Our Goddard School Teachers

Hi, my name is Dipti and I am one of the owners of The Goddard School located in Laurel. I opened my first school in Hanover, MD and I love Goddard's philosophy in education and their emphasis on safety and security. I earned my bachelor's of science degree from the University of Maryland. I am a proud parent of two Goddard alum. The administrative team and I work side-by-side to create the best Goddard experience for the children, families, teachers, and the community. We strive for a collaborative work environment and a pursuit of continuous quality improvements.

Haley joined The Goddard School of Laurel in March 2025, bringing with her two years of experience as a director at The Goddard School in Pflugerville, Texas. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Maryville College, along with director credentials in both Texas and Maryland. Haley is passionate about creating a nurturing and joyful environment for both children and teachers, and she is thrilled to be part of the Laurel family. Outside of work, she loves spending quality time with her son, Kayde, and her husband, Killian—they are her whole world. Haley’s leadership, warmth, and dedication shine through in everything she does.

Ms. Malika joined The Goddard School of Laurel in December 2025 and brings years of experience in early childhood education management. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and is passionate about supporting both children and educators in a positive learning environment. Ms. Malika loves that she is able to continue her dedication to early childhood education as part of the Laurel Goddard community. Her leadership, warmth, and commitment help create a welcoming space for families and staff alike. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her mom and her son.

Ms. Alesia is a warm-hearted and loving preschool teacher who has been a dedicated member of The Goddard School of Laurel since 2017. With years of experience in early childhood education, she brings a calm, nurturing presence to the classroom every day. She holds an Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and has a special passion for working with children, helping them grow through patience, structure, and compassion. Alesia also loves building connections with children and staff across all age groups and is always ready with a smile and a hug. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys cooking and spending quality time with her family, both of which bring her joy and balance.

Ms. Maggie joined The Goddard School of Laurel in March 2025, bringing with her over 35 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Washington Adventist University and has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds with patience, care, and a deep love for learning. Ms. Maggie’s classroom is filled with warmth, structure, and meaningful moments that support each child’s growth and development. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending cherished time with her grandchildren. Her wealth of experience and gentle presence make her a treasured part of our Goddard family.

Ms. Makenzi joined The Goddard School of Laurel in March 2025 and brings a vibrant energy to the preschool classroom. She holds senior staff qualifications and is currently studying Human Development and Nonprofit Leadership & Social Innovation at the University of Maryland, College Park. With a passion for advocacy, Makenzi hopes to use her degree to influence educational policy and support both students and teachers on a broader scale. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family—especially her beloved nieces and nephews. She also loves to cook, bake, and unwind by coloring. Makenzi’s creativity, warmth, and dedication shine through in everything she does.

Ms. Zee joined The Goddard School of Laurel in March 2025 and brings a thoughtful, well-rounded perspective to the classroom. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Economics and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from Colby College. Currently, she is pursuing her Senior Staff credentials as well as her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification to continue growing both personally and professionally. In her free time, Ms. Zee enjoys taking fitness classes, practicing self-care, watching movies, and dancing. Her passion for education, paired with her vibrant personality, makes her a wonderful asset to the Goddard community.

Mr. Zamier joined The Goddard School of Laurel in May 2025, bringing with him a strong background in supporting others through his bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Lock Haven University. He brings a calm, thoughtful presence to the classroom and is passionate about helping children grow in a supportive and engaging environment. In his free time, Mr. Zamier enjoys reading books, relaxing with his family, and attending limited screenings at local theaters. He’s also excitedly preparing for a new chapter—welcoming his first son at the beginning of June! His gentle spirit and dedication make him a wonderful addition to our Goddard family.

Ms. Paris joined The Goddard School of Laurel in August 2025 and brings with her over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. She is lead teacher qualified for infant/toddler as well as preschool and pre-k classrooms. While she enjoys working with children of all ages, she has a special love for infants and cherishes being part of those very first milestones—from first smiles to first steps. Ms. Paris finds joy in creating a calm, nurturing environment where the youngest learners feel safe and loved. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her mom, her husband, and her beloved cats. Her gentle nature and experience make her a wonderful part of the Goddard family.

Ms. Verna is a dedicated lead teacher who finds great joy in working with infants and toddlers. Born and raised in Portland, Jamaica, she brings a nurturing and thoughtful approach to early childhood education. She especially loves how young children are natural explorers—eager to discover the world around them in their own unique and special ways. Ms. Verna is passionate about creating a safe, engaging environment where each child can thrive and grow at their own pace. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her beloved grandchildren, which brings her endless joy and inspiration.

Trinity McCoy joined The Goddard School of Laurel in March 2025 and brings over six years of continuous teaching experience. She has worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and even led summer camp programs, making her a well-rounded and passionate educator. A proud graduate of Paint Branch High School, Trinity completed several early childhood development courses and is now continuing her education at the Howard University. Her love for teaching comes from growing up in a big family as the middle child of eight, where caring for others came naturally. In her free time, Trinity enjoys making people laugh and indulge in a little retail therapy. Her vibrant personality and deep love for children shine through in everything she does!

Mr. Dajuan joined The Goddard School of Laurel in May 2025, bringing with him a strong background in working with young children through his previous experience as a track coach for ages 3 to 7. He is currently enrolled at Montgomery College, where he is studying psychology with the goal of deepening his understanding of child development. Mr. Dajuan has a natural energy and enthusiasm that shines in the classroom, and he loves helping children grow through movement and positive encouragement. In his free time, he enjoys working out and continuing his passion for coaching. His uplifting spirit and commitment to youth development make him a valued part of our Goddard team.

Ms. Tarmia joined The Goddard School of Laurel in June 2024 and has been a wonderful addition to our team. A graduate of Bladensburg High School, she is currently working toward obtaining her senior staff qualifications to become a lead teacher. Tarmia has a natural love for working with children and even spends her weekends babysitting! Her warm, caring personality shines through in everything she does, both in and out of the classroom. In her free time, she enjoys going out with friends and catching up on sleep. Tarmia brings a fun, energetic spirit to the classroom and is always ready with a smile!

Ms. Dazlyn joined The Goddard School of Laurel in August 2025 and brings a caring and positive energy to the classroom each day. She holds an associate degree from Prince George’s Community College and is CPR certified. Ms. Dazlyn is currently working toward becoming a Lead Teacher in infant and toddler classrooms, continuing to grow in her passion for early childhood education. She enjoys supporting young children as they learn, explore, and develop new skills. In her free time, Ms. Dazlyn loves spending time with her friends and riding her bike outdoors. Her warm personality and dedication make her a wonderful part of the Goddard family.

Ms. Paola joined The Goddard School of Laurel in October 2025 and brings five years of experience working with children. She is currently studying to obtain her Lead Teacher qualifications for infant and toddler classrooms and is passionate about supporting young children during their earliest stages of development. As the oldest of four siblings, caring for and guiding others has always come naturally to her. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Paola enjoys working out, painting, and running her own baking business. Her creativity, energy, and love for children make her a wonderful part of the Goddard family.