Our Goddard School Teachers

Derick and Bobbie Doe are thrilled to provide families of the greater Novi community with high-quality early childhood education in a warm, safe and nurturing environment. As proud owners of The Goddard School of Novi (Grand River), they bring their deep commitment to early childhood education and community engagement to life every day. Inspired by their son’s experience at a Goddard School, Derick & Bobbie recognized the importance of a high-quality, nurturing, learning environment and made the decision to build The Goddard School of Novi to inspire more children to reach their full potential in their next steps in school and life. Their vision for the school is to be a cornerstone of the community, where children build a strong foundation for academic and social success while fostering a lifelong love of learning. They believe in supporting not just children but their families, creating a warm and inclusive environment where everyone feels like part of the Goddard family.

Janelle is a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Development and Learning. She has been a dedicated part of The Goddard School of Novi since its opening in 2017 and played an integral role in launching the school. Janelle holds her National Director Credential through the McCormick Center, demonstrating her continued commitment to high-quality early childhood leadership. She and her husband, John, have two children, June and Jonah, who are also part of the Goddard family. Janelle is passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging, and supportive environment where children can thrive and families feel like part of a community.

Trisha holds a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Development and Learning from Central Michigan University. She began her time at The Goddard School in 2020 as a Pre-K lead teacher and has a strong passion for kindergarten readiness. As Assistant Director, Trisha strives to support the team with curriculum development and creating a positive, engaging classroom environment for both teachers and children. With many years of teaching experience, Trisha brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role, ensuring that every child’s growth and learning is supported. She is also a proud mother to her son, Finn, who attends The Goddard School, giving her a personal connection to the families she serves. Trisha’s commitment, expertise, and leadership make her an invaluable part of our school community.

Ms. Bella is our Community Ambassador. She was born in China and studied Business Management at Kansai University in Japan, graduating top of her class. She has worked 11 years in Japan, building strong organization and communication skills. As a mom of two young boys, Ms. Bella discovered her passion for early childhood education. She has successfully raised my children to become trilingual in Chinese, Japanese, and English—including independent reading at an early age. Ms. Bella speaks all three languages herself which allows her to support families from different cultural backgrounds and facilitate smooth home–school communication. In her free time, Ms. Bella enjoys outdoor play, cultural exchange, and exploring fun learning activities with her children. Ms. Bella believes children learn best when they feel safe, respected, and excited to explore. She is excited to bring her multicultural background, parenting experience, and passion for language learning into the classroom.

Ms. April is one of our lead teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Albion College and has also attended the English Nanny and Governess School. Ms. April has been working with children since 2001 and has a genuine love for guiding their growth and discovery. Her favorite children’s book is The Rainbow Fish, which reflects her appreciation for stories that teach kindness and sharing. In her free time, Ms. April enjoys reading and exploring creative crafts. Ms. April chose a career in early childhood education because she loves watching children learn and grow, and finds it incredibly rewarding to see them master new skills and flourish in their own unique ways.

Ms. April is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s in English Literature from Madonna University and an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from William Tyndale College. Ms. April has been working with children since 1989 and became a proud mom in 2004. In addition to her teaching experience, she has a unique background that includes working as security at the Olympics. Ms. April is a creative spirit who enjoys painting, writing poetry, and crafting short stories. She even self-published a poetry book in 1990. Inspired by her mother, who was a teacher at the school she attended growing up, Ms. April discovered her own passion for teaching in college and has been dedicated to early childhood education ever since. Her love for guiding young learners and fostering their growth makes her a treasured member of our team.

Ms. Christina is one of our Lead Teachers, She holds her CDA with a focus in Preschool and has been working with children since 2018. In addition to her classroom experience, Ms. Christina has taught private French lessons to first graders, sharing her love of language and learning. Her favorite children’s books are The Little House on the Prairie series, which reflect her appreciation for storytelling and imagination. In her free time, Ms. Christina enjoys playing the guitar, reading, cooking, and spending quality time with her family. Her passion for caring for and guiding children began at a young age, and she finds great joy in helping each child grow, explore, and thrive.

Ms. Erica is one of our lead teachers. She holds her Child Development Associate credential with a focus in Infant and Toddler care. She has been working with children since 2016 and brings both experience and a genuine love for early learning into the classroom. Her favorite children’s book is Are You My Mother? by Dr. Seuss, a timeless story she enjoys sharing with the children in her care. In her free time, Ms. Erica loves spending time with friends, exploring new places, and making sweet treats. Ms. Erica has always loved being around children and finds joy in watching their unique personalities develop. She is inspired by the opportunity to support little ones as they reach milestones, build confidence, and feel safe in their environment.

Ms. Esther is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds an Associate of Arts from Mott Community College and a Child Development Associate (CDA) in Preschool. Ms. Esther has been working with children since 2007, and her love for young learners is at the heart of everything she does. Faith plays an important role in Ms. Esther’s life, guiding her through everyday challenges and inspiring her dedication to her work and the children she serves. One of her proudest accomplishments is her own children, who bring her joy and perspective every day. In her free time, Ms. Esther enjoys biking, scrapbooking, and traveling to explore new places. Her passion for early childhood education comes from a desire to create a safe, nurturing environment where all children can grow, learn, and thrive.

Ms. Gabi is one of our Lead Teachers, She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Children and Families from Eastern Michigan University and has been working with children since 2013. Her favorite children’s book is Stellaluna, reflecting her love for stories that inspire curiosity and imagination. In her free time, Ms. Gabi enjoys spending quality time with her family, knitting, and reading. She chose a career in Early Childhood because she loves the opportunity to shape young minds and believes that even the smallest milestones are meaningful accomplishments worth celebrating.

Ms. Hannah is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds a Child Development Associate with a Preschool concentration and has been working with children since 2012. Her favorite children’s book is Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss, a story that reflects her enthusiasm for inspiring young minds. In her free time, Ms. Hannah enjoys cooking and exploring new recipes. She chose a career in Early Childhood because she loves children’s excitement for learning, their open-mindedness, and the unique perspective they bring to the world. Watching them grow and discover new things is what makes her work so rewarding.

Ms. Holly is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University, where she was a member of the Honors College, and has been working with children since 2018. She has experience in mentorship and early childhood support, volunteering in “Mommy and Me” classes with Starfish Family Services and mentoring college students at EMU in discipline, professionalism, and leadership. Her favorite children’s books are The Velveteen Rabbit and Junie B. Jones. In her free time, she enjoys painting, writing poetry, reading, and practicing yoga. Ms. Holly’s passion for early childhood comes from her belief in the importance of early learning, and she loves helping children grow, explore, and reach their full potential.

Ms. Izzy is one of our lead teachers and is working toward her Child Development Associate credential in Infant and Toddler. She has been working with young children since 2022 and brings both knowledge and a genuine passion for nurturing little ones. As the second oldest of six children, her love for early childhood education grew from caring for her younger siblings—especially her youngest sister as an infant and toddler. Originally from North Carolina, Ms. Izzy recently moved to the area and enjoys hiking, traveling, and playing video games in her free time. Her favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon, which she loves sharing with her class. Ms. Izzy is excited to be part of each child’s early learning journey and is passionate about creating a safe, warm, and engaging environment where children can thrive.

Ms. Meenu is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Rochester University and has been working with children since 2019. Her favorite children’s books are the number books, which reflect her love of helping children explore and learn through hands-on discovery. In her free time, Ms. Meenu enjoys cooking, decorating, and spending quality time with her family. She pursued a career in early childhood education because of her passion for teaching, and after working with a range of age groups, she discovered her true love for guiding and inspiring younger children.

Ms. Michelle is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood from Schoolcraft College and has been working in preschool programs since 2006. Ms. Michelle has a rich background in curriculum development, having designed and implemented her own program as Director and Curriculum Advisor for the San Bernardino Archdiocese, including overseeing the licensing process. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her three children, gardening, and being a dance mom. She chose early childhood education because it is a creative, hands-on career, and she finds it incredibly rewarding to watch children learn, grow, and thrive.

Ms. Rachael is one of our Lead Teachers. She holds a Child Development Associate with a focus in Infant and Toddler and has been working with children since 2007. Her son, Kadin, and her daughter, Sunny, who currently attends The Goddard School, have been a big inspiration in her journey in early childhood education. Ms. Rachael loves seeing children’s faces light up when they learn something new and finds joy in guiding their growth and exploration. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling with friends to Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

Ms. Raven is one of our Lead Teachers. She has experience as a nanny for two years and is also a proud mom of two boys. Ms. Raven has her Child Development Associate with a focus in Infant and Toddler care. Her favorite children’s books are the There Was an Old Lady series, which reflect her love for storytelling and fun in learning. In her free time, Ms. Raven enjoys spending quality time with her children and riding bikes. She is passionate about early childhood education and finds joy in watching children grow, explore, and discover who they are becoming.

Ms. Claire is one of our Assistant Teachers. She has been working with children since 2022 and plans to pursue her Child Development Associate with a focus in Infant and Toddler care. Her favorite children’s book is The Cat in the Hat, reflecting her fun and playful approach to learning. In her free time, Ms. Claire enjoys creating art and spending time with her family. Coming from a family of seven, she discovered a natural passion for caring for younger children, which inspired her to pursue a career in early childhood education.

Ms. Chloe is one of our Assistant Teachers. She holds an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University, with a focus on child development in juveniles, and has been working with children since 2014. Her favorite children’s books are the Junie B. Jones series, which reflect her fun, relatable approach to learning. In her free time, Ms. Chloe enjoys painting, playing card games, and attending plays and musicals. She chose a career in early childhood education because she loves building personal connections with children and finds joy in watching their curiosity grow—being part of those “aha” moments is what makes teaching so rewarding for her.

Ms. Cynthia is one of our Assistant Teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree along with Montessori certification and has been working with children since 2016. In previous roles, Ms. Cynthia has also taught Spanish lessons, sharing her love of language and culture with young learners. Her favorite children’s book is The Lorax, reflecting her appreciation for meaningful stories and lessons. In her free time, Ms. Cynthia enjoys going to the movies with her family, listening to music, and traveling. She chose a career in early childhood education because of the joy she feels in making a positive difference in the lives of children.

Ms. Emiley is one of our assistant teachers and is working toward her Child Development Associate credential with a focus in Infant and Toddler care. She has been working with children since 2015 and brings years of hands-on experience and a passion for early learning to the classroom. During two summers, Ms. Emiley lived and worked on Mackinac Island—an experience so memorable that it even led to an article being written about her! Her favorite children’s book is Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss, a story that reflects her positive outlook and love for encouraging children to dream big. In her free time, Ms. Emiley enjoys cooking, walking her dog, shopping, and spending time with friends and family. She chose a career in early childhood education because she loves making children happy and watching them grow, learn, and discover new things each day. Ms. Emiley is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment and hopes to make a lasting impact on every child she works wi

Ms. Geeta is one of our Assistant Teachers. She studied in India with a primary focus on education in the arts and discovered early on the joy and fulfillment that comes from working with children. She has been supporting and caring for young learners since 2005, bringing years of experience and creativity to her role. In her free time, Ms. Geeta enjoys spending quality time with her children. She chose a career in early childhood education because of her love for working with children and the meaningful connections she builds with them each day.

Ms. Grace is one of our assistant teachers and has been working with children since 2021. Growing up with both parents as educators, she developed a love for teaching and caring for children at a young age. She often helped her mom while babysitting, gaining early hands-on experience that inspired her passion for early childhood education. Her favorite children’s book is Pinkalicious. In her free time, Ms. Grace loves reading, spending time with friends and family, going to concerts, kayaking, taking walks, and listening to music. She is dedicated to supporting each child’s growth and development and hopes to make a lasting, positive impact in their lives.

Ms. Janell is one of our Resource Teachers. She graduated from Schoolcraft College with an Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts and has worked in early childhood settings as a cook since 1999. Her background allows her to support children in a nurturing and meaningful way beyond the classroom. Ms. Janell is a proud mom of two sons and has also been a nanny for two generations of the same family. Her favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree, reflecting her generous and caring nature. In her free time, Ms. Janell enjoys hiking and baking. Her love for children and desire to support their growth inspired her to work in early childhood education, where she continues to make a positive impact every day.

Ms. Jenna is one of our assistant teachers and is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree at IUPUI. She has been working with children since 2022, starting at summer camps in America and Japan before moving into nannying and children’s homes. She has also led a Nature Studies class, encouraging children to explore and learn through the natural world. Her passion for culture and education led her to study Japanese language, anthropology, religion, and art. In 2022, she attended the NPT Conference at the United Nations as a delegate for the PEAC Institute and later contributed artwork to international peace exhibitions in Japan. Inspired by the impact her own teachers made, Ms. Jenna is committed to creating a caring, patient, and supportive environment during this formative stage of children’s lives.

Ms. Jennell is one of our assistant teachers. Ms. Jennell has been working with children since 2010. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Television: Writing and Producing from Howard University and Columbia College Chicago. While living in Los Angeles, Ms. Jennell spent nine years tutoring homeless children with special needs, an experience that deepened her passion for education and supporting every child’s growth. Her favorite children’s books are Where the Sidewalk Ends and A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Jennell enjoys digital photography and volunteering with the Torch of Wisdom Foundation. Ms. Jennell went into early childhood education because she has always valued education. After tutoring in secondary education and serving as a kids’ minister, she discovered her true calling in working with young children, nurturing their development and helping shape future leaders from the very beginning.

Ms. Judy is one of our assistant teachers. For 10 years, she ran her own in-home daycare, providing a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. She also dedicated 26 years to another career before retiring in 2025. Ms. Judy is grateful to bring together her years of professional experience and her lifelong love of caring for children. As a proud mother and grandmother, Ms. Judy loves spending time with her family and never misses a chance to cheer on her grandchildren at their sporting events. She also enjoys gardening and finds joy in watching things grow—both in her garden and in the classroom. Her favorite children’s book, I Love You to the Moon and Back, reflects her warm, caring nature. Ms. Judy is excited to be part of the classroom, where she treasures the opportunity to see young children grow, learn, and experience their many “firsts.”

Ms. Kalisha is one of our Assistant Teachers. She attended Schoolcraft College, where she earned her certificate in Child Development with a focus on Infant and Toddler care. Ms. Kalisha has been working with children since 1997 and brings decades of hands-on experience to her role. Her favorite children’s book is The Cat in the Hat, reflecting her fun and playful approach to learning. In her free time, Ms. Kalisha enjoys gardening and cooking. She chose a career in early childhood education because of the joy she finds in making a positive difference in children’s lives while creating a fun, supportive environment where they can thrive.

Ms. Lindsey is our Resource Teacher. She holds an Associate’s degree in Business and Culinary Arts and has been working with children since 2022 as a paraprofessional. She is also a proud mom to her two boys, Easton and Rylan, who inspire her nurturing approach to working with children. Her favorite children’s books are Llama Llama Red Pajama and I Love You Forever, reflecting her love for stories that promote comfort and connection. In her free time, Ms. Lindsey enjoys exploring new places and attending local art shows. She finds great joy in working in an environment filled with children and considers it incredibly rewarding to support their growth and development each day.

Ms. Mikaela is one of our assistant teachers. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Business from Grand Valley State University and has been working with children since 2016. Her experience includes assisting in preschool music classes, where she loved blending creativity and education. Her passion for teaching grew through service trips to Peru, Fiji, Milwaukee, and Detroit, where she enjoyed giving back to communities. In her free time, she stays active and creative through volleyball, music, pottery, volunteering, and snowboarding. Her favorite children’s book is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, a playful classic she enjoys sharing with her class. Ms. Mikaela is dedicated to supporting each child’s growth and development while bringing creativity and care into the classroom.

Ms. Najah is one of our assistant teachers. She graduated from the University of Michigan and is currently pursuing her teaching certificate in Elementary Education. With a background as an assistant dance teacher and experience working with Ballet & Books—a dance and literacy mentorship program—Ms. Najah discovered her passion for working with children and supporting their early learning journeys. Her favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree, a story that reflects her nurturing and giving spirit. In her free time, Ms. Najah enjoys dancing and participating in productions, bringing creativity and energy to all that she does. Her time with Ballet & Books inspired her to pursue a career in early education, where she finds joy in being part of a child’s very first steps into their educational future.

Ms. Rupa is one of our assistant teachers and has been working with children since 2025. Her favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon, a classic she enjoys sharing with the young learners in her care. In her free time, Ms. Rupa loves playing games and watching movies. She chose to pursue early childhood education because she sees it as a meaningful way to build strong teaching skills while making a positive difference. Ms. Rupa values the opportunity this field provides to learn about children, develop strong communication skills, and grow personally and professionally.

Ms. Rachel is one of our Assistant Teachers. She began working with children in 2020 as a paraprofessional in special education and later served as a lead supervisor in an after-school program. Ms. Rachel also has experience as a camp counselor, further strengthening her ability to connect with children of all ages. Her favorite children’s books are the Little Critter series. In her free time, Ms. Rachel enjoys reading, embroidery, and spending quality time with family and friends. She finds working with young children incredibly rewarding and is passionate about helping each child learn, grow, and succeed.

Ms. Sarah is one of our assistant teachers and has been working with children since 2012. Alongside her classroom experience, she has also been teaching dance since 2022 and loves bringing creativity and movement into her work with young learners. She plans to pursue her Child Development Associate credential to continue growing as an early childhood professional. Before joining our team, Ms. Sarah worked in a bakery for five years, where she became manager and developed strong leadership and organizational skills. Her favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon, a classic she enjoys sharing with the children in her care. In her free time, Ms. Sarah enjoys dancing, gardening, and crafting. She knew from a young age that she wanted to work in early childhood education, inspired by the time she spent helping care for her younger sister. Today, she continues to bring that same nurturing spirit into the classroom, supporting children as they learn and grow.

Ms. Sarah is one of our assistant teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan Dearborn and has been working with children since 2022. Her favorite children’s book is The Rainbow Fish, reflecting her love for stories that teach kindness and creativity. In her free time, Ms. Sarah enjoys working out and reading. She pursued a career in early childhood education because she has always dreamed of becoming a teacher and is passionate about making a positive impact on children’s lives.

Ms. Surekha is one of our Assistant Teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education with a focus on teacher training and has been working with children since 2007. Prior to joining early childhood education in the U.S., Ms. Surekha taught science in India for three years, sharing her love of learning with her students. Her favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear, a classic that reflects her enjoyment of engaging young learners. In her free time, Ms. Surekha enjoys cooking and spending quality time with her children. She chose a career in early childhood education because of the joy young children bring to her life and the fulfillment she finds in supporting their growth and development.

Ms. Vanessa is one of our assiatnt teachers. She has been working with children since 2022 and brings a warm, patient, and nurturing presence to our classrooms. She holds a Montessori teaching credential and is passionate about creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for every child. Some of her favorite children’s books include Dr. Seuss classics and Winnie the Pooh. Ms. Vanessa decided to pursue early childhood education because of her natural love for children and her patient, caring nature. She quickly realized that working with kids allowed her to combine her passion with her personality, creating a joyful and authentic experience for both herself and her students. Outside of school, Ms. Vanessa enjoys going on walks, hitting the gym, and watching movies. She is dedicated to fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child she works with.