Our Goddard School Teachers

Michael Pesi is the owner of The Goddard School located at 6400 Goldsboro Rd., Bethesda, MD. Michael has been happily married to his wife, Aletta, since 2012. They have a son, Michael, who graduated from The Goddard School, and a son and a daughter who currently attend The Goddard School. Michael and Aletta recognize the importance of early childhood development in a safe and nurturing learning environment, which is why they chose The Goddard School. Michael earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biology and proceeded to pursue a Master’s in Biochemistry/Toxicology at Johns Hopkins University. While at Hopkins, Michael worked at the Kennedy Krieger School researching child brain development and genetics. Michael holds a Maryland Preschool Certification as well. Most recently, Michael was a Senior Educational Consultant at Quest Advanced Learning, LLC, where he gained experience in academic coaching, educational program development, and private school and college placement requirements. Also, he was a proud member of the United States Army Reserve stationed at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC. Michael and his family are active in their community, where they participate in many charities such as the Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude's Children's Hospital and the American Cancer Society. Michael enjoys spending time with his friends and family, attending sporting events, playing music and traveling to southern Africa. “I am very proud to represent the Goddard School in Bethesda, MD. This area is rich in diverse cultures and education. These families want their children to be provided the highest level of preschool care and academic development. I am committed to ensure that this need is not only achieved, but exceeds expectations.”

Ms. Nicole is the Academic Director at The Goddard School of Bethesda. Ms. Nicole earned her Bachelor's Degree from Towson University and her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling for children from Johns Hopkins University. In addition, Ms. Nicole is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. Nicole has her teaching certifications in both Infant/Toddler and Preschool, and has taught 2s, 3s, and a photography class to preschoolers. She has been in Administrative and Director roles since 2007. She came here from the Goddard School of King Farm, where she was the Academic Director for 6 years, and the Goddard School of Columbia before then. Ms. Nicole has a son and daughter who both attend The Goddard School of Bethesda. She believes that the preschool years are a wonderful age to foster a lifelong love of learning, and she is committed to facilitating a positive and enriching experience for all children and families during their time here!

Ms. Marita one of our Directors at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, holds a current Maryland teaching license and is certified to teach infants-school age children. Additionally, Ms. Marita has MSDE training in Child Care Administration and specialized training in early literacy. Her 20+ years of working in education has comprised of her working as an elementary school teacher, a Goddard Bethesda preschool teacher, a Goddard Assistant Director, and now she returns to the Goddard School of Bethesda as our Director! Ms. Marita loves the energy that children exude and their eagerness to learn. She believes children are scientists using exploration and inquiry to make sense of the world around them. Ms. Marita is passionate about spending quality time with her teenage daughter who is a Goddard Bethesda graduate! They enjoy traveling together and share a love for animals.

Ms. Brea has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with minors in Biology and Sociology. She has the 90- hour Infant/Toddler and Preschool certifications. Ms. Brea has been teaching since 2015. She is a preschool graduate of the Goddard School of Chester Springs, PA! Ms. Brea was a teacher at the Goddard School of Exton, PA prior to moving to the DMV area. She began working at the Goddard School of Bethesda in the Roosters classroom and was promoted to the Assistant Director role. Ms. Brea loves the children’s excitement as they explore the world around them. She is committed to providing an environment where children can learn through play and become lifelong learners.

Ms. Somia is the Assistant Director at The Goddard School of Bethesda and has been involved in early childhood education since 2004. Born and raised in Reston, VA, she is fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification. Ms. Somia's educational philosophy is based on the belief that educators can empower their students by diversifying their teaching methods beyond traditional academics. She strongly advocates for the significance of play in learning, believing that children should explore the world around them through curiosity, love, and the joy of learning.

Mr. David is our Soccer Coach at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He was a professional soccer player in Guatemala and is a certified and licensed coach by the U.S. Soccer Federation. His company, High Score Soccer, has been serving children from toddlers to teenagers since 2016. Their programs and services help students develop and grow in a healthy environment by encouraging students to practice sports as part of a well-rounded life. Our Physical Education program utilizes fun clinics to support learning and play through dynamic activities demonstrating traveling, balancing, and gross-motor manipulative skills.

Ms. Marlene is our Spanish Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has a special place in her heart for the children and a fun way of teaching. With a Child Development Associate (CDA) and her 90-hour Preschool certification, she has been working with preschoolers since 1991. Ms. Marlene is deeply moved by the happiness and joy that the children at the Goddard School experience, and she is dedicated to modeling these positive emotions. Her teaching philosophy is centered around collaboration, a love for reading, and a willingness to share, all of which she instills in her students.

Mr. Michael is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He has been teaching since 2018 and is currently pursuing a degree in computer science and a Child Development Associate credential. His favorite part of teaching is seeing children grasp new concepts, igniting a spark of curiosity and understanding, inspiring hope and a sense of wonder.

Ms. Patricia is a Lead Preschool Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and 90-hour certifications in Preschool and Infant/Toddler education. She has been teaching since 2006. She finds joy in seeing the children's smiling faces and strives to model good manners and effective self-expression through language.

Ms. Ilyana is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the 90-hour Preschool Certification and is pursuing a social work degree. Her journey in teaching began in 2019, and she was inspired by the joy her niece and nephew brought her. She is deeply passionate about her students, finding their creativity and enthusiasm a constant source of inspiration. Her students not only brighten her days but also serve as a reminder of the values she wishes to instill-respect, responsibility, and resilience.

Ms. Radmila is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2019. Through her passion for teaching, she is dedicated to shaping each child's academic future. She firmly believes in every child's uniqueness and is committed to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, prioritizing each child's emotional well-being.

Ms. Sedatrious is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda and has the Child Development Associate (CDA) and the 90-hour Preschool and Infant/Toddler certifications. With over 40 years of teaching experience, she is deeply invested in her students' well-being and growth. Ms. Sedatrious' classroom is filled with the sound of her students' laughter and the sight of their smiles, which she cherishes. Her teaching philosophy is built on love, kindness, appreciation, and respect, and she is committed to nurturing these values in her students.

Ms. Tanesha is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has both the 90-hour Preschool/Infant certifications. She has been working with young children since 2011, and she loves how the children bring brightness and happiness into her classroom each day. She also loves how curious and open they are. She wishes to model consistency, emotional support, a positive attitude, and fun! She believes that it’s important to communicate with parents and adapt to the children’s needs.

Ms. Shama is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the University of Dhaka. She has the 90-hour Infant/Toddler certification as well. Ms. Shama is from Bangladesh and speaks fluent English and Bangla. She has been an educator since 2017 and loves working at The Goddard School of Bethesda. Her favorite part of teaching is inspiring children to do their best and promoting self-worth and individuality.

Ms. Deanna is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the 90-hour Preschool certification. Her teaching career began in 2015, and she finds joy in her students' enthusiasm, noting their eagerness to learn and kindness towards one another. She aspires to model hard work, dedication, and compassion in her role as an educator.

Mr. Somtoo is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He holds an Associate of Arts degree in Business and a Bachelor of Business Design from the University of Maryland. He has been teaching since 2023 and is currently pursuing the 90-hour preschool certificate. Mr. Somtoo enjoys working with preschoolers and hopes to model kindness and patience through his teaching.

Ms. Candace is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2013 and holds a 90-hour infant/toddler certificate. She has spent some time as a motivational speaker, but her true love lies in the classroom. Ms. Candace strives to demonstrate love, honesty, kindness, creativity, and, above all, growth in her teaching.

Ms. Ismat is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Master of Social Sciences degree from the University of Dhaka in Bangladesh, along with Child Development Associates (CDA) certification and 90-hour certifications in Preschool and Infant/Toddler education. Born and raised in Bangladesh, Ms. Ismat moved to Maryland in 1993 with her husband. She has been teaching since 1990 and strives to model patience and compassion for the children in her care. Ms. Ismat emphasizes the importance of recognizing that everyone is unique and believes in the necessity of compassion and understanding.

Rebecca is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2019. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Education and Instruction. Rebecca models patience, resilience, respect, and kindness, qualities she consistently demonstrates to create a warm, supportive, and enriching learning environment in her classroom.

Ms. Caitlin is a Lead Teachers at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2018 and has a bachelor's degree in psychology and is trained in crisis intervention for children with disabilities. She is currently pursuing further education to become an art therapist. Her teaching style is to teach through nurturing each child's imagination, discovery, and creativity.

Ms. Helena is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2017 and demonstrates kindness and patience in her work. Her other passions include reading, traveling, and working on cars.

Saima is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School in Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2019 and loves inspiring children to show compassion and kindness towards one another.

Ms. Esther is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2002 and holds a 90-hour certificate in infant and toddler care. She loves spreading positivity, kindness, and joy through her teaching.

Ms. Farkhonda is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds her 90-hour Infant/Toddler certificate and has been teaching since 2024. In the classroom, she models creativity and promotes self-help skills and independence, empowering her students to grow with confidence.

Ms. Pat is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda, pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. She has a son and a daughter, the latter of whom is also a teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. With over 25 years of teaching experience, Ms. Pat cherishes the unique ways each child learns and expresses themselves. She aims to demonstrate that everyone can learn from one another. Ms. Pat believes that all feelings are important and that every child deserves to be heard and to feel valued.

Ms. Nieva is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2021 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and her Child Development Associate (CDA). Additionally, Ms. Nieva has a 90-hour preschool certification and is pursuing a master's degree. Ms. Nieva was born in the Philippines and moved to America in 2019. Ms. Nieva speaks Tagalog and English. She wishes to model manners and create a warm and nurturing environment.

Ms. Janelle is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School. She holds an associate's degree in business and has her 90-hour certification in infant/toddler care. Ms. Janelle has been teaching since 2024 and strives to inspire joy in all her students.

Ms. Angela is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a bachelor's degree and a 90-hour preschool certification. She has taught since 2021 and aims to model respect, kindness, curiosity, and creativity in her teaching.

Ms. Jordan is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2024. Ms. Jordan's teaching style emphasizes patience, respect, kindness, and empathy for each student.

Ms. Shaidaye is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Child Development Associate credential and a 90-hour infant/toddler teaching certificate and has been teaching since 2022. Ms. Shaidaye's teaching style is characterized by kindness, patience, and a love of learning.

Ms. McKenzie holds her 90-hour preschool certification. She has been teaching since 2022. Her teaching style is marked by kindness, patience, and empathy.

Ms. Lexi is an Assistant Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2017. Ms. Lexi's teaching style is based on creative problem-solving and patience.

Ms. Kayla is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a 90-hour infant/toddler teaching certificate and has been teaching since 2022. She models patience and kindness in her teaching style.

Ms. Jade holds her 90-hour preschool certification. She has been teaching since 2022. Her teaching style focuses on building confidence and compassion.

Ms. Megan is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2016 and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland. In her free time, she enjoys walking and hiking outdoors.

Ms. Stephany is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a 90-hour infant/toddler teaching certificate. Ms. Stephany has been teaching since 2020 and aims to model patience, empathy, and reliability in her teaching.

Ms. Malinna is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda and has been teaching since 2024. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science and is currently pursuing a 90-hour Infant and Toddler certificate. Her teaching style emphasizes positive attachments, resilience, and empathy.

Ms. Kathleen is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 1997 and loves making a difference by consistently modeling kindness and positivity.

Ms. Katie is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Education and Human Development. Since starting her teaching career in 2010, she aims to embody empathy, humor, critical thinking, kindness, and respect in her teaching.

Ms. Geneses is a Resource Teacher. She has been with the Goddard School since 2024. She loves helping children become more independent and creative through play.

Ms. Zorria is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2023 and is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree. Her teaching style is always thoughtful and kind.

Mr. Terelle is the Kitchen Support at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He has been teaching since 2017 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Human Development, as well as a ServSafe certificate. Mr. Terelle is happy to be part of the Goddard community and hopes to demonstrate how joy can spread through simple acts of kindness.

Ms. Karina is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a 90-hour Infant/Toddler certificate and a 45-hour school-age teaching certificate. She has been teaching since 2022 and strives to model curiosity, creativity, kindness, and a positive attitude in her teaching.

Ms. Paola is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2025. Ms. Paola's teaching approach is characterized by creativity, patience, and compassion in her lessons.