Our Goddard School Teachers

As the On-Site Owner of The Goddard School, MJ combines a passion for education with extensive leadership experience. Before entering the field of Early Childhood Education, she spent nine years in retail management, successfully leading teams in both specialty and big-box environments while focusing on customer satisfaction, employee development, and business growth. She joined The Goddard School of Springfield in 2019 and has been dedicated to early childhood education since 2016. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Leadership and Administration. She is passionate about fostering a supportive, engaging environment where children can develop a lifelong love of learning and where families feel confident in their child’s care and education. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, staying active, spending time outdoors, fishing, and reading.

Ms. Cassandra graduated from Glenwood High School in Chatham. She has been with the Goddard School since 2021 and has as an Associates in Early Childhood Education. She has always had a passion for working with children, whether that be babysitting at an early age, volunteering for numerous child-based opportunities such as the Big Brother Big Sister and Lunch Buddies programs or having fun with her own children. She began teaching in 2016 and has worked hard to learn and implement all that she can about the best techniques for teaching young minds and the most beneficial classroom management strategies! She was previously a teacher here at The Goddard School teaching the Preschool curriculum and found that she loved all The Goddard School stands for and believes we truly aim to make every child’s future as bright as possible! Outside of Goddard, she is a lucky mother to 4 amazing children who keep her very busy and full of love!

Brooke Reichart holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Southeast Missouri State University and has been working with children since 2016. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Brooke’s favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. She believes in the quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. Whatever you do, keep moving forward,” which inspires her approach to teaching—encouraging perseverance and growth in every child. Her favorite thing about children is the different ways they view the world. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it offers a one-of-a-kind education and environment that gives children the freedom to discover.

Jeanette is a retired elementary school teacher, with over 35 years experience in the field of education and joined The Goddard School in 2022. During her career in education, she has worked as a classroom teacher and as a Literacy Coach, working with teachers to elevate and enrich the level of instruction within the classroom. She has also worked as a Literacy Interventionist, working with students in small groups and in one-on-one situations. In addition to her Educator's Teaching License, she holds a Reading Specialist Certificate and a Certificate in Reading Recovery. She is trained in SBS and SIDS, and she also holds a Food Handler's License.

Ms. Paige is actively pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Development Counseling with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Illinois Springfield. She has varied experience in babysitting and caregiving, including two years of paid childcare experience. Paige is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s books are Goodnight Moon and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, and she enjoys games like Hide and Seek and Building Blocks. Paige believes education is a lifelong process that fosters curiosity, empathy, and growth. She views teaching as a collaborative and transformative process that values each child’s unique strengths and creativity. Her favorite thing about children is their unshielded lust for life and curiosity. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to grow in a positive, supportive community.

Two's Classroom - Ms. Eleanor graduated from PORTA High School and holds a Human Services degree from Lincoln Land Community College. She is also completing her Elementary Education degree at the University of Illinois Springfield. With 10 years of experience working with children, Eleanor joined The Goddard School in 2024 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s game is Candy Land. Eleanor’s teaching philosophy is inspired by the quote, “When one teaches, two learn,” believing that educators are always learning from their students and should continually pursue growth to provide children with the knowledge they deserve. Her favorite thing about children is their imaginations, which makes work magical. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of the high values and expectations met daily by the hardworking staff.

Infant Classroom - Ms. Delainey is a graduate of Lanphier High School and has working with children since 2020, including helping raise her younger siblings. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s game is UNO. Delainey believes teachers are meant to provide a welcoming and nurturing environment where children feel comfortable learning and growing. Her favorite thing about children is how they use their imagination. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to help give children a reason to be excited about coming to school each day.

Infant Classroom - Ms. Nicole holds a high school diploma from Springfield High School and has over 16 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2023 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, Food Handling, and holds a CDA. Nicole believes children learn in their own way and at their own pace. Her favorite children’s game is Candy Land and her favorite book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?. Nicole’s favorite thing about children is seeing them learn new things and grow each and every day. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to be part of each child's learning and growth journey.

Infant Classroom - Ms. Nara attended Yerba Buena High School in San Jose, California, and continued her education at De Anza College in Cupertino and San Jose State University. She has been working with children since 2022 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate. Nara believes that teachers not only impart knowledge but also nurture moral values and inspire meaningful lifestyles. She strives to awaken each child’s potential through care, guidance, and creativity. Her favorite thing about children is seeing them feel loved, learn, and have fun. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to make a difference in a setting deeply committed to children’s growth, while also being in a place where she can fully prepare to give her best each day.

We are proud to have Phoenix as a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Springfield, IL! Phoenix brings valuable early childhood education experience from previous work in early childhood centers, combined with the discipline and dedication of serving in the National Guard. Currently a college student, Phoenix supports our classrooms during breaks and summer, bringing energy and leadership whenever needed. She is trained in The Goddard School’s Wonder of Learning curriculum as well as our comprehensive health and safety standards. Phoenix’s unique blend of military service, educational background, and childcare experience makes her a strong, dependable leader in our school community. We’re grateful to have her on our team!

Infant Classroom - Ms. Elizabeth graduated from Glenwood High School and is currently attending Lincoln Land Community College. She has been working with children since 2016 and joined The Goddard School in 2026. Elizabeth is certified in Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling, and will soon complete her CPR certification. Her favorite children’s book is A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon, and her favorite game is Candy Land. Elizabeth believes every child should have the tools and support needed to succeed mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically. She values creating an environment where children feel safe, secure, loved, seen, and heard so they can truly grow and flourish. Her favorite thing about children is their imagination, curiosity, and the thoughtful questions they ask. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its warm, welcoming environment and commitment to creative, engaging learning.

Infant/Toddler Classroom - Ms. carol holds a high school diploma from L.D. Bell High School and has been working with children since 2021. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss. Carol believes young children learn best in a safe, nurturing, and consistent environment. She values building trusting relationships, modeling kindness and respect, and supporting each child’s social, emotional, and developmental growth through play and positive guidance. Her favorite thing about children is watching them grow, learn, and become confident in themselves. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it values a nurturing environment and supports each child’s growth and development.

Infant/Toddler Classroom - Ms. Faith attended Glenwood High School, started working with children in 2023 and joined The Goddard School in 2026. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Faith believes in creating a positive learning environment where children feel supported as they grow and develop. Her favorite thing about children is watching them build new skills and gain confidence over time. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its positive and welcoming environment, where both children and staff can thrive.

Infant/Toddler Classroom - Ms. Anastasia holds a high school diploma from Lanphier High School and has been working with children since 2021. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff. Anastasia believes children thrive through self-expression and need meaningful outlets and ways to communicate in order to feel fulfilled. Her favorite thing about children is their resilience, especially their ability to navigate and recover from upsetting moments. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because its philosophy aligns with her own, creating an environment where everyone is open to learning and teaching new things.

Toddler Room - Mr. Grant holds a high school diploma from Glenwood High School and has been working with children since 2023. He is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. His favorite children’s book is No, David! by David Shannon. Grant believes education is about preparing the adults of tomorrow, helping children build the knowledge and character they’ll need to shape the future. His favorite thing about children is their sense of whimsy and their ability to live fully in the moment, focused on fun and discovery. He is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows him to make an impact on the children of his hometown, inspiring them to grow into grateful, capable adults who remember the care and guidance they received.

Toddler Classroom - Ms. Porsha attended Bond County Community Unit #2 and has always had little ones in her life, from growing up with siblings to volunteering at a gym daycare and other special opportunities. She joined The Goddard School in 2023 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Porsha believes preschool is about creating a safe, loving space where children feel valued and free to explore. Her goal is to nurture curiosity, kindness, and confidence, building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Her favorite children’s book is Madeline in Paris by Ludwig Bemelmans. Porsha’s favorite thing about children is simply everything—their hearts are so precious. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to help children feel safe, loved, and understood from their very first steps in learning, knowing each moment of care shapes their future.

Toddler Classroom - Ms. Rebekah holds a B.S. in Child Studies from the College of the Ozarks, has over 10 years of experience working with children and joined The Goddard School in 2025. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Rebekah believes education is especially vital at a young age because children learn many important skills and values that they carry with them for life. Her favorite children’s book series is Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park. Rebekah’s favorite thing about children is their ingenuity and unique outlook on life. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its excellent standards for childcare and education.

Toddler Classroom - Ms. Alyssa holds an Associate of Arts degree from Spoon River College, has been working with children since 2020 and joined The Goddard School in 2026. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Alyssa believes early education is extremely important and that the way children are taught helps shape who they become as individuals. Her favorite thing about children is their curiosity and eagerness to learn about the world around them. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of the kind team she works with and the amazing children she gets to support every day.

Twos Classroom - Ms. Tara studied at Lincoln Land and has 35 years of experience working with children. She has been a part of the Goddard School team since 2019! She is certified CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, Food Handling, and has her CDA. Tara’s philosophy of education is to learn alongside children by asking them questions and listening closely to their answers. Her favorite children’s book is Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. Tara’s favorite thing about children is watching them learn, grow, and progress from speaking simple words to forming complete sentences. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she gets to witness children’s growth and learning, especially as they advance into preschool.

Two's Classroom - Mr. Liam holds a High School Diploma from Lutheran High School and has been working with children since 2022. He joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Liam believes education helps children grow into their greatest potential as people. His favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Liam’s favorite thing about children is how loving they can be. He is proud to teach at The Goddard School because everyone works together to share responsibility.

Bridge Classroom - Ms. Tierra holds a high school diploma from Springfield High School, has been working with children since 2016 and joined The Goddard School in 2026. Her experience includes helping raise her younger sister, babysitting, coaching cheerleading, and volunteering at preschool events. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. She is currently working towards CDA to become Lead Teacher Qualified! Her favorite children’s book is The Nappy House. Tierra believes education should nurture the whole child socially, emotionally, and academically, and that children learn best in a safe and supportive environment where they feel confident to grow. Her favorite thing about children is their uniqueness and natural determination to learn. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it prioritizes children and creates a welcoming community where every child can develop a love for learning.

Bridge Classroom - Ms. Natalie holds a diploma from Athens High School, started working with children in 201, and joined The Goddard School in 2026. She is currently working towards her CDA and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is Pinkalicious. Natalie believes in creating a space where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to express themselves. Through hands-on activities, imaginative play, and guided exploration, she supports children in developing important skills such as problem-solving, communication, and creativity. Her favorite thing about children is their unique personalities. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it allows her to create meaningful memories and fun learning experiences every day.

Preschool Classroom - Ms. Priscilla holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Rust College, an HBCU in Holly Springs, MS. With over 30 years of experience working with children, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the classroom. Priscilla joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, Food Handling, and Abuse Awareness Training. She believes every child is capable of learning and strives to make learning fun and enjoyable for all. Her favorite children’s book is The Kissing Hand. Priscilla’s favorite part of teaching is watching children’s facial expressions when they share something exciting. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she knows she is helping children prepare for their future.

Two's Classroom - Ms. Kayla holds a high school diploma from Nokomis High School and been working with children since 2021. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Kayla’s philosophy of education is to build stronger connections by getting to know both the children and staff better. Her favorite children’s book is Love You Forever by Robert Munsch and her favorite game is Operation. Kayla’s favorite thing about children is creating friendships with them. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because the staff and children make her feel welcome.

Preschool Classroom - Ms. Danielle holds a CDA and has been working with children since 2016. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff. Danielle believes giving her best to children is both her purpose and goal as a teacher. She values listening to children, understanding them, and helping them grow through supportive learning experiences. Her favorite thing about children is hearing the stories they share each day about their lives and experiences. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of her love for the children and the opportunity to support them as they learn and grow.

Assistant Teacher - Preschool Classrooms: Bio Coming Soon

Preschool Classroom - Mr. Roman holds a high school diploma from Lanphier High School. He joined The Goddard School in 2025, has over 8 years of experience babysitting cousins, and 5 years of working with both neurotypical and autistic children. Roman is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling, and is currently working on earning a CDA. Roman believes everyone has the right to learn and gain knowledge about the world beyond basic needs. He believes teachers equip the next generation with tools to learn from the past and create change. His favorite children’s book is Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer. Roman’s favorite thing about children is their joy and wonder about the world and their eagerness to learn and try new things. He is proud to teach at The Goddard School because he values the curriculum and loves helping intelligent, creative students grow.

Prekindergarten/Kindergarten Classroom - Ms. Kavita holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and has over 25 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2024 and is certified CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Kavita’s philosophy of education is that with perseverance and hard work, students will rise to the occasion. She brings a positive attitude, open mind, and high expectations, believing students thrive in a fun, engaging environment physically, emotionally, and socially. Her favorite children’s books include Eric Carle’s works, The Day the Crayons Quit, Pete the Cat books, and those by Dr. Seuss. Kavita’s favorite thing about children is the joy of helping them grow and develop a passion for learning. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it offers a good work-life balance and values its teachers.

Prekindergarten Classroom - Ms. Lilia holds a high school diploma, has been working with children since 2022, and joined The Goddard School in 2026. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book series is Pete the Cat. Lilia believes in active learning and supporting students through their own discovery process rather than acting as the sole source of knowledge. Her favorite thing about children is witnessing their milestones and enjoying that there is never a dull moment. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its strong reputation and the opportunities it provides for professional growth.

Prekindergarten Classroom - Ms. Jana completed high school in Missouri and studied for two years at NYU. She started working with children in 2024, is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, Food Handling, and is working towards her CDA! Jana believes every child is born with a huge capacity to absorb, learn, and connect, and that by fostering and nurturing these abilities, teachers can help lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning and caring for others. Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Jana’s favorite thing about children is how their excitement and wonder is contagious. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she believes it is the best early childhood education center around, with a research-based, well-developed, and well-implemented approach to education.

Resource/Infant Classrooms - Ms. Christy holds a BBA from Robert Morris University and has 34 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CDA, CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Christy’s teaching philosophy centers on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and motivated to learn. Her favorite children’s book is Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss. Christy’s favorite thing about children is their infectious laughter, sweet smiles, and curiosity about the world. She finds it rewarding to witness their first reactions to new experiences and their journey to independence. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because working with children is very rewarding.

Resource/All Rooms - Ms. Crystal holds a high school diploma and has over 3 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2023 and is certified in CDA, CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is The B Book. Crystal’s favorite thing about children is teaching them new things. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of the relationship she is able to build each child.

Resource/Infant & Toddler Rooms - Ms. Stefanie holds an Associate of Arts degree from Lincoln Land Community College and has over 30 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Stefanie believes children learn best in a loving and nurturing environment, where their needs are met and they can develop a love for learning. Her favorite children’s book is I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt. Stefanie’s favorite thing about children is the joy they find in the simple things in life, reminding her to look at the world through their eyes. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it is a positive, friendly environment where everyone clearly loves children.