Our Goddard School Teachers

Rick and Shannon are thrilled to be able to provide The Goddard School’s outstanding educational program to the children and families of the Woodbury community. Their vision for opening a Goddard started with a desire to not only provide children with a consistent, nurturing, and top notch early educational experience but also to provide families with a joyful and meaningful experience for their family’s early childhood years. Rick and Shannon also aim to be the best for their team by focusing on hiring only the best early childhood educators and investing in their development and engagement, ultimately, creating a great culture and environment for staff, children, and families!

Ms. Sarah is our Human Resource and Marketing Director here at Goddard (Woodbury). She is originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and graduated from Gogebic Community College with her associate degree in Elementary Education. She moved to MN in 2009 but loves to go back home any chance she can get to visit family and the beautiful area of the U.P. of MI. Teaching has always been her passion as she has been in childcare since 2014. Ms. Sarah loves watching children learn, as it is such an amazing sight! Her favorite part about Goddard (Woodbury) is the positive and warm environment she gets to be surrounded by each and every day.

Ms. Dana joined the Goddard Leadership team as the Education Director for the younger side. She grew up in North Dakota and graduated from NDSU with a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Science degree. She began her career in 2005 working with toddler-age children. After teaching for many years, she got her master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction for Early Childhood Education. She is a perfect fit for our school; we are so lucky to have her!

Mr. Gavin began working in childcare in 2019 as a Pre-K teacher and holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. He loves getting to know each child and building positive relationships with both children and their families. He also enjoys the carefree nature of kids and the way they find joy in even the smallest things. He is excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr) in a leadership role, where he looks forward to growing as an employee, coworker, and role model while contributing to a positive and supportive team. Born and raised in Minnesota, Mr. Gavin has four wonderful children with his wife, Ellie, who keep their lives full and joyful. Life is always moving forward and full of adventure, which inspires him to bring energy and care to each day.

Ms. Gretchen is excited to be part of the Goddard (Woodbury) family as the Events and Marketing Coordinator. She originally joined as a Co-Lead Teacher in the Toddlers Classroom in 2020 and is now thrilled to support the school through her new role. With a passion for Early Childhood Education, Ms. Gretchen enjoys using her creativity and organizational skills to help create meaningful experiences for both children and families. What she loves most about Goddard (Woodbury) is the opportunity to collaborate with such a kind, caring team and be part of a positive, welcoming community.

After nannying following high school, Ms. Ellie embarked on her teaching career in 2015, armed with a background in Child Development and American Sign Language. What she finds most rewarding about teaching is seeing the sheer delight on children's faces when they witness the results of an experiment or activity. At Goddard Woodbury, she appreciates the family-like atmosphere created by our dedicated staff—it truly makes her feel like she's a part of something larger and meaningful. In her spare time, she's busy renovating her house, enjoying bowling in two leagues, and spending quality moments with her family. She also loves exploring new craft projects, which adds a creative spark to her life outside the classroom.

Ms. Elizabeth began her early childhood career in 2000, drawing from her extensive experience in teaching swimming since 1995 and her academic background with a bachelor's degree in history and a minor in Elementary Education. Her love for working with children stems from their pure, authentic nature and their ability to find joy in the simplest things. Being part of their journey as they discover the world around them is an incredibly special experience. She is thrilled to be a part of The Goddard School in Woodbury because she believes babies are the most precious beings, filling her soul with peace, joy, and hope every day. The school’s exceptional reputation and the genuine care of its staff make it an ideal environment for her. Outside of work, she cherishes spending time with her family—her husband and two children. She is passionate about babies, dogs, and swimming, and she has enjoyed coaching the local USA Swimming club team for many years.

Since beginning her career in childcare in 2022, Ms. Isela (pronounced E-sela) now currently pursuing her CDA, has been deeply inspired by the joy that children experience when they discover and learn something new. Witnessing their faces light up with excitement as they master new skills is what fuels her passion for teaching. She finds immense satisfaction in guiding children through their developmental milestones and watching them continue to build upon these skills as they grow. Joining The Goddard School in Woodbury excites her because of the opportunity to work in such a positive and supportive environment that values both education and family connections. She is a proud parent of two wonderful children. In her free time, she loves spending quality moments with her family, exploring new parks, splash pads, and embarking on various adventures together.

Ms. Kylee began her career in childcare in 2022 as a daycare teacher and quickly discovered how much joy it brings her. She loves working with children and finds their smiles, laughter, honesty, and playful energy to be the best part of each day. For Ms. Kylee, being part of their learning and growth is both rewarding and inspiring, and she feels truly lucky to do what she loves. She is excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr), where the team feels more like family than coworkers. The welcoming and supportive atmosphere makes every day meaningful, and Ms. Kylee is grateful to be part of such a caring community. Originally born in North Carolina and raised in Minnesota, Ms. Kylee has been playing softball for 18 years, a passion that continues to bring her joy. Outside of the classroom, she loves spending time with her three dogs and staying connected with her boyfriend, who is currently stationed in Alaska.

Ms. Kalley embarked on her journey in early childhood education in 2017, driven by a deep passion for witnessing the small victories and developmental milestones that make working with children so rewarding. There is nothing more fulfilling than guiding a child towards a new skill or goal and then seeing the joy and pride on their face when they achieve it. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is particularly drawn to the supportive and nurturing environment, along with the strong sense of community that defines the school. This collaborative atmosphere is incredibly important to her and enhances her ability to contribute positively to the children’s growth and well-being. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending quality time with friends. She also loves watching movies as a way to unwind and connect with others.

Ms. Kelly has been a nanny since she was 13 years old, she has always had a passion for nurturing and guiding young minds. She officially began her career in childcare in 2024, and what she enjoys most is watching children grow and develop a genuine love for learning. At Goddard Woodbury, she is inspired by the school’s mission and the commitment to providing exceptional care and education for the kids. Born and raised in Minnesota, she is now raising her own family here and enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. They're also avid travelers, always eager to explore new places and create lasting memories together.

Ms. Erin began her teaching journey in 2016 as a teacher assistant at a local dance studio in Cottage Grove, later becoming a dance teacher in 2021. Her experience in the studio, combined with her time working in a daycare setting, helped her discover just how much she loves supporting children as they learn, grow, and express themselves. What she enjoys most about working with children is watching their confidence develop and seeing their excitement as they explore new skills and ideas. She is thrilled to bring her passion for teaching to The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr), where she is excited to step into a lead teacher role. She looks forward to being part of an encouraging and enthusiastic team and continuing to help children thrive each day. Outside of work, Ms. Erin enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dog Miles. She loves listening to music, watching movies and TV shows, swimming, attending concerts, and traveling to new and exciting places—activities

Ms. Kailey began her career in childcare in 2021, though her journey with children started much earlier, as she began babysitting and nannying at the age of 10 and volunteered with various age groups at her church. What she loves most about working with children is witnessing their growth as they develop unique personalities and forming meaningful bonds with them. She is excited to bring her passion for early childhood education to The Goddard School in Woodbury, where she can continue to nurture and support young minds. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, boyfriend, friends, and her two cats. Being part of a military family (National Guard) also plays a significant role in her life, adding depth and a sense of pride to her personal journey.

Ms. Christina had the privilege of working in diverse roles with children, from serving as a teacher's assistant in college to working in a children’s group home, supporting homeless youth, and nannying and tutoring. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and English literature, which has equipped her with a deep understanding of child development and diverse learning styles. What she truly loves about working with children is building meaningful connections and tailoring her teaching to each child’s individual needs. Partnering with families to help each child reach their fullest potential is a passion that fills her heart with joy. At Goddard Woodbury, she is thrilled to be part of a positive learning environment surrounded by kind, friendly, and knowledgeable teachers and leaders. Outside of teaching, she enjoys listening to music, watching movies, attending concerts, and delving into classic literature.

Ms. Dani has been deeply involved in early childhood education since 2014, supported by an associate’s degree in education. What she cherishes most about teaching is observing children as they grow into their unique selves and forming strong, supportive relationships with both them and their families. She takes pride in being a reliable and secure figure that children can always turn to. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she loves the welcoming and safe environment, the exemplary leadership, and the genuine passion of her fellow teachers. Outside of work, her and her husband love riding their Harley, spending quality time with friends and family especially their son and enjoying quiet moments watching TV and movies together.

After beginning her journey in childcare in 2025, Ms. Kelsey quickly discovered her passion for working with young children. She loves how every day brings something new—the way children approach the world with curiosity turns each moment into an adventure. For Ms. Kelsey, being a positive role model and guiding children as they explore and grow is the most rewarding part of her role. She’s excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury, where she looks forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and supporting families every step of the way. Being part of a close-knit, collaborative team is something she truly values. A proud Army veteran, Ms. Kelsey served for 13 years and met her husband during their first deployment in Kuwait. Together, they have two sweet boys and a lovable fur baby named Vinny. As a family, they share a love for traveling and discovering new places whenever they can.

Ms. Paige began her journey in early childhood education in 2021 and received her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Studies in 2024. Her passion for working with children stems from her fascination with their rapid growth and their infectious excitement for learning new things. What she especially values about working at The Goddard School in Woodbury is the supportive and collaborative team environment that fosters professional growth and allows her to provide the best care and education for the children. Growing up in the area, she now lives with her boyfriend and their spirited dog, Auggie, on a farm surrounded by a variety of animals. In her free time, she cherishes being outdoors, enjoying the tranquility of farm life, and exploring nature’s beauty.

Ms. Shawnee began her journey in childcare in 2009 as a nanny and transitioned to working in a childcare center in 2022, bringing with her a background in biology. She is passionate about how each day with young children is a new adventure, filled with opportunities for exploration and discovery. She thrives on learning about the unique ways each child’s mind works and appreciating their diverse personalities. Joining The Goddard School in Woodbury has been a wonderful experience, particularly because of the collaborative spirit across classrooms and the supportive team environment. At home, she lives with her husband and two kids, along with their pug, Winnie. In her free time, she loves playing outside, visiting the cabin, and spending quality moments with friends and family.

Ms. Sarah embarked on her journey in early childhood education in January 2023, drawing from her background in art to bring a creative touch to her teaching. One of the most rewarding aspects of working with children for her is their delightful unpredictability and the humor they bring to each day. Their ability to surprise and amuse with their spontaneous thoughts and actions never ceases to make me smile. She is thrilled to join The Goddard School in Woodbury because she is passionate about fostering a positive and enriching environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. Outside of the classroom, she immerses herself in reading, writing, and creating, finding inspiration in nature and the company of her cat at home. She also values quality time with her family, enjoying games and shared activities that bring them closer together and enrich our lives.

Since 2015, Ms. Makayla has been dedicated to nurturing and educating young minds, having pursued her studies at Northwood Tech. Her passion for working with children stems from her admiration for their endless curiosity, vibrant imaginations, and genuine love for learning. She finds immense joy in observing their developmental milestones and the excitement of their daily discoveries. Joining The Goddard School in Woodbury is particularly exciting for her because of the opportunity it presents to build strong, lasting relationships with families and to witness their children’s growth firsthand. Originally from Hammond, WI, she enjoys spending my free time on the golf course, exploring the great outdoors through camping and long hikes, and sharing adventures with her two dogs.

Ms. Ling has been working in childcare since January 2021 and holds her Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education. She truly loves working with children because they are always eager to learn new and exciting things each day. It brings her so much joy to witness every milestone and to be part of each child’s growth and discovery. She is excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr), where the environment is warm and welcoming. The teachers are kind and supportive, and the families bring such wonderful energy. For Ms. Ling, it feels like a place where everyone belongs and where children can truly thrive. Originally from China, Ms. Ling’s first language is Chinese, and she speaks both Mandarin and Cantonese. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her little boy who fills her days with laughter and love. Family time is very special to her, and she brings that same warmth and care into her work with the children each d

Ms. Sarah began working in childcare in 2013 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Teaching has always been her passion, and she loves watching children learn, explore, and experience those special “a-ha” moments that make learning so exciting and rewarding. She is thrilled to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr) and to build meaningful relationships with both the children and their families. Being part of a community that values growth, curiosity, and connection makes every day truly special. Ms. Sarah is originally from Ellsworth and lives with her husband, Robert, and their four children. As a family, they love spending time outdoors, especially camping and boating together.

Ms. Miranda began her journey in early childhood education in 2014 at an in-home daycare and holds a Preschool CDA. What she loves most about working with children is witnessing their growth and celebrating their major milestones. She is also passionate about teaching kindness and fostering a loving environment where children learn to care for others. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is inspired by the inquiry-based, child-centered learning approach, which nurtures each child’s love of learning and allows them to thrive. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her niece, and enjoy relaxing with friends or cuddling with her two cats.

Ms. Paige began her journey in early childhood education as a nanny in 2020. She quickly discovered how much she enjoys getting to know each child’s unique personality and quirks. What she finds most rewarding is watching children grow and develop over time—seeing their progress and confidence unfold year after year is what fuels her passion for teaching. She’s excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury, where the warm, family-like environment makes each day feel meaningful and inspiring. Ms. Paige looks forward to building strong connections with the children, families, and team around her. Originally from St. Paul, MN, Ms. Paige recently moved back home after spending the last three years in Crookston. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys being outdoors, shopping, and spending time with her boyfriend and their two cats. She’s very close with her family and especially loves spending time with her three nieces, who she absolutely adores.

Ms. Bailey began working in a childcare center in 2011 and has found the experience incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. There's something truly special about witnessing children's minds at work and observing their growth in real-time. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is consistently impressed by the unwavering care and exceptional quality provided for the children, families, and teachers alike. She believes it's a privilege to be part of such a dedicated community. Outside of work, her and her significant other enjoy spending quality time with our three children. They love exploring museums, visiting parks, and watching movies together, cherishing these moments of connection and fun as a family.

Ms. Brandy began her journey in early childhood education in 2010 as a toddler teacher and later served as a director at several Goddard School locations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and is passionate about supporting children’s growth and celebrating their “ah-ha” moments. She is excited to join The Goddard School of Woodbury and values being part of a close-knit, collaborative team dedicated to nurturing each child’s love of learning. Originally from Florida, Ms. Brandy spent 14 years in Arizona before relocating to Minnesota in 2025 with her husband and their son, a proud Goddard graduate. Together, they enjoy exploring their new community and making lasting memories.

With a passion for early childhood education, Ms. Ariel began as a nanny in 2012, she has since earned her CDA and found her true calling in nurturing young minds. She absolutely loves witnessing the growth and progress of each child, and she loves the relationships she builds with both children and their families—it's never a dull moment! At Goddard Woodbury, she's thrilled to be part of such a positive environment where the atmosphere is supportive and collaborative. Here, everyone is a team, working together to help each other succeed. Outside of school, her and her husband enjoy life with their daughter, Noelle, and our playful dog, Nora.

Mr. Jeremiah has been dedicated to working with children since 2018, when he began teaching soccer in the youth division. He thrives on finding innovative ways to explore and explain the world around us, believing that teaching kids how to break down complex ideas into digestible bits is one of the most rewarding challenges. Mr. Jeremiah is passionate about his role at Goddard Woodbury, where he is inspired by a community of educators who genuinely love their jobs and believe in the impact of their teaching.

Ms. Hallie began working in childcare in 2016 as a daycare helper and babysitter and has loved being part of this field ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy, and while her studies led her down a unique path, her heart has always been drawn to the joy of working with children. She finds it incredibly fulfilling to play a role in helping young minds grow, learn, and explore the world around them. She is excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr), where she can help bring the school’s vision to life and support children in reaching their full potential. For Ms. Hallie, being part of such a positive and nurturing community is truly rewarding. A recent college graduate, Ms. Hallie has a strong passion for learning and education. She enjoys challenging herself with new opportunities and exploring new knowledge whenever she can. She looks forward to carrying that same love of learning into her work and continuing to grow alongside the amazing God

Ms. Ivana joined our Goddard Woodbury family with over 15 years of experience in childcare, starting as a nanny before earning her Master’s in Education. She’s had the joy of teaching children of all ages and believes in nurturing and inspiring every child to reach their full potential. Ms. Ivana loves being part of the Goddard community because of the strong sense of teamwork and the opportunity to help each child thrive. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her daughter Zoe.

Ms. Abby began her teaching journey as a kindergarten teacher in 1998, she holds a degree in pre-elementary education and has dedicated herself to nurturing young minds ever since. She finds immense joy in watching children grow and achieve milestones, knowing that she played a part in their development. Building long-lasting relationships with both children and their families and making a meaningful difference in their lives is incredibly fulfilling. At Goddard Woodbury, she is fortunate to be part of a community that truly feels like home; the love, respect, and encouragement foster an environment where everyone can thrive. Originally from Guatemala, her and her husband are proud parents to three boys and a delightful Cavapoo named Milo. She treasures their Friday night dinners, trips, and visits back to Guatemala, creating cherished memories together. In her free time, she enjoys listening to audiobooks and cooking, finding relaxation and inspiration in these activities.

Ms. Liz began her teaching journey as a substitute teacher in 2011 and took on a full-time role as a kindergarten teacher in 2016 after earning her master’s in elementary education. What she loves most about teaching is witnessing those "aha" moments when students grasp new concepts and learning from them along the way. At Goddard Woodbury, she has found the ideal environment that aligns perfectly with her teaching philosophy. She believes it's incredibly rewarding to help prepare these young learners for kindergarten and watch their excitement grow. Outside of school, her husband and their two sons enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and biking together. In her free time, she indulges in her creative side by crafting with her Cricut.

Ms. Amy began her teaching career in 2008 and holds a CDA, driven by a genuine excitement for learning new things alongside the children. She thrives on watching kids discover new ways to explore and proudly share their achievements. Partnering with families to support their child's growth and development is a cornerstone of her approach, and she is proud to be part of The Goddard School in Woodbury. The quality of care provided to families, children, and teachers is unmatched, and the trust and support extended to the staff are truly inspiring. She believes that when teachers are empowered and valued, the children’s success shines even brighter. In my spare time, She enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids, engaging in activities like hiking, camping, playing board games, and watching movies. She is also a plant enthusiast, passionate about nature, animals, and creative pursuits such as making jewelry and crocheting.

Mr. Mike joined the Goddard (Woodbury) team in November of 2022 as our Bus Driver. He has many years of experience bus driving but wanted to take the opportunity to be a part of the Goddard family. His favorite part about Goddard is the way it makes him feel young again and that the kids tell him good jokes on the way to school!

We are so fortunate to have Ms. Kathy as part of our Goddard (Woodbury) family! With many years of experience working with children, Ms. Kathy is passionate about nurturing young minds. Whether she's providing delicious meals or reading stories, she finds joy in every moment spent with the children. Watching their faces light up with curiosity and seeing their growth is what keeps her excited about her work every day. Family is at the heart of everything for Ms. Kathy. A proud mom and grandma, she cherishes every moment with her loved ones, and they are always her biggest blessing.

Since 2011, Ms. Tabby has had the pleasure of working with children in a variety of roles, including childcare, babysitting, nannying, and as a camp counselor and director. With an Associate of Fine Arts degree in Theater and a Preschool CDA, she brings a creative and nurturing approach to her work. What she loves most about working with children is their boundless curiosity and the unexpected questions they ask, which always draw me into their enthusiasm. Children continually challenge her to think, learn, and grow, and she strives to inspire the same in them. At Goddard Woodbury, she is thrilled to be part of an environment that values friendliness, individuality, and self-expression. Originally from Ohio, she is also a writer with some published stories, and enjoys baking, hiking, and playing video games in her free time.

Ms. Madison became a part of our Goddard (Woodbury) family in 2024, bringing a passion for childcare that started back in 2020 with babysitting. In 2021, she gained more experience working at an at-home daycare before joining us. She loves working at Goddard because of the positive environment and the opportunity to connect with each child on a personal level. Originally from St. Paul Park, Ms. Madison believes that every child is unique and enjoys getting to know them individually. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and friends.

Since 2012, Ms. Asha dedicated her career to childcare, earning her degree in Early Childhood Education in 2017. She thrives on the joy of witnessing a child’s first “light bulb” moment, where they grasp a new concept or skill. Joining The Goddard School excites her because of its warm, family-oriented environment and strong support system. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband, whom she married in 2024, exploring nature through photography, indulging her love for Disney, maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle, and cherishing moments with their dog, Tucker.

Ms. Hager began working in childcare in 2021 as a preschool teacher and has loved every moment since. She enjoys helping children learn and grow each day, and she finds it truly inspiring to watch their confidence and creativity bloom. Being part of their journey is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work. She is excited to be part of The Goddard School of Woodbury (Radio Dr), where fun, learning, and supporting each child to reach their fullest potential are valued. The positive atmosphere and supportive community make it a truly special place to be. Originally from Egypt, Ms. Hager is proud to hold two nationalities. She speaks three languages, is fluent in two, and continues to learn the third. She is also a proud mom of two amazing boys who bring joy to her life. In her free time, she enjoys reading, diving, cooking, traveling, and painting. Ms. Hager is grateful to be part of the wonderful team at Goddard and looks forward to growing alongside the children and families each