Our Teachers

Barbra Bryan – Franchise Owner After a long and successful career as a Sales & Marketing Executive and a business Leader at Fortune 200 Corporations, Barbra left the Corporate world to pursue her passion – Building a successful Early learning place where children could learn and grow in an enriched, loving environment that prepares them to be the best they can be in school and in life. She and her husband Gordon bought the Mooresville Goddard School in the spring of 2008 and began building her dream. Barbra is also involved in her community as she strives improve educational access for all students. Barbra earned her BA in Business Administration at Queens University in Charlotte and her MBA at Wake Forest University.

Ms. Amber is our passionate Executive Director, having been with the Goddard School since September 2018. She spent her early years in the infant and 2-year-old rooms, became our Education Director in June of 2021, and has since been promoted to Executive Director in October of 2024. She brings to us a Bachelor's Degree in History from Appalachian State University, as well as, experience working with Exceptional Children in the Mooresville Graded School District. Ms. Amber finds great joy in working with children, as their energy and curiosity always bring a smile to her face. She is passionate about making a difference in their lives, no matter how small, and believes that every positive interaction contributes to their growth and development.

Ms. Crystal is our Operations Director, bringing a rich background and dedication to our team. She joined Goddard in 2019, initially working with our 2-year-olds before moving on to become the lead teacher in the 4-year-old classroom for three years. In November 2022, she was promoted to Assistant Director and in October 2024 to Operations Director where she continues to make a positive impact. Ms. Crystal graduated from Liberty University in May 2022, with a degree in Developmental Psychology and has recently completed her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, also from Liberty University. Her strong educational background and hands-on teaching experience are significant assets to our administrative team.

Ms. Ashley is our Curriculum Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience to her role. Since joining Goddard in 2018, she has previously taught in the Fantastic Frogs class and has been a passionate educator since 2015. She holds two Associate's Degrees from Central Piedmont Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Western Carolina University. She has also been a Goddard Teacher of the Year Nominee twice, during her time in the classroom. With her dual perspective from being a teacher, to now an administrator, Ms. Ashley is an invaluable resource for families and staff alike. She is committed to advocating for children's learning and providing teachers with every opportunity to take their curriculum to the next level.

Ms. Leah is our Office Assistant and has been a valued member of our team since 2018. Previously serving as our Nutrition Specialist, she has recently transitioned into an administrative role where she supports the office with daily tasks. As a mother of three, Ms. Leah brings warmth and an outgoing spirit to everything she does, creating a positive atmosphere in every classroom she supports. We are thrilled to have her on our team, where her enthusiasm and care truly make a difference!

Ms. Sharon is our Lead Teacher in our Tiny Turtles classroom. She has been with Goddard since 2011 and has taught young children for over 30 years! She has her North Carolina Early Childhood Credentials, SIDS, and BSAC certifications. Her focus has always been with younger children- infants and young toddlers being her specialty. She creates a fun and interactive environment for her infants who love to learn and play with Ms. Sharon!

Ms. Elaine is the assistant teacher in the Tiny Turtles classroom. She has over 25 years of experience working with young children. Ms. Elaine believes that not every child learns in the same way and as a teacher, it is important to meet each child where they are in development and learning. When Elaine is not in the classroom she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

Ms. Tori is a Co-Lead Teacher in the Cuddly Calves classroom. She has been at Goddard since 2016. Tori has her NC Early Childhood Credentials and over 5 years of experience working with young children. Ms. Tori loves teaching because she can feel the positive impact she has on each of the children every day.

We are delighted to have Ms. Kionna as our Chipper Chicks Lead Teacher at The Goddard School. She joined our team in February 2024, bringing with her a genuine passion for nurturing and inspiring young minds. Ms. Kionna holds a lead teacher certification and has one year of hands-on childcare experience. She believes wholeheartedly in the importance of allowing children to explore, learn, and grow in a supportive environment. Her warm and engaging approach makes her a wonderful addition to our community!

Ms. Malia is a Co-Lead in our Chipper Chicks room. Originally from California, she grew up and lived most of her life in Mooresville, NC. She brings us a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a true passion for working with children, finding joy in helping them thrive in a nurturing environment where they feel safe and valued. When she is not in the classroom, you can find her reading, watching TV, or in the gym! Her bright personality and passion for educating is an asset to our Goddard team!

Ms. Thusnee, also known as Ms. Taz, is the Little Lambs Lead Teacher. She has her bachelor’s degree in Child Development from Fresno State University. She comes to us all the way from California and has taught preschool for 5 years. Some of her favorite classroom moments include seeing the child's reaction when they make the connection to what they are learning!

Ms. Alyssa is the Assistant Teacher in the Little Lambs classroom. Ms. Alyssa grew up in Hickory and moved to Mooresville when she was 16 years old. She is the middle child of two sisters. During High School and in her spare time she loves to play softball. Working with children brings her great joy and she believes that every child should feel loved and safe.

Ms. Debbie, is our Lead Teacher in the Leaping Llamas Classroom! Originally from Long Island, New York, she holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and brings over 10 years of experience to our team. Ms. Debbie’s passion for teaching shines through, especially when she sees children’s faces light up as they learn new things or achieve milestones. She is always actively seeking out new techniques through additional training and coursework to continually enhance her teaching skills. Outside the classroom, she enjoys crafting, baking, and taking walks with her dog, Jax. Her enthusiasm and creativity is such an important asset to our Goddard team!

Ms. Raenie joined us in December of 2024! As one of our dedicated Support Teachers, you’ll often find her lending a helping hand across various classrooms throughout the day. With over a year of experience in Early Childhood Education, Ms. Raenie brings a deep passion for nurturing and guiding young minds. She believes that patience and a nurturing approach are essential to a successful classroom environment. Ms. Raenie understands that children are highly observant and are influenced by the energy around them. Therefore, she emphasizes the importance of educators modeling emotional regulation to create a positive, supportive learning atmosphere.

Ms. Sandra is our lead in the Bouncing Bunnies room! She is originally from Mexico and moved to the United States at the age of 13. Ms. Sandra has her Associates degree in Early Childhood Education from Mitchell Community College. Bringing the gift of being bilingual to the team and enjoys incorporating it into her lessons whenever she can. Ms. Sandra believes that a classroom should be a safe and loving place where children feel free to express their emotions and their social and academic development is supported.

Ms. Harley is our Assistant Teacher in the Bouncing Bunnies class! Since joining Goddard in February 2024, she has brought a wonderful warmth and enthusiasm to our community. As a mother of two lovely boys, Ms. Harley deeply understands the importance of nurturing and guiding young minds. She believes that teachers should be role models, helping children discover and grow into their true selves. When she is not in the classroom, she enjoys cooking and baking!

Ms. Amanda, who joined the Goddard team in February 2024 is our Precious Pigs Co-Lead! Originally from Georgia, she brings three years of childcare experience along with her North Carolina teaching credentials. As a mother of two, Ms. Amanda radiates positivity and creativity in everything she does. She firmly believes that patience, understanding, and consistency are essential in nurturing young minds. In her free time, she loves spending quality time with her family and cheering on her children at their weekend sports events.

Ms. Onshay, also known as Ms. Shay, is our wonderful Co-Lead Teacher in the Precious Pigs class! She joined our Goddard family in January of 2025 and has quickly become an invaluable member of our team. With a background in Early Childhood Education since 2022, Ms. Shay brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to creating an enriching learning experience for her students. Ms. Shay is a firm believer that children learn best when they are actively engaged in their environment. As an educator, she strives to provide a dynamic and inclusive space where every child feels valued, inspired, and encouraged to explore.

Ms. Angela, affectionately known as Ms. Angie, became a valuable member of our Goddard team in December 2024. She serves as the Lead Teacher in our Galloping Goats class. With an impressive 29 years of experience in the Early Childhood Education field, Ms. Angie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and is passionate about the critical role preschool plays in a child’s development. Ms. Angie believes that the foundation for future academic success is built during the early years, especially between ages 3 and 7, and she is dedicated to preparing her students for a bright future!

Ms. Emily, our Assistant Teacher in the Galloping Goats room, joined the Goddard School team in August 2024. With experience in early childhood education since 2023 and her North Carolina teaching credentials, Ms. Emily is dedicated to fostering growth and meaningful relationships with her students. She believes in treating each child as an individual, empowering them to be their best selves.

Ms. Mikayla is Co-Lead Teacher in the Fantastic Frogs room, where she brings her enthusiasm for early childhood education and a strong foundation in child development. She has recently graduated from East Carolina University in December 2024 with a Bachelor's degree and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She joined our team in early 2024, and her dedication to nurturing young minds is evident in her classroom each day. Outside of work, Ms. Mikayla enjoys spending quality time with her nieces and nephews and catching up with friends. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team!

Ms. Brenda is the assistant in the Fantastic Frogs class. She joined us in July of 2024 and has been a great asset to our team, jumping into any room without hesitation! She brings a gentle nature and a love for young children, as well as, the gift of being bilingual, speaking both fluent English and Spanish. Ms. Brenda is currently in school for her Associate's in Arts degree as well! Her dedication and reliability is extremely valuable to our team.

Ms. Kristen is a Co-Lead in our Darling Ducks class. She is originally from Long Island, New York and brings 17 years of experience in early childhood education to our team. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts from the State University of New York at New Paltz, complemented by additional coursework in early childhood development. Ms. Kristen is passionate about creating a fun and engaging learning environment. With her belief in embracing each day as a new opportunity to learn and grow, she fosters a love for learning that inspires her students to explore and discover.

Ms. Valentina is a Co-Lead teacher in the Darling Ducks class. Originally from Venezuela, she has made a wonderful transition to the United States in 2016. She holds a Registered Behavioral Technician certification and possesses North Carolina Early Childhood teaching credentials. Bilingual and passionate about language, Ms. Valentina loves incorporating Spanish into her lessons and activities, enriching her students' learning experiences. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing and understanding environment where each child can thrive and reach their full potential.

Ms. Amanda has been with us since January 2024 and is a graduate from UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and is a member of the National Guard. Ms. Amanda comes to us with a huge passion for teaching children. Amanda prioritizes a child-centered approach, acknowledging that each child is unique and learns differently. When she is not in the classroom you can find her spending time with all her animals at home!

Ms. Shelby, our Farmers in the Dell Co-Lead, has been a valued member of the Goddard School of Mooresville since May 2023. After a fulfilling 30-year career as a teacher and principal, she retired in August 2019 from the school district. Since then, she has embraced the field of early childhood education, taking on roles as a floater, teacher, and Education Director. Ms. Shelby is passionate about advancing strong educational programs and fostering educational excellence. She strives to motivate her students through meaningful engagement, making a positive impact in their learning journeys.

Since 2017 Ms. Katherine has worked as an After-school and Summer Camp Counselor. She has been at the Goddard School since August 2023 and spends her day as one of our amazing Support Teachers. In the afternoon, she becomes the After school teacher, helping students with homework and keeping them engaged! Katherine believes "each child is unique and entitled to their own learning style. It is crucial to approach teaching with an open mind."

Ms. Jessica is in our Leaping Llamas room! Originally from Buffalo, New York, she joined The Goddard School of Mooresville in August 2024. With a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and English, along with three years of childcare experience, she is dedicated to fostering a love for learning in her students. When she’s not in the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her two children, engaging in fun family activities that inspire creativity and connection.

Ms. Angelica Maria, also known as Ms. Tata, joined our Goddard team in November 2024. As one of our wonderful substitute teachers, she steps in wherever needed, offering her support across various classrooms. A bilingual educator, Ms. Angelica is a native Spanish speaker, and she brings her valuable knowledge to each class she visits. Since 2017, Ms. Angelica has gained extensive experience nannying for multiple families, further nurturing her deep love for children. She believes that children are the foundation of our future society, and it’s essential to foster active learning and critical thinking to help them thrive.

Ms. Katherine is our Nutrition Specialist. She is responsible for designing menus and ensuring the children get healthy balanced meals. Ms. Katherine is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a degree in Business Administration in Computer Skills. She believes that “not every child learns the same as the next. Knowing a child’s strengths and weaknesses are important to help encourage learning and confidence."