Our Goddard School Teachers

My name is Zoe Biermann and I have been with Goddard my entire life. I started as an infant at another St. Louis location, grew up in Goddard and have worked to get where I am today. I graduated with a BSBA dual degree in International Business and with a minor in Spanish from the University of Missouri. I also graduated with a Master's of Business Administration (MBA) from Maryville University. Personal Quote: "I chose to work in education because I love helping kids find things they love to do and use those interests to find their way in the world."

My name is Marla Brunk and I am the proud owner of The Goddard School located in Manchester, Missouri. My background is in business. I have a dual BSBA in Marketing / Logistics from University of Missouri - Columbia and an MBA from SIUE. I was first a parent of three children enrolled in a Goddard School and fell in love with Goddard's philosophy, standards, curriculum, and warm family environment. Now I have the opportunity to share this same experience with your family. I am always available to parents and children for questions, hugs, or whatever you need.

Hi, my name is Hope and I am a School Director of The Goddard School, and my speciality is school enrollment. I have a Bachelor Degree in Music Education from Webster University. I started my journey at The Goddard School in 2017 as a lead teacher in the toddler classroom. In my spare time, I love to watch TV and hang out with my husband and daughters. I am certified in Safe Sleep, First Aid/CPR, Medication Authorization, and Severe Allergy.

With over 10 years of experience working with children, Claudya brings both expertise and a big heart to the classroom. Claudya holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development Specialist and a dual Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. She has worked in a variety of settings—from preschools to autism centers—always focusing on helping each child feel loved, supported, and confident. Fun Fact: Outside of school, Claudya enjoys cooking, baking, and reading, but her favorite role is being “Mom” to her sweet and energetic 2-year-old daughter, Olivia. Personal Quote: "I am passionate about building strong connections with families and can’t wait to get to know yours!"

Ms. Dominique is an Assistant Director at The Goddard School and she has been with The Goddard School since 2019. Ms. Dominique is currently pursuing her CDA and has been working with children since 2015. Ms. Dominique is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun facts: In her free time Ms. Dominique enjoys hanging out with her friends and family and cooking with her mom. Personal quote: "To make a difference in someone's life you don't have to be beautiful, rich, or perfect. You just have to care." I love working with children because my goal is to try to make a difference in their lives by being there when they need it.

Ms. Sarah has her BA in Studio Art and a minor in Secondary Education. She also has 10 years of teaching experience working with children in grades K-12. Fun Fact: In her free time, Ms. Sarah likes to play video games, draw, and read. She also used to live in Japan! Personal Quote: "Education is not about the filling of a pail, but rather the lighting of a fire." - William Butler Yeats

Ms. Norii has been with The Goddard School since 2023. Ms. Norii is currently enrolled in college and she began working with children in 2018. Ms. Norii is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun facts: Ms. Norii enjoys travelling with her son, and gaining new experiences and adventures together. Personal quote: "I believe all children are special in their own unique way. No matter how many children you come across and teach, they all tend to leave a special mark in my heart."

Ms. Carlie is a Lead Teacher and has been with The Goddard School since 2023. Carlie has a Bachelors in Psychology with an emphasis in child and adolescent development. In her free time, Carlie likes hiking, thrifting, singing, and hanging out with friends and family. Personal quote: "I love working with littles because it not only keeps my imagination alive but I get the opportunity to make an impact and shape young minds!"

Ms. Allie is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a specialization in Child Life. With over 8 years of experience working with children, she has dedicated her career to nurturing and supporting young minds. Outside of her professional life, Ms. Allie enjoys spending quality time with her family, going on exciting trips to the zoo, and exploring new adventures with her two daughters. A fun fact about Ms. Allie is that she is a proud mother of two wonderful girls who inspire her every day. One of Ms. Allie's core beliefs is captured in her favorite quote: "Her favorite part of working with children is seeing each little achievement and the happiness and pride it brings each child." This highlights her passion for celebrating every child's growth and success in their developmental journey.

Ms. Jane has 3 degrees from various colleges. She has an Associates of Arts from Jefferson college, a bacherlors of Business from Lindenwell University, and a Masters of Early Childhood from Webster University. Fun Fact: Ms. Jane enjoys spending her free time with her mom-Carol, Dad-Paul, and Brother-Kevin. She also enjoys writing, reading, cosplay, and going to Cons. She also is published in a collection of short stories. Personal Quote: “Childrent are our Future. Everything they learn today will shape our society. I hope to shape a brighter, kinder future.”

Ms. Sirisha has 10 years of experience working in childcare. Fun Fact: Ms. Sirisha loves gardening, cooking, and watching movies in her free time. Personal Quote: “I enjoy working with kids and being part of an environment that nurtures both learning and creativity.”

Ms. Tessa joined The Goddard School in Manchester in July 2024, but has been teaching with the Goddard Systems for 5 years. Ms. Tessa has an Associate of Arts Degree in Communication. Tessa's goal as a teacher is to make every child feel seen, loved, and accomplished. We achieve this through involvement. Involvement in classroom responsibilities and through play, and interest in how the student views the world. Ms. Tessa is CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. Tessa and her husband are on a competitive bowling league that travels Missouri. Personal Quote: "Teach me and I'll remember. Involve me and I'll learn."

Ms. Sam has been working in childcare for 2 years and is currently attending SEMO to study communication disorders, while also working on her CDA. Fun Fact: Ms. Sam has 3 older brothers, loves to ice skate, and bake! She also has a goldendoodle named Dixie. Personal Quote: “My favorite part of working with children is watching their personalities develop everyday!”

Ms. Keeleigh has 5 years of experience working with children and is currently in school to become a dental hygienist. Fun Fact: Ms. Keeleigh loves shopping, working out, golf and making things on canva & cricut. She also has been a cheer coach for 3 years. Personal Quote: “Working with children is like watching caterpillars become butterflies.”

Ms. Highley has 5 years of experience working with children through babysitting and working at schools. She is currently pursuing her CDA. Fun Fact: Ms. Highley started to help teach at her church when she was 7 years old. Personal Quote: “I’ve always been passionate about working with children, helping them grow, and watching them become the best versions of themselves.”

With over 15 years of dedicated childcare experience, Ms. Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role as an educator. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys exploring her culinary skills through baking, staying active at the gym, and finding the latest trends while shopping. As a mother of two children herself, Ms. Melissa enjoys parenthood, which enriches her approach to teaching and nurturing young minds. Her commitment to childcare stems from a belief in the profound impact of building strong connections with children. She finds immense fulfillment in making a positive difference in their lives, shaping their futures with care and dedication. Ms. Melissa looks forward to creating a supportive and engaging environment where every child can thrive and grow under her guidance.

Ms. Holley has worked at The Goddard School since 2023 and has over 10 years experience in working with kids. She is currently pursuing her Bachelors in Elementary Education. In her free time, Holley likes to spend time with family, and watch her kids play hockey and dance. Personal quote: "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today"- Malcom X

Ms. Kelley has 9 years of childcare experience and is excited to continue to grow her experience here at Goddard. Fun Fact: Ms. Kelley likes plants and anything crafty. She also has a daughter named Luna who attends Goddard! Personal Quote: "I like preschool to be a safe place where kids feel free to be themselves."

Hi my name is Ms. Nicole and I am the Pre-K Lead Teacher in the Owl Room. I have been dedicated to working with children since 2012. I brings a wealth of experience from my background in childcare, ensuring a supportive and enriching early education experience for your child. Outside of the classroom, I love spending time with my husband and three daughters at Table Rock Lake, where they enjoy boating, wakeboarding, and swimming. My passion for nurturing young minds and my love for family activities make me a well-rounded and enthusiastic educator.

Ms. Melissa is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School and has been with The Goddard School since 2010. Ms. Melissa graduated from Meramec Community College with her Teaching Certificate of Proficiency and has 25+ years of experience working in childcare. Ms. Melissa is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: In her spare time, Ms. Melissa enjoys reading, swimming, shopping, and spending time with her family. Personal Quote: "I chose to work in the field of education because each child's smiling face warms my heart."

Ms. May is an Assistant Teacher at The. Goddard School. Ms. May has been with The Goddard School since 2022. Ms. May has a degree in Business and has been working with children for 12+ years. Ms. May is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. May enjoys reading, doing art, and spending time with her family during her free time. Personal quote: "I love working with children because they motivate me to be a better person and they represent the future."

Ms. Erin is a floating teacher and has been with The Goddard School since 2023. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The University of Kansas. In her free time, Ms. Erin likes to dance, create art, garden, pilates, and spending time with her kids! Personal quote: "I love watching kids personalities shine an watching them grow and learn!"

Ms. Jess is one of our Floating Assistant Teachers. Ms. Jess has been with The Goddard School since 2019. Ms. Jess has a degree in Special Education from Quincy University and has been working with children for 20+ years. She is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. Jess has been married for 18 years and has two sons. She also has a French Bulldog named Bailey. She enjoys reading, crafting, painting, and spending time with her family. Personal quote: "I love making a difference in a young persons life."

Ms. Judy has a Medical Assistant diploma as well as being Business Technology certified. She also has 10+ years of childcare experience and 2 children of her own. Fun Facts: Ms. Judy loves to cook and try new recipes in her free time. She has been married for 10 years to her Navy veteran husband. Personal Quote: "Children will always have a special place in my heart. I love watching them grow and accomplish all of the different milestones."

Ms. Mary has 30+ plus years experience working with children and multiple degrees from various universities. She has a bachelors of health administration, an associates in applied science-business management and marketing, and a certificate of business management and supervision. Fun Fact: Ms. Mary has raised 3 children of her own and 3 grandchildren, she loves to spend time with her grandchildren. She enjoys walking, bike rides, and listening to live music. Personal Quote: “I feel children learn to grow through exploration and experimentation. They learn through their senses and life experiences. I have worked in many fields and feel my best experiences and most fulfilled were in school and its my turn to give back.”