Our Goddard School Teachers

Meet Marinella and Sharon. Marinella began her career in the healthcare industry, where she developed a commitment to caring for others and supporting families during some of life’s most important moments. She realized that her true passion lay in creating a nurturing environment for children during their earliest years-a foundation that would positively shape their health, happiness, and development for years to come. This passion led her to transition into owning two Goddard Schools in Naperville. Sharon lives in the Aurora/Naperville area. She has a strong foundation in customer service and operations from years in the service industry. Sharon’s experience managing fast-paced environments taught her the importance of teamwork and creating positive experiences with a people-first approach. She strives to build strong relationships with families and a supportive, motivated team. Together, they create an empowered school culture of collaboration that feels like a community.

Ms. Vanessa has proudly stepped into the role of Director after serving as our Assistant Director since August 2022. With over a decade of hands-on experience in early childhood education, she brings strong classroom knowledge and a genuine passion for supporting both children and teachers. She is dedicated to fostering a positive, nurturing environment where students can thrive and educators feel supported. Ms. Vanessa is proud to be part of a team that values collaboration, excellence, and a deep commitment to early childhood education.

Ms. Heather Traveling Turtles/ Pre-Kindergarten Teacher / Education: Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Roosevelt University/ Experience: Ms. Heather has been working at The Goddard School since 2012. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because of her love, compassion and commitment to both children and teaching.

Ms. Neena Swimming Seals / Lead Teacher / Education: Bachelor of Science Experience: Ms. Neena has been working at The Goddard School since 2020. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because not only does she enjoy teaching children through fun and interactive lessons, but she also enjoys the reward of being able to watch children learn and grow.

Ms. Lexi Singing Seahorses / Lead Toddler Teacher / Education: Child Development Associate Credential/ Experience: Ms. Lexi has been working at The Goddard School since 2021. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she loves being able to experience children grow in their education.

Ms. Tejal Laughing Lobsters / Lead Preschool Teacher / Education: Associate Degree in Early Childhood Development and pursing a license as a Behavioral Therapist / Experience: Ms. Tejal has been working at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she understands that Early Childhood Education builds the foundation for the future.

Ms. Sara Traveling Turtles / Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher / Education: Graduated from Downers Grove South in 2019 and has a Child Development Associate Credential / Experience: Ms. Sara has worked at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she can teach children to be the best versions of themselves.

Ms. Noshina Artful Octopus / Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher / Education: Bachelor's in English Literature / Experience: Ms. Noshina has been working at The Goddard School since 2020. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because of how rewarding, important and significant it is to contribute to a child's overall educational development and growth.

Ms. Paulina Dancing Dolphins / Lead Bridge Teacher / Education: Child Development Associate Credential / Experience: Ms. Paulina has been working at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at The Goddard School so that she can provide an educational experience that strengthens each child's growth and development.

Ms. Katelyn Singing Seahorse / Lead Toddler Teacher / Education: Studied at The University of Iowa and has a Child Development Associate Credential / Experience: Ms. Katie has been working at The Goddard School since 2023. She is excited to work at The Goddard School so that she can teach her philosophy on always trying your best.

Ms. Natasha Growing Guppies / Lead Toddler Teacher / Education: Bachelor's Degree in Economics and a Montessori Early Childhood Qualification / Experience: Ms. Natasha has been working at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at the Goddard School because teaching and nurturing children has always been her passion.

Ms. Shelby Assistant Support Teacher / Education: High School Diploma from Plainfield Central High School, an Associate Degree from Eastern Gateway Community College and currently studying at Southern New Hampshire University / Experience: Ms. Shelby has been working at The Goddard School since 2023. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she believes children teach us just as much as we teach them.

Ms. Zaina Clever Clownfish Lead Twos Teacher/ Education: Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Childhood Education Certificate and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education / Experience: Ms. Zaina has been working at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she believes every child is unique and deserves the chance to grow and learn at their own pace.

Ms. Sheeba Lead Support Teacher / Education: Child Development Associate Credential / Experience: Ms. Sheeba has been working at The Goddard School since 2024. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she wants to be able to provide a sincere and nurturing environment for every child.

Ms. Andrea Dancing Dolphins Assistant Bridge Teacher / Education: High School Diploma from Saint Clement High School and currently pursuing a General Education Degree from Saddleback Community College / Experience: Ms. Andrea has been working at The Goddard School since 2023. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she is able to provide children with the tools and skills they need to thrive.

Ms. Jocelyn Support Assistant Teacher/ Education: Studying Child Life at Illinois State University / Experience: Ms. Jocelyn has been working at The Goddard School since 2022. She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she understands that all children are unique and need a teacher that will cater to their individual needs in a safe and stimulating environment. Ms. Jocelyn wants to create a classroom where children can flourish and explore allowing them to reach their full potential.

Ms. Molly Clever Clownfish/ Assistant Twos Teacher / Education: She is excited to work at The Goddard School because she has a true passion for early childhood education and loves being part of a nurturing, supportive school community. She enjoys helping toddlers explore, grow, and reach important developmental milestones in a safe and engaging environment.