Our 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. Paige is our operations Director here at Goddard (Woodbury) and has been on our team since 'Day 1!' She has her associate degree and a Credential in Early Childhood Education. She started her career in Early Childhood in 2012 and is passionate about ensuring that children learn, grow, and thrive every day in her care. Her favorite part about Goddard (Woodbury) is our Vision Statement (which is about being THE best for teachers, families, and children) and that we (the entire team at Goddard (Woodbury)) actively ensure that we live our Vision every day.

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!

Ms. Tanya has been a part of our Goddard (Woodbury) Family since we opened in November 2018! She is our Education Director on the older side of the building, Preschool through School-Age. She was born in Russia, and moved to Colorado before settling in locally, here in Minnesota. After completing her degree in Early Childhood Education, Ms. Tanya dove into the role as an Early Childhood Educator in 2010. She believes it takes a village of dedicated and positive individuals to raise children. Ms. Tanya is so thankful to be a part of that village to help your child have a meaningful and positive experience while they are here to be empowered and become the best they can be.

Ms. Kelley began her career in childcare in 2006 and holds an associate’s degree in psychology and early childhood education. She is passionate about being an integral part of children’s daily learning experiences, witnessing their milestones, and building meaningful relationships with both kids and their families. What she particularly loves about working at The Goddard School in Woodbury is the strong emphasis on play, health, and safety, along with the high standards for educators and the encouragement for children to embrace their individuality. Outside of work, her husband and their three sons enjoy spending time at the cabin and exploring the outdoors. She also finds joy in reading, cooking, and cheering on their oldest son during his baseball games.

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. Becca began her journey in childcare in 2012, with an associate’s degree in early childhood education and a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She has always been passionate about watching children learn and grow, delighting in their unique personalities and the individual milestones they achieve. What excites her most about working at The Goddard School in Woodbury is the opportunity to contribute to young minds' development and to work collaboratively with families to support their children’s progress. She values the strong community and teamwork that The Goddard School fosters. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and two kids, whether it’s enjoying family movie nights or curling up with a good book.

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.

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.

Ms. Paula spent a fulfilling career in accounting and is thrilled to follow her true passion for working with children. As a former foster parent to infants, she is eager to reconnect with the youngest learners and support their early development. She firmly believes that education begins on day one and is a lifelong journey and looks forward to witnessing the “lightbulb” moments as children achieve new milestones and develop a love for learning. The foundation of education at The Goddard School in Woodbury aligns perfectly with her own values, and she is excited to be part of such a dedicated team. Outside of work, she has two adult children, a daughter-in-law, and three grand dogs. She enjoys traveling extensively abroad, gardening, boating, and reading in her free time. Additionally, she tutors algebra and calculus, owns and rides horses, and is an enthusiastic bird watcher and photographer.

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. Anna started her early childhood career as a nanny at the age of 15 and later pursued a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. What she loves most about working with children is the endless opportunities each day brings for new discoveries and joyful laughter. She is particularly impressed with how The Goddard School in Woodbury has created a beautiful, fun, and safe environment for children, families, and teachers alike. Balancing her roots as a nature enthusiast from Bemidji with her current life in Minneapolis, she enjoys exploring the great outdoors and the vibrant cityscape. Whether hiking through natural trails or discovering urban gems, she finds inspiration and joy in both worlds.

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. Emily started her career in childcare in 2016, bolstered by a degree in Early Childhood Education. Her passion for working with children lies in the incredible process of watching them develop and grow, and in guiding them through their unique developmental stages. She finds it deeply rewarding to support their milestones and celebrate their achievements. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is particularly drawn to the supportive and nurturing atmosphere, which fosters an environment where both children and staff can thrive. The sense of community and the shared commitment to continuous learning and growth make it a truly inspiring place to work. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband, exploring new books, and enjoying the quiet moments that reading provides.

Ms. Cheyenne began her journey in childcare in 2013 as a nanny and holds a bachelor's degree in Youth/Social Ministry with a minor in Counseling. What she loves most about teaching is the opportunity to build strong relationships with her students, which helps create a safe and nurturing learning environment where they can truly flourish. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she appreciates how we provide exceptional care that addresses not only educational needs but also the social and emotional well-being of each child. Being part of a dedicated teaching team that shares the same goals is truly refreshing and inspiring. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, including her husband and three children. They love exploring the outdoors, visiting Universal Studios in Orlando, and attending sporting events, making the most of their time together through these shared experiences.

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 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.

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.

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. 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. Hayle began her journey in early childhood education in 2018 and holds a CDA specializing in Infants and Toddlers. Her passion for teaching is driven by the joy of watching children reach significant milestones and knowing that she plays a role in making them feel safe and cherished. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she greatly values the supportive and welcoming atmosphere, which fosters an environment where she can build meaningful relationships with both the children and their families. This collaborative approach enhances her ability to create a nurturing space for every child. Outside of the classroom, she loves spending time with her boyfriend, enjoying outdoor activities like fishing, and curling up with a good book with her two cats.

Ms. Grace began her journey in working with children as a camp counselor in 2016 and holds a doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy along with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. What she truly loves about working with children is their boundless imagination, creativity, and the joy they bring through their silliness, all while witnessing their social and emotional growth. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is thrilled to collaborate with a dedicated team of teachers, build meaningful relationships with the children, and support their development in various aspects. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two loving and energetic Golden Retrievers. She loves being outdoors in the summer, whether it's longboarding, taking her pups to the park, or going on walks. The chance to embrace these activities while connecting with nature adds a wonderful balance to her life.

Ms. Jayme began her teaching career in 2014, holding a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with an emphasis in Management. What she enjoys most about working with children is the opportunity to build lasting relationships with them and their families. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch each child grow and evolve throughout the year and to be part of those memorable "light bulb" moments when new understanding clicks into place. At The Goddard School in Woodbury, she is drawn to the warm and welcoming environment, the kindness of her coworkers, and the supportive management and families. Outside of work, her and her husband enjoy spending time with their daughter and their three Pomeranians. She loves traveling to Arizona to visit her best friend, jeeping, enjoying family movie nights, visiting the zoo, playing video games, and participating in a book club with friends.

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. Cyndee is so grateful to be joining the Goddard (Woodbury) family! Early childhood education is her passion, and she is super excited to bring that passion to Goddard. Ms. Cyndee is currently a full time PreK teacher in the St. Paul School district with an Infant-3rd grade teaching license. Overall, she truly believes that this time in a child’s life is so critical, and she is honored to guide so many children through this phase of life! Currently Ms. Cyndee lives in North Hudson with her Husband, Jason, and daughter Kyla – who is also attending Goddard.

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.

With a teaching career that began in 1994, Ms. Alanna has journeyed through roles as a nanny before returning to the classroom, and she is proud to have earned her CDA from Rasmussen College. What truly excites her about teaching is witnessing that magical moment when a skill clicks in a child’s mind—their pride and joy is incredibly rewarding. At Goddard Woodbury, she cherishes the supportive, family-oriented atmosphere and the strong sense of teamwork that extends throughout the center. Originally from Minnesota, she moved to California before returning to her roots, where her and her husband embraced the role of 'bonus' parents to their niece and nephew. Outside of teaching, she enjoys hiking and staying active at the gym.

Since embarking on her teaching journey in 2018, Ms. Ellie has been driven by a deep passion for supporting children as they grow and thrive. Witnessing their development and knowing that she has made a positive impact in their lives is incredibly fulfilling. At Goddard Woodbury, she is grateful for an environment where the well-being of both the children and the teachers is prioritized. The recognition and support we receive as educators create a collaborative and nurturing atmosphere that enhances our ability to inspire and care for our students. Outside of the classroom, she likes spending quality time with her daughter. They love dancing together, enjoying the great outdoors, and watching movies, which makes for wonderful family moments and shared experiences.

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. Zach began his journey in education by volunteering at a local preschool in 2017 and holds a degree in Exercise and Sports Science from UW-River Falls. What excites him most about teaching is the boundless energy and creativity that children bring to the classroom with their vivid imaginations. Being a part of the Goddard Woodbury community is a privilege, as the school’s stellar reputation within the community aligns perfectly with his values and passion for early childhood education. Outside of the classroom, he loves staying active and embraces the great outdoors, drawing on his background as a dedicated runner and former track and cross-country athlete from high school through college.

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!

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.

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. 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.

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. Victoria began her journey working with kids while babysitting, which ignited her passion for early childhood education. This experience led her to become an infant teacher while living in Arkansas, where she discovered the joy and fulfillment that comes from nurturing young minds. She cherishes the daily interactions with children—the silly things they say that never fail to make her smile, their heartfelt drawings that capture their imaginative worlds, and the warm hugs they offer so freely. At Goddard Woodbury, Ms. Victoria has found a true sense of belonging; it’s a place where everyone feels like family. The team supports one another through every challenge, celebrating successes together and lifting each other up during tough times. This camaraderie has created the most nurturing and encouraging environment she’s ever experienced in her career.