Our Goddard School Teachers

We are Denise and Mitch Manders, proud owners of the Goddard School of West Carmel. We started our journey as owners in July of 2022. Prior to owning the school, we both spent our careers in various leadership roles within accounting/finance. We have three children – Evan, Noah and Layla, who keep us very busy throughout the year! All of our children are proud Goddard Graduates! Having experienced being parents of the school, we recognize how important early childhood education is, and are focused on creating an environment of love and empowerment for the children and teachers. With our backgrounds in business and leadership development, and our passion to make a difference for others, we are excited to be a part of your child's life!

Jada earned a bachelor's degree in Special Education and Elementary Education with a focus on literacy from Purdue University, along with a minor in Global Studies. Her journey in early childhood education began as an assistant teacher in a multicultural preschool, followed by teaching standard 1 and preschool in a rural village in Tanzania. Since joining Goddard in 2015, she has nurtured young minds from infants to kindergarteners. Most recently, she served as a curriculum specialist, supporting teachers in fostering intentional learning experiences. Jada believes in offering differentiated learning opportunities through a curriculum focused on play and exploration. She is dedicated to empowering teachers to make a positive difference in the lives of all children at the school.

Rachel brings a strong academic foundation to early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from San Diego State University and a Master's degree in Education with a minor in Early Childhood Development from Concordia University - Portland. Rachel's teaching philosophy centers on the importance of play and exploration in fostering children's learning. She believes children learn best by making connections through play, and that a safe and structured environment is vital for them to navigate their emotions and social interactions. Her goal is to create a classroom community where children and teachers work together to create a positive and engaging learning experience for all.

Audri attended Ivy Tech Community College where she received her associate degree in Elementary Education and is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology. Audri views teaching as a journey of building relationships with her students. She prioritizes creating a well-organized and inclusive classroom environment to foster learning for all. Audri is dedicated to celebrating student achievements and actively supporting them in reaching their full potential.

Luz has been the kitchen manager at The Goddard School since 2015. Before coming to this school, she worked for several years at another child care facility. Luz feels every child deserves to have tasty, nutritious meals, and that’s what she makes them in return for their huge smiles. Luz looks at her position at our school not only as a job but as a second home where she can cook as she loves to do for her own family!

Amber graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in Public Relations and Advertising. Since joining The Goddard School in 2013, she has worked with a range of ages, from young toddlers to Pre-K. Amber understands how to create developmentally appropriate learning activities and experiences for children in her care. Building strong connections is a core value for Amber. She takes the time to connect with each child, creating a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive. Her dedication is evident in the long-lasting trust she builds with children and the positive relationships she fosters with families. The joy on children's faces as they learn and grow is what truly motivates Amber, and her commitment to The Goddard School shines through in every interaction.

Alexis comes to Goddard with more than 8 years of experience in the early childhood education field and a BA in Communications, as well as MAT courses for SPED. She believes that all behavior a form of communication, and that meaningful learning happens through experiences. As an educator, she sees her role as not only a facilitator of knowledge, but also as a listener and interpreter. Alexis aims to nurture and foster critical thinking and curiosity. She wants to create a comforting and welcoming environment for not only her students, but also her co-teachers and families.

Alysia is a Ball State graduate with a BS in History and has 2 years' experience as a preschool teacher. She uses literature, music, movement and dance to teach in an engaging and exciting way. She believes that a smile and a song can really turn someone's day around! Her goal for her classroom is to successfully teach while having fun!

Carolina is currently working toward a Child Development Associate Credential and feels fortunate to be a teacher. By recognizing the unique strengths and personalities of each child, she creates a comfortable and interactive learning environment. Carolina empowers her students to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely. Through engaging lessons and a nurturing approach, she ignites a love for reading and sets them on a path of lifelong learning.

Ms. Cece went to school at Gordon College and has 4 years of experience in early childhood education. She believes learning through our environment, interactions, and play. She strives to get to know each child and learn where she can help to promote their development. She also loves to teach through stories, music, and movement. She hopes to create a fun and comfortable environment with engaging interactions everyday.

Emma holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Ball State University. She believes in meeting the unique needs of her students by getting to know their distinct personalities, learning styles, and strengths. Her goal is to challenge her students with positive learning experiences to get them excited to learn and grow.

Haley has her associates degree from Ivy Tech and IUPUI. She also carries a CDA in Infant and Toddlers. She has many years of experience in various preschool settings as well as experience as a nanny. She has also been a lead teacher, a team lead, and assistant director. She believes that love and learning go hand in hand and should be a lifelong goal. Haley wants to build a foundation of routine for her students, and to help them build up their core strength for crawling and walking while also staring their love for learning.

Kameelah comes to Goddard with 4 years experience and her CDA in infant/toddlers. She has volunteered in K-12 art programs as well as at Head Start. She believes that every child deserves love, patience, and respect. She wants her classroom to incorporate play-based learning with a foundation of communication, family involvement, and fun!

Madi has a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Butler University. She believes that every child learns differently and designs classroom activities with the diversity of learning styles in mind. She focuses on creating an inclusive learning environment where all children can interact and engage with their teachers and peers. In her free time, Madi enjoys volunteering at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital.

Meagan has a CDA from Ivy Tech and is finishing up her associate's degree in early childhood education. She has 5 years of experience working with young children and has worked both in centers, and home settings. Meagan believes children learn best through play and thrive in a space where they are loved, valued, and challenged. She wants to ensure each child in her classroom is happy, healthy, and engaged to have fun while learning!

Tonya has worked at The Goddard School since 2005 and has been the teacher in various classrooms with infants and toddlers. She attended Ivy Tech Community College and received her CDA in 2004. Tonya has worked with children for over 25 years and has loved every minute of it! Tonya’s work at Goddard allows her to equip children with the tools they need to learn and grow. Her unwavering dedication to the school ensures consistent care and fosters trusting relationships for all the children. Witnessing their journey from infancy to Pre-K students brings her immense joy, as she takes pride in supporting their development throughout their early years.

Mitchell studied Music Education at Ball State University. He is inspired by children's natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. He believes in fostering a safe learning environment where every child feels comfortable exploring academic skills and developing emotional regulation. His goal is to incorporate play-based learning and create a positive and supportive classroom environment.

Skye is a dedicated educator bringing a wealth of expertise to the classroom, with childhood education training, DEI training, and certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). With five years of experience in child education, she has skillfully utilized child-centered curriculum, effective behavior management strategies, and open family communication, complemented by many years of specialized behavior management experience and working with children with ASD. Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering curiosity and social-emotional growth through play-based learning, always leading with kindness. Skye is committed to building trust with her students and their families, empowering them to become independent learners, supporting their emotional growth, and celebrating the rich diversity within the classroom.

Amille is a dedicated preschool teacher with a love for nurturing young minds. With a high school diploma and two years of experience as an assistant teacher, she brings knowledge and experience to her classroom. Her teaching philosophy centers around witnessing the growth and development of her students, celebrating their achievements along the way. Committed to fostering a positive learning environment, Amille strives to help her students reach their full potential.

Debadrita has a BS in Chemistry with a minor in Physics and Mathematics. She has experience working as a primary teacher, academic coordinator, and tutor. Debadrita strives to create an environment where learning is interactive and meaningful. She believes every child is capable of learning and is most impactful when the child feels safe and heard, and the environment is student-centered, inclusive and joyful.

Josie brings a paraprofessional certification and 9 years of experience working with children ranging from 3 months to 5 years old. She believes each child is and individual and that children learn best through hands-on experiences, play, songs, and exploration. Her classroom goals are to get to know every student individually and develop a routine that benefits everyone.

Katheryn comes to us from Venezuela where she was a nurse for 8 years. She has worked as an RN in operating rooms, maternity, and emergency rooms. She considers herself attentive, friendly, and trustworthy. Katheryn is willing and loves to learn new things. Her favorite part about teaching is seeing the success of the children. She believes in making activities fun and creating structure within the classroom.

Keely holds a BA in Theater from Ball State University. She has been working with children for over 10 years assisting in preschools, leading children's theater camps, and working as a nanny. She believes the right early childhood education experience can spark a life-long love of learning. Her teaching philosophy is children learn best in a warm and nurturing environment that prioritizes supporting individual needs. She wants to use music and the art of story-telling to provide learning experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and compassion in her students!

Kylie has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Neuroscience. Her teaching philosophy is that children best when they are given a safe environment and fun learning experiences. She believes in teaching children the skills they need to grow and overcome any obstacles they may face. Kylie's goals in the classroom are to establish routines and an environment that will help each child develop their social-emotional skills and communication with their peers.

Madelyn is a current student at Butler University and is double majoring in Psychology and International Studies. Her experience with children includes working summers at the Boys and Girls Club. As a teacher, she believes all children deserve to feel seen, heard, and loved. She wants to foster an environment in which children feel comfortable being themselves while simultaneously learning to be good people. Her goal is to bond and create connections with her students and be a positive leader.

Maria has been working in Early Childhood Education for several years and has been at The Goddard School since 2021. She believes that children learn best by having hands-on experiences. Maria feels that having a clean and loving environment helps children learn and grow! Her goal is to help children enjoy school and to build relationships with families.

Morgan is currently studying Elementary Education at Butler University. She believes that authentic, hands-on experiences are the most beneficial to learning. Her philosophy on early education emphasizes the power of play as a valuable tool for both students and educators. Morgan believes that all children have the ability to reach full success and exceed expectations when provided with the resources they need. Her goal is to create an environment where children feel safe, curious, and loved.

Lani is an enthusiastic educator whose diverse background has shaped her passion for working with children since 2022. Having attended school both in the U.S. and Egypt, she demonstrated her drive by obtaining her GED to graduate early. Lani discovered her love for education after returning from Egypt, realizing how much children can teach adults while being taught. She believes that it's our essential job to cultivate the minds of young children and help them determine right from wrong, recognizing that every child learns differently and at their own pace. Lani aims for her students to not only learn about the world around them but also to develop a strong sense of self-awareness, ultimately helping them get ready for their next step in life while providing steadfast support.