Our Goddard School Teachers

Ms. Jerri Dawn is a co-owner of The Goddard School located in Overland Park. She and her family began the school in June 2006. Ms. Jerri Dawn received her degree in Elementary Education from William Jewell College. She was a classroom teacher for 14 years teaching preschool, two year old children, second grade and fourth grade. She finished her Master’s degree in Elementary Administration in 2000. Ms. Jerri Dawn and her family enjoy playing and watching sports, music and lake weekends. She loves working with children and can’t imagine doing anything else.

Ms. Ashley has been a dedicated member of The Goddard School team since March 2008. With a strong passion for early childhood education, she earned her Associate’s degree from Metropolitan Community College in 2016 and plans to continue furthering her education in the field. Over the years, Ms. Ashley has found great joy and purpose in working with young children. Her classroom experience has confirmed that teaching and nurturing children is truly her calling. She is committed to creating a warm, engaging learning environment and values the strong partnerships she builds with both fellow teachers and families. By working closely together, she helps ensure that each child receives consistent support and encouragement both at school and at home. Goddard Experience: March 2008 Assistant Director: January 2017 Director: June 2021

Ms. Lynsey began her journey with The Goddard School in 2002, bringing years of experience working with children of all age groups before transitioning into the Management Office. She holds a City & Guilds Certification in Family Studies from Salisbury College and earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Infant-Toddler Education from Johnson County Community College (JCCC). Dedicated to lifelong learning, Ms. Lynsey continues to expand her knowledge in early childhood education, believing strongly in evolving alongside the students she supports. Her passion lies in fostering each child's growth through meaningful, play-based experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, and development during their time at Goddard. Goddard Experience: 2002 Director: August 2021

Ms. Karson grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, and graduated in 2023 from the University of Iowa with a degree in Creative Writing, and a minor in Japanese. After graduating, she returned to Kansas in order to be closer to family and friends. She firmly believes in the creativity of children, and loves to help it flourish; she also continues to be amazed at children’s imagination, intelligence, and stubbornness. Her own baby is a Siamese cat named Druid. Goddard Experience: June 2023 Classroom: Pre-K 1

Ms. Kara was a CNA for many years. She was a teaching assistant in Denver, CO in the toddler room before moving to Kansas. Taking care of others is what she loves to do. She is a mother to a wonderful son and I’m also a full time student at National American University. She hopes to graduate in November with my Bachelors of Science degree in business management. She would love to utilize her degree and grow her career here at The Goddard School! Apart from school, work, and being a mom, Ms. Kara loves cooking, Starbucks, and spending time with family. She also loves going on Costco trips with her son and Fiancé. Goddard Experience: October 2021 Classroom: Young Toddler

Ms. Sandyha has worked as a preschool lead teacher and an elementary school tutor. Her and her family moved to the United States from India in 2012. Sandyha worked as a Loan Officer in a bank. She has a daughter in High School and a husband that is a Research Scientist in Organic Chemistry. She has her Bachelor's Degree in Botany and Chemistry and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration in Marketing. She has received her Early Education Certification from Madison Area Technical College. Sandyha is motivated to work with kids and use her use of time management to help guide children on their journey of learning. She loves photography, exploring new places, meeting new people to learn about their culture. Sandyha wants to continue to grow and learn. Goddard Experience: September 2024 Classroom: Young Toddler

Ms. Krystal was born in Shanghai, China. She graduated from Shanghai Normal University with a Bachelor’s degree and received a Master’s degree in Music Education from Emporia State University. Ms. Krystal taught for several years in Shanghai as a music teacher in an elementary school. She loved working with children and decided to come to the United States to further her education. Goddard Experience: November 2017 Classroom: Older Toddler

Ms. Melissa holds a degree in Education from Southern Nazarene University and brings a warm, engaging approach to working with children. She began her career as a Program Director at the Boys and Girls Club, where she spent four years creating enriching programs that supported youth development. After taking time off to raise her three children, she returned to her passion for working with kids by joining Happy Feet, where she has been a coach for the past 12 years. Ms. Melissa loves helping children build confidence, express creativity, and discover the joy of movement through play. Outside of coaching, she enjoys reading, gardening, traveling, and spending quality time with her family—especially her grandson, who keeps her smiling and active. Goddard Experience: May 2025 Classroom: Get Set

Ms. Hannah was born and raised in California. She has a twin sister. She is currently in school for education. Before coming to Goddard Ms. Hannah worked in Special Education in an elementary school for four years. She is looking forward to expanding her knowledge in early childhood. Ms. Hannah loves watching the kids explore and accomplish new tasks daily. She loves hanging out with friends, going to farmers markets, and playing board games. Goddard Experience: August 2022 Classroom: Preschool

With over 21 years of experience in early childhood education, Ms. Yvette has dedicated her life to nurturing young minds. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, and a Master’s Degree in Education. Certified to teach Pre-K through 4th grade, Ms. Yvette has served as a preschool teacher, public and private school substitute, and a Sunday school teacher for 7 years. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Yvette is a proud mother to two daughters and recently adopted her son. Her family also includes a playful dog named Milo. She lovingly refers to her children as her "M&M’s" and cherishes every moment spent with them. In her quiet time, she enjoys writing poetry, visiting parks, and listening to calming music. Goddard Experience: April 2025 Classroom: Preschool

Ms.Terri attended Kansas State University where she received a Degree in Elementary Education. After graduating, she began her career at an Early Childhood Development Center. This is where she found her passion for preschool. Their hugs, joy of exploration and seeing their little light bulbs pop up when they learn something are the highlights of Ms.Terri’s day. Ms.Terri believes in the importance of giving children the appropriate learning opportunities to help create future leaders. In her spare time, Ms. Terri enjoys crafting, gardening, redacting and cooking in her fire pit with her husband. Goddard Experience: November 2019 Classroom: Pre-K

Ms. Juli attended Olathe South High School . She attended Johnson County Community College, and obtained he CDA in Early Childhood Education. Juli has worked in a preschool as a Lead Teacher and assistant director for over 20 years. She enjoys seeing how excited children get when they learn something new. Juli loves visiting her family in New York, but loves coming back to her family and Jeep at home. Goddard Experience: July 2022 Classroom: Pre-K

Ms. Sweeta moved to Kansas City in early 2022. She has 2 children ages 6 and 8. She enjoys working with kids and watching them grow. In her spare time Sweeta loves traveling and spending time hiking and exploring nature. Goddard Experience: February 2023

Ms. Sarita was born and raised in India. She worked as a Banker for 8 years before moving. She and her family moved to the United States in 2019. Satria starting working with children in 2023 and is loving learning with them while having fun. She loves plants and spends a lot of time taking care of them. She also loves traveling the world with her family. Goddard Experience: August 2024

Ms. Harper is a Junior at Blue Valley West. Growing up she attended 2 different elementary schools. Harper wants to go to school to become an Elementary School Teacher. She loves kids of all ages and loves to be able to help guide them in learning new skills. Goddard Experience: September 2024 Classroom: Support Staff

Mr. Aiden has been part of the Goddard program since birth and was inspired to join the team after volunteering with the program for 14 years. He graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School and is an active Eagle Scout who is passionate about service and leadership in his community. Outside of work, Mr. Aiden enjoys camping, spending time with friends and family, and taking part in a wide variety of activities and adventures. He also enjoys playing video games with his close friends during his free time. Mr. Aiden plans to attend Johnson County Community College to study fire safety and pursue his goal of becoming a firefighter. He looks forward to serving and protecting his community while continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Goddard Experience: Feburary 2025 Classroom: Pre-K

Reena moved to the United States with her family four years ago and has since lived in three different states, each offering unique experiences along the way. She is happily married and a proud mother to a daughter currently studying psychology at the University of Washington. A passionate educator, Reena finds great fulfillment in teaching and supporting others in their learning journeys. In her free time, she enjoys painting, watching television, and exploring new places. Having traveled extensively across India, she is now embracing the adventure of discovering the beauty and diversity of the U.S. Goddard Experience: May 2025 Classroom: Support Staff

Mr. Matthew has volunteered and been employed by his church as a childcare worker since 2012. He saw the amazing work his older sister did with the children and the great relationships she formed with their families and decided to take after her. Mr. Matthew is currently working towards his Bachelor's of Sociology degree with a focus in Social Work from Maryville University. He is beyond excited to work at the Goddard School and gain more experience working with young children. He looks forward to developing relationships with the children and their families during his time with the Goddard School. Goddard Experience: February 2020 Classroom: Pre-K

Asfia brings nearly four decades of life experience in the United States, along with a deep-rooted passion for early childhood education. With a bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry and a postgraduate diploma in Child Education, she combines academic knowledge with heartfelt dedication to nurturing young minds. As a highly enthusiastic and creative preschool teacher, Asfia is driven by the belief that every child is unique—shaped by their genetics, environment, and individual personality. She finds endless inspiration in their curiosity, energy, and boundless capacity to learn. Her approach to teaching centers around fostering growth, confidence, and joy in learning, making every child feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Goddard Experience: March 2025 Classroom: Pre-K

Mary is currently a CNA student and works part-time as a server. She has several years of experience working in a gym daycare, where she discovered her passion for caring for and teaching children. Mary loves watching children learn, grow, and develop new skills, and she finds great joy in helping them reach important milestones. She believes children bring so much happiness and energy and enjoys creating a fun, nurturing environment for them. Outside of work and school, Mary loves traveling and exploring new cultures. Most recently, she traveled to Japan with family and friends, where she enjoyed experiencing the country's unique traditions, food, and attractions. She hopes to visit London or South Korea next as she continues to explore the world and create new memories. Mary is dedicated, caring, and enthusiastic, and she looks forward to making a positive impact in the lives of the children and families she serves. Goddard Experience: January 2026 Classroom: Infant

Ms. Michelle comes from a large family with five siblings, and caring for children has been a meaningful part of her life from an early age. Since middle school, she has dreamed of studying psychology and has always been fascinated by how children think, learn, and grow. Growing up, Michelle helped care for her younger siblings, which strengthened her passion for working with children. She believes that children are amazing, creative individuals who bring unique perspectives and joy to the world. Outside of her interest in psychology and child development, Michelle enjoys collecting all kinds of treasures and keepsakes. She is currently collecting small trinkets to decorate her room and create a fun, welcoming space that reflects her personality and creativity. Goddard Experience: April 2026 Classroom: Infant

Born and raised in Overland Park, Kansas, Mr. James attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Relations with an emphasis in education. Throughout his career, he has dedicated himself to supporting and empowering children in a variety of roles, including substitute teacher, foster care case manager, youth care facilitator for children with mental health needs, and Sunday School leader. Mr. James is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and thrive. He values the opportunity to see the world through their eyes and strives to create positive, meaningful experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, and personal growth. Outside of the classroom, Mr. James enjoys spending time with his partner, Harley, and their son, Theo. In his free time, he can often be found watching sports, listening to music, and making memories with family and friends. Goddard Experience: June 2026