Our Teachers

At The Goddard School, we believe every child deserves the best start in life. With a strong background in management and sales, I made a life-changing decision after becoming a mom myself. Inspired by my daughters and a passion for creating a positive impact, I transitioned into early childhood education. Today, I proudly lead The Goddard School, serving families in Elmwood Park, Garfield, Fair Lawn, Lodi and the surrounding communities. My promise to families: a safe, nurturing environment where your child’s well-being and happiness are my top priority. I created a school where learning feels exciting, safe, and filled with love. As a hands-on owner, I am here for you—whether to discuss your child’s progress, celebrate milestones, or answer questions. With a passion for excellence my team and I work to provide children with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive.

Hello! My name is Lisa, and I have had the privilege of serving as the Educational Director here since we opened our doors in February 2015. In 2022, I became a proud co-owner of the center alongside Ms. Olga. My journey in early childhood education began in 2004, and it has been a deeply rewarding field ever since. I hold an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Bergen Community College and a Bachelor's Degree in Family and Child Studies with a minor in Psychology from Montclair State University. I am First Aid and CPR certified and successfully completed several specialized courses, including those on medication administration, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), shaken baby syndrome, and managing food allergies. As the proud mom of two wonderful children, I understand the importance of fostering a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. I look forward to meeting your family and supporting your child's growth and development!

We are pleased to introduce Ms. Kayla, our Assistant Director here at The Goddard School of Elmwood Park! Ms. Kayla holds a Bachelor's Degree in English from Kean University and a Master's in Business Administration from Centenary University. With a career in early childhood education that began in 2008, she joined our team in May of 2017. Ms. Kayla's expertise and dedication to nurturing the growth of our students make her an invaluable part of our school community.

Ms. Carolyn has been an invaluable member of our Goddard family since August 2016, serving as the Infant Lead Teacher. She brings warmth, expertise, and a deep commitment to the care and development of our youngest learners. With a career in early childhood education that began in 2003, Ms. Carolyn has a wealth of experience and a true passion for her work. She is CPR and First Aid certified and regularly participates in training on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Ms. Jessica has been dedicated to the field of early childhood education since 2010. She joined our Goddard family in April 2022 and is our wonderful Young Toddler Teacher. She is CPR and First Aid certified and regularly participates in training on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Shaken Baby Syndrome. Ms. Jessica’s commitment to creating a nurturing and engaging environment makes her a treasured part of our team.

Ms. Kianelly has been a valued member of our Goddard family since September 2021. She serves as the Lead Teacher in our Toddler classroom, where her passion for early childhood education shines through in the care and attention she gives to our young learners. With experience in the field since 2020, Ms. Kianelly is dedicated to fostering a fun and supportive environment for her students.

Ms. Kaitlyn joined our Goddard family in July 2022 and brings her expertise and enthusiasm to the Toddler classroom as our Lead Teacher. With experience in the early childhood education field since 2018, Ms. Kaitlyn is dedicated to creating a fun, nurturing, and engaging environment for our toddlers to thrive.

Ms. Rainely joined our team in August 2024 and is currently the Lead Teacher in our Preschool program. Her passion for early childhood education and dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment make her an invaluable part of our team.

Ms. Joanna joined our Goddard family in March 2022 and brings a remarkable depth of experience, having been in the early childhood education field since 1998. She is the Lead Teacher in our Preschool classroom, where her expertise and enthusiasm shine as she helps our young learners thrive.

Welcome back, Ms. Lisa! Ms. Lisa was part of The Goddard School from 2015 to 2018 and rejoined us in February 2024. She holds her CDA (Child Development Associate) and is currently our Pre-K Lead Teacher. Ms. Lisa's experience and passion for early childhood education make her a wonderful leader in our Pre-K classroom, where she fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment for our students.

Ms. Eileen brings over twenty years of experience in education and holds a B.A. in Art Education from Montclair State University. She joined our Goddard family in August 2021 and plays a creative and inspiring role in our Preschool and Pre-K programs. Ms. Eileen helps our young learners express themselves through fun, engaging art projects that encourage creativity and self-expression.

Ms. Rosa joined The Goddard School in August 2023 and serves as a Teacher Assistant in our Infant classroom. She is CPR and First Aid certified and regularly participates in training on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Shaken Baby Syndrome. Her caring and attentive nature helps create a warm and nurturing environment for our youngest learners.

Ms. Gloriosa brings over ten years of experience in Early Childhood Education and joined our Goddard family in April 2024. She is a dedicated member of our Infant program, where her experience and nurturing approach help create a loving and supportive environment for our youngest learners. She is CPR and First Aid certified and regularly participates in training on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Ms. Alyssa has been passionate about early childhood education since 2016 and became a valued member of our Goddard family in July 2020. She is the Teacher Assistant in our Young Toddler classroom, where her dedication and care help create a supportive and enriching environment for our youngest learners.

Ms. Celestina joined our Goddard family in August 2024 and serves as our Toddler Teacher Assistant. She is dedicated to providing nurturing support for our toddlers, helping create a positive and engaging learning environment.

Ms. Destany joined our Goddard family in July 2024 and serves as the assistant in our older Toddler program. She is dedicated to supporting the development of our toddlers and creating a fun, engaging environment where they can thrive.

Ms. Nathalie joined our Goddard family in September 2021 and brings her dedication and warmth to the Preschool Prep classroom as our Teacher Assistant. She has been in the early childhood education field since 2018. Ms. Nathalie’s passion for helping others shines through in her work with children every day.

Ms. Rafi has been a dedicated professional in the early childhood education field since 2019. She joined our Goddard family in August 2022 and plays a key role in supporting our Preschool classroom. Ms. Rafi’s enthusiasm and dedication make her an invaluable part of our team, helping to foster a positive and enriching learning environment.

Ms. Franchesca has been dedicated to early childhood education since 2018 and joined our Goddard family in March 2022. She serves as the Pre-K Assistant Teacher, where her support and enthusiasm help create a positive and engaging learning environment for our Pre-K students.

Ms. Kathy joined The Goddard School in July 2024 and serves as our afternoon Pre-K Teacher Assistant in the Crocodile classroom. She provides valuable support to our Pre-K students, helping create a positive and engaging environment as they prepare for their next steps in learning.

Ms. Destiny became a part of our Goddard School family in February 2024. As an All-School Assistant, she provides valuable support across different classrooms, helping ensure a positive and engaging learning experience for all of our students.

Mr. Curtis joined The Goddard School in March 2023 and serves as our All School Teacher Assistant. His versatility and dedication help support all age groups, contributing to a positive and dynamic learning environment across the school.

Ms. Wendy joined The Goddard School in June 2024 and has been working with children since 2021. As our All-School Teacher Assistant, she provides afternoon support across various age groups, contributing to a positive and engaging learning environment for all our students.

Ms. Princess joined The Goddard School in October 2024. As our All-School Teacher Assistant, she provides afternoon support across various age groups, helping create a dynamic and nurturing environment for all our students.

Ms. Janessa has been with The Goddard School since September 2023. As our All-School Teacher Assistant, she provides valuable afternoon support across various age groups, helping create a nurturing and engaging environment for all our students.

Mr. Davony joined The Goddard School in June 2024 and serves as our All-School Teacher Assistant. In the afternoons, he helps support a variety of age groups, contributing to a positive and engaging environment for all our students.

Ms. Gwen has been with The Goddard School since January 2024. As our All-School Teacher Assistant, she provides valuable afternoon support across a variety of age groups, helping to create a positive and engaging environment for all our students.