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 my husband Jim and I with an empty nest. We believe that a quality educational program in an environment filled with love is the key ingredient to success. “Play is the answer to the question - how does anything new come about?” Jean Piaget

Joined Goddard in 2019. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Dance with a Certificate in Early Childhood Education from University of Maryland Baltimore County • 90-Hour Preschool Certification in Early Childhood Education from University of Maryland Baltimore County • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Gena has worked with children for 12 years. She believes that her job as a teacher is to create a safe and loving environment, where all her children feel comfortable to learn through exploration, investigation, and play. Her favorite children’s book is “The Napping House” by Audrey Wood. When not at school, Gena enjoys spending time with her husband and three boys.

Ms. Vineeta joined The Goddard School in September 2004. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in English • Masters Degree in Hindi • 90 hour Preschool Certification • CPR, Medical Administration, and First Aid certified • MSDE Level 4 Credentialed She taught infants, two's and pre-kindergarten for 13 years. Her educational philosophy centers on the fact that all children are unique and grow in the 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, shopping, and connecting with her family in India through video calls.

Assistant Director of Education. Joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Family Science • Associates Degree in Teaching • Certificates in CPR and First Aid. • MSDE Level 6 Credentialed Ms. Cindy has worked with children for since 2015. 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 “be You!" by Peter H. Reynolds. When not in school, Ms. Cindy enjoys trying new restaurants, exploring new sceneries, travel, and DIY projects.

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 for seven years and has three years of lead preschool teaching experience. 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. 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.

Co-Lead Teacher in the Brilliant Bears. She joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • 90-hr Early Childhood Certification • Certificates in CPR and Breast Feeding. • Basic Health and Safety • Breast Feeding in Childcare • MSDE Level 3 Credentialed Ms. Rachela has worked with children Since 2016. She believes children learn best in an interactive environment that also provides love and safety. As a teacher, it is important to stay open to different teaching methods in order for children to learn and grow. Her favorite children’s book is “The Color Monster" by Anna Llenas. When not in school, Rachela runs her freelance photography business specializing in portrait photography. She loves going to the beach, watching sunsets, dancing, painting, and reading.

Lead/Resource Teacher in the Preschool / Pre-K. She 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 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. Belen joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool and 90-Hour Infant and Toddler Certifications • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed - Level 3. Ms. Belen has worked with children since 2015. She believes her role is to provide a safe, loving, and structured environment where students and teachers learn together. She also believes in trying our best even though we might not know now, we will learn. She strives to give children the tools to help them express their feelings, improving the classroom environment. Her favorite children’s book is “Bear Wants More” by Karma Wilson. When not at school, Belen enjoys family time which is very important to her. They enjoy walking, going out to eat, or spending time with friends. Eating food from around the world is exciting to her. Watching any movie based on a Jane Austen Book is her comfort zone.

Ms. Ryan joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science from University of Maryland Global Campus and CDA • ADA, CPR and First Aid certified Ms. Ryan has worked with children since for over six years. She believes that all children are unique and learn in different ways. As an educator, it is her job to appeal to their needs, all while keeping them safe. Her favorite children’s book is “Brown Bear Brown Bear” by Eric Martin Jr. and Eric Carle. When not at school, Ryan enjoys yoga, crocheting, exploring new restaurants, travel, and hanging out with friends.

Ms. Shy joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Shy has worked with children for 3 years. 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 Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Shy can be found in the store checking out the latest make-up and fragrances, creating content for her beauty blog, thrifting, binging Netflix, meditating, crafting, cooking, and spending time with her kids and cats.

Ms. Desi joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Family Studies • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Desi has worked with children since 2008. She believes tthat every child is unique and it is my job to find out the best way to help them learn and keep them safe. Equally important is to MAKE IT FUN! Her favorite children’s book is “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” by Bill Martin. When not at school, Desi loves entertaining, whether performing improv comedy, stand up comedy, or even karaoke. The more laughs the better! I also love playing sports, especially basketball.

Ms. Lexie joined the Goddard School of Columbia in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Associate Degree in Sociology • 90-Hour Infant and Toddler with 45 hours Preschool Certification • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Lexie has worked with children for 4 years. Her educational philosophy emphasizes social and emotional growth through establishment of a safe and welcoming classroom. Her favorite children’s book is “Chrysanthemum” by Kevin Henkes. When not at school, Lexie enjoys watching k-dramas and love is blind, hiking, spending time with her two cats as well as her friends and family.

Co-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 for three years. 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. 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 and 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; style and decorate her home, movie nighs, 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 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.

Ms. Tiffany joined the Goddard team in 2024 as a resource teacher. Educational qualifications: 45- hour infant and toddler certification; breastfeeding awareness; 9-hour communications course; CPR and first aid and basic health and safety. She has been working with children since 2021. Ms. Tiffany's philosophy on education is that all children are unique and should be treated with love. Her favorite children's book is "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown. When not at school, Ms. Tiffany likes to spend time with her friends, work-out, and cook.

Ms. Nicki 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 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 for 4 years. 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: 45-hour growth and development, basic health and safety, ADA, CPR and first aid, completing the 90-hours for Preschool currently. 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.

Lead teacher in the Fawns. Kierra joined the Goddard School in 2018. Educational Qualifications: • Associates Degree in Secondary Education • Associates Degree in in Social Sciences • 90-Hour and 45-Hour Preschool Certifications • Medication Administration Certified • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Level 4 Credentialed Ms. Kierra has worked with children for four years. 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 Pooper.

Ms. Rachel joined the Goddard team in 2022. • 90-hour Preschool Certification • 45-hour Infant/Toddler Certification Ms. Rachel has been working with children for six years. 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. Ariana joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • 90 Hour Early Childhood Certification • Americans with Disabilities Act, Basic Health and Safety, and First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Ariana has worked with children since 2020. She believes that as a teacher she should provide nurturing and attentive care for her students, creating an engaging and age-appropriate environment for children to grow and develop freely. Her favorite children’s book is “The Mitten” by Jan Brett. When not in school, Ms. Ariana enjoys hiking with her dog, spending time with family, and working out.

Mrs. Ashley joined The Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education • Bachelor's Degree in Human Development and Family Science • 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 Quite 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. Milan joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • 90-hour Preschool Certification • 45-hour Infant/Toddler Certification • Preschool Child Development Associate (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 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. Zakiya joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Infant and Toddler with 45 hours Preschool Certification • First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Zakiya has worked with children for 1 years. She believes that children learn best in nurturing environments. Learning through playing, communicating, and working with others help children grow socially and emotionally. Her favorite children’s book is “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Zakiya enjoys cooking with her family and reading.

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 has worked with children since 2016. Her educational philosophy is to ensure children grow mentally and physically in a secure and loving environment. Ms. Christina’s favorite children’s book is “Hop on Pop” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Ms. Christina enjoys spending time with family and friends, painting, and roller skating.

Ms. Alycia joined the Goddard School in 2024. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool Certification; Basic Health and Safety, CPR and first aid. Enrolled in the Howard County Community College Apprenticeship Program. Ms. Alycia has worked with children for since 2021. She believes that as a teacher, her role is to foster a safe and positive environment where a child has the necessary resources to grow and learn. She also believes it is important to create a comfortable environment where each child is inspired to express themselves. Her favorite children’s book is “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” by Judith Viorst. When not at school, Alycia enjoys playing board games with friends and executing creative makeup looks. She likes to explore faraway places and experience new cultures.

Ms. Sara 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 for six years. She believes that children should be taught based on what works best for them. 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.

Assistant Teacher in the Busy Butterflies. 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 for ten years. 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. Jessica joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • 90-Hour Preschool 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. 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 for 4 years. 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. 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. 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 for over 5 years. 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. Danae joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Pursuing a 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 for 2 years. 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. Jasmine joined the Goddard School in 2021. Educational Qualifications: • Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education • 90-Hour Preschool Certification • Medication Administration • Basic Health and Safety Certified • First Aid and CPR Certified • MSDE Credentialed. Ms. Jasmine has worked with children for 2 years. She believes that children learn best when they are valued and feel safe to risks and express themselves. Her favorite children’s book is “Don't let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!” by Mo Williams. When not at school, Jasmine like spending time with friends and family, playing with her dog, and watching Netflix.

Ms. Kennedy joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Para-educator Certification • Basic Health and Safety, First Aid and CPR Certified Ms. Kennedy has worked with children since 2016. She believes that all children are special and need to have a stimulating environment to help them reach their full potential. Her favorite children’s book is “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss. When not at school, Kennedy loves shopping and hanging out with friends. She is also working on her college degree.

Ms. Erica joined the Goddard team in January 2024 as a resource teacher for the infant classrooms. Educational qualifications: 45- hour infant and toddler certification; breastfeeding awareness; 9-hour communications course; 45 -hour child growth and development; CPR and first aid and basic health and safety. She has several years of experience working with young children. Ms. Erica's philosophy on education is that all children are unique. She believes children need a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. Her favorite children's book is "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" by Laura Numeroff. Ms. Erica enjoys the beach, gym, camping and spending time with her three children.

Ms. Precious joined the Goddard School in 2024. Ms. Precious has worked with children since 2019. She is enrolled in the Howard County Community College Apprenticeship program for Teaching. She believes that a classroom should be a safe, caring, community where children are free to express themselves, blossom, and grow. Her favorite children’s book is “Just Like Me” by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. When not at school, Precious enjoys hanging out with friends, shopping, going out to eat, reading, watching movies and going for walks.

Ms. Alanna joined the Goddard School in 2023. Educational Qualifications: • Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology at Hampton University Ms. Alanna has worked with children since 2018. She believes that repetition is effective way to learn when coupled with varied and creative activities. She also believes the classroom should be a safe space and a teacher should build trust with children so they know they can rely on them. Her favorite children’s book is “The Very Busy Spider” by Eric Carle. When not at school, Alanna enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dog. She also enjoys reading, art, writing, and trying new things.

Ms. Teshana joined the Goddard School in 2024. Ms. Teshana is new to early childhood education and is enrolled in the Howard County Community College Apprenticeship program for Teaching. She believes that as a teacher, it is her duty is to provide a stimulating environment where children can grow mentally, socially, and emotionally. She also believes it is important to create a comfortable environment where each child is inspired to express themselves. Her favorite children’s book is “On the Farm” by Brooke Vitale. When not at school, Teshana enjoys cleaning her home with lit candles while listening to music. She also enjoys watching movies and meditating to help her feel refreshed.

Ashley joined the Goddard School in 2022. Educational Qualifications: • Associates Degree in Psychology • 45-hour Working with Infants and Toddlers • 45-hour Methods in Materials in Early Childhood Education • Basic Health and Safety Certified Ms. Ashley believes in creating a caring, equitable, anti-bias community of learners. She believes that children learn best through play that is age-appropriate, individually appropriate, and challenges their further development. Her favorite children’s book is “Hair Loves” by Matthew A. Cherry. When not in school, Ms. Ashley enjoys spending time with her two nieces, tumbling at the gym, working out, traveling, watching movies, trying new restaurants, and shopping!