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.

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Amie brings three years of experience in Early Childhood Education and is currently completing her CCP (Child Care Professional) Credential in Early Childhood Education. She is passionate about creating a safe, loving, and engaging learning environment where children feel secure, supported, and excited to learn through play. Ms. Amie enjoys encouraging children’s development through hands-on experiences, building, reading, and exploration. She believes that meaningful learning happens when children feel comfortable being curious, creative, and themselves. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors and making special memories with her family.

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.