Our Teachers

I was trained as a neuroscientist and as an educator. I volunteered at a preschool when I was 20 years old at U of M. I have published a peer-reviewed article on brain development as a graduate student at MSU. We are a family-owned and operated school, always looking out for the best interest of the child. We are building an educational community in Rochester Hills. We have two children, and I am very active in their upbringing. We focus on learning through play while maintaining high standards for safety and security. All of our lead teachers have an associate's degree in early childhood and many have bachelor's degrees. The first thing we look at when hiring is that the teacher is warm and loving and cares about the educational process. We hope to take care of your children as if they are our own. Building trust is extremely important to us as a school family. Please click on "Book a Tour" to visit our school in person.

Hi! My name is Angela. I have worked in childcare since 2015, as an Infant, toddler, discovery preschool, and Transitional kindergarten teacher! I have obtained 2 CDAs along with my degree in Early Childhood Education. While I have had the opportunity to teach multiple age groups over the years, the tiny infants have my heart! Children are all so very different and unique in their own way. Learning new things every day, at their own pace and I am so grateful to be a part of it. I am married and enjoy going camping, hiking, and art. I can’t wait to be a part of your child’s developmental growth here at Goddard Schools!

Hello! My name is Valerie, and I am currently attending Central Michigan University for my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Development and Learning as well as my Bachelor's in Administration. I have been working with children since I was 14, teaching dance classes for five years. I enjoy seeing the excitement when a student learns something new, and I knew I wanted to see that for the years to come. Children’s minds work in such unique and different ways and I have always enjoyed working with them. I recently moved to Michigan from a small town in Ohio and have had such a positive experience so far. I look forward to continuing my education and continuing to meet and work with all the students.

Guten Tag! My name is Petra and I’m from Germany where I graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I always worked with children and love being an Infant Lead Teacher. It’s very rewarding to know that the children will always have a part of me inside of them as they grow older. I love riding my bicycle and spending time with my grandsons on the weekends.

Hi, my name is Abby! I have been working with kids for almost 5 years now. I have experience working in daycare centers as well as private nannying. In my free time, I like to play with my animals (3 cats and 2 dogs), read, and spend time outside. I love working with infants as every day is new and exciting! I am so excited to be joining the Goddard team!

Hello all, I'm Ms. Thamires and I am so excited to be part of the Goddard School team. I came from Brazil around 6 months ago, and I`m loving this experience to live in the States, and learning this amazing new culture my love is just growing here meeting these new kids, I love kids and when I became a mother it was double confirmed. I am married and have a 3-year-old daughter our big love. I am sure we have an important mission to educate them and show the infinite opportunities that life can offer, creating important memories and daily evolution. I feel privileged to be in this incredible school and mission with kids that I loved from the first moment I arrived here, and it will be a privilege for me.

My name is Fabiana De Faria. I have been working as a teacher for over 28 years, always in the Early Childhood Education. In the first 10 years of my career, I taught preschool children and then I specialized and worked for another 14 years with children with special needs in preschool age, which is my passion. I have an Associate’s Degree in Pedagogy with a Specialization in Preschool and another Specialization in Special Education. I also have the CDA Certificate. I am married and have a beautiful daughter. I like to walk and travel. I love keeping up and supporting children's development, learning from them every day and I am delighted to be part of the Goddard Schools team.

Hello! My name is Elise. I moved to the United States in 2017 from Curitiba, Brazil. I’m currently in college to earn my associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. I have 4 years of experience teaching infants and toddlers ages 2 months to 3 years old. Something I enjoy about my job is to be able to see children develop and learn in a safe and fun environment. I am happy to be part of the Goddard team, and I am looking forward to meeting you and your family.

Hello! My name is Shannon! I have been working in the childcare setting for 5 years with infants and toddlers. I recently got my associates degree in Early Childhood Education as well as a few certificates from Oakland Community College. I have always had a passion for teaching; it just took a little searching and experimenting to find my heart belongs in the daycare setting! When I'm not at work, I spend my free time with my husband and husky. I love music as well as taking the occasional trip even if it is just up north. I am so happy to be part of the Goddard family and look forward to getting to know your child.

Hi there! I am Ms. Sydney and I am an Early Educator here at the Goddard School. Working with children has always been a passion of mine. Previously, I have worked at other learning centers and was a Nanny. I have also been a camp counselor/life guard and have had ten years of experience working with children. My favorite part about working in Early Education is being able to watch little ones learn who they are and grow into themselves. It is a treasure to be present for that kind of development. When you can't find me at Goddard, I will be occupying my time with gardening, camping, or getting lost in some books! I'm an avid reader and love to be outdoors. I'm grateful to be a part of the team here at the Goddard School of Rochester Hills!

Hi! My name is Olivia. I have been working with children for over 3 years, primarily with infants and toddlers. I’ve always known that I wanted to be a teacher, and having the opportunity to become one has been a dream come true for me! I have experience with all age groups, but the littles have my heart! I’m currently attending Oakland Community College for Early Childhood Education, and absolutely love working with kids! It’s the most rewarding experience being able to see little ones learn and grow daily. Outside of being a teacher, I love music, whether it’s enjoying it live at a concert or creating music! I’m so grateful to be a part of the Goddard Schools team and look forward to working with your children!

Hello, my name is Aaliyah and I am very excited to be joining the Goddard School of Rochester Hills. I have been a babysitter since I was a teenager. I love working with kids and watching them grow and develop new skills. The kids I cared for have given me many positive experiences. I hope to make great relationships with the staff, parents, and children during my time here at Goddard. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my niece, it brings me joy and warms my heart. I am a very hardworking person and I believe I can do anything I put my mind to. I am very excited to see what new adventures I will encounter from being a part of this team and how much it will open up a new world of understanding for me to learn and grow as a person and a teacher!

Hello! My name is Hayeong! I graduated from Oakland University with an Elementary Education major. I have been working with children since 2017. Since I was 15, I just wanted to teach kids because I love kids and when I taught kids and saw them smiling, I was proud of myself. The most important reason why I want to teach is that teaching kid makes my heart warm. When I see young children, I want to share my knowledge of education with them so that their future selves can lead them down the right path to becoming good people. In my free time, I love going to watch movies with my family and friends. I am so glad to be a part of the Goddard School team and very excited to meet your child!

Hi there! My name is Katie. I have worked previously with children on the Autism spectrum, providing 1 on 1 therapy. I was a part of that field for 5 years and decided I wanted to make the jump into teaching. I have always loved children and helping them grow and learn. My favorite thing is when a child achieves a new skill and watching the joy radiate! When I'm not at school, you can find me with my husband, spending time reading, or crocheting. I am so excited to see where my adventures at Goddard take me next. Thank you so much for trusting me and allowing me to spend time with your sweet babies every day.

Hello, my name is Ms. Lisa! I have 15 years of experience in child care. Right now, I enjoy being a part of all the classrooms and getting to know all of the children. In my free time, I enjoy being a mom to my beautiful 9-year-old daughter Ava Grace. I love reading and cooking and enjoy being outside. I am currently working on getting my CDA!

Hola! I am Ms.April I recently moved here 4 years ago from Texas. I have been in early childhood education for 4 years. I always loved working with kids since I was in high school. I am a mom of a 4-year-old boy which has given me more experience, love, and patience. Also as a hobby, I went to cosmetology school, but my main career will always be in early childhood education. I am glad to be part of the Goddard School.

Hello! My name is Ms. Paola! I finished my university studies in 2018 and graduated as a computer and systems engineer. While I was in high school, I worked as a subdirector at a private computer institute and taught a course called Microcomputer Operator where I taught basic programs starting with typing, Windows, Word, Excel, etc. Then I moved to the United States where I worked as an Assistant Teacher at a childcare center. I have a large family which gave me a lot of experience taking care of my nieces and nephews. I am from Nicaragua so my native language is Spanish! I am learning English through in-person classes as well as online!

Hello, I'm Mrs. Dewanna aka Wanna! I just recently changed career paths March 23’ to teaching from being a CNA/Medical Technician for ten years. I have a husband, two boys (9 & 1), one dog, a cat, and two fish. I love to travel at least three times a year! I can’t wait to have your child/children in my life as their new teacher to help them learn, grow, and mold their little minds with the time I have with them!

Upcoming, I will be graduating with my Bachelor's in Early Childhood and Behavioral Health from Oakland University. I transferred there from Central Michigan University where I got plenty of experience with different daycares from Infants to preschool as I did my internships. Before working here, I worked with behavioral health in teen girls. I really enjoy working at Goddard! The environment for the kids and teachers is always safe and open with creativity, not only does Goddard focus on the children but the family as well. Outside of work, I enjoy playing piano, making music, sports, and painting. I do a lot of volunteering at my university; right now I'm with their leadership development program. I’m so glad I get the chance to be a part of your child’s life while we help them grow and learn and make so many amazing memories. I’m so excited to continue to see everyone and myself grow together.

Hi! My name is Ms. Kasey. I was born and raised in Texas and moved to Michigan 3 years ago. I have a wonderful husband who I have been married to for 26 years. We have a daughter (23), and twin boys (13). I've been working with preschool-aged children for 13 years (ages birth to 4 years old). I have a degree in Arts/Early Childhood Education. It is a pleasure and honor to be part of your child's life!

My name is Ishita. I graduated in arts from India. I have been with Goddard Elementary for almost 2 years. I love working with children. I have one daughter who keeps me very busy with various activities. In my free time, I enjoy baking and cooking.

Hello everyone,  My name is Neda Habbal. I am so excited to be joining the team at Goddard School! I was born and raised in Illinois. I graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where I pursued my bachelor's in Human Development and Learning. I have always had such immense passion for early childhood education because this is where I truly believe children gain their love for education. Children gain their sense of identity through the art of play, which is such a beautiful concept. After graduation, I worked as a TA at a Montessori school and later moved to a lead role position at Guidepost Montessori. My experiences working in a classroom gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of allowing a child the freedom to express themselves through creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression and, as a teacher, providing the proper environment that encourages this!

Hello! My name is Lily. I have been working with Children since I was 19. I am currently in college to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood development and learning. Before working at Goddard, I was a vet’s Assistant at an animal hospital. My goal is to become an English teacher in China from preschool to 3rd graders. I have always enjoyed being around children and using different ways to teach them. I love watching them grow and seeing the excitement when they learn something new. I believe that each child is different and has different ways of learning. I also enjoy watching their creativity and personality come out from their first day of school to becoming comfortable in the classrooms. I look forward to continuing to work and meet new students.

Hi, my name is Desiree! I graduated from GVSU after studying elementary education with specialization in early childhood education. I have 3 years of childcare experience and 1 year of elementary experience. I have worked with many different age groups and found many things to love about them all! Watching children learn new things each day and knowing I can be a positive influence brings me so much joy. I love to read, write, draw, and travel. I can’t wait to become part of the Goddard community and your child’s educational journey!

My name is Shahana and I have been working in childcare for seven years. I love working with kids because they have so much energy and I enjoy watching them develop new skills throughout the year. In my free time, I spend time with my family, play badminton and go for walks.

I’m so excited to be a part of the Goddard family. Thank you for welcoming me! I bring with me 23 years of experience in early childhood education. I have worked with, and educated children ages birth to 16 years old. I’ve taught in many areas such as preschool, pre-K school-age, and summer camp. My educational background has afforded me the opportunity to obtain my child development associates, and credentials for pediatric behavioral therapy and Neuro feedback. I’m hoping to make great and relationships with my students, staff and families as well. Please feel free to ask me any questions that you have at any time. I look forward to building relationships and making a difference in your child’s world!

Hi, My name is Brianna! I have been working in child care as an assistant teacher for over 4 years now with ages from infant to school-aged. I have also worked with children with Autism in an in-home and office setting for 6 months. I have my CPR certification, and I love working with babies! I am working on obtaining my CDA for Preschool and Pre-K. My favorite thing to do is go shopping and watch movies on my off days. I love teaching and nurturing all ages and plan to do so for the rest of my career.

Hi! I’m Dede. I am so excited to be part of the Goddard team here in Rochester Hills. I have my Early Childhood Education Associates degree from Oakland Community College, and my Bachelor of Science in management and supervision from Central Michigan University. In my free time I enjoy reading a good book, baking, and crocheting blankets. I think education should involve the whole village. Including families and peers in what we are working with to assure that the children are growing as good individuals and being ready for their next level of education. I have great family values instilled in me that I can’t wait to share with the classroom. Your children are a joy to spend time with. I love helping them learn and grow. I look forward to seeing all the child’s smiling faces. Thank you for letting me spend time with your family and I look forward to what’s in store.

Hello, my name is Luiza Mici. I have over ten years of experience in the field of education, holding a Bachelor's degree in English and a CDA in Early Childhood Education. I am currently continuing my studies in Communication Sciences and Disorders with the goal of becoming a Speech Pathologist. As a multilingual individual, I have a passion for learning about new cultures and traveling. I cherish my time with children and find great joy in being around them. Educating young children and helping them grow is a sacred and fulfilling calling.

My name is Grace, I am from Malaysia, which is an ethnically diverse country, and in those terms, somewhat like the U.S. Before pursuing my career in preschool child care, I had five years of experience as a Para-Educator at a local elementary school. If time permits, I would like to pursue getting my Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate to enhance my caregiving background skills. I enjoy taking care of children and helping them learn new things and developing well-rounded people skills. It is always a positive experience when the children let me know they are happy to see me and to be with me; I then know I am doing a good job. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my daughter and husband going to skating competitions, trying new restaurants, and the movies.

Hello! I was born in Iraq in 1974. I graduated with a diploma teacher's degree back in Iraq. I also have a certificate in Childs Psychology. I’ve been a teacher from 2005 till 2014. I’m competent, distinguished, and energetic! I cannot wait to get to know your families more!

Hello, My name is Sabrina. I have been working with children since I was 17 years old. I have been a swim instructor, swim school manager, and currently teach Music at Expressions Music Academy as well! I have always loved working with kids, which is why when I started my collegiate career I first chose a Music Education degree. In time I realized that wasn’t the right fit and will be graduating this summer from Oakland University with a Political Science Major and a Music Minor. I am so excited to be joining the team here a Goddard!