Our Goddard School Teachers

Hi, We're Lynn and Jim Moratis, owners of the Goddard School in Columbia, MD. It’s a dream come true for us to provide families with a quality early learning experience that incorporates fun in a safe loving environment. Lynn comes to Goddard following a twenty-five year career in the health-care world. Jim has a thirty-year career in Defense contracting and operations management. We are also the proud parents of two sons Robert and Cameron who are pursuing their careers leaving us with an empty nest. We are dog lovers and have a family of three rescues from across the United States. We believe that a quality educational program in an environment filled with love is the key ingredient to success. We love spending time with family; friends; our dogs and our granddaughter who brings us joy every day.

Ms. Ashley joined The Goddard School in 2023. She has worked in childcare for 4 years and has a background in management. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education • Bachelor's Degree in Human Development and Family Science • Director Certification • 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certification • Breastfeeding and SIDS • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, and CPR Certified Ms. Ashley has been working with children since 2021. Her goal as a teacher is to provide children with and environment where they feel safe and secure to explore and express themselves. Her favorite children's book is "The Day the Crayons Quit" by Drew Daywalt. While not in school, Ms. Ashley enjoys exploring Maryland with her husband having moved here in 2023. She also enjoys visiting family and spending time with friends.

Ms. Vineeta joined The Goddard School in September 2004. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in English • Master's Degree in Hindi • 45-hour Director Certification & 90-hour Preschool Certification & 45-hour Infant & Toddler Certification • CPR, Medical Administration, and First Aid certified • MSDE Level 5 Credentialed Ms. Vineeta has taught infants, twos and pre-kindergarten during the 13 years prior to joining the leadership team. She has been with the Goddard School for 21 years. Her educational philosophy centers on the uniqueness of each child. She believes all children have their own specific learning needs and styles. As educators we need to hold their hands to show them the correct path. Her favorite children's book is "Have you Filled a Bucket Today?" by Carol McCloud. When not at school, Ms. Vineeta enjoys walking, photographing nature, pickleball, shopping, and connecting with her family in India through video calls.

Director of Education. Joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Family Science • Associates Degree in Teaching • 45-hour Director Training; 45-hour Coaching & Leadership; certified in CPR and First Aid. • MSDE Level 6 Credentialed Ms. Cindy has worked with children for ten years. She believes it's important to help young children maintain their confidence when learning, to encourage them to keep trying and not give up. Her favorite children’s book is “Be You!" by Peter H. Reynolds. When not in school, Ms. Cindy enjoys trying new restaurants, exploring new sceneries, travel, and DIY projects.

Kierra joined the Goddard School in 2018. Educational Qualifications: • Associate's degree in Secondary Education • Associate's degree in social sciences • 45-hour Director; 90-Hour Preschool; and 45-Hour Infant & Toddler Certifications • Medication Administration Certified • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Level 4 Credentialed Ms. Kierra has worked with children since 2018. Her educational philosophy is to help children learn to grow through hands on play, art, and reading. Her favorite children’s book is “The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Ms. Kierra enjoys hanging out with her friends and her dog Huey and cat Theodore.

Ms. LaKeisha joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool and 45-hour Infant and Toddlers Certifications • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, and CPR Certified. Ms. LaKeisha has worked with children since 2008. Her educational philosophy is that all children are unique and must have a learning environment that is bright, fun, motivating, and secure where they can grow mentally, emotionally, and socially. Her favorite children’s book is “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. When not at school, LaKeisha enjoys traveling, self-care, going on walks, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Ms. Ryan joined the Goddard team in 2025. She has her 90-Hour Preschool and 45-hour Infant/Toddler Certificates and is Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, and ADA Certified. She has been working with children since 2022. She believes that children learn from a positive and nurturing environment supported by teachers who help them improve their self-awareness and emotional skills. Her favorite book for children is "The Cat in the Hat" by Dr. Seuss. In her free time, she enjoys shopping, meeting friends, listening to music, and spending time with family.

Ms. Danielle joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • Associate's degree in early childhood education • 45-hour infant and toddler and 45-hour School Age Certifications, • Childhood Obesity Prevention • Medical Administration, First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Danielle has worked with children since 2022. She believes that quality education is a privilege, and each individual child deserves a supportive, patient, and loving teacher to help reach their full potential. Her favorite children’s book is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Danielle likes to go shopping with friends and try new restaurants. She also enjoys planning family and friend activities to keep our gang together. Her favorite event she loves to plan is Friendsgiving and having a new group each year.

Ms. Nikki joined the Goddard School in 2016. Educational Qualifications: • Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education • Early Childhood Development Certificate • 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certification • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed Ms. Nikki has worked with children since 2016. As a Teacher, Nikki believes in treating every child as an individual with their own set of skills. Nikki’s favorite children’s book is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Ms. Nikki enjoys reading books, playing video games, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Lead Teacher in the Darling Ducklings. She joined the Goddard School in 2016. Educational Qualifications: • 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certification • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • MSDE Level 4 Credentialed • Early Childhood Development Certificate • Supporting Breast Feeding in Childcare • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Christina joined the Goddard School in 2016 and has been working with children for eleven years. Ms. Christina enjoys spending time with her son, painting, roller skating and going on nature walks. Her favorite book is "The Little House" by Virginia Burton.

Ms. Jessica joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool; 45-hour School Age and 45-hours Infant and Toddler Certifications • ADA, Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Jessica has worked with children since 2020. She believes that everything is a teachable moment. Children learn through experiences, communication, and play. Always treasure your inner child. Be a goofball, play, laugh, and sing. One smile is worth everything. Her favorite children’s book is “The Very Busy Spider” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Jessica enjoys spending time with her daughter and family.

Ms. Emmari joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • 90-hour Preschool and 45-hour Infant-Toddler Certifications, • ADA, • Medical Administration, First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Emmari has worked with children since 2016. Ms. Emmari's educational philosophy is that social emotional learning is the foundation to every area of learning and that every child is capable of anything they set their mind to. She believes that having a strong support system that's main focus is on the growth and well-being of our students helps shape the journey ahead of them. When not at school, she enjoys being surrounded by family, going to movies, trying new restaurants, and enjoying experiences such as concerts, festivals, and conventions.

Ms. Nakasia joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: •45-hour Child Growth and Development and 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certifications • Americans with Disabilities Act, Basic Health and Safety, and First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Nakasia has worked with children since 2022. She believes that having a safe and nurturing environment will allow children to be comfortable in expressing themselves. It allows creativity which promotes problem solving and learning. Her favorite children’s book is “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. When not in school, Ms. Nakasia loves trying new foods, playing video games, hanging out with friends and family, traveling to different stores and restaurants.

Ms. Sarah joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in Psychology • 45-hour Certifications in Infant/Toddler, Preschool, School Age, Growth and Development, and Administration; • Medical Administration, First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Sarah has worked with children since 2017. She believes that children should be taught based their specific needs. There is no "one-size-fits all" when it comes to education and development. Her favorite children’s book is “The Napping House” by Audrey and Don Wood. When not at school, Sarah loves to craft such as cross-stitch and sewing. She reads lots of fantasy novels and loves to cook.

Ms. Jaiden joined the Goddard School in September 2024. Ms. Jaiden has worked with children since 2020. Her desire is to create an atmosphere where students can reach their full potential. Learning can be fun! Her favorite children’s book is “Bad case of the stripes” by David Shannon. When not at school, Jaiden enjoys hanging out with friends, visiting beaches, trying new coffee shops, thrifting, car shows, and experimenting with different hair styles.

Ms. Joseline joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool and 45-hour Infant and Toddlers Certifications • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, and CPR Certified. Ms. Joseline has worked with children since 2015. Her educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning should be a journey of discovery, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop a unique voice that shapes their understanding of the world. Her favorite children’s book is “I love my white shoes” by Eric Litwin. When not at school, Joseline likes to take her children to the park, go for walks with her husband, and go to church on Saturdays and Sundays. We also like to visit our family and travel.

Ms. Nae joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool and 45-Hour Infant and Toddler Certifications • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed - Level 3. Ms. Nae has worked with children since 2009. She believes that each child is an individual and as an educator, she will value and develop each child's strengths, interests, skills and knowledge to extend their learning. Her favorite children’s book is “The Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Nae enjoys spending time with her family.

Ms. Milan joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • 90-hour Preschool Certification • 45-hour Infant/Toddler Certification • Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) • Infant and Toddler CDA • Associates of Arts Degree in English Education - Montgomery College • Associates of Arts Degree in General Studies - Montgomery College • Bachelor's Degree in English from University of Maryland Global Campus • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credential Level 5 Ms. Milan has worked with children for 5 years. Her educational philosophy is that all children deserve to learn in a supportive, caring environment and that learning experiences should be diverse and applicable to different learning styles. Ms. Milan's favorite children’s book is “Yay You” by Sandra Boyton. When not at school, Ms. Milan enjoys watching movies and going out to eat. She also like to read, knit, and crochet.

Ms. DeAsia joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • 90 Hour Preschool Certificate; • 45 Hour Infant and Toddler Certificate; • Basic Health and Safety; MSDE Leve 3 credential Ms. DeAsia has worked with children since 2019. She believes that all children are unique and need a stimulating environment in order to grow socially, emotionally, and mentally. Her favorite children’s book is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. When not at school, DeAsia enjoys hanging out with friends and family.

Ms. Rachel joined the Goddard team in 2022. • 90-hour Preschool Certification • 45-hour Infant/Toddler Certification Ms. Rachel has been working with children since 2016. Her favorite book for children is "Froggy Goes to School". She believes that as teachers, we need to set great examples in everything we do. She enjoys doing hair and being creative with different styles.

Ms. De'Ajah joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • 90 Hour and 45-hour Preschool Certifications • Americans with Disabilities Act, Basic Health and Safety, and First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. De'Ajah has worked with children since 2017. She believes that all children thrive in a nurturing environment and learn best through play and self-discovery. Her favorite children’s book is “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper. When not in school, Ms. De'Ajah enjoys spending time with friends and family, shopping, and watching Netflix.

Ms. Kelly originally joined the Goddard School in 2013 and returned in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Special Education from University of Maryland • Master's of Education in Early Childhood Special Education from University of Maryland. Before joining Goddard, she worked as a behavioral therapist and classroom aide for young children with autism and other spectrum like delays. She also had the opportunity to be a teacher in a classroom for teens and young adults with severe autism. She enjoys working with young children and encouraging them to learn about the world around them by following their lead and interests. In her free time, she likes to do yoga, gardening, hiking, photography and travel with friends.

Ms. Danae joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Dance and pre-physical therapy • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Danae has worked with children since 2019. She believes that all children thrive in a nurturing environment and learn best through play and self-discovery. Her favorite children’s book is “If you give a Mouse a Cookie” by Laura Numeroff. When not at school, Danae likes hanging out with her family, playing with her dog, and dancing.

Ms. Allia joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Pyschology • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Allia has worked with children since 2013. She believes that every child has their own needs, so she aspires to create an environment in which the student is the center of their own learning. The environments emphasize each students' skills and personalities. Her favorite children’s book is “The Color Monster” by Anna Llenas. When not at school, Allia loves spending time with family and friends, thrift shopping for decor; styling and decorating her home, movie nights, going to sporting events, singing and exploring new places.

Ms. Aniya joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • High School Diploma • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified. Ms. Aniya is beginning her teaching career at the Goddard School. She believes that children should be loved and nurtured while also being taught. She also thinks it is important that children feel seen. Her favorite children’s book is “The Grinch who Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Aniya enjoys painting, listening to music, spending time with family, and watching movies and TV.

Lead Teacher in the Enchanted Owls. She joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelors in Family & Human Services • 90-hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Alisa has worked with children since 2017. She believes each child is unique and the best way to promote confidence and creativity is through play-based learning activities. Her favorite children's book is Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown. While not in school, Ms. Alisa enjoys arts and crafts, watching movies and spending time with family and friends.

Ms. Rachael joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational qualifications: 90-hour Preschool, 45-hour Infant and Toddler, Basic Health and Safety, ADA, CPR and First Aid, certified. She has worked with children since 2022. Rachael believes that teachers should set a good example for their children and that consistency is the key to establishing a good learning routine. Her favorite children’s book is “Good Night Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown. When not at school, Rachael enjoys spending time with her daughter and crocheting.

Ms. Ciara joined the Goddard School in 2024. She has worked with children since 2019 when she worked with children at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. Ciara believes that as a teacher, it is her duty is to provide a stimulating environment where children can grow mentally, socially, and emotionally. Her favorite children’s book is “Be Kind” by Pat Ziehow Miller. When not at school, she enjoys taking self-care days and would love to learn how to play the piano.

Ms. Ashley joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education • Bachelor's Degree in Family Science • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified Ms. Ashley has worked with children since 2021. Her goal is to ensure children enjoy learning by fostering their curiosity and creativity. She aims to provide each child with the tools, skills, and support to allow them to blossom into confident learners. Her favorite children's books are "Pete the Cat and "I love My White Shoes" by Eric Litwin. When not at the school, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, and watching her favorite TV shows.

Ms. Tina joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • Child Development Associate Certification • 90-Hour Preschool and 90-Hour Infant and Toddler Certifications • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed - Level 4+. Ms. Tina has worked with children since 2005. Her educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of getting to know your students and families. I feel the teacher must possess a transparent, kind, nurturing demeanor. This is essential to allow both students and families to feel confident in their capabilities to provide a safe and caring learning environment for their children. Her favorite children’s book is “Love you Forever” by Robert N. Munsch. When not at school, Tina enjoys catching the latest Netflix movie, spending time with family & friends, walking or going to gym, reading, seeing a comedy show, and poetry.

Ms. Abi joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • 90-hour preschool certification, Basic Health and Safety, ADA, CPR and First Aid certified. Ms. Abi has worked with children for since 2018. She believes that as a teacher, her role is to help students achieve their goals and to help them meet their milestones. She wants to help them succeed. Her favorite children’s book is “If you Give a Mouse A Cookie” by Laura Numeroff. When not at school, Abi enjoys baking. She has a small baking business offering cakes, cookies, brownies, and much more.

Ms. Lisa joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Plattsburgh State University • 90-hour Preschool Certification • Medical Administration, First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Lisa has worked with children since 2009. Her educational philosophy is to provide a safe and loving environment where children can learn to be respectful and positive. Ms. Lisa's favorite children’s book is “Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” by Mo Willems. When not at school, Ms. Lisa enjoys spending time with husband and two children.

Ana joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • Enrolled Howard Community College pursing Degree in Early Childhood Education; 90-hour preschool; 45-hour infant and toddler; 45-hour school age certifications. Ms. Ana believes it is important to create a safe, caring, and welcoming environment for all children. Children learn best when they feel valued and comfortable. Her favorite children’s book is “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein. When not in school, Ms. Ana enjoys going on hikes with her dog. She also enjoys spending time with friends and really enjoys watching documentaries.

Ms. Leny joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies • Associates Degree in in Juvenile Justice • 90-Hour Preschool Certifications • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Leny has worked with children since 2014. Her educational philosophy is that children learn through observation of their surroundings and the behavior of others. This requires a social model such as a parent, sibling, friend, or teacher in their environment. Her favorite children’s book is “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. When not at school, Ms. Leny enjoys spending time with her daughters, going out with friends, skating, and reading.

Lead Teacher in the Super Squirrels. She joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelors in Early Childhood Education from Towson University • Certificate in Breastfeeding • Basic Health and Safety Certified • ADA Certified Ms. Cambria has worked with children since 2019. She believes all children deserve a safe and nurturing environment. Teaching styles should be diverse to meet each child’s individual needs. Her favorite children's book is "Amazing Grace" by Mary Hoffman. While not in school, Ms. Cambria enjoys baking, reading, watching movies and spending time with family and friends.

Ms. Cecilia is the Lead Teacher for the Soaring Eagles Pre-K class. She joined The Goddard School in July 2020. Educational Qualifications: • Dual Associates Degree in Elementary Education/Special Education • 90-hour preschool certification • Medication Administration • School Age Child Care Curriculum • MSDE Level 3 Credentialed Ms. Cecilia has worked with children since 2013 and has been a lead pre-k teacher since 2022. Her educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of social emotional learning through play. She believes that learning the art of communication, self-regulation, and empathy leads to a wonderful kind and caring future self. Ms. Cecilia's favorite children’s book is "The Gruffalo" by Julia Donaldson. When not at school, Ms. Cecilia enjoys going to the beach, hiking, playing with her dog, reading modern thrillers and Russian literature, as well as spending time with her much loved friends and family.

Ms. Nada joined the Goddard School in 2024. She has worked with children since 2022. Nada believes in making sure her classroom is a safe and comfortable environment for the children. Her favorite children’s book is “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Nada enjoys spending time alone enjoying shopping or a good book. She also loves spending time with friends and cousins, going on nature walks and exploring the DMV.

Afsaneh joined the Goddard School in 2018. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Language Education • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Afsaneh has worked with children for over twenty years. She loves watching children learn new skills and grow in many ways each day. Her favorite children’s book is “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Afsaneh enjoys spending time with her family, shopping, and reading.

Ms. Jess joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • Associate Degree in Social and Behavioral Science • 45-Hour School Age with 90-hour Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed. Ms. Jess has worked with children since 2017. She believes that every child is unique, capable, and deserving of a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow emotionally, socially, physically, and intellectually at their own pace. As an educator, it is her responsibility to create a space where children feel seen, heard, and valued. A place where curiosity is encouraged and mistakes are embraced as part of learning and every child is given the tools to thrive. Her favorite children’s book is “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. She is a make-up artist and enjoys relaxing, traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with her cat. She also enjoys journaling and working on her beauty brand.

Ms. Stef graduated from the University of Maryland College Park and has her 90-hour preschool, infant, and toddler certification in Child Development and Curriculum. Teaching music is Ms. Stef's passion, as well as her career. She has been teaching preschool music and movement in Washington DC area preschools since 2005. She also teaches piano, guitar, and voice lessons in her home studio. Ms. Stef has four children and enjoys, yes! playing music, reading, gardening, and getting together with friends. She believes that music is accessible to all and that everyone can benefit from listening to, playing, and a deeper understanding of music and musical concepts. From Beethoven to the Beatles, Coltrane to the Clash, Ms. Stef incorporates all types of music into her teaching to spark creativity and joy in the musical classroom. She is very excited to share her love of music with the Goddard Columbia community!

Ms. Rania joined the Goddard team in 2022 • Ms. Rania has her 90-Hour Preschool, 45-hour Infant/Toddler and School Age Teaching Certifications • She is Basic Health and Safety, First Aid, ADA, Supporting Breastfeeding in Childcare Certified • Ms. Rania has been working with children since 2012. Her favorite book for children is "The Cat in the Hat" by Dr. Seuss. She believes that children need to learn how to depend on themselves. They can use positive stress and problem-solving skills to improve their self-awareness and emotional skills. In her free time, she enjoys shopping, going to the gym, traveling and going to the beach, meeting friends, cooking, listening to music, and spending time with her son.

Ms. Pial joined the Goddard team in September 2024. • Ms. Pial has a Bachelors of the Arts in International Relations • She has her 45-hour Infant/Toddler and 45-hour Preschool Methods and Materials Certifications • Ms. Pial has been working with children since 2021. She believes her role is to encourage and empower children to be confident in their uniqueness. Her favorite book for children is "The Rabbit Listened" by Cori Doerrfeld. In her free time, she loves spending time with her son (the reason she doesn't have hobbies) and watching him navigate the world.

Camille joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • Associates in Sales and Customer Relations, • Au Pair for 5 years. Ms. Camille has worked with children since 2020. She believes every child deserves love, respect, and understanding. She creates a safe, caring, space where they feel supported, seen, and heard. Her approach is rooted in empathy, kindness, and open communication with both children and their families. Her favorite children's book is "Elmer" by David McKee. Ms. Camille enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going on walks with her dog, going shopping, and trying new food and restaurants.

Ms. Katie joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • Pursuing a bachelor's degree in early childhood education at Towson University • 45-hour School age Certification; 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certification • Americans with Disabilities Act, Basic Health and Safety, and First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Katie has worked with children since 2022. She believes that as a teacher she should focus on activities that have a social element to foster education. She also believes that being social helps with emotional development while learning in the classroom that will help build a very strong future. Her favorite children’s book is “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn. When not in school, Ms. Katie loves crocheting, reading a good book, sitting outside, playing with her cats, and listening to the rain.

Ms. A'isha joined the Goddard School in August 2025. She is enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Program at Howard Community College. Ms. A'isha has worked with children for since 2021. She believes that every child has the right to feel safe, loved, and respected in their learning environment. She is dedicated to not only support the child but also to support the teachers and families around them. Her favorite children’s book is “I like Myself” by Karen Beaumont. When not at school, A'isha enjoys spending time with friends and family.

Ms. Iyannah joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Dual Associate Degrees in Social Sciences and General Education • 90-Hour Infant and Toddler with 45 hours Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed. Ms. Iyannah has worked with children since 2019. She believes that all children are capable of making a positive impact on society. Through the help and guidance of family and teachers, she believes that all children can learn to be loving, self-disciplined, creative thinkers and doers for our world. Her favorite children’s book is “The Very Busy Spider” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Iyannah enjoys relaxing at home watching The People's Court and going for walks with her brother.

Ms. Melanie joined the Goddard School in 2025. Educational Qualifications: • 45-hour Infant and Toddler Certification • Americans with Disabilities Act, Basic Health and Safety, and First Aid and CPR Certified. Ms. Melanie has worked with children since 2019. She believes every child learns best in a supportive, engaging environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and hands-on exploration. Her goal is to nurture each child's strengths while fostering confidence and a love of learning. Her favorite children’s book is “Llama Llama Red Pajama” by Anna Dewdney. When not in school, Ms. Melanie enjoys spending time reading and exploring new books, building with Legos to relax and be creative, taking walks with her dog to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.