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 her 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. Alex is our Administrative Assistant and brings a strong passion for supporting both children and families. She has been working with children since 2017 and has prior experience as a front desk receptionist, where she developed excellent organizational and communication skills. Ms. Alex is also a Certified Designated Trainer (CDT), demonstrating her commitment to professional growth and high-quality care. In her free time, Ms. Alex enjoys scrapbooking, hiking, thrifting, building LEGO sets, and collecting plants. She hopes to pursue a future as an elementary school art teacher, combining her creativity with her love for education. Ms. Alex was drawn to early childhood education because of the opportunity to make a meaningful impact during such an important stage of development while creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for children to learn and grow.

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. Chloe is one of our lead Teachers. Ms. Chloe is completing her Child Development Associates with a focus in Preschool and Pre-K. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Ana is one of our Lead teachers. She has her bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies education with a minor in ESL education at the University of Michigan - Dearborn. Ms. Ana has been working with children since 2019. Ms. Ana moved to the United States in 2017 from Sao Paulo, Brazil. She has been a volunteer leader at the Feed the Need Summertime Lunch Program. In her free time, Ms. Ana enjoys going to concerts, reading, playing sports, and learning new languages. Ms. Ana went into early childhood because she has so much love for the children and enjoys seeing them learn new things.

Ms. Sarai is one of our lead teachers. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature and is currently earning her Child Development Associate with a focus in Preschool, while also working toward her associate’s degree in Child Development. As a first-generation college graduate, Ms. Sarai takes great pride in her educational journey and the example she sets for her students. Ms. Sarai has been working with children since 2025. Her favorite children’s book is Charlotte’s Web. In her free time, Ms. Sarai enjoys crafting, reading, and writing, as well as exploring her curiosity about bugs and dinosaurs—interests she loves to share with her students. She chose a career in Early Childhood Education because she strives to be the kind of teacher who makes a lasting impact on children’s lives and is remembered for helping shape their love of learning.

Ms. Suja is one of our lead teachers. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Master of Arts in Public Administration. Ms. Suja has been working with children since 2015 and is passionate about creating a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment. In addition to her classroom experience, she has worked as a Health and Safety Coordinator, ensuring compliance with workplace safety standards. Her favorite children’s book is Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?, and she enjoys engaging children in interactive reading experiences that build language and listening skills. In her free time, Ms. Suja enjoys gardening and cooking. She finds great joy in supporting children’s growth, learning, and development during these important early years. Building trusting relationships with children and helping them feel safe, confident, and valued is what motivates her every day.

Ms. Emily is one of our assistant teachers. She is currently attending Oakland Community College, where she is pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education. She also attended Aveda Beauty School and earned her cosmetology license in 2019. Ms. Emily has been working with children since 2011, gaining experience through nannying and in Montessori classrooms. Her background has given her a strong understanding of child development and a deep appreciation for hands-on, child-centered learning. Her favorite children’s books are Corduroy and Goodnight Moon, and she loves sharing meaningful stories with her students. In her free time, Ms. Emily enjoys doing Pilates, going on walks, and reading. She chose a career in early childhood education because of the genuine love she has for children. Ms. Emily finds so much joy in seeing the world through their eyes and watching them grow, discover, and learn new things every day.

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. 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. 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. Jenna is one of our Assistant Teachers and brings a strong background in child development and hands-on classroom experience to our school. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Grand Valley State University and previously worked for four years at The Goddard School in Grand Rapids. During her time there, she also completed an internship focused on administering and assisting with child assessments, supporting children’s growth and development. Her favorite children’s books are the Little Critter series and Pete the Cat. In her free time, Ms Jenna enjoys thrifting, building LEGO creations, and spending time with friends and family. She is passionate about working with children and supporting their learning in meaningful and engaging ways.

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. Kaliyah is one of our Lead teachers. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Developmental Psychology with minors in Leadership and Women and Gender Studies at University of Detroit Mercy. She has been around children from a young age and has always had a passion for supporting their growth and development. Ms. Kaliyah has been running track since 4th grade and now competes at the collegiate level. Her favorite children’s books are No, David! and Green Eggs and Ham. In her free time, she enjoys track, drawing, tattooing, cooking, and spending time with her family. Ms. Kaliyah chose a career in early childhood education because of her lifelong experience around children and her passion for creating a positive, caring, and fun environment where children can learn and grow.

Ms. Lindsey is one of our Lead teachers. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with an emphasis on Health Fitness Instruction from Grand Valley State University. Since 2025, Ms. Lindsey has been working with children and has developed a deep commitment to supporting their growth and learning. Prior to joining our team, Ms. Lindsey served as a Health and Wellness Coordinator with Special Olympics Michigan, where she led fitness classes for individuals with intellectual disabilities. She is currently working toward her certification to teach K–12 Health and Physical Education. Ms. Lindsey’s favorite children’s books are Junie B. Jones and Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, doing arts and crafts. Through both her personal experiences and her work with children of all abilities, Ms. Lindsey has discovered a true calling in teaching and nurturing young minds.

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. 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 assistant 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.

Ms. Jane is a Lead Teacher who has been working with children since 2023. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health Education and is currently completing her Child Development Associate credential to further expand her knowledge of early childhood education. Before joining our school, Ms. Jane worked as a nutrition educator and at a summer camp, where she taught children about fitness, healthy habits, and nutrition through fun, engaging activities. In her free time, Ms. Jane enjoys going to the movies, reading, taking walks, and painting. She chose a career in early childhood education because she has always loved being around children. After seeing how rewarding the field was through her best friend, who also works in early childhood education, she was inspired to pursue a career where she could help children learn, grow, and thrive each day.

Ms. Elise is one of our Lead Teachers who is currently completing her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She has been working with children since 2020, beginning her career as an Air Force child care provider. Looking toward the future, Ms. Elise plans to continue her education and pursue a career in pediatric nursing, combining her love for children with her passion for helping others. Ms. Elise is also a proud mom of a daughter and son. As part of a military family, she and her family have had the opportunity to move across the country and experience many different places. When she isn't in the classroom, Ms. Elise enjoys painting, spending time in nature, and practicing yoga. Ms. Elise has always had a passion for working with children and was inspired by an amazing teacher she had growing up. That experience encouraged her to pursue a career in early childhood education and make the same positive impact on the children in her care.

Ms. Tani'Ja is one of our Assistant Teachers and is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate. She has been working with children since 2017 and is passionate about supporting young children as they learn, grow, and explore the world around them. Ms. Tani'Ja chose early childhood education because of her love for young children and the joy she finds in watching their curiosity as they experience new things. Ms. Tani'Ja is also a proud mom to a son. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and writing music.

Ms. Zandra is one of our assistant teachers. She began working in early childhood in 2024. She first worked at a daycare, primarily with toddlers, before taking some time away while attending school and working overnight. After moving this past year, she was excited to return to working with children. Ms. Zandra has always enjoyed caring for children and began by babysitting her younger siblings and family members. She loves helping children learn how to express themselves, build relationships, and interact with the world around them. Her favorite children’s book is *The Gingerbread Man*. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Zandra enjoys baking and spending time with animals. She is excited to continue growing her experience in early childhood and creating positive, meaningful experiences for the children she works with.

Ms. Chelsi is one of our assistant teachers. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting with a specialty in Forensic Accounting through Southern New Hampshire University. Ms. Chelsi began working with children in 2018. Ms. Chelsi's love for working with children began as a teenager, when she babysat for family friends, worked as a summer nanny, and participated in her high school’s TOTS program, where she assisted teachers in an elementary school classroom. She also spent several years caring for two young children in her neighborhood, beginning when the youngest was a newborn. Ms. Chelsi previously worked as an EMT, where she earned certifications in CPR, First Aid, and AED operation. Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, gardening, reading, and crafting. Her favorite book is *Frog and Toad*. Ms. Chelsi’s goal is to provide every child with a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where they feel comfortable learning, growing, and being themselves.

Ms. Raquel is one of our assistant teachers. She is currently attending Schoolcraft College, completing her general education courses as she continues her educational journey. She began working with children in 2022 through babysitting and mentoring and quickly discovered how rewarding it is to support children as they learn and grow. She has enjoyed taking on leadership roles, including serving as a WEB Mentor in middle school, where she supported and guided younger students. After her experiences babysitting and mentoring, she knew she wanted to continue building her experience working with children. Her favorite children’s book is "The Giving Tree", which she loves for its message about appreciating the people who are always there for you. In her free time, Ms. Raquel enjoys baking, practicing yoga, going for walks, swimming, and playing with her dog. She is excited to continue growing as an educator and building meaningful relationships with the children she works with.

Ms. Madison is our Inclusion Support Specialist. She holds an Associate Degree in Liberal Studies and is currently earning her dual license in Special Education and Elementary Education. She has worked with children since she was 12 years old. Ms. Madison spent two years working in ABA, two years as a kindergarten paraprofessional, and two years as a Special Education teacher. Ms. Madison’s passion for supporting children began through her own family experiences, growing up with 10 siblings and a brother who experienced developmental delays related to autism. These experiences showed her the importance of early childhood development and inspired her to pursue a career where she could make a meaningful difference. Outside of work, Ms. Madison loves to read and has read nearly 200 books in a year! She also loves to travel and has visited more than half of the 50 states. She is passionate about helping every child feel supported, understood, and confident as they grow and learn.