Our Goddard School Teachers

Welcome to the Goddard School®! We would like to take this opportunity to introduce ourselves and share with you a little about who we are and how we came to The Goddard School®. Madhu’s family established many schools in Delhi, India. They created learning opportunities for many children who didn’t have access to education. As Mathematics and Early Childhood Teachers Akhil’s parents helped many children experience a better life. As a successful business executive, Madhu has spent her career putting clients and colleagues needs first. At the same time, Akhil has proudly served as an executive for the Department of Defense. Our family includes a son and daughter who attend medical and engineering school. As on-site owners of The Goddard School®, our emphasis will be to provide a loving and nurturing environment to help your child’s learning and development. Sincerely, Madhu and Akhil Govil Owners

My name is Hasna Belayachi & I am the Executive Director of The Goddard School of Waldorf, Maryland. As the Executive Director, I take great pride in knowing that our School is one that strives for excellence and quality in the Early Childhood Education Industry. I have over 20 years of experience working in the childcare field. I have been working with Goddard since 2015. I have a Baccalaureate in modern literature , Preschool CDA, Infant CDA ,Associate in early childhood education. I hold Level 4 ECE Director credential. I enjoy spending time with my family and enjoying music, shopping and reading. As an Executive Director of The Goddard Schools, I’m committed to working with and supporting the Directors to provide your child with the best care and highest quality of education possible. Quote: “I love helping the children grow and making a difference in their lives, as well as helping them become what they want to be.”

Ms. Ryan Templeman is the Director of The Goddard School of Waldorf. She began her journey with the school as Assistant Director and has been privileged to grow into her current role. Ms. Templeman holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology with a minor in Early Childhood Education. Her passion for Early Childhood Education has been a driving force in her life, and she has been committed to this field since her college years, during which she gained valuable experience working at local childcare centers. Before joining The Goddard School, Ms. Templeman built a diverse professional background, including serving as a long-term retail manager and working as a mental health therapist. These experiences have provided her with a unique perspective on leadership and child development. She is also a proud mother of a beautiful daughter. In her spare time, Ms. Templeman enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Being part of The Goddard School of Waldorf team brings her immense joy.

Ms. Courtney is the Assistant Director at The Goddard School of Waldorf, bringing with her four years of experience working with children in childcare settings. Her background extends to working with both the elderly and school-aged children within the community, showcasing her versatility and dedication to care. Courtney is certified to teach all ages, from Infants and Toddlers to Preschool and School-Age children. She has completed extensive training, including CPR/First Aid, MAT (Medication Administration Training), and various communication courses. Her passion for education and care is evident in her work, as the role of Assistant Director, where she will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families at our school.

My name is Cynatra Smith, I was born and raised In Philadelphia, PA. May 2021 I got married, moved to Maryland in June with my husband who already reside here in Bowie, MD and we have a 6 year old son whose name is Karter. We recently moved to Brandywine MD and now I am here at The Goddard School. I’ve been working in childcare for almost 8 years, teaching children is truly my passion, I literally can not see myself doing anything else. I am a very loving, fun and nurturing person and I look forward to my time here at Goddard.

Ms. Lydia – Lead Kindergarten Teacher The Goddard School® – Waldorf, MD Ms. Lydia is the dedicated Lead Teacher in our Private Kindergarten classroom. She has been nurturing young minds since 2008 and proudly joined The Goddard School® family in 2016. Holding a Bachelor of Education in Home Economics, along with a Preschool and Infant Toddler CDA, Ms. Lydia is also certified with state-specific education credentials. She has achieved a Level 6 Early Childhood Education (ECE) credential and maintains First Aid/CPR and Medical Administration certifications, ensuring a safe and enriching learning environment. As a mother of three beautiful children, Ms. Lydia understands the importance of individualized learning. She believes that every child is unique and should be encouraged to learn at their own pace. Her goal is to instill a lifelong love for learning, fostering confidence and curiosity in every child she teaches. ? "The Best Faculty, The Best Environment."

Ms. Dana is our Lead Teacher for out Infant program. Ms. Dana has over 33 years of experience in Early childhood Education. Her expertise spans across various age groups including Infant and Toddlers, Preschool, and School Age Curriculum. Ms. Dana is CDA certified and continues to hold college education credits in Early Childcare curriculum. Additionally, she has completed extensive training, including CPR, communication courses, and various Early Childhood Education modules. Ms. Dana loves to prepare in advance all the curriculum the children will be learning and loves to see their growth and development. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIORNMENT"

Ms. Keana is our teacher in our Pre-K 2 Program with over five years of experience working in childcare. She was born and raised in Guam until the age of 12 and has since lived in Florida, Okinawa (Japan), Hawaii, Virginia, and now calls Maryland home. Ms. Keana is passionate about supporting young learners during their most important developmental years. “As an early childhood educator, I believe in creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them. My goal is to spark a lifelong love for learning by encouraging curios This year will be her 2nd year working in the educational field. "I love how creative kids are, as well as how honest and kind they can be. I strongly believe a child's love for learning and school starts at an early age. My philosophy for teaching is to always inspire and feed their creativity and to always allow them room to think outside the box." "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. Danielle – Lead Teacher, Pre-Toddlers Classroom At The Goddard School®, Ms. Danielle brings a wealth of experience and a nurturing spirit to our Pre-Toddlers classroom. With a career in Early Childhood Education that began in 2001, she has been an integral part of the Goddard family since 2014. Ms. Danielle holds her state-specific education certifications and is actively pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. As a mother of two, she brings both personal warmth and professional expertise to her classroom, ensuring that every child receives the individualized attention they deserve. Certified in First Aid/CPR and Medical Administration, Ms. Danielle is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all her students. "The Best Faculty, The Best Environment."

Ms. Hamideh – Pre-Toddlers Teacher Ms. Hamideh brings a unique blend of experience and passion to our Pre-Toddlers program. She joined The Goddard School® in early 2023 and has been dedicated to supporting young learners ever since. With a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a master’s degree in Public Management, she spent eight years tutoring students, fostering their academic growth and confidence. Currently, she is furthering her education by studying English at CSM, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning. Ms. Hamideh believes that patience and flexibility are the most important qualities a teacher can offer, ensuring each child feels supported in their early learning journey. ? "The Best Faculty, The Best Environment."

Ms. Maria – Teacher Ms. Maria has been a dedicated educator at The Goddard School® of Waldorf since 2016, bringing warmth, experience, and a nurturing spirit to the classroom. With three years of experience as a Nanny and fluency in both Spanish and English, she fosters an inclusive and engaging learning environment for all children. She believes that a safe and welcoming environment encourages children to explore, discover, and build confidence in themselves and the world around them. As a devoted mother of three, Ms. Maria understands the importance of patience, care, and individualized attention in early childhood education. ? "The Best Faculty, The Best Environment."

The Goddard School of Waldorf is excited to introduce Ms. Aryah to our community! With a strong teaching philosophy focused on fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration, Ms. Aryah is committed to creating an interactive and supportive learning environment where children feel both engaged and empowered. She recognizes that every child learns in their own unique way, and she adapts her teaching approach to meet the diverse learning styles of each individual, using clear explanations, relevant examples, and meaningful dialogue. Ms. Aryah is highly qualified, holding certifications in Infant and Toddler care, as well as certifications in Breastfeeding and SIDS. She is also certified in Preschool Curriculum, Medical Administration, and is First Aid and CPR trained, ensuring she is well-prepared to support the well-being and development of the children in her care. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. Ania has been a part of the Goddard School in 2024. She has always had a passion for children and caregiving. Ania also brings experience from the medical field, with knowledge and training in administering medicine and phlebotomy. Her love for working with children stems from seeing their growth and development, knowing they have so much potential. Ania is continuing her education in Early Childhood Care to further enhance her skills and knowledge. As she begins her journey at Goddard, she hopes to be welcomed with open arms. She holds certifications in Early Childhood Care, along with SIDS and Breastfeeding certifications for infants and toddlers. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

The Goddard School of Waldorf is excited to welcome Ms. Kyra to our community! With a lifelong passion for working with children, Ms. Kyra is eager to contribute to creating a supportive and stimulating environment where every child can thrive. Her dedication to nurturing young minds comes from her deep belief that each child is unique, and it's her role to help enhance their individual skills while making them feel comfortable and supported. When she’s not working, Ms. Kyra enjoys spending quality time with her family, and she’s looking forward to getting to know the families here at Goddard. She is excited to help children on their journey of both academic growth and fun exploration, fostering an atmosphere where learning and play go hand in hand. Ms. Kyra holds a degree in Early Education and has more than three years of experience in the childcare field. She is qualified in Preschool Curriculum and holds certifications in First Aid and CPR. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. April is the Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Waldorf, bringing over 20 years of hands-on experience in early childhood education. She has worked with children of all ages, from infants to school-aged, and began her journey by running a successful home daycare. Ms. April earned her child care credentials through Charles County Public Schools and has completed numerous early childhood education courses to stay current on best practices in child development, behavior guidance, and curriculum planning. She is passionate about creating a warm, inclusive classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Ms. Alexandra is a teacher at The Goddard School of Waldorf. She is CPR and First Aid trained and is continuing her education in Early Childhood Care. In addition to her work as a teacher, Ms. Alexandra has experience coaching children between the ages of 2 and 6 in sports. Ms. Alexandra believes that children are wonderful little sponges, absorbing everything around them. She recognizes that every move a teacher makes can impact a child, whether positively or negatively. She strives to create a positive environment that encourages kindness, problem-solving, self-discipline, and helps children learn how to be good humans as they grow. Ms. Alexandra views the relationship between parents and teachers as a partnership, where parents plant the seed and teachers help nurture and grow the flower. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. Vanessa’s passion for caring for children began at a young age. She believes in creating a space that fosters creativity, trust, and self-confidence, allowing children to explore their imaginations. With over a year and a half of experience in childcare, Ms. Vanessa has also worked with children through schools, churches, and as a nanny. She is committed to furthering her education, as she believes children learn best in a welcoming and loving environment. Recognizing that children are the future, Ms. Vanessa is dedicated to nurturing and caring for them. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed multiple early childhood development courses. Ms. Vanessa is also continuing her education to become Lead qualified in Preschool curriculum. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Diamond brings nearly four years of childcare experience and one year of teaching experience to the role. Since 2023, Diamond has been attending classes at the College of Southern Maryland, majoring in Early Childhood Development. Prior to her teaching career, she worked as a full-time nanny, gaining experience with children ranging from infants to preschool age. Diamond’s teaching philosophy centers on being an active part of a child’s growth, watching them learn and thrive. She is passionate about helping children develop the skills they need to spread their wings and achieve greatness. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. Destiny Smith joins us as a certified Lead Teacher with a strong background in Preschool curriculum and a genuine passion for early childhood education. Ms. Destiny brings a fresh perspective and creative energy that shines through in all that she does.Ms. Destiny is already recognized for her enthusiasm, dedication, and ability to connect with each child’s unique strengths. She believes in placing students first and is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment where every child feels valued, confident, and inspired to learn and explore. Ms. Destiny is currently continuing her education toward a teaching degree and is always growing—just like the children she teaches. She incorporates creativity and hands-on learning into her classroom, making each day an exciting opportunity for discovery.

Dorcas Olaseha has worked in Early Childhood Education for over nine years. She finds joy in helping young learners explore the world through developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Dorcas believes that children learn from their environments and thrive when supported by both parents and teachers. As an early education teacher, she is excited to bring diverse and meaningful learning opportunities to every child.

Ms. Terrie Brownlee is a Teacher here at The Goddard School of Waldorf. She bring over 15 years of experience in early childhood care and education. She has worked in a variety of settings, including the CDC Child Development Center serving Army families, where she was promoted to chef—combining her love of cooking with service. However, her passion for teaching led her back to the classroom. Ms. Terrie holds a CDA credential and has served as a Lead Teacher for over a year. She is also CPR certified, underscoring her commitment to the safety and well-being of every child in her care. Ms. Terrie is CPR, First Aid certified.

Ms. Khalayla is a passionate and experienced teacher here at The Goddard School of Waldorf. With over five years of teaching experience, Ms. Khalayla brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to early childhood education. She holds certifications in CPR and First Aid, as well as Early Infant and Toddler Care, including specialized training in Breastfeeding Support and SIDS Awareness. She is also currently continuing her professional development by taking courses at Penn Foster University. Ms. Khalayla is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, engaging, and student-centered learning environment, where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired. Her goal is to spark curiosity, build self-confidence, and nurture a lifelong love of learning in every student. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys playing music, coloring, traveling, and spending quality time with her family and friends. "THE BEST FACULTY, THE BEST ENVIRONMENT"

Ms. Joan Robinson is Infant classroom team. She brings valuable experience working with children from 7 months to 4 years old in daycare settings, and she is passionate about nurturing young children during their most important developmental years. Ms. Joan also has a strong background in social services. She has worked in homeless shelters for women and children, where she provided vital resources and support to families in transition. Her work included documenting children's growth and development, assisting with school placements, and helping families adjust to new environments with care and compassion. She holds certifications in CPR and First Aid, as well as SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) prevention and Breastfeeding support. In addition, Ms. Joan has completed continuing education programs through Lehman College and University, earning certificates in Human Growth and Development, Human Services, and Child Welfare Services.