Our Goddard School Teachers

John and Jody, our original owners, opened The Goddard School in 2008. Jody earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and has worked with children for over 35 years. Mrs. Jody’s experience has made her aware of the significance of providing a quality preschool setting with caring, professional teachers. John graduated from CSU, Northridge with his degree in Kinesiology. After an extensive background in management/customer service and working with children as a coach, he wanted to operate a business that played an important role in the community. Kristen officially joined The Goddard Family in 2017 to support the ownership team. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Hospitality from CSU, Chico. Ms. Kristen has an extensive background with customer service from her work experience at The Ritz-Carlton and she is excited to operate a school that incorporates learning for life and for fun. All Owners are CPR, First Aid certified and completed a background check.

Mrs. Emily has over thirteen years of experience in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field in both teacher and administrative roles. She received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Truckee Meadows Community College. Mrs. Emily has a passion for building positive relationships with the children and their families and believes in open communication. Her favorite preschool moments are the “Ah-Ha moments” when a child completes a new activity or overcomes a challenge for the first time. In her free time, Mrs. Emily loves cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers with her husband and son, exploring new parks, and reading. She is excited to bring her experience to The Goddard Family and be part of your child’s love for learning! Mrs. Emily continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Nicole has been working with children for over ten years and is the mother to her young daughter. She loves interacting with children and continuing her growth and learning in child development. Her favorite part about teaching is not just watching the little ones grow, but also being able to grow alongside them. In her free time, she enjoys drawing, coloring, hiking and spending quality time with her family. Ms. Nicole is excited to bring an outgoing, upbeat, and organized personality that is full of fun and kindness. She is so happy to learn along side your kids and cannot wait to help them grown in wisdom, grace and guidance so that they will always know their worth. Ms. Nicole continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada Child Care Licensing.

Mrs. Chelsea has over ten years of experience working with children. She received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno. After graduating, Mrs. Chelsea worked for a private family for over six years, providing care and education for their four children, becoming a member of their family in the process! Mrs. Chelsea and her husband enjoy spending time outside with their dog and exploring Nevada’s backroads. She is very family oriented and loves celebrating the holidays together and creating new family traditions. She is excited to bring her experience to The Goddard Family and be part of your child’s love for learning! Mrs. Chelsea continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Madison is the Assistant teacher in the Infant classroom. She has several years' experience in Early Childhood Education working with various age groups, but especially loves the infant age group. Throughout her career, Ms. Madison has loved helping children grow and become inspired through the fun and interactive approaches she takes to learning. She loves children's ability to dream and create. Ms. Madison uses this ability as an inspiration in her teaching to help her students grow a fondness for learning. Ms. Madison continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Mekeia is the Lead teacher in the Toddler 1 classroom. Ms. Mekeia is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Langston University. She has several years of experience as an infant and toddler teacher in the early childhood education field. Ms. Mekeia's favorite teacher moment is celebrating special moments, including holidays and special events. Ms. Mekeia is delighted to be part of The Goddard team and creating a love of learning for children at a young age! Ms. Mekeia continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Nancy is the Assistant Teacher in the Toddler 1 classroom. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with her bachelor's in Human Development and Family Studies. Ms. Nancy has worked in the ECE field for several years, and has a special place in her heart for infant and toddler development. She is passionate about providing a fun, safe and nurturing environment in the classroom and is excited to bring her passion of teaching to the Goddard team! Ms. Nancy continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Karina is the Lead Teacher in our Toddler 2 Classroom. Ms. Karina holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from University of Nevada, Reno. She has several years’ experience working with children ranging from infants to 6 years old. In her spare time, she enjoys being creative and sewing. Ms. Karina is excited to be a part of The Goddard School family and help the children learn and grow! Ms. Karina continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Jillyan is the Co-Lead teacher in the Toddler 2 classroom. Ms. Jillyan holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential specializing in the Infant/Toddler age group. She is also enrolled at The University of Nevada, Reno pursuing her degree in Finance. Ms. Jillyan has experience in the education field as a tutor and loves seeing children grasp new skills! In her spare time, Ms. Jillyan enjoys spending her time with family. Ms. Jillyan is delighted to be part of The Goddard team and creating a love of learning for children at a young age! Ms. Jillyan continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Serena is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Twos classroom. Ms. Serena has several years' experience in the Early Childhood field working with toddlers and she studied phlebotomy, but realized her true passion is working with young children. She recently obtained her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential specializing in the Infant/Toddler age group. Ms. Serena lived and taught in Wisconsin for four years before moving to Sparks. In the classroom, Ms. Serena loves engaging in art and making fun sensory activities with her students. Ms. Serena is thrilled to be part of your child's learning experience! Ms. Serena continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Catalina is the Assistant Teacher in the Twos classroom. She studied Early Childhood Education at Pacific Oaks College in California. Ms. Catalina has worked in the ECE field for several years in all age groups, but has a special place in her heart for the toddlers! She is passionate about ensuring the children's needs are met in a developmentally appropriate manner, and providing a fun, hands on environment where children can build confidence! Ms. Catalina continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Anna is the Lead Teacher in the Bridge Classroom. Ms. Anna has her Associate’s Degree in General Studies in addition to over 18 years of experience in the early childhood education field. Ms. Anna recently obtained her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential specializing in the Infant/Toddler age group. She has a passion for incorporating social/emotional learning in curriculum centers. Ms. Anna is a native Nevadan and has twin daughters. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and being outside. Ms. Anna continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Mayra is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Bridge classroom. She has her associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from Great Basin College. She has worked in the ECE field for several years in all age groups, but has a special place in her heart for the toddlers! In the classroom, Ms. Mayra enjoys engaging with the children and having meaningful conversations while playing at centers. She is excited to bring her passion of teaching to the Goddard team! Ms. Mayra continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Natalie is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Preschool 1 Classroom. Ms. Natalie has several years of experience working with children as both a lead teacher and Director, including volunteer work with a local non-profit organization, providing respite care to children with special needs. Ms. Natalie's favorite teacher hobby is art and sensory activities, promoting the children's development through hands on experiences. In her free time, Ms. Natalie enjoys pottery and spending time with her family. Ms. Natalie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Vanessa is the Lead Teacher in the Preschool 2 classroom. Ms. Vanessa has several years’ experience working with children and is currently pursuing her degree in Social Work at Truckee Meadows Community College. In addition, Ms. Vanessa holds a CDA in Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten age. Ms. Vanessa loves being hands on with children and building connections with her students. She loves spending time with family, hiking, and being outside! Ms. Vanessa is delighted to be part of The Goddard Team and creating a love for learning for children at a young age! Ms. Vanessa continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Jess is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Preschool 2 Classroom. She has her bachelor’s degree in international relations from the University of South Florida. She has several years of experience working with children as a lead primary Montessori teacher. Ms. Jess has a passion for fostering an environment of independence and excitement of learning. When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Jess enjoys being outside hiking with her beagle, Willow. Ms. Jess is delighted to be part of the Goddard School and creating a love for learning for children at a young age. Ms. Jess continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Jessie is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 1 Classroom. Ms. Jessie graduated from The University of Nevada, Reno with her Bachelor’s in Literature. Ms. Jessie has worked in the early childhood education field for over three years and is excited to be a part of the Goddard team. Ms. Jessie’s favorite teacher hobby is Circle Time because it helps foster a love of reading and learning. Ms. Jessie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Hana is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 2 Classroom. Ms. Hana is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education at Western Governor's University. She has worked in the early childhood education field for several years in preschools, elementary schools, and as a dance teacher. In her free time, Ms. Hana enjoys fishing at Pyramid Lake, camping, and crafting. Ms. Hana continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Mrs. Bree is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 2 Classroom. She has worked in the early childhood education field for over twenty years in both teacher and leadership roles. Mrs. Bree has a passion for fostering meaningful connections in the classroom. Her favorite preschool teacher moment was when she was teaching her classroom about community helpers. The children painted their favorite community helpers, and painted Mrs. Bree! Mrs. Bree continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Angeles is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Angeles is currently a student at The University of Nevada, Reno pursuing her bachelor's degree in Veterinary Sciences. She loves working with children, and helping them understand challenges. Ms. Angeles continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Mya is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. She is currently enrolled at Truckee Meadows Community College majoring in Psychology. Ms. Mya has experience working as a swim instructor, as well as at a local elementary school providing support to students and teachers. Her favorite teaching moment is watching children apply the skills they have learned! Ms. Mya continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Marlenne is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Marlenne is attending Truckee Meadows Community College persuing a degree in Elementary Education. She is also in school at Great Basin Aviation to become a pilot. She has experience nannying the young children in her family and is excited to be a part of the Goddard School Team to gain professional skills as an educator. She loves to bake, learn new things and she plays volleyball and soccer. Ms. Marlenne continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Lauren is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. As she begins her journey in early childhood education, Ms. Lauren brings a genuine passion for helping children grow through a joyful, positive environment. She is a mom to three boys, and as a fifth generation Nevadan, enjoys spending time outside hiking, camping and watching her boys play baseball. She looks forward to sharing kindness, joy, and encouragement with each child she meets. Ms. Lauren continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Olivia is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. She is currently studying Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno. She has experience with babysitting toddlers and wanted to gain childcare experience as she plans to become a pediatrician in the future. Her favorite hobbies are spending time with family, watching movies and playing games. Ms. Olivia looks forward to forming connections with the children and making everyday a good day! Ms. Olivia is happy to help in preparing your child to be school ready, life ready and career ready! Ms. Olivia continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Kayla is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. She brings previous preschool experience and has a special love for nurturing infants and toddlers, finding joy in helping our youngest learners feel safe, loved, and secure. Ms. Kayla believes children learn best through play, kindness, and creativity, and she is passionate about building confidence in every child as they explore the world around them. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Kayla is studying cosmetology and enjoys helping others feel confident and expressive. In her free time, she loves spending time outdoors exploring with her boyfriend. She is delighted to be part of the Goddard Family and creating a love for learning for children. Ms. Kayla continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Ms. Kam is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Growing up in a large family, she has always enjoyed caring for and connecting with young children, which inspires her patient and nurturing approach in the classroom. Ms. Kam believes that every child is unique and deserves encouragement as they learn and grow at their own pace. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time in nature with her family and friends. Ms. Kam is thrilled to be part of your child’s learning experience. Ms. Kam continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.

Mrs. Heather is one of our substitute teachers who helps in all the classrooms. Mrs. Heather graduated from Sacramento State University with a degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in art. She also holds a teaching credential and taught at the elementary level for 4 years. Mrs. Heather has an abundance of experience including homeschooling her three children, directing a homeschool for 11 years, and teaching kid’s ministry. She has a passion for watching the next generation grow and learn while developing relationships with the children. She enjoys getting messy with art and science lessons! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and volunteering at her church. Mrs. Heather continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the State of Nevada, Child Care Licensing.