Our Goddard School Teachers

Hello, I am the On-Site Owner of The Goddard School of Brooklyn Park! I bring over 10 years of experience in early childhood education, with a background spanning infancy through pre-kindergarten as well as school leadership and management. I have completed a blend of coursework in Community Psychology and Early Childhood Education, as well as Business Administration, providing a well-rounded foundation for my role as a school leader. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where children develop a lifelong love of learning. As a hands-on leader, I value building strong, individual connections with students, families, and educators to support a collaborative and thriving school community. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, and taking walks with my two rescue dogs.

My name is Janelle, and I have been working with children since 2013 in Early Childhood Programs. I initially joined the Goddard team for the 2016 school year. My previous work experience included over 13 years of selling books, which helped me solidify my love of reading and sparked my passion for getting kids excited about reading. I hold an Associate of Arts degree and previously pursued a degree in Graphic Design. My passion for art has translated well into the classroom. I enjoy working as a Director here at Goddard, where I help our teachers grow in their knowledge and experience.

My name is Jereline. I have been working with children for quite a while. While in high school, I started working at the Adventure Club in the Robbinsdale district and subsequently became an Education Assistant (EA). I saw that I loved working with children, so I decided to get a teaching degree after high school. After college, I worked at PICA (Parents In Community Action) Head Start. I enjoy interacting with children and making learning a fun experience. I joined the Goddard Team in 2022 as a Pre-K Red Lead Teacher. Currently, I work as a Health and Safety Coordinator, ensuring that we comply with state regulations. Also, ensuring that children's allergies, medication, and files are up to date. I love that I can still interact with the children.

Ms. Susan has been with Goddard for four years, starting in the Preschool classroom and then transitioning to the Kitchen Manager position. Susan graduated from the College of St. Catherine with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. She has 20 years of experience teaching preschool through high school, and is also a mom herself. Susan has taught across the country, from Minnesota in the north to New Mexico in the south. She loves catering to the unique educational needs of each child.

Ms. Heather is originally from a small town in southeastern Minnesota, where she grew up on a farm with her parents and two sisters, one of whom is her identical twin sister. Ms. Heather earned her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Winona State University and has worked in childcare centers since 2007. Most of her experience is in caring for infants. Ms. Heather has been married since 2008, has one daughter, born in 2014, and owns a dog, a Chow Chow Lab mix.

Ms. Anitra has been in the teaching field since 2001. She attended Hennepin Technical College and received a degree in Child Development in 2002. Anitra's experience at Goddard started in the Infant Room in August 2010. It is her passion to care for children and watch them learn and grow. Each new day is fascinating as she gets to know the uniqueness of each child.

Hello, my name is Yulisa! I have been working with children as a babysitter since 2020. I started at Goddard in the summer of 2025. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, and playing with my two cats, Kirby and Obi. I am committed to providing a nurturing environment with the patience every child deserves, and I'm excited to watch their minds grow and learn every day!

Hi, I'm Emily! I am the Toddler B teacher. I have been working in childcare since 2022, half of that time at The Goddard School! I have worked with many different age groups, but genuinely love the Toddler age! In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, doing arts and crafts, or trying new places to eat!

My name is Deniela, and I am so excited to be working with your children! A little about me—I previously served in the Marine Corps for four years. Later, I attended the University of St. Thomas, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology. I have a strong passion for working with children. I’ve had the opportunity to work with children on the autism spectrum, as well as volunteer in summer programs supporting children from Pre-K through 5th grade. These experiences have truly shaped my love for helping children learn, grow, and feel supported. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, going to the movies, and spending quality time with my family and my partner.

Based in Minneapolis, Ms. Marqesha brings over 20 years of experience in early childhood education to The Goddard School of Brooklyn Park. She has served as both a head teacher and a teacher aide, and holds certifications in CPR and a background in CDA. Families love Ms. Marqesha’s warm, nurturing presence and the genuine care she shows each child. Outside the classroom, she enjoys volunteering at her church, spending time with her grandkids and daughters, and traveling. Ms. Marqesha is passionate about helping young children grow and thrive, and she looks forward to building strong, lasting relationships with every family she meets.

Hi! My name is Johnetta, and I’m excited to be part of your child’s learning! I’m originally from Liberia, West Africa, and have lived in Brooklyn Park for 20 years. I have an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education and over six years of experience working with children. I have a big family with nine children, and I love caring for and supporting kids as they learn and grow. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, organizing, and shopping. My favorite color is lavender, and I love the book "Kindness Makes Me Stronger" by Elizabeth Cole.

Hi, my name is Angel! My hobbies are reading, painting, meditating, and writing. I began my career in childcare in the spring of 2020, when I became a nanny. Currently, I am studying criminal justice at Southern New Hampshire University. My goal is to become a social worker and, subsequently, a child therapist. Working with the kids at Goddard is a great way to prepare me for my future career path. I believe that children are the future, and we must nurture and cater to their needs, implanting seeds of wisdom in their minds, so that they may become great leaders. The environment at Goddard is very welcoming, and I love working with the staff and students.

Hi, my name is Ms. Natalie, and I have been working with youth for over 5 years as a babysitter, summer camp counselor, and teacher's aide. I recently graduated from the University of Minnesota with my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and I am very excited to be a part of the team here at Goddard School. I plan to return to college to pursue my Master's Degree, but in the meantime I will love spending time with the kids here!

Ms. Laure graduated from the University of Eau Claire with a degree in Elementary Education. After staying with her kids while they were young, she began substitute teaching in the Osseo School District and part-time at The Goddard School in 2006. She realized her true passion was working with younger ages and began working full-time at the Goddard School in August 2012. Laure also works in restaurant management training for new managers. In her spare time, Laure loves reading, working out, and watching almost any kind of sport! She has two wonderful children and is very glad to be teaching here!

Hello, I’m Ms. Megan. I have been working with kids since 2024.  Some of my family and friends are educators. I am in college, working on obtaining my business degree. I am very excited to get to know all of the little ones and watch them grow.

Hello, my name is Mrs. Dinah! I began working in childcare in 2013 as a kindergarten teacher. After five years, I moved into a management role allowing me to work with ages 6 weeks to 10 years. I graduated from St Cloud State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two children, Terry and Zelda. I also enjoy coffee, going on walks, and playing games on my Switch.

Hi, my name is Ms. Kelsey! I have been working with young children as a nanny/babysitter since 2019, and I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Developmental Psychology from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Some of my hobbies are crafting, reading, and enjoying the outdoors. I am excited to see the children grow and learn!

Howdy, I am CJ. I've been in childcare since 2024. I taught SPED for 2 years while studying to be a dental assistant. Once I received my degree, I moved to Minnesota to further my education. I have no children of my own, but I am the proud father of a fur baby, Eva. I like to spend my free time fishing and rescuing animals.

My name is Daija, and this is my first teaching job! My career goal in life is to be an entrepreneur, but I’m delighted to be working with the Goddard School as I finish my education. My hobbies are crocheting, singing, and spreading knowledge.

Ms. Ray has recently joined The Goddard School as a part-time float/teacher's aid. Ms. Ray is from a small town in Wyoming, and she moved here permanently recently. She's been in the Brooklyn Park area for the last few years during the summer months. When she was here in the summer, she worked at an in-home daycare just down the road. She enjoys spending time with the kids, making them giggle and smile, and creating a high-energy, positive environment. Outside of The Goddard School, Ms. Ray enjoys spending time outside, going on hikes, camping, and of course, shopping.

My name is Megan! I've been working in childcare since 2012. I grew up in a home daycare and have been a babysitter friend since I was in middle school. Outside of teaching kids, I'm usually found hiking or at home with my dog and 2 cats!

Hi! My name is Susan, and I’m an Assistant Teacher. I have been working with children since 2022 and am currently in college pursuing my Bachelor’s degree. I plan to continue working with children in my future career. I am passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of the children I work with and supporting their growth each day. I look forward to a great year together!