Our Goddard School Teachers

Hello, I’m Ms. Maria, the proud Franchisee of The Goddard School. I’m deeply involved in the daily operations and am committed to providing the highest quality care and education for your children. With a Master’s degree in Nutrition from New York University and a background as an Administrator in Assisted Living, I bring a strong foundation in health and wellness to our school. Early childhood education is a true passion of mine, and I prioritize your child’s health, safety, and love for learning. Our goal is to create a nurturing, fun environment that fosters growth and unforgettable memories for both you and your child.

Hello, my name is Nicole Mendell, and I am the Director at The Goddard School. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and English, dual certification for Pre-K–3 and K–6, and a TSD certification for teaching students with disabilities. I’ve been with Goddard since 2013, with over 20 years of experience in education, starting as a teacher and advancing to Director. I am passionate about creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive, and I am dedicated to ensuring each family’s experience is filled with care and support.

Hello, I'm Ann Michele Badau! With over 20 years of experience working with children aged 6 weeks to 3 years old, I've found my passion in helping little ones grow and learn. Currently serving as the assistant Director, I've previously been a Lead teacher in both the infant and First Steps rooms. CPR, First Aid, Medication Administration, and Allergy Certified, I make sure your little ones are always in safe hands. Every day, I come to work excited to see the joy on a child's face when they learn something new. It's truly priceless! And as a proud mother of two beautiful girls - one at West Virginia University and the other at home - I understand the importance of creating a loving and nurturing environment for all children. Let's continue to watch them bloom together!

Hi, my name is Jen Smith and I am the lead teacher in the Infant Room. I’ve been part of The Goddard School family since 2007 and hold my CDA, along with CPR and First Aid certifications. With many years of experience, I’m passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where infants feel safe, loved, and supported as they grow. I enjoy building strong connections with families and celebrating each child’s milestones. I’m also a proud mom of three wonderful boys and cherish every moment with them. I look forward to caring for your little one at The Goddard School!

Hello, my name is Giovanna Perez and I have been working with kids for over 10 years. I am a very outgoing, responsible loving person who loves to watch children grow and learn. My husband and I have 2 amazing boys that we love to spend time doing all different activities or just spending quality time with each other. When I have time for myself, I love to read books and do hair.

Hello, my name is Haley Crabtree. I am a recent graduate of Pompton Lakes High school. I have been working with kids for a few years now. Prior to working at the Goddard School, I worked as a waitress and babysit on the weekends. During my high school year, I was on the varsity cheer team and was a competitive cheerleader for many years with Cardinal Athletics. I am CPR and First aid certified and looking into obtaining my CDA.

Hi my name is Kayla Doecks. I have been working with children for the past few years. I started here in 2021 as the elementary support teacher and then became the Lead teacher in the First Steps room. I have a daughter who also attends The Goddard School. I look forward to the upcoming school year. I received my General Education Diploma in 2021 and began to purse a career in early childhood development.

Hello! My name is Joselyn, and I’ve had the joy of working with children for several years. I’m passionate about creating a nurturing and engaging environment where kids can grow, learn, and thrive. As both an educator and a parent — with my own child attending The Goddard School — I bring a unique perspective and heartfelt dedication to everything I do. Watching children develop their confidence, curiosity, and skills is truly the most rewarding part of my work.

Hello, my name is Gianella, and I am currently the assistant teacher in the First-Steps classroom. I have been working with children for several years and truly enjoy supporting their growth and development. I especially love working with older age groups, as it’s so rewarding to watch them learn new skills, gain confidence, and become more independent. As both an educator and a proud parent, The Goddard School holds a special place in my heart—my daughter attends the school as well. Being part of this community not only enriches my professional life but also brings me great personal joy. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our students each day and to partner with families as their children learn and thrive.

Hello my name is Yolanda Mendez and I am the Lead teacher in the Toddler classroom. I have worked in childcare for over 10 years. Prior to working at the Goddard School I worked at The Lewis Chatman Academy for 8 years. My passion is teaching children. Currently I am working on my CDA. I am CPR & First Aid certified. I chose working with children as my career for as long as I could remember. I have four beautiful children and on my spare time I love to do things with my husband and kids.

Hello, my name is Ciara Wyzga and I have been working with children for a few years. I started here at the Goddard School back in 2019 and then left to have my daughter. I returned back in 2021 as an assistant teacher. I love helping and watching children grow and seeing them hit and achieve all their milestones.

Hello! My name is Manuela Grullon, and I am an Assistant Toddler Teacher at The Goddard School. I hold a degree in Business Management, but my true passion lies in working with children. I love creating a nurturing and fun environment where children feel safe, loved, and inspired to learn. My goal is to show little ones that learning can be joyful, and that care and education can go hand in hand. I am excited to continue growing in my career and am currently working toward earning my CDA to further enhance my skills as an early childhood educator.

Hi, my name is Megan Riley and I am the Lead Teacher in the Get Set 1 classroom. I have several years of experience working with children and am also a proud mom. I hold my CDA certification and am passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and explore. I’m excited to be part of The Goddard School and to help guide each child on their learning journey.

Hi, my name is Kayla Daddis, and I recently graduated from high school with a strong passion for working with children and supporting their growth. I bring hands-on experience in tutoring, babysitting, and coaching youth sports, where I have developed patience, leadership, and a nurturing teaching style. As the older sister of two younger brothers—one a graduate of this school and one currently attending—I have a deep personal connection to the school community. I love watching children learn, grow, and build confidence, and I strive to create a positive, encouraging environment for every student I work with. I’m excited to continue growing in the education field and am dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of the students I serve.

Hello, my name is Jesenia Caba and I have an associate degree in Early childhood education and a bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology. I’ve worked many years as a babysitter and also used to tutor my cousins with any subjects they were struggling with. One of the goals I accomplished was being the first in my family to graduate from college. It wasn’t easy but I did it!

Hi my name is Brooke and I have been working with kids for 3 years. I recently graduated from Pequannock Township Highschool. I participated in cheerleading for many years and also coached the boys and Girls club cheer.

Hi my name is Desiree Rivera and this is the my first year working in a school setting. I have past experience working with kids. I have helped my mother babysit kids at home and I have been a personal baby sitter to family and friends. My accomplishments that I have done is graduated from Passaic High School, attended Valor Christian College and attend Capri Institute. I look forward to working here with all the different age groups and learning how different they all are.

Hi, my name is Gina Acosta, and I have several years of experience working with children. I hold my CDA certification and am proud to serve as a Lead Teacher here at The Goddard School. Earning my CDA was a rewarding challenge, and I’m thrilled to apply what I’ve learned to create a nurturing, engaging environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive.

Hi, my name is Kristen and I started here at the Goddard school in 2022. I have over 15 years experience with children. I have 4 children of my own and I strive to make all children feel understood, comfortable and capable. I look forward to investing in your child's development as I will make it my priority.

Hi, my name is Auledena Hernandez, and I am the Assistant Teacher in the Preschool 2 classroom. I have five years of experience working with children, and I truly enjoy supporting their growth as they explore, learn, and reach important developmental milestones. I graduated from high school in 2022 with a 4.0 GPA, and since then I’ve dedicated myself to helping create a positive, nurturing, and engaging environment for young learners. I’m passionate about early childhood education and love being part of each child’s journey as they discover the world around them.

Hello my name is Cathie Ressland. This is not my first time working with children. I did work for this Goddard school 12 years ago. I love working with children and this why I came back to work for the Goddard school again. I enjoy watching the children grow into beautiful young souls. I have a 5 year old son who is going to start kindergarten in the fall. He is my pride and joy. I look forward to see your children grow into great children!

Hello, my name is Maria Pabon and I have been working with kids for a few years. I worked previously as a bus aid and was responsible for getting the children on and off the bus safely. I love the position I work, watching the kids make big milestone steps which always puts a smile on my face. I am currently working towards getting my CDA to gain more education in leading these kids in the right direction. I am very easy going and believe strongly in open communication.

Hello, my name is Maria Cruz and I am the lead teacher in the Prekindergarten classroom. I have a bachelor's degree in child family studies and many years’ experiences working with preschool and prekindergarten children. I love working with pre-k children watching them grow and learn throughout the year and getting them ready for kindergarten.

Hello, My name is Angelica Perez and I have been working with children for a few years now. I love helping children learn new and fun things. In my free time I like to learn about diabetes in children and how to prevent it in the future. I also enjoy spending my free time with my husband and kids.

Hello, my name is Tekisa and I’ve been working in early childhood education for the past few years, and it has truly become my passion. During this time, I’ve had the joy of helping young children grow socially, emotionally, and academically through hands-on activities, play-based learning, and lots of encouragement.