Our Goddard School Teachers

Hello, we are Mary and Andrew Fratini, proud owners of the NAEYC-accredited Goddard School® of Skokie (Evanston/Wilmette). We’re honored to bring The Goddard School’s exceptional program to families across the North Shore. Andrew is a graduate of the University of Dayton, and Mary of the University of Iowa. As proud parents of two Goddard alumni, we saw the need for a high-quality early childhood option in the North Shore and opened our school in August 2016. Our mission is simple: to offer families the very best in early childhood education. We’re proud recipients of Goddard’s Circle of Excellence and President’s Club honors, reflecting our commitment to quality and family experience. We invite you to visit our beautiful, NAEYC-accredited school in Skokie. We’re excited to introduce you to our incredible faculty and leadership team and to share more about The Goddard School’s play-based curriculum. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your child’s early learning journey!

Arianna holds an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s in Early Childhood Studies with a focus on Administration, Management, and Leadership. She holds a Professional Educator's License (K–2), with endorsements in ESL and Special Education. Arianna is responsible for all things related to education, curriculum, staff development, and child development. She brings over 20 years of teaching and leadership experience to The Goddard School—and has been with us since day one, helping to open our doors. Now a proud Goddard parent herself, both of Arianna’s children attend our school, deepening her personal connection to the work we do every day. "I believe children grow and thrive in a positive, engaging environment. Our role as early childhood educators is to guide them in discovering the world through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Communication is key to a child’s success, and I value open, ongoing dialogue between myself, our teachers, and our families!

Julie has dedicated over 30 years to Early Childhood Education and has been a beloved part of The Goddard School of Skokie since 2017. She brings not only a wealth of experience working with children, but also a deep passion for nurturing relationships—with students, families, and staff alike. Julie's ability to connect on a personal level creates a sense of comfort, trust, and community that families feel from the moment they walk through our doors. As both an educator and proud grandmother of a current Goddard student, her commitment to creating a warm, enriching environment runs deep. Julie is inspired daily by the growth and individuality of each child, including her three children, grandchildren, and students—each one unique and special in their own way. She believes learning is a lifelong adventure and considers it a joy to witness children begin that journey with open hearts, curious minds, and a sense of wonder.

Allison is a Chicago native with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Elmhurst College. She joined The Goddard School in 2017 as a Pre-K teacher and stepped into her role as Assistant Director of Operations in 2024. Known for her bright smile, boundless energy, and hardworking spirit, Allison is a driving force behind the smooth day-to-day running of our school. Allison believes every child has the innate ability to learn, and she is passionate about inspiring a lifelong love of learning. Her goal is to ignite a joy for books and reading in every child she meets—her personal favorite is Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds, a book she loves sharing with the kids. Outside of work, Allison enjoys hiking, exploring nature, and spending time outdoors with her dog, Sansa and her husband and extended family. Her warm, approachable leadership and commitment to growth make her a treasured member of our management team and school family.

Darris has been in the early childhood field since 2008, and as one of our very first team members, she played a key role in helping us open our doors and build the strong foundation we have today. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and recently earned her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education—reflecting her continued dedication to professional growth. Darris believes that children learn best through hands-on exploration and play, and she is passionate about creating a fun, engaging environment where each child can thrive. In her free time, Darris enjoys shopping, traveling, and catching a good movie. Her favorite children’s book is The True Story of the Three Little Pigs—a playful twist on a classic tale. We’re thrilled to have Darris as part of our Goddard family and are grateful for the experience, energy, and heart she brings to our school every day!

Debi is from Buffalo Grove and has been in the early childhood field since 1997. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and, for over 13 years, successfully ran her own in-home early learning program. Debi has been a dedicated and valued member of our team since 2018. She was honored with the prestigious Teacher of the Year award for the Midwest Region within The Goddard School franchise—a testament to her passion, expertise, and lasting impact on young learners. Debi believes that every child is unique and that understanding their individual needs is key to helping them grow. She prioritizes building meaningful relationships with each child and family to ensure she can support them in the most thoughtful and effective way. Her favorite children’s book is I Love You Forever, and in her spare time, Debi enjoys reading, walking, and playing the piano. We are incredibly lucky to have her as part of our Goddard

Deena is from Chicago and is currently working toward her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, specializing in Infants and Toddlers. Her passion for early childhood education began in high school, where she worked in a preschool setting, and she later gained hands-on experience as a nanny before joining The Goddard School. Deena believes that children thrive in environments where they feel safe, supported, and free to express themselves. Her goal is to create a classroom that is not only fun and engaging but also fosters curiosity and positive learning experiences. Her favorite children’s book is Corduroy by Don Freeman, a timeless story that reflects her nurturing and heartfelt approach to teaching. In her free time, Deena enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dog to the park, and watching movies. We’re so happy to have Deena on our team and can’t wait to see the joyful energy she brings to her classroom!

Emely lives in Des Plaines and holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Development from Truman College. Her passion for working with children is rooted in a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in their lives and help them feel valued, supported, and seen. Emely believes that every child is unique and deserving of love, attention, and belonging. As she beautifully puts it: “No child should ever feel less than or not a part of a group. Children are all so special in many ways. Children need our attention and love.” Her favorite children’s book is Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes—a story that celebrates positivity and resilience. In her free time, Emely enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, shopping, and watching movies. We are so excited to have Emely as part of our team and know she will bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to her classroom every day!

Caitlin is from Chicago and joins our team as a Lead Teacher. She earned her degree in Elementary Education from Northeastern Illinois University and brings valuable experience from her time working in Chicago Public Schools and as a nanny. Caitlin believes that young children are like sponges—soaking up knowledge and experiences every day. She is passionate about creating a strong foundation and a safe, nurturing classroom environment where children feel empowered to learn and grow. Her favorite children’s book is Harry Potter, a story that inspires imagination, courage, and curiosity. In her free time, Caitlin enjoys reading, spending time with her family, staying active, and enjoying the outdoors. We’re so excited to welcome Caitlin to our team and know she’ll bring warmth and enthusiasm to every classroom she leads!

We are excited to welcome Emily to our teaching team! She holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Loyola University Chicago and brings valuable experience working with both Pre-K and school-aged children as a Lead Teacher. Emily is passionate about creating engaging, nurturing learning environments where children can thrive. She believes that young learners are like sponges—absorbing knowledge through their surroundings and interactions. "As educators," Emily shares, "it is our role to facilitate and implement engaging activities that foster positive, meaningful experiences." Outside of the classroom, Emily enjoys reading children's books—especially anything by Mo Willems, with Knuffle Bunny being a favorite. In her free time, she also loves PC gaming, building with LEGO, and watching movies. We’re thrilled to have her on board!

Originally from Park Ridge, Jason holds an Associate of Science degree from Lincoln College and is currently pursuing his Bachelor's degree at National Louis University. Before joining The Goddard School, Jason gained hands-on experience working in various early childhood education settings, specifically with Twos and Young Preschool classrooms. He is passionate about early learning and believes that children grow through everyday experiences. “Play is a very important part of a child’s life,” Jason explains. “Children learn to problem solve and develop socially by interacting with other children and teachers.” Jason’s favorite children’s book is Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes, and he brings that same fun, musical energy into the classroom. In his free time, he enjoys rollerblading, listening to music, attending concerts, and playing video games. We’re excited to have Jason on our team!

We are proud to introduce Kelly as a dedicated member of our teaching team. A native of Northbrook, IL, Kelly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Roosevelt University. Before joining The Goddard School, she spent eight years working with children ranging from preschool through school age at the Northbrook Park District. Since joining The Goddard School, Kelly has made a lasting impact in early childhood education. In 2021, she was honored as Teacher of the Year for the Toddler Midwest Region—a recognition that reflects her passion, commitment, and excellence in the classroom. Kelly believes that every child deserves a positive, nurturing environment where they can play, explore, and grow. Her goal is to create a welcoming classroom that supports the unique needs of each individual learner. A fan of children’s literature, Kelly’s favorite book is Pete the Cat. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, spending time with family and friends, and playing with her beloved dog, Coco.

We’re excited to welcome King to our Goddard School family! Originally from Chicago, IL, King holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential for Preschool and brings years of experience working in local Early Childhood Education Centers. King is not only a dedicated educator but also a proud father of four—two toddlers currently enrolled at The Goddard School, a school-age son, and a teenage daughter. Remarkably, all of his children have attended or graduated from the schools where he has taught, highlighting his deep personal and professional commitment to early childhood education. King believes that being a teacher is one of the greatest gifts—offering the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students and their families. He views every child as a unique individual with a natural curiosity and a desire to contribute positively to their classroom and community. We’re honored to have King as part of our teaching team!

Originally from Oak Lawn, Kristina brings a rich and diverse background in education and the arts. She holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre and English Secondary Education from Illinois State University. In addition to her academic background, Kristina is a certified yoga instructor for both children and adults. Kristina believes that love is the foundation for learning. “When we model how to cultivate meaningful connections with others, as well as gratitude within the self,” she shares, “we help shape happy, intrinsically motivated, compassionate, and confident children.” Her favorite children’s book is The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Outside of the classroom, Kristina enjoys crafting, reading, writing, singing, and embracing her inner “plant lady.” We’re so happy to have Kristina as part of our Goddard School family!

We’re excited to welcome Lejla to our team at The Goddard School! Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lejla earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Before joining our school, Lejla gained valuable experience working as a substitute teacher in an early childhood center and completed her student teaching in a first-grade classroom. Lejla believes that every child is a unique individual with the potential to grow when supported with care and encouragement. “I believe each child is an individual, and I strive to provide an environment that builds self-confidence, emotional growth, and foundational skills,” she says. She values giving children the freedom to explore, initiate their own learning, and express themselves authentically. In her free time, Lejla enjoys traveling, cooking a variety of cuisines, spending quality time with her family! We’re so happy to have Lejla as part of our school community!

Nebiat has been in the Early Childhood field since 1995 and joins us most recently from a center in Evanston. Prior to that, she spent more than 16 years at a center in Chicago, where she supported Infant, Toddler, and Preschool classrooms with dedication and care. She holds an Associate Degree in Child Development from Truman College in Chicago and is passionate about creating an environment where children are encouraged to actively play, explore, and learn through hands-on experiences. Nebiat’s wealth of knowledge, nurturing approach, and calm presence make her a wonderful addition to our team. We are thrilled to welcome her and know she will make a meaningful impact in the lives of the children and families she supports.

Lorina is from Chicago and holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton Community College. She brings a thoughtful, play-based approach to the classroom, believing that play is essential for children to explore, imagine, create, and connect with others. As Lorina puts it, “I believe play promotes cognitive, language, physical, and social development.” Her teaching philosophy centers on creating an environment where children feel empowered to grow through hands-on, joyful learning experiences. Some of her favorite children’s books include Goodnight Moon, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, and anything by Dr. Seuss—classics that inspire curiosity and imagination. In her spare time, Lorina enjoys reading, practicing yoga, traveling, and giving back through volunteer work. We’re so happy to have Lorina on our team and look forward to the creativity and care she brings to her classroom!

Moriah joins our team as a Co-Lead Teacher in the Penguins classroom. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from National Louis University and brings several years of experience working with both infants and preschool-aged children. Moriah is passionate about creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment where children feel encouraged to explore, learn, and grow. She believes that early education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, and she strives to make every day meaningful and fun for her students. Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle—a timeless story that reflects her love for creativity and discovery. Outside the classroom, Moriah enjoys coloring, painting, baking, riding her bike, reading, and all things arts and crafts. We’re so excited to welcome Moriah to our team and can’t wait to see the joy and creativity she brings to the Penguins classroom!

Sarena is from Waukegan and brings a strong academic background to our team, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University. She is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where every child feels a strong sense of belonging. Sarena believes in fostering spaces where children are free to be creative, explore their curiosity, and grow both academically and emotionally. Her favorite children’s books are from the Llama Llama series—stories that reflect her values of connection, empathy, and emotional learning. In her spare time, Sarena enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing, and shopping. We’re excited to welcome Sarena to our Goddard team and look forward to the warmth and dedication she brings to the classroom!

Suraiya is originally from Pakistan and currently lives in Skokie. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Political Science from Karachi University, as well as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Before joining The Goddard School, Suraiya worked as a Montessori teacher in Pakistan and as an Early Childhood Teacher at a center here in Skokie. With a rich background in both traditional and Montessori approaches, she brings a well-rounded perspective to early childhood education. Suraiya believes that every child learns in their own unique way and that, with the right guidance and encouragement, all children can grow into confident, successful individuals. Her favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., a timeless story that aligns with her love of rhythm and visual learning. In her free time, Suraiya enjoys reading and tending to her garden. We’re so happy to have Suraiya as part of our team!

Urszula is originally from Poland and has been a dedicated member of The Goddard School team since 2016, where she began her journey as an Infant Teacher. She holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Triton College and brings both passion and experience to her role. Urszula believes that every child is a unique individual with their own strengths, needs, and learning styles. As she beautifully states, “I believe each child learns through play, and I am responsible for providing children with a positive learning experience.” She is committed to creating a nurturing environment where children feel supported, engaged, and inspired to grow. Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, a story that reflects her love for learning through exploration. In her free time, Urszula enjoys hiking, bike riding, and traveling to new and exciting places. We’re so grateful to have Urszula on our team!

Salina is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education at Northeastern Illinois University. She is passionate about creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment where children feel encouraged to explore, grow, and discover their unique potential. Salina believes that teachers serve as patient and compassionate guides, dedicated to supporting each child’s individual development and educational journey. Her favorite children’s book is Corduroy by Don Freeman, a timeless story that beautifully reflects her values of kindness and curiosity. Outside the classroom, Salina enjoys reading, bike riding, and sewing. We’re excited to have Salina as part of our team and look forward to the care and enthusiasm she brings to the classroom!

Stephanie is from Schaumburg and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Child Advocacy Studies from Northeastern Illinois University. Ms. Stephanie has been in the early childhood field since 2015, and with us since 2017! Stephanie brings both passion and expertise to her role. She’s also a Goddard parent herself—her son, Austin, is part of our school community! Stephanie believes that every child is unique and special, and that play is the most powerful tool for learning. Her goal is to create a classroom where each child feels safe, loved, and inspired to explore the world around them. Her favorite children’s book is Elephant & Piggie: Let’s Go for a Drive! by Mo Willems—a fun, heartwarming story that reflects her joyful and animated teaching style. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending concerts, exploring comic book conventions, and cheering on her favorite sports teams. We’re lucky to have Stephanie on our team!

Ms. Jazmin is from Norridge, Illinois, and brings experience from her time working in the preschool classroom at Kensington School. She is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education at National Louis University. Ms. Jazmin’s teaching philosophy is strongly student-centered. She believes that children learn best through hands-on experiences and by learning from one another in a collaborative environment. Her goal is to create a classroom where curiosity is encouraged, and every child feels seen, heard, and inspired to grow. We’re excited to have Ms. Jazmin as part of our team and look forward to the creativity and care she brings to the classroom!

Ms. Meghan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Socio-Legal Studies, with a minor in Spanish, from the University of Denver. Prior to joining this program, she served as a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Denver, where she gained extensive experience in early childhood education and care. She is passionate about creating a nurturing, supportive environment where every child feels valued and safe. Ms. Meghan believes in treating children with dignity and places a strong emphasis on teaching problem-solving and conflict resolution skills to help empower young learners. She looks forward to a school year filled with growth, discovery, and meaningful connections with each child in her care.

Ms. Shereen is a Chicago native with a wealth of experience in the early childhood field, bringing years of passion, dedication, and care to every classroom she enters. Her professional journey includes working at respected institutions such as Bright Horizons, Little Green Tree House, and Chicago Children’s Hospital, where she supported children across a wide range of ages and developmental stages. Ms. Shereen is known for her calm and nurturing presence. She has a natural ability to connect with children on their level—gently guiding them through their emotions and helping them build confidence, resilience, and joy in their daily experiences. We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ms. Shereen to our team and can’t wait for our families to get to know her warm heart and supportive teaching style!

Ms. Jessica is from Chicago and earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from Elmhurst University. Jessica has worked in the early childhood field since 2021, when she started at an early childhood center in Park Ridge, where she developed a deep passion for nurturing young learners. Jessica believes that children grow and thrive best in a loving, nurturing, and encouraging environment. Her favorite children’s book is Elephant and Piggie, a playful and heartwarming series that reflects her joyful teaching style. In her spare time, Jessica enjoys taking her dog on walks to new places and unwinding at home with a fun coloring book. We’re thrilled to have Ms. Jessica as part of our team and look forward to the care and enthusiasm she brings to the classroom!

Francis is originally from Jamaica and brings a wealth of experience working with children of all ages. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Oakton College, continuing to grow her passion and commitment to the field. Francis believes strongly in a play-based approach to learning, where children are encouraged to explore, create, and express themselves freely. She values hands-on experiences that foster curiosity and confidence, and her ultimate goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning in every child she teaches. Her favorite children’s book is Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon—a story that celebrates self-confidence and individuality, much like Francis does in her classroom. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and her church community. We’re so happy to have Francis on our team and look forward to the warmth and heart she brings to our school each day!

Izzy is from Wilmette and is currently completing her Bachelor's Degree in Communications at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She brings a strong background in working with children through her previous roles as a camp counselor, youth group leader, and Sunday School teacher. Izzy is passionate about creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and thrive. Her goal is to help lay the foundation for each child's future success by encouraging curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Her favorite children’s book is Gray Squirrel at Pacific Avenue by Geri Harrington, a story that reflects her appreciation for nature and discovery. In her free time, Izzy enjoys dancing, spending time outdoors, and playing with her two beloved dogs. We’re excited to have Izzy as part of our Goddard family and know she’ll bring warmth, enthusiasm, and heart to the classroom!

Rezia is from Bangladesh and currently lives in Skokie. She joins our team as an Assistant Teacher in the Sea Lions classroom. Rezia holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Botany from National University in Bangladesh and brings years of experience working with infants and toddlers. She believes that each child is a unique individual. As she shares, “As an educator, I will value and develop each child’s strengths, interests, skills, and abilities to extend their learning.” Rezia also emphasizes the importance of a positive, supportive environment in fostering the success of an early childhood program. She looks forward to building meaningful relationships with both the children and their families. In her spare time, Rezia enjoys shopping and exploring new places. We are delighted to welcome her to our team and look forward to the care and dedication she brings to our school community!

Lupe is currently pursuing her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education at Oakton Community College and brings a heartfelt passion for nurturing young minds. She believes that every child deserves a safe, supportive, and creative environment where they can express themselves freely and grow with confidence. Lupe is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and creating positive learning experiences for each child in her care. Her favorite children’s book is Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman—a sweet and timeless story that reflects her nurturing nature. In her free time, Lupe enjoys reading, writing, and spending quality time with her family. We’re thrilled to welcome Lupe to our school community and look forward to the warmth and creativity she brings to the classroom!

Ms. Ghufran is originally from Jordan and is currently pursuing her studies in English as a Second Language. Before joining The Goddard School, she gained hands-on experience as a nanny for a local family. She is passionate about early childhood development and is eager to continue building her skills—especially in supporting early literacy and language growth. Ms. Ghufran looks forward to partnering with you to support your toddler’s development and create a nurturing, engaging classroom experience.

Reena is originally from Nepal and currently resides in Evanston. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential specializing in Infants and Toddlers, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Nepal Commerce Campus. Before joining The Goddard School, Reena gained valuable experience working at a local Montessori school. She is passionate about ensuring that every child feels safe, happy, and loved in a nurturing environment. Her favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., a timeless classic that mirrors her caring approach. In her free time, Reena enjoys cooking, visiting the temple, and exploring the vibrant city of downtown Chicago. We are delighted to have Reena as part of our team and appreciate the warmth and dedication she brings to our school community.

Ms. Steph is from Northlake, Illinois, and holds a degree in Early Childhood Education. Prior to joining The Goddard School, she gained valuable experience working at Kidz Creative Corner in Chicago and Children’s Lighthouse in Horner Park. Ms. Steph believes that every child learns and grows at their own unique pace, and she is dedicated to supporting each child’s individual journey. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team and look forward to the positive energy she brings to the classroom!

Ms. Lizzy is from Norridge, Illinois and has worked with children for the past few years in different capacities. Her most recent experience was working at the YMCA as a summer camp counselor. Lizzy believes that it's very important to always let a child expand on their creativity and provide a classroom that makes a child happy and excited to come into. She believes all children are of equal value and can do anything they set their mind to. We are excited to have Ms. Lizzy as a part of our teaching team!

Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry with a focus on pre-medical studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He brings nearly 14 years of diverse experience, including roles as an early childhood teacher, youth art instructor, and summer camp program leader and Assistant Director with the Skokie Park District. Michael believes that every child is a unique individual with their own optimal way of learning. He is committed to providing all children with the highest-quality learning experiences in a healthy and safe environment. His favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, a timeless story that reflects his values of generosity and care. Outside the classroom, Michael to our team and look forward to the dedication and passion he brings to our school community!

Kayla is from Waukegan and is currently pursuing her Associate Degree in Medical Imaging at Harper College. She believes that all children are unique and grow at their own pace, and she strives to create a caring, supportive, and motivating environment where every child can thrive. Her favorite children’s book is The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister, a story that celebrates kindness and sharing—values she brings to her work with children. In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with friends and exploring new restaurants. We’re excited to have Kayla as part of our team and look forward to the positive energy and care she brings to the classroom!

Mahveen is currently working toward her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education at the College of DuPage. Before joining The Goddard School, she gained valuable experience as an assistant teacher in a preschool classroom. Mahveen approaches her work with an open mind and positive attitude, always striving to create a happy, nurturing environment for the children in her care. Her favorite children’s books are Corduroy by Don Freeman and If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff—both classics that celebrate curiosity and kindness. In her free time, Mahveen enjoys spending time with family and friends, shopping, baking, and reading. We’re excited to have Mahveen on our team and look forward to the enthusiasm and warmth she brings to the classroom!

Lissa was born in the Philippines and moved to the U.S. in 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Community Nutrition from the University of the Philippines, as well as an Early Childhood Education Certification from Oakton Community College. Before joining The Goddard School, Lissa dedicated many years as an assistant in her church’s Sunday school, caring for children from infancy through age three. She believes that young children learn best when they feel valued and accepted exactly as they are, and that early childhood educators should approach every child with unconditional positive regard. Her favorite children’s books include God Knows All About Me by Kate Toms and Corduroy by Don Freeman, stories that reflect her compassionate and nurturing approach. Outside of work, Lissa enjoys crafting and designing shirts, expressing her creativity in many ways. We’re thrilled to have Lissa on our team and look forward to the care and warmth she brings to our school community!

Adriana, a Northbrook native, holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from St. Augustine College. She brings valuable experience from both Montessori and traditional child care settings. Adriana believes that "children thrive in a nurturing, play-based environment where learning feels natural and joyful." Her favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., a classic that reflects her appreciation for rhythm, repetition, and early literacy. In her free time, Adriana enjoys spending quality time with her family, watching movies, and listening to music. She is thrilled to be part of our team and looks forward to supporting the growth and development of every child in her care.

Renasia is from Chicago and brings valuable experience from her previous roles as a teacher assistant at a child care center and as a summer camp counselor. She believes that her role as a teacher is to provide every child with a safe, comfortable, and supportive learning environment where they can thrive and grow. Renasia’s favorite children’s book is Smile, a story that reflects her positive and caring spirit. In her free time, she enjoys drawing, styling hair, and listening to music. We’re excited to have Renasia on our team and look forward to the creativity and warmth she brings to the classroom!

Ms. Irene is originally from Iraq and brings over five years of experience in early childhood education. Before joining The Goddard School, she worked at Bright Horizons in Skokie, where she developed a strong foundation in nurturing young learners. Passionate about early learning and literacy, Ms. Irene is excited to continue growing as an educator. She firmly believes that every child deserves a safe, loving, and supportive environment to thrive in each day. Ms. Irene looks forward to working closely with you to support your child’s unique needs and ensure a positive, enriching experience in the classroom.

Lynn is originally from Stevens Point, Wisconsin. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Dayton and a Culinary Arts degree from the Cooking & Hospitality Institute of Chicago. In the culinary field since 2005, Lynn has worked in various restaurant roles, including cook, pastry chef, and manager. She has also contributed her expertise to contract foodservice environments such as business dining and senior living. Her favorite children’s book is Dragons Love Tacos, a fun and imaginative story that brings smiles to children and adults alike. In her free time, Lynn enjoys nature walks, gardening, crafting, baking, and spending quality time with her husband and daughter. We’re delighted to have Lynn as part of our team, bringing her creativity and warmth to our school community!

Tracey is originally from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, and currently resides in Chicago. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from North Park University and an Early Childhood Educator’s Teaching License. With over twenty years of experience as a preschool and Pre-K teacher, Tracey brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role at The Goddard School. She believes that children are naturally curious and eager to learn. As Tracey explains, “Each child should be looked at as an individual, so as a teacher, I strive to create a learning environment filled with a variety of activities that help each child reach their full potential.” Her favorite children’s book is Friends by Helen Hene, a story that celebrates kindness and friendship. In her free time, Tracey enjoys reading, building with Legos, drawing, painting, and going for walks with her husband, Greg. We’re delighted to have Tracey as part of our team and look forward to the creativity and passion she brings to our school community