Our Goddard School Teachers

As Goddard School owners, Dave & Kara are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and academically rich environment. The couple landed in the education business due to Kara's background. She holds a BS and MS in Early Childhood Education and has over 25 years of experience in education administration. Her passion for early learning is rooted in both her professional background and her personal experience as a Goddard parent. Dave is an Engineer by degree, but has embraced his role as "Mr. Dave." Also known as “Coach Dave” by many in the community, Dave spent 20 years in sales with The Lincoln Electric Company. He brings leadership, energy, and a heart for children and families to the school. As Goddard alumni parents themselves, they understand how impactful the early years are in shaping a child’s future. If you’re looking for a preschool with experienced leadership, professional teachers, and a nurturing, engaging curriculum, they’d love to welcome you to the Goddard family!

Ms. Katie has been a valued member of The Goddard School team in both Gallatin and Hendersonville since 2017. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Kentucky University. Beginning her journey with us as a Toddler Teacher, she has since supported various age groups, bringing flexibility, dedication, and expertise to every classroom. She is known for her strengths in classroom management and effective parent communication. In addition to her leadership role, she is also a proud Goddard parent of two daughters. On weekends, she loves spending time with her family exploring all that Nashville has to offer.

Janine joined The Goddard School in 2025 and has over 30 years experience working in early childhood education. She comes from a family of educators and has a passion for curriculum & training. Janine’s goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and kindness. Her education is in Early Childhood Development and Child Psychology. Janine and her husband live in Castalian Springs and enjoy their free time on Old Hickory Lake or cooking out with their family. Janine has three grown children and one granddaughter.

Ms. Brooke has been an integral member of The Goddard School team since 2022, where she demonstrates a genuine passion for nurturing and instructing our youngest learners, facilitating their development of crucial social skills, and instilling a sense of group dynamics. Brooke brings to her role an academic foundation, holding an Associates Degree in Mathematics and Science from Vol State.

Ms. Christy has been with The Goddard School since 2014. She earned her Bachelor of Science from The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Consumer and Family Sciences at Western Kentucky University. She worked in management and sales for 7 years before starting her teaching career. Ms. Christy came to us with over 9 years of experience teaching in a preschool setting and is a key part of prepping our JK students for Kindergarten. She lives in Hendersonville with her husband and twin daughters. She enjoys spending time with her family, visiting her daughters, and traveling.

Ms. Kaila has been with The Goddard School family since 2023. With roots at Vol State Community College, she embarked on her journey in early childhood education. Ms. Kaila's dedication to nurturing young minds shines through her warm and engaging approach. Her tenure at The Goddard School is a testament to her commitment to fostering a love for learning in every child she encounters.

Ms. Dre has been with The Goddard School since 2024. She has worked with multiple age groups but connects best with Infants. She loves to integrate the Wonder Of Learning curriculum into each day! You can see the dedication she has to her class in the love she receives from both babies and their families. When she's not spending time with her Infant Class you can find her modeling, reading, and going to the gym.

Ms. Letha has been with the Goddard School since November of 2021. She has over 20 years of experience working with toddlers through preschoolers. She has a passion for nurturing young minds and creating a joyful learning environment. Ms. Letha also holds her Cosmetology license and is a proud mom of three and a grandmother of two.