Our Goddard School Teachers

On-Site Owner - Prior to her career in Early Childhood Education, she has 9 years of retail management experience working in both specialty and big box stores with a proven history to increase and maintain overall sales, customer satisfaction, and employee development. She joined The Goddard School of Springfield in 2019 and has worked in the Early Childhood Education field since 2016. She has her BA in Early Childhood Education with a focus on Leadership and Administration. She is inspired everyday by her husband (Travis), bonus daughter (Claire), and the most loyal pups (Bella & Scout). Some of her favorite things are cooking and staying active to maintain a healthy lifestyle, getting outside anywhere she can, fishing & 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 over 9 years of experience working with children. 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.

We are delighted to have Andrea as our Food Service Manager at The Goddard School of Springfield, IL! Andrea brings extensive experience as a cook across a variety of settings, combined with formal training through culinary arts courses. She is Food Safety Manager certified, ensuring that every meal prepared for our students meets the highest standards of safety and nutrition. Andrea’s passion for quality food and her dedication to providing healthy, delicious meals make her an essential part of our school community. We’re proud to have Andrea managing our food service and supporting the well-being of all our children!

All Rooms - Mr. Reese studied General Studies at Southeast Missouri State University and been working with children since 2021. Reese is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Reese believes education is less about meeting milestones and more about personal growth and development. A favorite children’s book is Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss. Reese’s favorite thing about children is how different each student is from one another. Reese is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it provides the opportunity to grow skills and gain valuable experience.

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.

Infant Classroom - Ms. Sydney studied Business at Bradley University before transferring to Lincoln Land Community College to study Education and later Pediatric Nursing. She joined The Goddard School in 2023 and has over 10 years of experience working with children. She is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, Food Handling and holds her CDA. Sydney’s goal is to be a positive person in children’s lives, building trust and providing quality care. She believes that sometimes children may need their teachers more than we realize. Her favorite children’s book is Christopher Robin. Sydney’s favorite thing about children is the unique bonds she forms with each one, as every bond is different. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its curriculum structure, which allows her to create a safe, organized environment that aligns with her own high standards.

Infant Classroom - Ms. Kaleigh is pursuing an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Lake Land Community College and has 10 years of experience working with children. She joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Kaleigh believes all children should feel welcomed and valued in the classroom. Her goal is for students to be excited about learning, happy to be in her classroom, and gaining new knowledge every day. Her favorite children’s books are The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Pinkalicious. Kaleigh’s favorite thing about children is their curiosity, which she sees as a pathway to engaged and informed learning. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she can ensure students are in a safe environment where they feel welcomed and ready to learn 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 Room - 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.

Infant 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.

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!

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 - 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.

Toddler 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.

Toddler Classroom - Ms. Jaylee graduated from Athens High School and is currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education at Lincoln Land Community College. She has been working with children since the age of 13, beginning with babysitting and now has experience in three daycares since joining The Goddard School in 2025. Jaylee is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is Love You Forever. Jaylee believes the purpose of teaching is to help develop young children’s minds while encouraging them to grow into their own person. Her favorite thing about children is their unique personalities and how they develop them. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of its high standards and the opportunity to work with children each and 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 - 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.

Bridge Classroom - Ms. Sydney earned her Early Childhood Education accreditation from Lincoln Land Community College and has 11 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, and has also completed Montessori Training, as well as ICERS, ECERS, and SACERS certifications. Sydney’s philosophy of education is “Connection before Correction.” Her favorite children’s books are those by Eric Carle. Sydney’s favorite thing about children is how everything is so new and exciting through their eyes. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because the teamwork between parents, administration, teachers, and resources creates an environment where every child is advocated for and supported by a village rallying behind their education.

Bridge Room - Ms. Elise holds a high school diploma from Sacred Heart-Griffin High School and has 4 years of experience working with children. She is working towards her CDA and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Elise’s favorite children’s game is Candy Land. Her philosophy of education is to create a classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and loved. Elise’s favorite thing about children is that each one has a unique perspective and experiences the world in their own way. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because its procedures ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and cared for.

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.

Preschool Classroom - BIO COMING SOON

Preschool Classroom - Ms. Sydney holds a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Indiana State University and has been working with children since 2020. She joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Sydney believes creativity is the most important aspect of education. Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Sydney’s favorite thing about children is their creativity. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she can help children grow in their uniqueness.

Preschool Classroom - Ms. Michele holds an Associate’s Degree in Education with a Minor in Early Childhood and has 40 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, and also holds Director Credentials. Michele believes teaching is rewarding and finds joy in helping children see the world in a new light. Her goal as a teacher is to help every child feel seen, appreciated, and loved while preparing them for success both now and in the future. Her favorite children’s books are the Pigeon series. Michele’s favorite thing about children is the smile on their faces when they learn or discover something new. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because she believes it is a wonderful school full of special children.

Prekindergarten 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. 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/Preschool & PreK Rooms- Ms. Carlene studied at Elgin Community College and has 46 years of experience working with children, including raising three sons. She joined The Goddard School in 2025 and is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Carlene appreciates the Goddard School’s strong purpose and values in teaching and learning. Her favorite children’s books are those by Dr. Seuss. Carlene’s favorite thing about children is how they make her smile daily. She is proud to teach at The Goddard School because of the joy she finds each day in communicating with families and spending meaningful time with children.

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/All Rooms - 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.

Resource/Infant Rooms - Ms. Kemi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois Springfield and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work at Saint Louis University. She has a wealth of experience working with children, including volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, completing 400 internship hours at a local elementary school, and working as a case worker—all while being a lifelong aunt. Kemi is certified in CPR, Trauma-Informed Practices, Shaken Baby Syndrome, SIDS, and Food Handling. Her favorite children’s book is Pass It On by Sophy Henn. She believes that providing children with an education opens doors to new opportunities and experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. Her favorite thing about children is that they are funny without even trying. Kemi is proud to teach at The Goddard School because it fosters an environment that encourages interest-based learning.

Resource/All Rooms - 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.

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.