Our Goddard School Teachers

Mr. David and Ms. Valerie have been proud owners of the Goddard School in Matthews since 2019. Mr. David graduated with a Bachelors in Communication and has over a decade of experience in Financial Operations and Relationship Management. Mr. David is proud to have two Goddard graduate children. Mr. David loves football and is a diehard Buffalo Bills fan!

Valerie and her husband, David, became the owners of the Goddard School of Matthews in May 2019. Valerie has a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, a Master’s in School Administration, is National Board Certified and holds a Certificate in Curriculum & Supervision. Coaching and working with teachers is Valerie’s passion along with seeing children grow socially, emotionally, and educationally.

Ms. Mikaela is the General Manager at our school and has been with us since August of 2020. She graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Dramatic Arts. During her time with Goddard, Ms. Mikaela has gotten her Lead Teacher credential and her Early Childhood Administrator credential. Throughout high school she worked at theatrical summer camps which is where she found her passion for working with children. She thoroughly enjoyed being a toddler teacher at the school and has loved getting to help the school thrive as the Director of Operations from 2021-2023, and now as the General Manager since Fall 2023. Her favorite children's book is "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see?" by Eric Carle because when she was a one-year-old teacher, it was the children's favorite book. It provides great opportunities to learn colors and animals and for children to participate in their reading experience by making animal noises and identifying what is on each page.

Ms. Kabrina is the Director of Operations at our school. She has her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work and she began her Early Childhood Education career in 2019. Ms. Kabrina is originally from Illinois but moved to North Carolina in 2019. She was an infant teacher at a different Goddard school for 1.5 years before coming to join us at the Goddard School of Matthews in June of 2021. She was a Lead Teacher in one of our toddler rooms before moving into administration in January 2022. She enjoys gardening, refinishing furniture, and doing embroidery in her free time. She has a wonderful family that includes her husband, Kyle, her pup, Ludo, and their sons Jeptha and Crew! Her favorite children's book is "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein.

Ms. Virginia is the Director of Education at our school and has been at our school since January of 2022. She has been in the Early Childhood Education field since 2013 and received her AA in Early Childhood Education in 2021. She was a Lead Teacher in one of our prekindergarten rooms before moving into administration in January 2023. Ms. Virginia is originally from Vermont where she began her teaching career. Ms. Virginia enjoys being outside with her dog, Pearl, reading, and traveling with her husband. Ms. Virginia and her husband were thrilled to welcome their first baby, Roland, in the fall of 2024! Ms. Virginia sees Early Childhood Education as an ever-growing field which gives her the passion and drive to learn something new everyday. Ms. Virginia's favorite children's book is "The Rainbow Fish" because she really loves how the feeling and meaning of sharing towards others is portrayed in the book. She also loves the colors and art used to share the story.

Ms. Hannah is the Director of Operations and has been with us since February of 2023. She graduated from the University of Alabama with her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. Ms. Hannah taught kindergarten and first grade for seven years in CMS elementary schools before deciding to transition into the field of early childhood education. She was a Lead Teacher in one of our prekindergarten rooms before moving into administration in January of 2024. She enjoys spending time outside with her family, reading books, and drinking coffee. Ms. Hannah's favorite children's book series is "Pete the Cat".

Ms. Brittany is an Assistant Director at our school. She has been at our school since August of 2017. She was a Lead Teacher in our infant room before moving into administration in the summer of 2023. Ms. Brittany was the Teacher of The Year winner for the Southeast Region of Goddard Systems in 2021. Ms. Brittany is currently enrolled at CPCC pursuing an AA in Early Childhood Education. Her favorite children's book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar as it is one of the many books she read to her son, Avery, when he was younger!

Ms. Destiny is a Lead Teacher in our Pufferfish (infant) classroom and has been at our school since September of 2018. Ms. Destiny obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix in 2023. Ms. Destiny's favorite children's book is Dr. Seuss' "Oh, the Places You'll Go" as she believes that the more you read, the more success you'll have and the more places you'll go in your journey of life.

Ms. Tori has been a Lead Teacher in our Pufferfish (infant) classroom since 2026. She has been working in the early childhood education field since 2020 and has experience with many different age groups. Ms. Tori has a 7 year old son named Elliot. She enjoys spending time with him while fishing and camping, going to museums, or spending a lazy weekend around the house. Ms. Tori's favorite children's book is "The Napping House" because she understands the necessity of a good nap and will take any opportunity to squeeze one in.

Ms. Elizabeth is a Lead Teacher in our Starfish (toddler) classroom and has been at our school since February of 2024. Ms. Elizabeth earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Office Systems from the University of Puerto Rico. She has been in the early childhood education field since 2018. She has taught in both English and in Spanish. Ms. Elizabeth’s favorite children’s book is “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” because she likes that it motivates children to participate in reading.

Ms. Nayeli is a Lead Teacher in our Starfish (toddler) classroom and has been with us since November of 2022. Ms. Nayeli completed her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2024. She loves working with children, especially the one-year-olds, and loves being able to apply what she learned through her degree into the classroom each day. Ms. Nayeli's favorite children's book is "Corduroy" because she enjoys reading it to her class.

Ms. Chantera is a Lead Teacher in our Rainbowfish (toddlers) classroom. She was at our school from 2014-2020 and rejoined us in April of 2024. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Development in 2012 and has been in the Early Childhood Education field since. Ms. Chantera loves caring for and nurturing the minds of young children, while helping them grow and develop physically. Ms. Chantera has one daughter and they enjoy all things Disney together! Ms. Chantera's favorite children's book is "Chika, Chika, Boom Boom" because it allows her to introduce the letters of the alphabet in a fun, rhythmic way to young scholars.

Ms. Caroline is a Lead Teacher in out Rainbowfish (toddler) classroom and has been at our school since July of 2026. She has worked in the Early Childhood Education field since 2017 and has taken various college courses to further her education. Her mom also works in the ECE field, which inspired Ms. Caroline to get started in the field. Ms. Caroline has had various jobs in the childcare field including: summer camp counselor, child care teacher, nany, and registered behavior technician. Ms. Caroline comes from a big family in Wilmington, North Carolina. She loves crafting, music, and dance. Growing up, she was a traditional Irish Step Dancer. Ms. Caroline's favorite children's book is "The Very Hungry Caterpillar". She loves this book for its colorful art work and subjects it can teach children like counting, days of the week, and nutrition.

Ms. Amanda is a Lead Teacher in our Lionfish (twos) Classroom and has been since January 2025. She is currently attending Central Piedmont Community College to obtain her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education. She found her passion through impactful experiences with children since she started in this field in 2012. Her ultimate goal is to provide a loving and caring environment for all children here at the school. Ms. Amanda has a quote that she keeps in mind as she continues her career: "A child's life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark." She wants the mark that she leaves to be a positive and encouraging one! Ms. Amanda's favorite children's book in "The Cat in the Hat"; she remembers all the times her mom would read it to her. She loves the way that it makes children laugh!

Ms. Jayla is a leader teacher in our Lionfish (twos) classroom and has been with us since September 2025. She went to Laguardia Community College and graduated in 2025 with an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. She recently moved to Charlotte from New York City. She grew up in a big family and was always the "go to" for babysitting. Ms. Jayla originally wanted to be in the medical field, but teaching called more. She enjoys reading and watching musicals. Ms. Jayla's favorite children's book is "No, David" because it's not only funny, but it shows that even when you make mistakes you are loved.

Ms. Joanna is a Lead Teacher in our Jellyfish (bridge) classroom and has been with us since July 2024. Ms. Joanna has her Associate's Degree from CPCC. Ms. Joanna's passion is helping children grow socially, emotionally, and academically. She has eight years of experience with Union County Public Schools and has fifteen years of experience with leading a toddler room. She has also coached Girls on The Run and youth cheer programs for five years, focusing on the growth of the entire child, while having fun. She has three children of her own, ages 21, 19, and 12, who have furthered her love of early childhood education. Ms. Joanna's favorite children's book is "The Book With No Pictures" by B.J. Novak because it engages young children through laughter and imagination. The reader is tasked with using silly voices and saying ridiculous statements, captivating the audience with engaging creativity and exiting interaction with story time.

Ms. Shelby is a Lead Teacher in our Jellyfish (bridge) classroom and has been with us since June of 2024. She was previously a lead teacher at Grace Christian Child Development Center. Her want to love and nurture children started at a young age, as she's the second oldest of six children. In August 2022, Shelby and her husband welcomed their son, Brady. Ms. Shelby and her family recently moved to the Matthews area to be closer to family. Ms. Shelby and her son are excited for their new school! "No David!" is Ms. Shelby's favorite children's book because it shows how curious kids can be.

Ms. Amada is a Lead Teacher in our Jellyfish (bridge) classroom and has been at our school since April of 2026. She is currently pursing her degree in Early Childhood Education from Central Piedmont Community College. Ms. Amada has always known that she wanted to work with children. As a child, her own experience in early childhood education was the most impactful in her education and she wants to provide that for our next generation. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family and friends. She also loves to bake and cuddle with her cat, Mochi. Ms. Amada's favorite childhood book is "Oh the Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss. She loves this book because it shows that there are endless opportunities in life.

Ms. Meredith is a Lead Teacher in our Stingrays (preschool) classroom and has been with us since March of 2023. Ms. Meredith graduated from High Point University in 2019 with a degree in Strategic Communication. She has lived in Maryland most of her life but decided to move to Charlotte, NC a few years after graduation. She has always loved working with kids and has a passion for helping them learn and grow. Ms. Meredith's favorite children's book is "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie" because her parents would read it to her almost every night when she was a child.

Ms. Tiyanna is a Lead Teacher in the Sea Turtles (preschool) classroom and has been working with us since June 2025. She has an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and has been working in the field since 2022. Ms. Tiyanna is a dedicated teacher that is passionate about creating a positive, engaging, and welcoming environment for kids to learn and grow. She has experience teaching preschool and two year olds and is a registered Behavior Technician. Her teaching style is centered around patience, creativity, and building strong relationships. Fun fact - Ms. Tiyanna has a yorkie named Bella Rose. Ms. Tiyanna's favorite book is Chicka Chicka Boom Boom because it is interactive, musical, and fun while teaching letters and rhymes.

Ms. Nakeya is a Lead Teacher and has been at our school since June 2026. She is currently enrolled in Early Childhood Education classes to further her goals in one day becoming a director. With over 8 years of experience in the field, Ms. Nakeya is passionate about providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children to learn and grow. Throughout her career, she has developed strong skills in child development, family communication, and team collaboration. Ms. Nakeya's favorite children's book is "There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly". She loves the reaction from the children as she reads it aloud!

Ms. Cameron is a Lead Teacher in our Orcas (prekindergarten) classroom and has been at our school since May of 2022. Ms. Cameron started her journey in early childhood education in 2017 and is currently getting her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education. She is originally from Houston, Texas but moved to NC in 2017. Some fun facts about Ms. Cameron include that she played violin for twelve years and that she has a giant cat named Bert. Ms. Cameron's favorite children's book is "Where The Wild Things Are" because her mom used to read it to her every night before she went to bed.

Ms. Emily is a Lead Teacher in our Orcas (prekindergarten) classroom and has been at our school since April 2025. Ms. Emily has lived in North Carolina for 10 years, graduated high school in Monroe and now resides in Charlotte. She is currently working toward her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education at Western Governors University. Emily has been working with children ages infant to teenager for nearly 12 years. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband, friends and family. Emily loves going to the beach, as well as attending sporting events. She has had an interest in working in education since the fourth grade. She enjoyed watching and helping children grow and learn. She cherishes the lasting relationships that she develops with families as well! Ms. Emily's favorite childhood book is "If you give a Mouse a Cookie". This book is light-hearted and fun, but also shows the cause and effect of each choice that we make.

Ms. Mekenna is a Lead Teacher in our Sharks (prekindergarten) classroom and has been at our school since October 2023. She is originally from South Carolina and moved to Charlotte in 2023. She went to school at Clemson University and earned a degree in Criminal Justice. Mekenna continued her education and received a Masters in Forensic Psychology. In 2020 she realized she had a passion for working with children and began working at a childcare facility in SC. She loves getting to see the children grow and learn each day. Ms. Mekenna's favorite children's book is "The Giving Tree" because it teaches us to love and serve one another.

Ms. Mary is a Lead Teacher in our Sharks (prekindergarten) classroom and has been with us since July 2024. Ms. Mary has over 30 years of experience in the early childhood education field and she says being in the classroom is her "happy place". Ms. Mary has two adult children, one of whom has gone to heaven, and two grandsons. Ms. Mary enjoys crafting, reading, and napping. Ms. Mary's favorite children's book series is the "Bear Snores On" series by Karma Wilson because it is fun to read and helps children with listening and comprehension.

Ms. Ketia is a lead teacher in our Sharks (prekindergarten) classroom and has been with us since August 2026. She has her Bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development from Benedict College. Ms. Ketia was born and raised in a small town in South Carolina. She married her high school sweetheart, and they have four children. She has had the oppurtunity to travel and work in the follow capacities: teacher assistant, case manager, children's service coordinator, PreK teacher, and elementary teacher. In 2018, Ms. Ketia receieved the Beginning Teacher of the Year Award. Fun Fact - Ms. Ketia loves arts and crafts and her favorite children's book is "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie".

Ms. Linda "Lala" is a Resource Teacher at our school and has been with us since June of 2018. She earned her degree from Penn State and McKeeseport Hospital School of Nursing. She has her RN Credentials in Pediatric Trauma Advanced Life Support, Adult Advanced Life Support, is a Certified Nurse, and has 39 years of experience at Emergency ER and Advanced Care. Ms. LaLa has two sons (Andy and Jonathan) and 2 grandchildren (Virginia and Oliver). She enjoys shopping, reading and doing puzzles. Ms. LaLa's favorite children's book is "The Night Before Christmas".

Ms. Melinda is an Assistant Teacher and has been with us since July of 2022. After high school she attended Campbell University for two years. When she had her first son, Ms. Melinda became a stay-at-home mom while taking online classes. In 2021, she had her second son, and in 2024 she had her daughter. She is currently in school to get her BS in Business. Ms. Melinda loved being a stay-at-home mom, but she is excited to be working in the Early Childhood Education field! Seeing her kids grow every day is what motivated her jump into this field. She says that nothing compares to being a part of a child's growth and development. Ms. Melinda's favorite children's book is "Chika Chika Boom Boom" because it is a fun way to learn your ABC's and it's her son's favorite!

Ms. Miriam is an Assistant Teacher and has been with us since 2026. She is currently in Early Childhood Education classes to pursue her dream of being a certified teacher. She has always had a desire to teach, and she is excited to be in the classroom. In her free time, Ms. Miriam loves to bake! She can whip up desserts and pastries in no time! She also loves animals and can't wait to have a farm of her own. Ms. Miriam's favorite childhood book is "Oh, The Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss. This is her favorite book because it captures the excitement and uncertainty of growing up. Through playful rhymes and illustrations, the book reflects how success and failure are both natural parts of moving forward.

Ms. Sophie is an Assistant Teacher and has been with us since 2026. She graduated college in May of 2025 with a Bachelors in Psychology and a Bachelors in Criminal Justice. She received many academic accolades such as Summa Cum Laude. Education is very important to Ms. Sophie, and she loves to learn! She is a huge animal lover and has an 11-year-old great dane. Ms. Sophie played tennis in college and loves to still play. Ms. Sophie's favorite book from childhood is Harry Potter. She read the whole series in 5th grade and it is where her love of reading started.