Our Teachers

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.

Zoe has been with the Goddard School since 2017. Zoe graduated with a BSBA degree in International Business, with a minor in Spanish. Zoe has been working with children for over 6 years. Fun Facts: Zoe has been with the Goddard School in some way since she was an infant. In her free time, Zoe loves to take hikes with her puppy, George. Personal Quote: "I chose to work in education because I love helping kids find things they love to do and use them to find their way in the world".

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.

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. 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. 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. Rasha is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School. Ms. Rasha has been with The Goddard School since 2017. Ms. Rasha has earned a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology and has been working with children for 5+ years. Ms. Rasha is also certified in CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep. Fun Facts: Ms. Rasha is married with two sons. In her free time, she enjoys going for walks and eating chocolate. Personal quote: "I chose to work in education because I just love being with children and watching them grow."

Ms. Carolyn is an Assistant Teacher in our Duck Room. Carolyn has worked at The Goddard School since 2023. In her free time Carolyn likes to read, watch movies, and spend time with her family.

Ms. Erin is a Lead 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. 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. Makayla is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School and has been with us since 2023. She is currently seeking a degree in Elementary Education. In her free time, Makayla likes hanging out with friends and family, shopping, and cooking. Personal quote: "I love seeing children grow into the adults they are going to become."

Ms. Melissa joined The Goddard School in October 2023. Ms. Melissa is currently working towards obtaining her Child Development Associate Degree and she is CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. Melissa was baby model in the 80's! Personal Quote: "Pay it forward"

Mr. Colin is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School and has been with us since 2022. Colin is currently seeking a degree in Environmental Science. In his free time, Colin likes to play lacrosse, golf, and watch football. Personal Quote: "I chose to work with kids because I like seeing them grow up and become great kids!"

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. Dominique is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School and she has been with The Goddard School since 2019. Ms. Dominique is currently pursuing her teaching degree at St. Louis Community College 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. Colleen is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School and has been with The Goddard School since 2010. Having a dynamic blend of creativity and care, she brings a unique mix of skills to the classroom, armed with a degree in interior design, she infuses her teaching space with warmth and creativity, creating an environment where every child feels inspired to explore, learn, and grow. Alongside her flair for design, she holds a degree in nursing, embodying a deep sense of empathy and compassion. She ensures that each child's physical and emotional well-being is a top priority and holds First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certificates. Fun Facts: Ms. Colleen is engaged to her fiancee Mike and has son named Brexton and daughter named Mallory as well as 2 dogs. In her free time Colleen enjoys traveling, watching movies, and exploring Pinterest. Personal Quote: Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.

Ms. Jennifer is a Floating Assistant at The Goddard School and has been with The Goddard School since 2017. Ms. Jennifer graduated from Principia College with a Bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Education. Ms. Jennifer also has 30+ years of experience working with children. Ms. Jennifer is CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. Jennifer has 2 children who she home schooled until Kindergarten. In her spare time she enjoys scrap-booking and she once traveled the country with her parents for 1 year. Personal Quote: "I Chose to work at Goddard because I want to be part of their high quality care and education of young children."

Ms. McKenna is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School. Ms. McKenna has been with The Goddard School since 2019. Ms. McKenna attended South Tech and earned an Associate in Early Childhood. She also has 3 years of experience working with children in a childcare setting. Ms. McKenna is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: In her spare time, Ms. McKenna enjoys swimming and hanging out with friends and family. Personal Quote: "I chose to work in education because I love seeing each child grow into their own unique person."

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.

Mr. Jeff has been with The Goddard School since 2022. Mr. Jeff has an Associate Degree from Meramec Community College, and he has 12 years of experience working with children. He is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Mr. Jeff has been married for over 20 years, has 3 sons, and he loves to be outdoors. Personal quote: "My favorite part of working with children is to see them get excited after they learn something."

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. 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. Claudia is one of our Floating Assistant Teachers. Ms. Claudia has been with The Goddard School since 2021. Ms. Claudia has a degree in Business Administration and has been working with children for 3+ years. Ms. Claudia is also CPR, First Aid, and Infant Safe Sleep certified. Fun Facts: Ms. Claudia enjoys running, cooking, traveling, concerts, family gatherings, and outdoor activities during her free time. Personal quote: "I find working with children very fun. I like to see them reach their potential and see their progress while learning."

Ms. Suzie is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School and has been with us since 2022. She has a Bachelors in Health Education from Purdue University. In her free time, Suzie likes to spend time with her family, walking, going to the gym, biking, and golf. Personal quote: "I loved being a stay at home mom to my girls but once they left for college I was very excited to work with children and see them grow and develop!"