Our Goddard School Teachers

Having started from humble beginnings, I believe in the philosophy of doing one’s best at what they love. “It’s my mission, as owner of The Goddard School, to help children grow and develop their educational skills to prepare them for the challenges of school and beyond.” As a father of three girls, I saw there was a need for a high-quality early childhood education program that provides a play-based learning experience in a nurturing environment. “Heartland is an amazing place to live and raise a family. We’re honored to offer an experience that helps shape the lives of so many children in this community.

I have been an early educator for over 30 years. I have run schools in both the public and private sectors in four states including Texas Most recently, I ran a Goddard School in Denver Colorado and have relocated back to TX to welcome my second grandson. I have been married for 27 years and have three grown children. I began my early childhood career as a kindergarten teacher. During my years as an educator I have worked with infants, toddlers and preschool. In the past 15 years, I have run preschools both as a school director and an executive level director.

Hello, My name is Kelcie! I have been in the Education Field for a little over 7 years now. I currently do have my Director Credential as well as wrapping up my Associates in Early Childhood Development. I believe working with children is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world! I am newly married and have four fur babies! Here at Goddard we take pride not only in the education we provide to our students but in the care and safety we provide as well. I am so blessed to be apart of the Goddard Team and cannot wait to get to know you!

Hello! My name is Angela Bunduka-Lansana, I am a mother of three grown children ages 28,30,and 35 as well as 3 grandchildren. I have been working with children for over 20 years. Being a childcare is a career that I love and committed to serving the families I care for each day. I have child care certificates in Early Childhood Development. My childcare experience is primarily in infants and toddlers. I am originally from Africa I moved here in 2019. In my free time I like to continue my studies!

Hello! My name is Patricia Sledge. I have been working in childcare for 21 years. I have my certificate in Early Childhood Development and am lead teacher certified. I have worked with all ages ranging from Infants through PreK. I love to watch children learn and grow day by day while in my care. I pride myself in making bonds with the parents and children. I have 2 grown children ages 23 and 27. I also have one grandbaby. In my free time I love going shopping and working out at the gym.

Hello, my name is Samarah Headrick. I have been working in childcare for over a year now. My passion for children stems from my nieces and nephews that I adore! I am currently in school to obtain my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. In my free time I love to shop, craft and spend time with my family. I am so excited to be your child's teacher and to be apart of the Goddard team!

Hi! My name is Perla Guzman. I am a dedicated and nurturing teacher with over two years of experience. I have worked with students of all ages ranging from Infants through Preschool! I am passionate about creating a safe, fun and nurturing learning environment. where children can grow, learn and feel loved daily. In my free time I enjoy supporting and cheering on my husband at his soccer games and doing arts and crafts with my son. I am bilingual and speak both English and Spanish. I am so excited to start teachers and loving your beautiful children.

Hello, my name is Virginia Williams. I have worked in childcare for over thirty years. After working in childcare for so long, I saw that what I instilled in children at a early age they were able to carry with them for the rest of their life. I love to teacher and teach to love. I have an Associates degree in Child Development. I also have four children and eight grandchildren that I absolutely adore! I look forward to being your little ones teacher and meeting you.

Hello, my name is Payton Payne. I have been working in childcare for over five years now. I love working in childcare because I enjoy being apart of the wonderful group of teachers that shape the young minds of children. I am very close to my dog named Luna and love spending time with her.

Hello, my name is Stephanie. I have been in childcare for about 36 years! I have worked with infants and school age children. I have two children and three stepchildren, together we have five grandchildren. I was born in Fort Worth TX and graduated from Mabank High School. I attended Mountain View College to update my basic learning skills. I chose to work with children because of the love I have for children, and the love the children give back. I help them learn sign language skills, colors and numbers in English and Spanish, how to implement self-help and gain self-confidence and security. My goal is to also learn from them just as much as they learn from me.

Hello! My name is Ms. Kayla, and I’m so excited to work with such bright, imaginative young minds. I’ve had the joy of working with kids before, and it’s always been incredibly rewarding. I’ve long been fascinated by the way children think and create. I’m 19 years old, born and raised living all around Dallas. I graduated in 2024 with my associate degree and am now attending UNT, pursuing a bachelor’s in biology with a minor in psychology. Outside the classroom, I love nature, music, writing, cartoons and taking long hikes with my fur baby to reflect and recharge. I look forward to bringing creativity, empathy, and inspiration to the Goddard students each and every day. My job is to build spaces for each child to have a positive foundation as they grow.

Hello, my name is Aliceia Dawkins. I have two years of experience working in childcare. Also, I have worked as a behavioral therapist, specifically with children with autism. In my free time I love engaging in anything involving being outside with nature, I love music, dancing , and I love animals. I have 1 fur baby named Mylo whom I love so much! I am looking forward to working with your children and building warm and loving relationships with them!

My name is Heather, I was born in Tennessee but raised in Kentucky. I studied childcare , child development, and was a teacher AID. I recently moved to Texas with my husband, Chris and our five children. So far we have enjoyed Texas! My philosophy on teaching is being the best teacher I can be. Not only do I want to teach but I also want to be a positive role model to my students by being someone they can trust , showing them kindness , love, and care. In hopes that my positive influence sticks with them so they can also show the same positivity to others. I love working with children and being a positive influence for my students. I can’t wait to see more of what Texas has to offer. I am happy to be a part of The Goddard School Team.

Hello! My name is Sheelu Mathews. I have eight years of experience working with 3-5 year old's. I have my certificate in Early Childhood Development and am lead teacher certified as well as a certified Montessori teacher. I have four grown children between ages 29-36 years old. I am also a proud grandmother of 2 grandchildren. In my free time I love to garden and am very active in my church community.