Our Goddard School 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. Languages Spoken: English, Tagalog/Filipino

Miss Amanda was born and raised in the Bay Area of California. In 2018, her family left California and moved to Beaverton. She has a BA in Art with a minor in child development from San Jose State and a Master's in teaching from USC. Miss Amanda began her teaching career in California before working for the Beaverton School District, where she taught 1st and 2nd grade for 8 years. She recently transitioned out of the classroom and joined Goddard team in 2025 as Director. She has two daughters, both of whom attended Goddard Hillsboro, a dog, and a cat. When she's not busy with work and family, Miss Amanda enjoys home improvement projects, going to art museums, and cooking cuisine from around the world. Language 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 since 2016 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." She has one daughter that keeps her on her toes. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, watching movies and spending quality time with her family and friends. Aside from teaching, Miss Lermha plays the role of an Assistant Director at Goddard and has been part of the team since 2017. Her soft-spoken ways, her integrity and diligence is such a reward to have her be part of Goddard. Language spoken: English

Hafa Adai! Miss 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. Miss Dominique is currently working towards obtaining her CDA and has been at Goddard since 2019, where she is also an Assistant Director. "I am so proud to be part of the Goddard family!" Languages spoken: English, Tagalog/Filipino

Aloha! Miss Raina was born and raised in Kailua, Hawaii. She lived in Oregon while in college and moved back here with her family in 2023. She has been working with children since 2011. She spent her first four years of teaching in upper elementary classrooms in American Samoa. After moving back to Hawaii, she started working with preschoolers and discovered that was her passion. Miss Raina has a BA in Early Learning and a Master’s in teaching from Pacific University. In addition to being a licensed teacher, she is also an Oregon Registry Community trainer, so she gets to help teachers be great teachers, too! When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, reading, crafting, and baking. Miss Raina has been at Goddard since 2023. Language spoken: English

Miss Eyllin grew up in the beautiful state of Oregon, where she attended Glencoe High School. Her journey with children began early in her life, fueled by a genuine passion for nurturing and educating young minds. Now, as a Lead Teacher for our Infants, she brings a wealth of enthusiasm and dedication to her role, ensuring that each child feels valued and supported. Being the youngest among four brothers and one sister, Miss Eyllin understands the dynamics of family and sibling relationships, which helps her connect with both children and their parents. Outside of her teaching responsibilities, she embraces the spirit of adventure during her free time. She loves spending sunny summer days at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. Additionally, she has a keen interest in exploring new places and often embarks on road trips, discovering the beauty and diversity of different destinations along the way. Languages spoken- English & Spanish.

Miss Vanessa was born and raised in Oregon. She has always had a passion for working with little ones, and being an infant teacher is what she truly loves to do. “Watching babies grow and reach new milestones is something I find magical and being part of those early moments is such a joy.” In her free time, Miss Vanessa enjoys being outdoors with her French bulldog, Molly, and riding ATVs on the beach. She also loves the idea of traveling the world and has been to Hawaii and Mexico, but hopes to one day explore Dubai. She has been working at Goddard since 2025. Languages spoken: English and Spanish

Miss Evelin comes from Morelia Michoacán, Mexico. In a family of 3 siblings, she has 2 brothers, and she is the middle and only daughter. When she moved to Oregon, she pursued her passion in working with children and has been doing so since 2015. She was part of the program called Preschool Promise for low-income families. Miss Evelin has been here at Goddard since 2020. "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!" In her free time, she like taking pictures, especially of sunsets, playing volleyball, and going swimming. Languages spoken: English, Spanish

Miss Allie was born and raised in Oregon. Working in childcare is a new found passion for Miss Allie, who enjoys fostering a space where children can learn and grow. “Nothing brings me more enjoyment than seeing a child pick up a new skill they learned in care. I deeply value the importance of fostering confidence and independence in young ones.” She is currently pursuing an associate’s degree in science. After that she plans to obtain her CDA. In the classroom, Miss Allie enjoys using her skills in art and creativity, allowing her children opportunities to experiment with a variety of art mediums. In her free time, she loves expressing herself through painting and reading. Miss Allie has been working at Goddard since 2025. Languages spoken: English and Spanish

Miss Karen was born in Oregon but spent her early years in Canada. She moved back to Oregon when she was 12 and has been here ever since. She is one of our Lead Toddler teachers and has been teaching for more than 20 years. Her decades of experience have proven her passion, joy and interest for children's education and development. Her passion is to nurture, teach, and guide children to become beautiful people. "I love how I can help children discover new and exciting things on their journey through life." She has a son, a daughter and 4 grandchildren. In her free time, Miss Karen enjoys watching movies, working in her flower garden, and spending time outside watching the hummingbirds in her yard. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers Language spoken: English

Miss Kendra was born and raised in Sacramento, California and recently moved to Oregon in May 2025. She's been working with children in a childcare setting since 2023, and prior to that has worked with children in family community settings. She graduated from Sacramento City College with an Associate's in Early Childhood Education and plans to continue her education at Portland State University. Miss Kendra "finds joy in creating a nurturing and inspiring environment for children. I love helping children learn and grow." In her free time, she likes to explore her new home by biking, reading romance novels, and spending time with family and friends. Miss Kendra has been a part of Goddard since 2025. Languages spoken: English and Hmong.

Miss Udeshi was born and raised in Sri Lanka and moved to the US in 2008. She's loves being around kids and watching them grow, and after spending time volunteering in her son's preschool classroom she knew that that was something she wanted to pursue. "I truly believe working with children is my calling!" Currently, Miss Udeshi is working on her Child Development Associate (CDA) to become a certified teacher. She has been part of the Goddard family since 2021. When she's not at work, Ms. Udeshi enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons and going hiking. She is especially passionate about cooking and baking, and she loves trying new recipes from other cultures and making it her own. Languages Spoken: English, Sinhalese

Miss Silvia was born in Mexico and moved to the United States when she was five years old. Her passion for working with children inspired her to get her degree in child development from South Texas College. “I am so happy that I have the opportunity to work with children and watch them grow every day!” Miss Silvia joined the Hillsboro Goddard team in 2024, but has worked at Goddard in Austin, Texas as well. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and cooking. A fun fact about Miss Silvia is that she collects Disney Stitch items. Languages spoken: English and Spanish

Miss Meke was born and raised in Florida and recently moved in Oregon in 2024 so she could experience all four seasons. She’s been working with kids since 2018 and enjoys it “because they’re funny and make me laugh.” Miss Meke has a BA in Psychology from the University of South Florida in Tampa. She joined the Goddard team in 2024, where she wants to “impart and instill good habits and provide a safe and fun environment for everyone.” In her free time, Miss Meke enjoys cooking, hiking, and collecting Lego. Language spoken: English

Miss Seanna was born and raised in Hillsboro, Oregon, and has dedicated several years to working with children. She is currently working towards obtaining her teaching license. Actively involved in her church, Miss Seanna teaches Sunday school for 1st and 2nd graders, drawing inspiration from this experience for her future career. Additionally, she contributes to kids' camps and Vacation Bible School and serves as a youth leader. She enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family in her leisure time. She also likes hiking, painting, and baking. Language spoken: English

Ms. Olana was born and raised in Portland. She completed her Associates in Early Childhood Education and has been working with children for eight years! She has experience in nearly every childcare setting, from summer camps, daycare, schools, and most recently, as a career nanny. Outside of work, her top priorities are art, family, & sunshine! She enjoys taking her dog for walks and petting her cat, but when she enters a creative mood, she finds it hard to pull herself away! Most of her artistic time is spent on painting, pottery, and ceramics. Olana also absolutely loves and needs to be outdoors, and you'll find her anywhere sunny, from swimming with friends or on a walk with her dog and fiancee. Olana’s goals are to see every child thrive in their environment and truly love learning. environment and truly love learning. She hopes to one day have the opportunity to open an art studio for kids to be able to express themselves. Language spoken: English

Miss Olivia started her career in childcare when she was just 15 years old! She’s been a daycare teacher and has worked with children of all ages. While at Glencoe High School, she worked as an assistant teacher in the school’s preschool program. This experience inspired to pursue a career in childcare. “Teaching is truly my passion! My goal is to nurture and guide wonderful humans for future generations, and I can’t wait to inspire and shape little minds.” Miss Olivia joined the Goddard team in 2025. In her free time, she enjoys reading and shopping. Languages spoken: English and Spanish

Miss Leila was born in Annapolis, Maryland and moved to Oregon when she was 7 years old. In addition to being a full-time teacher, Miss Leila is also a full-time student majoring in biochemistry. She hopes to one day combine her two passions and become a pediatric oncologist. She comes from a very large family and has been taking care of kids since she was 12. “I love working with kids and teaching them new things.” Miss Leila has been working at Goddard since 2024. When not busy with work or school, she enjoys reading classic literature, watching action movies, and listening to music. Language spoken: English

Miss Alma was born and raised here in Oregon and has over 30 years of working with children in various settings. She started her career in her high school’s daycare, spent years as a nanny, and for the last 11 years has worked in the early childhood setting. She’s always enjoyed working with kids and helping them reach milestones. She enoys “watching their individualuiy as they grow as a person and watching them have those “proud moments” She has three grown children and two beautiful grandchildren. In her free time Miss Alma enjoys watching movies, listening to music, and camping at the beach. She has been part of the Goddard community since 2025. Language spoken: English

Miss 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. Miss Brindha has been at Goddard since 2024 and recently earned her teaching license in 2025. She enjoys every moment of spending quality time with the kids and helping in teaching them. Languages spoken: English, and Tamil.

Miss 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, daughter, and friends. Miss Bhavna’s philosophy of life is related to the holy book Geeta: "Work is religion and worship." She has been with the Goddard family since 2024. Languages spoken: Hindi and English

Go Ducks!!! Miss 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 her spare time, she enjoys being with friends and family, hiking, attending Oregon Duck football games, traveling to the beach, and playing weekly trivia. Miss Kacy has been teaching since 2006 and has been a part of the Goddard family since 2015. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers Language spoken: English

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

Miss Nattie was born and raised in Oregon. She joined the Goddard team in 2025 as a student teacher in our Kindergarten classroom while a student at Pacific University. She graduated from Pacific in 2025 with a BA in Early Learning and a minor in French. Her mom, as well as both her maternal grandparents, are teachers so that is something she’s always wanted to pursue. “I find teaching very rewarding. I love getting to interact with children and getting to know them and build relationships.” In her free time, Miss Nattie enjoys being at home with her family and cats. She likes doing puzzles, crocheting, and painting. Languages spoken: English and French

Miss Lupe was born in Michoacan, Mexico and moved to Oregon more than 30 years ago. She is married and has 5 beautiful children. Miss Lupe 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, Miss Lupe loves being in nature, camping, fishing, swimming, running and working in her garden. Miss Lupe is the mastermind behind our school gardens and floral landscaping as well, where she helps children plant, harvest, and taste fruits and vegetables. She has been part of the Goddard family since 2007. Languages spoken: English, Spanish

Positivity and high energy, Miss Victoria has them both. She’s been at Goddard since 2019 and comes to school each day with a smile that's contagious. It does not matter what time of the day, she is always energized. She has a knack for working with kids and loves what she does. “Seeing their little minds grow and being able to support them” is what keeps her going! She was born in Oklahoma and moved to Oregon when she was young and attended school in Forest Grove. She has one son who she enjoys spending time with and playing video games. In her free time, Miss Victoria likes to do crafts and bake yummy treats. Language 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 Arianna has over 10 years of 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 both 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. Miss Arianna has been at Goddard since 2022. Language spoken: English

Miss 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 a high school biology teacher, 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. Miss Rian loves sports, so any sport or any kind of activity that involves competing or movement, she enjoys. She also has a creative side, so crafts, decorating, organizing, etc. she also enjoys. She’s been working at Goddard since 2022. Fun fact about Miss Rian is she LOVES CATS! Her favorite movie is Cars. Languages Spoken: English and Spanish

Miss Keerthana hailed from Chennai, India and moved to Oregon in 2018. She has a Master’s degree in engineering (VLSI Design) and worked as an assistant professor. After settling in Oregon, she began volunteering at an elementary school with 2nd and 3rd graders, where she found great joy and fulfillment in nurturing their learning and emotional development. That experience sparked a passion for Miss Keerthana and a desire to work more closely with children. She went on to work as an after-school program teacher before joining Goddard in 2025, where she continues to find purpose in supporting children’s growth and education. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and arts and crafts. Languages spoken: English and Tamil.