Our Teachers

Known as “Ms Joy”, the owner, has more than a decade spent in education industry working with both public and private entities such as Montessori schools and Oregon Department of Education focusing on early childhood development. She plays an active role in parent coaching, public and private educational consulting, and engaging in volunteer works in different organizations as well. She proudly has many ties to the community, residents and businesses in the area. Pem and her have three children: Kei, Cali, and Ori. Along with their Logan & Ellie, black & yellow Labrador. An advocate for a life changing experience for the children; campaigner of international languages; committed to parent education and close parent partnership; activist for a strong community relationship; She is proud to bring this atmosphere to the Goddard school. "Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from Him." Psalm 127:3 Languages Spoken: English, Tagalog/Filipino

Ms. Shelly, a native of Southern Oregon, recently relocated to the Beaverton area. With over 20 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to working with children of all ages, from infants through middle school. The focal point of her dedication lies in nurturing a secure and joyful setting conducive to children's intellectual, physical, and emotional growth. Ms. Shelly recognizes the importance of nurturing meaningful connections with families, vital in delivering exceptional care. Currently, she is working towards her Psy.D. Degree with a focus in child and adolescent psychology with the aspiration of opening a clinic in the future. She enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the outdoors during her free time. Languages Spoken: English

Aloha! Ms. Lermha was born and raised on the island of Kaua'i, Hawai'i. "I moved to Oregon in July 2017 to experience life off the island. I have been working with children between the ages of three to five for seven years and I love it! Watching them grow and being able to experience new things with them for the first time is so rewarding to me." On her free time, she enjoys cooking, watching movies and spending quality time with her family and friends. Aside from teaching, she plays the role of an Assistant Director at Goddard. Her soft spoken ways, her integrity and diligence is such a reward to have her be part of Goddard. Language Spoken: English

Ms. Karen is one of our Lead Toddler teacher and has been teaching for over 22 years. Her decades of experience have proven her passion, joy and interest for Children's education and development. "I love how I can help children discover new and exciting things on their journey through life." She has a son, a daughter and 2 grand daughters. Busy teacher and grandma! Pronouns: She/Her/Hers Language Spoken: English

Ms. Lupe was born in Michoacan, Mexico. Aside from her name, she is also famously called "Wobblers guru" and a "miracle seed grower." Married and has 5 beautiful children. Earned a Bachelor's of Science with a Liberal Studies degree, and a minor in Spanish through Oregon State University. Following that, she worked for the Oregon Child Development Coalition Migrant Head Start and in partnership with Community Action for decades. In her spare time, she loves being in nature, camping, fishing, swimming, running and working in her garden. Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Positivity and high energy, Ms. Victoria has them both. Comes in with a smile that's contagious. Does not matter what time of the day, she is always energized. Born in Oklahoma; went to school in Forest Grove; has a 4 year old son and in her free time, she spends precious family time. Language Spoken: English

Ms. Arianna has over 9 years experience working with children of all ages. She grew up in the pacific Northwest and has enjoyed hiking and discovering the great outdoors with friends and family, including her two children. She's passionate about reading books out loud during circle times, as well as planning art experiences for children in the classroom and outside. Teaching young children has brought her so much joy, and she looks forward to continuing educating little ones for many years to come. Language Spoken: English

Hafa Adai! Ms. Dominique is from an island called Saipan. She moved to Oregon to pursue a higher education. She is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at Portland State. "I have been working with children since my third year of high school and never stopped since! I have always been so amazed by children and their many ways of figuring out how the world works." When she is not working with children she spends her time with her friends watching movies and cooking. "I am so proud to be part of the Goddard family!" Languages Spoken: English, Tagalog/Filipino

Ms. Paige has recently relocated to Hillsboro from San Diego, CA, where she was born and raised. She found her passion for children at a young age, volunteering for her reservation's Head Start. "At the start of 2021, I chose to leave my previous career, to pursue working more closely with children. My intention is to be an advocate for all children and provide a safe place for them to find their true identities. I will be furthering my education, with the goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. I am beyond excited to continue my journey here at Goddard." Language Spoken: English

Ms. Evelin Berenice Barajas comes from Morelia Michoacán Mexico. In a family of 3 siblings, she has 2 brothers and she is the middle and only daughter. Her passion working with children stems from her vision of being a Dentist focused on Pediatric Dentistry. But despite of the unfortunate situations at Mexico, when she moved to Oregon, this did not stop her in pursuing her passion in working with children. She was part of the program called Preschool Promise for low income families. "I love working at Goddard Hillsboro being a Spanish teacher. Teaching a new language to the children is the best part that I get to do everyday!" Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Ms. Ana Anderson is a very passionate teacher that completes our Spanish bi-lingual environment. She is a Talented early education professional offering decades of experience. With 6 years of it was coordinating activities to promote physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth. She understands that a teacher must have the ability to communicate, inspire and motivate students, as well as an understanding of the students' educational and emotional needs. She loves working with children and well loved by them too. She is always ready to bring her high energy, early intervention knowledge and dedication to her students preschool to pre-kindergarteners. Her classroom focus are on planning diverse activities, experiences to enrich academic and socio-emotional learning and promote individual growth. Encouraging, challenging and motivating them altogether to positively impact every child. Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Ms. Hannah is originally from the state of Ohio. She moved here to Oregon for new opportunities in January of 2022. Before moving to Oregon, Hannah was a Home Health Care worker for individuals with special needs. Working with children was always a goal as she wanted to be a special needs teacher. In Ms. Hannah's free time, she loves to read and draw! Language Spoken: English

Go Ducks!!! Ms. Kacy is a native Oregonian and grew up in Lake Oswego. She graduated from the University of Oregon where she received her Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies with a minor in Special Education. "Working with young children has always been a passion of mine and I am thrilled to be able to participate in the growth and education of your children. In my spare time, I enjoy being with friends and family, hiking, attending Oregon Duck football games and traveling to the beach. I look forward to my future here at The Goddard School!" Pronouns: She/Her/Hers Language Spoken: English

Aloha! Miss Raina recently moved from Kailua, Hawaii where she's originally from. She has been working with children for 11 years now! She started in a 6th grade classroom in American Samoa, and then a 4th-5th combined class for three years. After moving back to Hawaii, she started working with preschoolers and spent six years with 3-5 year old children. Miss Raina has a BA in early childhood education and a masters in teaching from Pacific University. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family. As her family is new to Oregon, they have been doing a lot of exploring and getting to know their new home! Fun fact about Miss Raina: she loves reading, cooking and doing all the crafty things!

Ms. Nayeli was born and raised in Oregon. She has three siblings, two sisters and a brother. Her parents moved to the US, and they always encouraged her and reminded her of how important education is, which is why she always wanted to be a teacher. Currently, Ms. Nayeli is working on earning her bachelor’s degree in Bilingual Early Childhood Education at PSU (Almost graduating!). Previously she worked at a bilingual elementary school as a SPED Instructional Assistant for three years before joining the Goddard School at Hillsboro. In her free time, she likes hiking, off-roading, spending time with her loved ones and her dogs! She loves Formula 1, Harry Potter, music, penguins and anything pink! Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Ms. Udeshi was born and raised in Sri Lanka and came to the USA in 2008. Ms. Udeshi has worked with the Goddard team for about 2 years now and has loved the teachers she's worked with! "I truly believe working with children is my calling!" Currently, Ms. Udeshi is working on her Child Development Associate (CDA) to become a certified teacher. In her free time, Ms. Udeshi enjoys spending time with her family, trying new recipes, and hiking. "I love working at the Goddard School with the best children, families, and staff!" Languages Spoken: English, Sinhalese

Ms. Debbi graduated from Concordia College, Portland with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Adminstration. Prior to education she has also worked as an office manager in retail and messenger service. After volunteering for years as a teacher/Sunday School Superintendant; a Camp Fire leader for her daughter’s group; and having two children of her own, this led her way back to education. Returned to Concordia University, Portland for her Master’s in Teaching-Early Childhood Education. She has worked in a variety of capacities as a teacher: substitute teacher, afterschool care, HeadStart, Recreation Center teacher, and childcare preschool teacher and now our Jr Kindergarten and Kindergarten accredited teacher at Goddard. "I enjoy music, movies, sports, and learning to bellydance! I look forward to this great, new opportunity to work with Jr. Kinders and Kinders!" Language Spoken: English

Mr. Kabir is a native Oregonian. He enjoys working with children and have worked with children ages k-6 at a summer camp. Kabir loves to play the guitar and have been playing for almost 12 years! He is an avid hiker who is always up for a new challenge and spending time outdoors. In the future, he hopes to travel the world and visit all seven continents. Fun fact: he once rode an elephant! Pronouns: He/Him/His Languages Spoken: English, Hindi

Ms. Marisol has thrived working with kids ever since she was in high school. She knew that she wanted to help teach little minds and let kids know they are safe and nurtured and feel loved at all times. Ms. Marisol also loves being able to help the community. Her roots are one of the biggest reasons she went into an education background. Ms. Marisol is very family oriented, which allows kids to feel a sense of belonging. She has two kids who help her thrive to be the teacher she is! Languages spoken: English and Spanish

Ms. Rian has been working with children since 2019. She loves working with kids and watching them learn and develop. Her goal for the future is to be an educator, and starting at an environment where she gets to help children grow to be the best they can has only made her more excited and prepared for that role. Ms. Rian loves sports, so any sport or any kind of activity that involves competing or movement, she enjoys. Ms. Rian also has a creative side, so crafts, decorating, organizing, etc. she also enjoys. Fun fact about Ms. Rian is she LOVES CATS! Her favorite movie is Cars. Languages Spoken: English

Hi Hi! Ms. Angelina is a native Oregonian and grew up in the Albany/Corvallis area. She loves children and has worked with them in some capacity for 35+ years. She graduated from OSU with her BS in Human Development and Family Sciences with an emphasis in family services and a minor in writing. Since then she has worked with children in both social services/child welfare and early childhood education. "My favorite part of working with children is watching and helping them grow and discover life in each developmental phase. The awe, wonder, and curiosity with which they approach life is a joy to be able to witness. They are these little beings simply learning how to 'human' in this great big world". In her free time she loves reading, cooking, traveling, going to concerts, and spending time with her husband and five cats! She's also a very proud aunt of nine delightful nieces and nephews whom she adores. "I'm so thrilled to be here at Goddard!" Language: English

Miss Madelyn (Miss Maddy) was born and raised in Portland, OR. She has been working with children for 4+ years in occupations such as childcare, teaching, working as a nanny, teaching summer programs for the Hillsboro School District, as well as programs for Harvest and Bethany Baptist Church, and many others. In her free time, Miss Maddy is always working on 2-3 new art projects to keep herself busy and to keep her portfolio current. Her main hobbies are printmaking (silkscreen, relief printing) and music (guitar and piano). Having a creative outlet has always been an indispensable facet in her life, and she loves to combine her passion for the arts with her love of early childhood education. One fun fact about Miss Maddy is that she has a twin sister! Miss Maddy also makes house decor! (lamp upholstery, throw pillows, posters, etc.) Languages Spoken: English

Ms. SeAnna is a senior at Century Highschool. She is thoroughly involved in her church Kidlife program. She teaches Sunday school for first and second graders every weekend. She is a VBS leader and runner for a kids camp. Ms.SeAnna aspires to be a person that kids can trust and look up to and hopes to become an elementary school teacher. Language Spoken: English

Mrs. Brindha hailed from the southern part of India. Her aspiration is to be an inspiring and caring teacher. Such ambition was inculcated in her through observing her beloved teachers, as they were her role models. She completed dual bachelor's degrees (one in Mathematics and another in Education). She has five years of primary school teaching experience. After becoming a mother, Ms. Brindha felt a calling to spend her passionate teaching expertise with toddlers. For several years, she has volunteered to be a part of preschoolers activities in Singapore. After moving to the USA, Ms. Brindha had her dream fulfilled by being a preschool teacher since 2022. She enjoys every moment of spending quality time with the kids and helping in teaching them. Languages known: English, and Tamil.

Devadharshini Meenakshisundaram, affectionately known as Deva, is an enthusiastic assistant teacher at The Goddard School. Deva is originally from the southern part of India. With a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering and two years of hands-on experience in preschool settings, Deva brings a blend of passion and expertise to her role. Her journey in education began with a deep-seated belief in the importance of early childhood development. She thrives on fostering a nurturing and supportive atmosphere where children feel valued and empowered to explore their curiosities. Deva is dedicated to collaborating with lead teachers, parents, and fellow staff members to ensure each child receives personalized attention and achieves their full potential. Deva is a classical Bharatnatyam dancer and in her leisure time, she plays pickleball, hiking and spends valuable time with her infant baby. She is always motivated to be a successful teacher in her career.

Jose was born in Michoacán, Mexico, then shortly after moved to California, where he did not like the heat one bit. After two years, he moved to Oregon and has lived here ever since. He loves to enjoy whatever wonders nature has to offer. He has an outgoing personality and loves to make his coworkers laugh. Horror movies are a yes for him, but when Frozen, Moana, Encanto or any Disney movie is involved, they get the win. Languages Spoken: English & Spanish

Ms. Mayra was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. She has always been drawn to working with children, a passion she has successfully turned into her career. Her versatility is evident in her experience with children of different age groups, including running an after-school program through the Boys and Girls Club. Her sister, a constant source of motivation, has inspired her to pursue her dreams and to push through no matter what. Ms. Mayra enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching anime, and reading. Languages Spoken: English and Spanish

Ms. Sophia was born and raised in the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon. Ever since she was young, she has held a deep desire to become a teacher, and she has been able to turn her passion into what she hopes is a lifelong career. She loves empowering children to realize their full potential. Sophia finds it incredibly rewarding to foster a sense of joy and self-worth in the children she works with, and she takes pride in witnessing their growth and contentment. When she isn't teaching, Sophia loves to explore her other passions. She is an avid cook and she also loves to spend time in nature and enjoys hiking and camping in the beautiful wilderness areas surrounding her home. When relaxing, Sophia enjoys listening to her favorite melodies and discovering new music that speaks to her soul. She believes that pursuing her passions outside of work helps keep her grounded and allows her to be the best version of herself. Languages Spoken: English and Spanish.

Ms. Bhavna was born and raised in Uttar Pradesh, India, and she moved to the United States in 2018 after getting married. She completed her M.Sc. in Botany and B.Ed. degrees from India and had two years of teaching experience there. Recently, she has finished her Early Childhood Education Certification from Portland Community College. "I feel genuinely happy working with children, and it gives me a feeling of accomplishment watching them learn and grow. Along with children's learning, I also learn everyday." She is also determined to learn new skills to improve in her teaching career. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and friends. Her philosophy of life is related to the holy book Geeta: "Work is religion and worship." Languages Spoken: Hindi and English