Our Goddard School Teachers

Tom and Chelsea are parents of five children, and they understand how important it is for families to feel confident that their children are safe, cared for, and growing each day. They are passionate about creating a nurturing, joyful, and engaging school environment where children feel loved, supported, and excited to learn. With over 30 years of experience in early childhood education, Tom and Chelsea have served in many roles, from teacher to director, and have owned multiple preschools. They love watching children discover new things, build confidence, and thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Ms. Aileen brings a strong educational foundation and 25 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She earned her Associate Degree from Moraine Valley Community College and Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education Leadership from Rasmussen University. She holds an Illinois Director Credential II, ECE Credential Level 5, and Infant & Toddler Credential Level 5, along with certifications in CPR & First Aid, Mandated Reporter, Food Safety, and Emergency & Disaster Preparedness. With 25 years of experience working with children, families, and early childhood professionals, Aileen has developed extensive knowledge in child development, early learning, classroom practices, and center leadership, and is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child can thrive.

Educational Background: Ms. Jackie attended Moraine Valley Community College. She received her CDA from Ellis University and National Director Credentials from National Louis University. Ms. Jackie is now continuing her education at University of Phoenix. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Ms. Jackie has worked with children for over thirty years, fifteen of them as an Assistant Director. Certifications: Ms. Jackie is trained in SBS/SIDS, Food Handler, Mandated Reporter, CPR and First Aid and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness. She also has Infant and Toddler Credentials.

Ms. Dawn brings an impressive 37 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, giving her extensive knowledge of child development, early learning, and creating engaging classroom environments. Throughout her career, she has had the opportunity to support and teach hundreds of children as they learned, developed, and built a strong foundation for future learning. Ms. Dawn believes every child is unique and deserves to feel safe, valued, supported, and encouraged. She is passionate about learning through play and creating opportunities for children to explore, ask questions, build friendships, and develop confidence and important life skills. With her wealth of experience and genuine love for children, Ms. Dawn looks forward to creating meaningful learning experiences and lasting memories with her students.

Ms. Grace brings six years of experience working with children and recently completed her CCP (Child Care Professional) Credential in Early Childhood Education. She began working with children at age 16 as a swim instructor and has since gained diverse experience in daycare, gymnastics coaching, and as a full-time nanny for three children under the age of five. These experiences have helped her develop strong skills in communication, patience, problem-solving, and supporting each child’s individual needs. Ms. Grace is passionate about creating a safe, positive, and nurturing learning environment where children feel supported and confident. She is committed to building trusting relationships with families and providing dependable, compassionate care while continuing to grow professionally.

Ms. Sajia brings three years of experience in Early Childhood Education along with a strong educational background. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and has completed CCP (Child Care Professional) training, demonstrating her commitment to continued professional development in the early childhood field. Ms. Sajia is passionate about working with young children and especially enjoys supporting infants and toddlers as they learn and grow through play. She loves helping children develop their social-emotional and gross-motor skills while celebrating important milestones such as crawling, standing, walking, and exploring their world. Most importantly, Ms. Sajia strives to be a trusted and comforting presence who helps children feel safe, secure, supported, and confident as they grow.

Ms. Viviana brings an impressive 26 years of experience caring for and educating children, including 18 years in Early Childhood Education working with children of all age groups in leading childcare programs and 8 years as a professional nanny. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential and Early Childhood Education (ECE) Level 1 Credential, along with valuable experience as a teacher at The Goddard School. Ms. Viviana is committed to providing children with a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Her extensive experience and dedication to child well-being make her a knowledgeable and dependable member of our teaching team.

Ms. Leah brings a growing educational foundation and diverse experience working with children from infancy through school age. She is currently pursuing her Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education at Harold Washington College, while also completing coursework through Olive-Harvey College. Her professional experience includes working as a paraprofessional supporting preschool children with autism and as a Lead Toddler Teacher, along with many years of childcare experience beginning at age 12. Ms. Leah is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and reach their individual potential and is committed to creating a safe, loving, engaging, and supportive learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged.

Educational Background: Ms. Rumaisa has a Bachelor Degree in Liberal Art with 70 credit hours focused on Early Childhood Education. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Ms Rumaisa has six years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Certification: Ms. Rumaisa is trained in SBS/SIDS, Food Handler, Mandated Reporter, CPR and First Aid and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

Ms. Emma brings nearly four years of experience in Early Childhood Education and currently holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. She is also completing her Associate Degree at College of DuPage this year, continuing to strengthen her knowledge and professional preparation in Early Childhood Education. Having grown up around early childhood education and followed her mother’s career in the field, Ms. Emma developed a passion for working with young children from an early age. She especially enjoys building meaningful relationships with children and their families, learning how each child learns and develops, and celebrating their individual strengths, curiosity, and accomplishments.

Ms. Magali “Maggie” brings three years of experience in Early Childhood Education and holds her CCP (Child Care Professional) Credential in Early Childhood Education. She has experience caring for and teaching children from infancy through preschool, giving her a well-rounded understanding of the developmental needs of young children. Ms. Maggie is passionate about play-based learning, hands-on activities, and positive interactions that encourage children to explore, build confidence, and develop important skills. She is committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment while building strong relationships with children and their families and providing a positive foundation for lifelong learning.

Ms. Shelley teaches our PreKindergarten Class and is passionate about helping children learn. She loves lesson planning and creating Fun Learning Experiences for our students. Ms. Shelley's has a background working with ABA and helping children who need that extra boost and belief that they can thrive!

Educational Background: Ms. Carmela has a Bachelors Degree in Account Information System. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Ms. Carmela has two years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Certifications: Ms. Carmela is certified in SBS/SIDS, Food Handler, Food Protection Manager, Mandated Reporter, CPR and First Aid and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

Ms. Alyssa brings a warm and enthusiastic approach to Early Childhood Education and is currently attending college to further her education and professional development. Growing up as one of six siblings, she has always been surrounded by children and understands the importance of patience, encouragement, and meaningful connections. Ms. Alyssa enjoys creating hands-on learning experiences through art, activities, and exploration, helping children develop creativity, confidence, and new skills. She is passionate about creating a caring classroom environment where children feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn and grow.

Ms. Anna brings 9 years of experience in early childhood education and childcare. She is excited to continue growing as an educator at The Goddard School, and looks forward to enrolling in the CCP program in the future. She is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. She strives to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom where every child feels supported, confident, and excited to learn. She is looking forward to building meaningful relationships with the children and families and being part of their learning and growth!

Ms. Laila brings a fun, energetic, and nurturing approach to Early Childhood Education and is currently attending college to further her education and professional development. She is passionate about helping children explore, discover, and develop new skills through engaging, hands-on, and age-appropriate learning experiences. Ms. Laila creates a positive and encouraging classroom environment where children feel safe, valued, and confident. Her warm personality and dedication to continued learning allow her to build meaningful relationships with children while supporting their growth, independence, and love of learning.

Ms. Maddie brings a caring and enthusiastic approach to Early Childhood Education and holds a High School Diploma. She is preparing to begin her Child Care Professional (CCP) Credential, demonstrating her commitment to continuing her education and professional development in the early childhood field. Ms. Maddie is passionate about supporting young children during this important stage of development and enjoys creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where children can build confidence, develop new skills, and reach important milestones. She especially loves building meaningful relationships with children and seeing their smiles when they greet her each day.

Ms. Selah brings experience in Early Childhood Education since 2024 and is currently in her first year of college, continuing to build her education and professional knowledge in the field. Her educational experience includes completing an Early Childhood Education course and a teaching internship in a 2nd-grade classroom during the 2025–2026 school year, giving her valuable hands-on experience supporting children’s learning and development. Ms. Selah is passionate about inspiring young children and enjoys being part of their developmental journey. She especially values building meaningful relationships with each child, getting to know their unique personalities, and creating an environment where they feel supported as they learn, grow, and flourish.

Ms. Nia brings five years of experience in Early Childhood Education and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, demonstrating her commitment to professional preparation in the early childhood field. Ms. Nia is passionate about helping young children develop foundational skills in colors, numbers, shapes, letters, and early learning concepts through engaging and age-appropriate experiences. She enjoys using songs, games, movement, exploration, and hands-on activities to make learning meaningful and fun. Ms. Nia especially loves watching children grow and discover new abilities, encouraging their curiosity through activities such as building with blocks and Legos, outdoor exploration, and interactive learning games.

Ms. Erica teaches in our PreKindergarten Class. She is full of joy and that joy is contagious! Her students love to learn in her classroom and are drawn to her because she loves teaching and education. Ms. Erica is a lifetime learner as well and is studying to finalize her degree in social work & counseling.

Ms. Shiayna is a caring and enthusiastic Early Childhood Educator who is passionate about creating a fun, welcoming, and nurturing learning environment for young children. She believes children learn best through play, creativity, and hands-on experiences that encourage exploration, self-expression, and discovery. Ms. Shiayna especially enjoys incorporating arts and crafts into the classroom, giving children opportunities to experiment, develop fine-motor skills, express their creativity, and take pride in their accomplishments. She is committed to helping every child feel supported, confident, and excited to learn while building a strong foundation for continued growth and development.

Meet Ms. Dianne, our Administrative Assistant here at The Goddard School! She truly loves what she does, especially being part of each child's journey alongside their families. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management, with a major in Human Resource Development Management, and brings 9+ years of experience in administrative support, scheduling, and client communication into her role here. Outside of work, She is happily married and is a proud mom to her two lovely kids, Zachary and Addison. She cherishes every moment of caring for and raising them as kind, God-fearing children who love the Lord. Her little Addi holds a very special place in their hearts, as their family's greatest blessing, a long-awaited rainbow baby they prayed for over nine years. Miss Dianne has such a soft spot for kids, which makes this role feel like such a natural fit for her! In her free time, she loves singing, and Sundays are especially meaningful to her, as she dedicates that day to her faith.