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.

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.

Educational Background: Miss Hannah completed a childcare provider program through Ashworth College and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in early 2024. She is currently pursuing her Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Rasmussen University and is expected to graduate in Fall 2025. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Miss Hannah has been working in childcare since 2021 and has experience with children from birth through school age. She has spent most of her time working with three-year-olds and, most recently, has worked for five months as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), providing ABA therapy to children with autism. Certifications: Miss Hannah is certified in SBS/SIDS, CPR and First Aid, Mandated Reporter, Food Handling, and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

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!

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.

Educational Background: Ms. Silvia received her Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from Moraine Valley Community College. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Ms. Silvia has 10 years of experience working in childcare, including three years in special education and two and a half years working in public and private school settings. Certification: Ms. Silvia is trained in Mandated Reporter, SIDS/SBS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Shaken Baby Syndrome) Prevention, Food Handler Certification, CPR and First Aid, and Gateways to Opportunity Level 1.

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. Kierra teaches in our First Steps Classroom. She is currently working on completing her CCP and loves creating a nurturing environment for her students. She is loved by her students and families.

Educational Background: Ms. Amjad has a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Early Childhood Development. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Ms. Amjad has 15 years of experience working with young children in early childhood education settings. Certification: Ms. Amjad is trained in DCFS Mandated Reporter, SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) Prevention, Food Handler Certification, FARE Certification, CPR and First Aid, Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers, and Gateways to Opportunity ECE Credential Level 1.

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.

Educational Background: Jada is currently pursuing her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education. Experience in Early Childhood Education: Jada has 8 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Certifications: Jada is trained in SBS/SIDS, Food Handler, Mandated Reporter, CPR and First Aid and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

Ms. Alyssa is one of six siblings, so she is very familiar with the joy and energy that comes with having lots of children around. She has the sweetest spirit and loves engaging children through art, activities, and hands-on learning. Ms. Alyssa enjoys helping children explore, create, and grow in a caring and encouraging classroom environment.

Ms. Laila brings a fun, energetic, and joyful spirit to our school each day. She has a warm smile that brightens every room and loves supporting children as they learn, explore, and discover new things. Ms. Laila helps create a positive and encouraging environment where children feel cared for, confident, and excited to grow.

Ms. Taliyah teaches in our Toddler Classroom and brings a friendly, sweet, and energetic spirit to each day. Her high energy helps her keep up with our busy toddlers as they explore, learn, and grow. She enjoys creating a nurturing and joyful classroom where children feel cared for, supported, and excited to learn.

Ms. Tamika is a proud mom to one beautiful daughter and brings a kind, fun, and caring spirit to our school each day. She works wonderfully with children of all ages and is excellent in the classroom. Ms. Tamika creates a warm and engaging environment where children feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn.