and discovery of the world around them. She firmly believes in celebrating each child's uniqueness and guiding them to learn and grow while embracing their individuality. As a student at the College of Lake County, Ms. Joanna earned her nursing assistant certificate, focusing primarily on biological sciences. Alongside being a devoted mother to her two grade school boys and stepdaughter, she indulges in her love for travel, immersing herself in diverse cultures, experimenting in the kitchen, and forming connections with new acquaintances. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Rani, a Highland Park native and graduate of Deerfield High School, has dedicated the past decade to working with 3–5-year-olds. Her experience spans across various preschools, daycares, and camps, as well as serving as an Exhibit Guide at Kohl Children's Museum. With a belief that learning should be enjoyable and occur in a caring environment, Ms. Rani fosters a deep connection with children, who reciprocate their love for her. During her leisure time, she indulges in singing, musical theater, and reading, with a special fondness for reading to children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Born and raised in Moldova, Ms. Tatiana's is a beloved educator, full of passion and compassion. Since 2018, she has been an integral part of preschools around the Northshore, where her love for teaching and nurturing shines through. Her affinity for children of all ages, combined with her own experience as a mother to two daughters and a proud grandmother of three, creates a unique connection that fosters a sense of safety and understanding. In her meticulously maintained classroom, Ms. Tatiana creates an environment where learning and love intertwine. Her dedication to creating a safe and enriching space for children is a reflection of her warm and nurturing personality. Her legacy is one of heartfelt care and a genuine commitment to shaping young minds. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Lara, originally from São Paulo, Brazil, made her way to the United States in 2019. With a bachelor's degree in Pharmacy and Biochemistry, she brings a unique perspective to her role. Prior to her relocation, Ms. Lara resided in Germany, where she dedicated several years to teaching the German language. However, her true passion lies in working with children, particularly the little ones! Ms. Lara firmly believes that a nurturing and loving environment enables children to achieve great things, fostering their learning and growth through playful experiences. When she's not busy in the classroom, you can find Ms. Lara indulging in her hobbies of baking, rock climbing, and camping. In her free time, she cherishes moments spent at the playground with her husband and two daughters, or engaging in their favorite board game, Rummikub. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Anusha, born and raised in Chennai, India, holds a degree in English Literature. She is excited to pursue her passion as an Assistant Teacher, finding joy in the morning smiles of children of all ages. Ms. Anusha believes that working with children is rewarding because of their pure, innocent, and lovable nature when forming connections and building relationships. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading books and cherishes moments spent relaxing with her family and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Karen holds a degree in nursing and has practiced for 35 years, with a portion of her career dedicated to working with pediatric patients. Her love for young children, their curiosity, and their ever-learning minds is incredibly exciting to her and brings her great pleasure. She is thrilled to be at The Goddard School, where she can contribute to their growth and development. Throughout her nursing career, Ms. Karen has developed a deep appreciation for the unique perspectives and boundless energy of young children. She finds joy in fostering their growth and supporting their inquisitive nature. In her leisure time, Ms. Karen enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new recipes, and relaxing with a good book. She values these moments of connection and relaxation, which rejuvenate her and inspire her dedication to her work with children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Claudia, a graphic designer and publicist, was born in Bogota, Columbia. With a passion for creativity and learning, she has earned certifications in illustration, art, and child care. Claudia’s journey began in a children’s club in Colombia, where she cared for and taught young learners. Despite her professional path taking her through various different organizations and companies, her love for teaching never faded. She continued to volunteer at her former school and in local religious communities, offering her time to support children’s growth. Now, Ms. Claudia is thrilled to be at The Goddard School, where she can channel her passion for education and creativity into inspiring the next generation. Flourishing at the Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Maricel is a dedicated professional with a background in Commerce International and Finance. Originally from Columbia, she moved to the U.S. in 2023 with her husband and their 6-year-old daughter. Passionate about education, she believes in teaching children with love, values, responsibilities, and good habits in healthy environments that foster growth and development. She admires institutions that combine quality learning with a nurturing approach. Currently, Ms. Maricel is embracing new challenges, including learning English, as she aspires to become bilingual and continue her personal and professional growth. She is eager to contribute her knowledge and skills to positively impact our school. In her free time, Ms. Maricel enjoys crafting, listening to music, and traveling to explore new places. Flourishing at the Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Jennifer, originally from Glenview, is currently pursuing a degree in ESL Elementary Education. She began working with children in high school through a child development class, gaining valuable experience in early education. Since then, she has enjoyed fostering a positive learning environment and encouraging creativity in her students. Ms. Jennifer especially loves incorporating crafts into her lessons, allowing children to express themselves and create something of their own. She believes in nurturing a supportive space where each child can thrive. Outside of the classroom, she has a passion for Latin dance and is part of a team training to compete professionally and travel for competitions. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025

Ms. Alondra, originally from Wheeling, is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education at Harper College. She discovered her love for working with children while attending Buffalo Grove High School, where she took part in early education experiences. Since then, she has enjoyed helping young learners grow, explore, and discover the world around them. Ms. Alondra especially loves creating a warm, supportive classroom where each child feels valued and encouraged. She believes in making learning fun and meaningful for every student. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Kylee, originally from Wisconsin, moved to Illinois in April 2025. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater in 2022, along with a minor in Sociology and a certificate in Women and Gender Studies. Her passion for working with others began as a babysitter and nanny, and she later supported children as a recess and lunch supervisor. She also enjoyed planning activities for seniors during her time in life enrichment roles at senior living communities. Ms. Kylee believes in the power of learning, fun, and meaningful connection—and she loves seeing children smile and grow each day. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, walking, watching movies, swimming, playing volleyball, and spending time with loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Catherine grew up in Glencoe, Illinois, and spent her summers in Zurich, Switzerland, where her family is from. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Art History from Lake Forest College. Ms. Catherine has worked in Special Education, supporting teens in enrichment programs as well as adults in community programs based in Riverwoods, Illinois. She has two adult children who both live in Illinois. In her free time, Ms. Catherine enjoys spending time with her rescue dog—a Jack Russell and Beagle mix—along with reading and baking. Flourishing at The Goddard School since 2025

Ms. Abby will be a junior at the University of Iowa, studying elementary education. Her passion for working with young children began early, leading her to gain extensive experience with infants, toddlers, and children with disabilities. She has honed her skills through various roles in daycare centers, preschool classrooms, and homes. Abby is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of the children and families she serves by fostering social, emotional, and academic growth. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with friends and family and soaking up the sun. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Yesenia (or Yesi) grew up in Park City, Illinois, and recently graduated from Iowa State University with degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Development & Family Services. She has spent the past four years working with young learners, most recently as an Afterschool Preschool and Spanish Teacher in Iowa City. Passionate about creating safe and supportive spaces, Ms. Yesenia is excited to bring her experience to Illinois after five years in Iowa. In her free time, she enjoys exploring state parks, spending time with her little brother and dog, and making memories with friends and family. Flourishing at the Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025

Ms. Jenna grew up in Wisconsin and studied Elementary Education at the University of Wisconsin–Superior. She has had the joy of working with children across the country—in Virginia, Wisconsin, California, and Illinois—and loves bringing those diverse experiences into her classroom. Creating a safe, creative, and encouraging space where children can learn and grow at their own pace is at the heart of her teaching. When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Jenna enjoys camping and hiking with her three children, exploring the outdoors together and making lasting memories. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025

Ms. Alejandra grew up in California before moving to Buffalo Grove, where she graduated from Adlai E. Stevenson High School. She plans to pursue a career in medical diagnostic sonography, driven by her passion for healthcare and helping others. As the oldest of three siblings, Ms. Alejandra has embraced a caring, patient, and compassionate role that shapes her approach to working with children. She is dedicated to creating a warm and encouraging environment where every child feels supported to learn, grow, and explore. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, swimming, and reading. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Vivian, originally from the suburbs of Chicago, is currently pursuing her degree in Psychology at Triton College. Her passion for childcare began during her time at East Leyden High School, where she discovered her love for working with children through early education classes. Those experiences helped her realize how much joy she finds in supporting children’s growth and development. In the classroom, her goal is to connect with each child and support their learning in ways that make the most sense for their individual needs, helping them understand concepts in the way their brain processes best. Outside of work, Ms. Vivian has a strong passion for music and painting, finding both to be creative outlets that inspire her. She also enjoys meeting new people, building relationships, and strengthening connections with those around her. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025.

Ms. Ivette was born in Rochester, NY and has dedicated over 30 years to working with children. She is a proud mother of three and grandmother to nine! Throughout her career, she has supported young learners in New York, Chicago, and Puerto Rico—volunteering in schools and churches, working in early childhood centers, and spending several years babysitting and nannying. Ms. Ivette also spent six years teaching in a Montessori school, where she deepened her love for guiding young children through hands-on learning. She has experience caring for children from infancy through age 12 and especially enjoys singing, teaching, and creating warm and nurturing classroom environments. Her passion for early childhood education is clear, and she hopes to open her own home daycare one day. We’re so lucky to have Ms. Ivette share her love and experience with our school community. Flourishing at The Goddard School since 2025.

Grace is studying at the University of Tampa, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Communications with plans to continue her education toward a Master’s in speech pathology. Grace has a deep love for kids and has actively engaged with them through volunteer work in her church nursery, vacation Bible school, and babysitting. Before graduating from Glenbrook South High School, she participated in a four-week internship at Lyon Elementary, mentored by her former first-grade teacher. This experience allowed Grace to fully engage with children through reading lessons, story time, creative learning, and art projects, immersing herself in the classroom community. Naturally nurturing, Grace thrives in roles where she can support and care for others. Outside of her studies, she enjoys shopping, spending time at the pool or beach, binge-watching CSI, hanging out with friends, going for walks, and playing with her dog, Charlie. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Born and raised in Bangalore, Ms. Shruthi holds a Master’s degree in Graphic Design and a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design. A passionate and versatile artist, she specializes in portrait sketching, digital art, watercolor painting, and clay modeling. Her deep love for arts and crafts fuels her continuous exploration of new creative techniques. Ms. Shruthi enjoys working with young children and takes great joy in nurturing their imagination and creativity. Beyond the classroom or studio, she cherishes spending time with her family and friends. She also loves traveling and cooking, which reflect her vibrant, well-rounded personality. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2025