Our Goddard School Teachers

Nicole Harrison is the Owner of The Goddard School of West Orange, Livingston and East Hanover (opening in 2026). As a mother of 4 children, she has always understood the importance of early childhood education. Nicole has a Bachelor's Degree in Public Health as well as a teaching degree in Physical Education and Health. She has many years of experience working in business prior to her teaching path. Nicole and her team are committed to providing the highest quality preschool experience for the children in the community. Our unique nurturing approach will give your child the opportunity to develop into a joyful, confident learner who is prepared for success in school and in life.

Hello Goddard families! I’m Eric Alders, Vice President of Regional Operations for our West Orange, Livingston, and soon-to-open East Hanover locations. With over 25 years of mentoring children to become confident, joyful individuals, I’m honored to support the Goddard School community. For 15 years, I owned two martial arts schools, teaching enrichment programs at daycare and early childhood centers, earning recognition in the Action Martial Arts Hall of Fame for teaching excellence. As a General Manager at Starbucks, I led six high-volume locations, managing teams of up to 40 while ensuring safe, welcoming environments—skills I now apply to uphold Goddard’s high standards. As a father of twin daughters who thrived at Goddard, I deeply value early education. Married to my college sweetheart, I’m committed to creating nurturing spaces where every child shines. I look forward to partnering with our families to ensure your child’s safety, education, and happiness!

My name is Larseia. I've been with Goddard since October 2020 and I have my Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education and Childcare Management. I have been working in the childcare setting for over 10 years now and come from a family full of educators. I started as a teacher in our West Orange location and moved over to Livingston when we opened our doors in 2022. I love what I do especially when seeing a child's reaction when they learn something new that they can be excited about. The best feeling is entering a school or classroom and having children run over with smiles to give you hugs. I love being someone that not only the children can come to, but faculty as well. I am the person that teachers and parents call over when their kids are having a rough morning and need a little extra help at drop-off and getting into their classrooms. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hello, my name is Madeleine. I graduated from Hamilton College with a degree in Creative Writing. One of my early jobs after graduation was working for a literary agent whose focus was children’s books. This interest in children’s literacy and education then brought me to Hunter College where I earned a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education with a thesis on early literacy. I taught for 10 years at a preeminent Reggio inspired preschool in Manhattan. While there, I was sent to Italy to study Reggio techniques where the philosophy originated, as well as to numerous schools across the country to present and learn about educational theories. Since moving to New Jersey, I have worked with various schools across the state, providing in-class STEAM lessons as well as professional development for teachers and administration. I come to The Goddard School as Early Childhood Education Specialist, bringing my passion, breadth of experience and knowledge.

My name is Ms. Ashley! I have been working in education for 5 years. My favorite children's book is "I am Enough" by Grace Byers. I am a passionate marketing professional with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, specializing in the education sector, driving engagement through innovative strategies and creative campaigns. Skilled in creating impactful content, building strong brand presence, and fostering connections within the educational communities to inspire growth and learning. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi everyone! My name is Alex, and I’ve been working in childcare since 2016. I hold a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies and have been part of The Goddard School family since 2020. I began my journey as a Lead Teacher in the Toddler Classroom at the West Orange location before moving to the Livingston school, where I led the Preschool Classroom. Through hard work and dedication, I am proud to now serve as the Office Assistant/Education Coordinator at The Goddard School of Livingston. As a mother of three wonderful daughters, I bring compassion, patience, and understanding into everything I do. When I’m not spending time with my family, I love singing and playing guitar. My favorite children’s book series is Llama Llama — I find that its lessons about emotions and relationships beautifully mirror what we teach in early childhood education.

Hi, my name is Ms. Teiasia! I am excited to be joining the Livingston team as the office assistant. I have been working in childcare for 11 years. I have my AA in Early Childhood Education. My favorite children's book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. The best part of being in a school is all of the hugs you give out and receive! I love to laugh and giggle, and I try to make others in my presence do the same. My long-term goal is to open my own business. I believe that I can make a positive impact by leading by example and continuously giving positive feedback! I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Bethany Lopez and I have been working professionally with children for 10 years. I started in the Goddard West Orange location in 2020 where I lead the infant room for two years before transitioning to Livingston's infant room when they opened their doors in 2022. I am continuing my education at William Paterson University; pursuing my degree in psychology with a minor in chemistry. My favorite part of teaching is creating a home away from home for all of my students; we are a family here! I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Bertha! I have been working in education for over 1 year. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I am fun, loving and patient. My most loved children’s book is “I Like Myself!” by Karen Beaumont. I make a positive impact on the teaching team here by including more arts and crafts so that we can stimulate the children’s artistic side. Also, i love teaching the children my first language which is Spanish. My long-term professional aspiration is to advance in a career of children’s education. This year I am working to improve my English vocabulary so that I can better communicate and assist the children here at The Goddard Livingston. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Nancy! I am studying English at Essex Community College. I am just beginning my journey in childcare but it's been amazing so far. My favorite children's book is "Because I had a Teacher" by Kobi Yamada. I love all the children in my care and getting down to their level to play with them. I take pride in being kind and showing patience. My goal this year is to continue building my English language skills and I'm happy to have the support of my Livingston team! I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi! I’m Ms. Nataly, and I’ve been working in education for over four years. One of my favorite children’s books is Five Little Monkeys—I love how it brings laughter and excitement to the classroom. My students enjoy having me as their teacher because I’m full of energy and love to play and learn alongside them, meeting them on their level. Teaching is my long-term passion, and I’m excited to continue growing in this field while also learning something new myself this year—how to play the guitar! I hope to make a positive impact on our teaching team by bringing my love for interaction, warm attitude, and inclusive teaching style. I truly enjoy connecting with students, families, and colleagues from all backgrounds, and I believe strong relationships are the heart of a thriving classroom. Simply put, I’m a people person, and I feel so lucky to share in the learning and growth of each child I teach.

Hi! My name is Ms. Jay! I have my CDA in early education and my B.S. in business administration. I am a year into facilitated childcare with Goddard Livingston, but I have always loved interacting with children! I won the "Teacher of the Year" award in 2023. I love finding new ways to teach and communicate with them in the languages they need. I love to write children's books about the children I meet and their different personalities. Eventually, I would love to get published. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Bridgett. I've been in education for 12 years. I have completed early childhood education classes. My favorite children's book is Three Little Bears. I love having fun with children and getting down to their level to explore the environment from their point of view. I love watching them progress and being the best teacher I can be. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, I’m Ms. Ashly! I’ve been working in early childhood education for over five years, and I absolutely love what I do. I strive to create a warm, loving classroom where children feel safe to explore, learn, and play. One of my favorite things is reading Green Eggs and Ham with my students—it’s such a fun story that encourages curiosity and trying new things. My goal as a teacher is to inspire as many little minds as I can and help each child feel confident and supported as they grow. This year, I’m focusing on being more consistent with my self-care so I can continue showing up as my best self. I also hope to make a positive impact on our teaching team by being empathetic, open-minded, and a supportive teammate. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that values connection, creativity, and the joy of early learning. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Tati! I have been in education for under a year. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I am very funny, and my smile causes them to smile back. I can make a positive impact on the teaching team here by adding my happy- go lucky and thumbs up attitude to my children and their families. My long-term goal career/professional aspiration would be to go back to school and get my associate’s degree in early child development. This year I would like to learn how to create little games and learning materials for kids that help stimulate their development. What I love about myself is that I light up the room with my smile and that I make people laugh, especially when they are not feeling good. A fun fact about me is I am goofy, silly, unique and outgoing. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Lianna! I have been working in education for 3 years. I started with Goddard in preschool and preK and shifting to the younger classrooms. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I love doing arts, crafting and science projects. My most loved children’s book is “What Feelings Do When No One’s Looking” By Tina Oziewicz. I make a positive impact on the teaching team by being a good team player and continuing to grow with the company. My long-term professional aspiration is to lead my own Pre-K and Kindergarten class. This year I would like to learn more about behavioral management. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi my name is Ana! I have been in childcare for 5 years. My favorite children's book is "Si Tocas un Dinosaurio." I love to listen to music and I love to get the kids dancing in my classroom! My first language is Spanish, and my goal is to continue learning English. My long-term goal is to become a lead teacher and continue to support my team and students to the best of my abilities. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Jeimy. I joined the Goddard school team in 2025. The reason I became a teacher is because I am a very positive person and enjoy watching the children learn. Watching the children learn their letters and enjoy a good book puts a smile on my face. My favorite childhood book is "Pete the cat" by James Dean. I enjoy dancing with my students and being silly. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Eva! I have been working in education for 12 years. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I make learning fun. We have a great time together. Their laughter inspires me to bring my best to the classroom. My most loved children’s book is “Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae. I make a positive impact on the teaching by being a team player. I love sharing ideas and learning from others. I want to help create a supportive and upbeat environment where we all work together. My long-term career aspiration is to become an early childhood center director/ owner. This year I would love to improve my cooking skills. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Emily! I joined the Livingston location after being over at our sister school in West Orange. I have my B.A. in early literature and my associate in early childhood education. I've been in education for 11 years. I'm a super silly person that loves to laugh! My favorite children's book is "Possum come a-knockin" by Nancy Van Laan. I love helping my students try new things in the classroom. My long-term goal is to become a school administrator. I'm excited to learn more about the Wonder of Learning curriculum and introduce it to our families! In my spare time, I play violin and I'm also a third-degree black belt in karate! I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Kalleem Lambert. I have been working in education for 2 years. My favorite children’s book is “No David!!” by David Shannon. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I make learning fun and let kids be themselves while applying structure. I can make a positive impact on my teaching team here by taking a lot of pressure off my lead teacher and being able to always support. This year I would love to learn how to lead a classroom. My long-term career/ professional aspirations are to become a social worker or officer.

Hello, my name is Mr. Ryan. I have been in education for 4 years with experiences in working with children from Pre-K to 3rd grade. Some of my hobbies include playing basketball, playing guitar, and making origami. I strive to make the classroom a fun and safe environment where children can play, learn, laugh and grow. My teaching philosophy is that every child has the potential to do great things and that everyone has a different path for success. Everyday I come in with the goal of teaching something new to the class and making an impact that will last a lifetime. I hope to continue to help spread the wealth of knowledge the world has to offer and am excited to work with future students and parents. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

My name is Mia Weichert. I have been working in education for 6 years. My most loved children’s book is “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I make learning fun, show that I care about them and create a safe, positive environment where they feel heard and supported. I believe I can male a positive impact on the teaching team by continuing to bring positivity, creativity and a strong sense of collaboration. I enjoy supporting my coworkers and creating a joyful environment. My long-term career/ professional aspiration is to continue higher education so I can continue to grow as a teacher. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Ms. Katie! I have been working in a preschool setting for 4 years. I have been working with children of all ages for over 10 years. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because I am compassionate, fun, and creative. Connecting with the children and building a loving relationship with each child is so important. My favorite children's book is "In My Heart" by Jo Witek. I can make a positive impact on the teaching team here with a fresh new perspective. My long-term aspiration is to go back to school for my masters in Elementary Education. I currently have my bachelor's degree in environmental studies. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, my name is Mr. Alphonse! I have been working in education for over a year. The children in my class enjoy having me as a teacher because love to be hands on with my students by creating materials for them like books, using my own stories! My most loved children’s book is “Someone Loves You.” by Mr. Hatch. I make a positive impact on the teaching team by always being of assistance when needed. My long-term professional aspiration is to become a published children book illustrator. This year I would love to learn more about classroom management. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi! I’m Ms. Diana, and I’ve been working in education for over a year. One of my favorite children’s books is The Serious Goose, which always brings fun and laughter to the classroom. My students enjoy having me as their teacher because I am kind, patient, and loving, and I strive to make them feel safe, happy, and supported every day. This year, I’m excited to explore new creative teaching activities, positive guidance strategies, and ways to support children’s emotional and social development even more. I hope to make a positive impact on our teaching team through my warm heart, patience, and positive attitude. I truly enjoy working as a team, helping wherever I can, and creating a kind and lively environment for both children and colleagues. My long-term goal is to continue growing in early childhood education, becoming more confident and skilled in my work, and making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of the children I teach.

I am a dedicated pre-kindergarten teacher with a passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning. I have my certification as a Child Development Associate, I also attended Essex County College for Early childhood Education. I have over 15 years of education and experience working with children. I love creating warm and inclusive classrooms where all my little learners feel valued and encouraged to explore. I believe that play is an essential part of learning and spend a lot of my time incorporating a variety of hands-on activities, throughout my lessons. I am committed to building strong partnerships with parents and families which I believe is the key to each learner’s success. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hello Goddard Families, My name is Ms. Cynthia and I have been working with children for over 20 years. I studied early childhood development at Bronx Community College. I am a proud mother of three and a grandmother of 2. I love working with children because working with children provides you with the opportunity to develop a new purpose each day! I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.

Hi, I’m Ms. Nia! I’ve been working in education for a year, and it’s been such a rewarding experience. One of my favorite parts of the day is delivering lunches—every class lights up when I walk in because they know it’s time to eat! I love being part of this important moment in their day, making sure they’re happy, nourished, and ready for the rest of their learning. Seeing their smiles and knowing I played a small part in their joy truly means a lot to me. Outside of work, I’m working toward my degree in social work, with the goal of becoming a guidance counselor or mentor for young people. This year, I also hope to become a more confident driver—it’s something I’m actively working on! I take pride in making a positive impact by keeping lunch on schedule, which helps the teaching teams stay on track and keeps the day running smoothly for everyone. I am CPR/First Aid certified, safe sleep certified, allergy response trained, and child abuse trained.