Our Goddard School Teachers

Hello! I’m Kinnari Patel, a proud advocate for early childhood education and a parent who has experienced firsthand the transformative impact of a nurturing school environment. With a degree in Computer Science and more than 15 years of leadership experience in the banking industry, I bring a unique perspective to the world of education—one rooted in structure, strategy, and heartfelt commitment. As a new owner of The Goddard School at Canton, I’m honored to lead our schools each day, helping children grow emotionally, socially, and academically in safe and enriching spaces. Supporting the whole child isn't just a philosophy—it’s my passion.

Hello and welcome! My name is Leena Patel, and I’m so proud to be one of the new owners of The Goddard School of Canton. My journey with The Goddard School began in 2013 when I opened my first location in York, PA, followed by a second in Philadelphia. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m thrilled to now be part of the Locust Point and Canton community. I graduated with a Biology degree from Lebanon Valley College. As a mother of three and a proud parent of a Goddard School alum, I wholeheartedly believe in The Goddard School’s philosophy of providing exceptional care and a strong educational foundation in a safe, loving, and nurturing environment. My passion is helping children grow into joyful, confident, and respectful learners who are prepared for lifelong success—in school and beyond. I’m excited to embark on this journey with your family and can’t wait to welcome you into our school community!

Hello! I'm April Brooks and I am the Director of Operations at The Goddard School of Canton. I began working with Goddard as a preschool teacher in 2023 at our Locust Point location. I joined The Goddard School of Canton in 2024 and have loved my time here! I received my masters degree in STEM Education from UMBC and my bachelors degree in Early Childhood and Special Education from Towson University. I also hold the 90-hours preschool certification, 45-hours infant and toddlers certification, and 45-hours director certification. I love building relationships with our staff, students, and families! My priority is creating a loving, safe, and welcoming environment for every person who walks though our door.

Ms. Denise joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in April 2021. She has been working with children for over 15 years! Ms. Denise holds multiple educational qualifications, including 90 hour preschool certification, 45 hour infant/toddler certification and 9 hour communication. Ms. Denise is credentialed by Maryland State Department of Education, currently at a level 4! While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Denise's favorite activity is singing to the babies. When Ms. Denise isn’t at work, she enjoys swimming, watching movies, and making people laugh.

Ms. Nicole joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in August of 2020. She has been working with children for over 15 years! Ms. Nicole holds multiple educational qualifications, including 90 hour preschool certification, 45 hour infant/toddler certification, and 9 hour communication. While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Nicole's favorite activity is finger painting and sensory. When Ms. Nicole isn’t at work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Ms. Naomi joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in April 2019. She has been working with children for over 10 years! Ms. Naomi holds multiple educational qualifications, including 90 hour preschool certification, 45 Infant and Toddler certification, and a Bachelors degree in Biology & Chemistry from Coppin State University. Ms. Naomi has a passion for helping children grow, learn, and build confidence while creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for each child's unique needs. When Ms. Naomi isn't at work, she enjoys baking, crafting, creating for her business, and spending time with her daughter.

Ms. Meredith joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in May of 2020. She has been working with children for 40 years! Ms. Meredith holds multiple educational qualifications, including the infant and toddler teaching certification, 90 hour preschool certification, and 9 hour communication training. While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Meredith's favorite activity is singing and playing instruments. When Ms. Meredith isn’t at work, she enjoys time with family, music, European football, and watching the Ravens and O's!

Ms. Jada joined the Goddard team in June of 2025. She is CPR and first aid certified. She has been in childcare for about 5 years. Ms. Jada loves putting a smile on students faces and enjoys that every day is a new adventure when working with children. When Ms. Jada is not working she likes to read, watch movies, hike, listen to music, and visit the beach!

Ms. Olivia joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in April 2019. She has been working with children for over 10 years! Ms. Olivia holds multiple educational qualifications, including 90 hour preschool certification, 45 hour infant/toddler, and a bachelor's degree in General Studies from GSBC. Ms. Olivia is credentialed by Maryland State Department of Education, currently at a level 2! While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Olivia's favorite activities are art and reading. When Ms. Olivia isn’t at work, she enjoys family, friends, music, reading, and Carrie Underwood.

Ms. Isa joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in September 2022. She has been working with children for over 14 years! Ms. Isa holds her 90 hour preschool certification and a teaching degree from UPEL Venezuela. While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Isa's favorite activities are art and Spanish Circle Time. When Ms. Isa isn’t at work, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, working out at the gym, and watching movies.

Ms. Gabi joined our school in January of 2025! She is first aid certified, CPR certified, and aide certified! Ms. Gabi has a passion for encouraging exploration through play and music. She loves watching little minds grow as they face new challenges. When she is not at work Ms. Gabi enjoys playing D&D and Magic the Gathering, reading, singing, writing, and hanging out with her furry babies!

Ms. Colleen joined The Goddard Schools teaching team in November 2020. She has been working with children for over 20 years! Ms. Colleen holds multiple educational qualifications, including 90 hour preschool certification and an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education from CCBC. Ms. Colleen is credentialed by Maryland State Department of Education, currently at a level 5! While teaching in the classroom, Ms. Colleen's favorite activity is art, circle time, and reading books! When Ms. Colleen isn't at work, she enjoys reading and traveling.