Our Goddard School Teachers

Taruna is the on-site owner of The Goddard School in Alexandria, VA. She recognizes the importance of providing a consistent and strong curriculum in a safe and nurturing environment. Taruna holds a Master's Degree in Health Care Management from Marymount University. Taruna and her husband have two children of their own and she is very excited to be part of The Goddard School and is committed to providing the highest quality preschool experience for children in the community.

Ms. Andrea holds the position as the Center Director with extensive experience in early childhood education, beginning with babysitting and in-home childcare and later earning her CDA and Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Northern Virginia Community College. She has spent years supporting military families and running childcare programs, and now brings her expertise to the Goddard family. She finds it most rewarding to be part of children’s growth and development and to build lasting relationships with families.

Ms. Traleece holds the position of Operations Director at the Goddard School of Alexandria. With nearly three decades of experience in education, she has worked with students of all age groups, from infants to first graders. Her career in this field has been deeply fulfilling and rewarding, as she takes great pleasure in nurturing children's development and witnessing their excitement as they explore and learn. Among her cherished children's books is "I Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch.

Ms. Brianna holds the position of Curriculum Specialist with a strong passion for early childhood education. Originally from Vermont, she brings a love for learning, an adventurous spirit, and a dedication to supporting both teachers and families. She graduated with President’s and Dean’s honors with her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. The most rewarding part of her role is helping teachers create successful and meaningful classroom experiences while working with families to make children’s academic journeys memorable.

Ms. Keke is our Kitchen Manager, with over 7 years of experience in the field. She takes great pleasure in preparing delicious and nutritious meals and snacks for the children. She is also a parent of a former Goddard student.

Ms. Charia is a lead teacher in the Infant program, with over 17 years of experience working with children. She finds it most rewarding to watch them grow, learn new things, and reach their developmental milestones. She also a proud Goddard parent.

Ms. Michelle is a lead teacher in the Infant program, bringing over 37 years of experience in working with children. She holds a CDA in Infant/Toddlers and finds the smiles on infants' faces to be the most rewarding aspect of her teaching.

Ms. Maribel is a lead teacher in the Infant program, with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She has completed some college coursework and finds that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is building strong connections with her students.

Ms. Crystal is a lead teacher in the Toddler program, with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a CDA and is MAT certified. She finds it incredibly rewarding to help children achieve their milestones.

Ms. Gabby is a lead teacher in the Pre-Kindergarten program, with over 5 years of experience in early childhood education. She is currently pursuing a degree in the field and previously served as the education director at our school. She is also a proud Goddard parent.

Ms. Helen is a lead teacher in the Two's program, with over eight years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education and takes great joy in making a positive impact on each child, appreciating their unique qualities.

Ms. Jennifer is a lead teacher in the Pre-Kindergarten program, bringing over 14 years of experience working with children. She holds a current CDA and is also a proud Goddard parent.

Ms. Lizett is a lead teacher in the Two's program, with over 20 years of experience in the education field. She finds it most rewarding to contribute to her students' educational journeys and to inspire their curiosity, confidence, and imagination.

Ms. Asmaa is a lead teacher in our Toddler program, bringing over 5 years of experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and is currently pursuing a degree in cybersecurity. The most rewarding part of teaching for her is watching each child reach their own goals.

Ms. LaSasha is a lead teacher in the Toddler program, bringing over 10 years of experience. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree and finds it rewarding to see children grow and develop over the years.

Ms. Lindsey is a lead teacher in the Pre-Kindergarten program, with over 13 years of experience working with children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in adapted special education and has a certificate in applied behavior analysis. She is also a proud Goddard parent.

Ms. Sierra is a resource teacher supporting all classrooms and holds a CDA focused on preschool education. She has advanced experience as an art teacher and finds it most rewarding to witness her students’ “aha moments” as they connect new ideas. She also enjoys creating a supportive and stimulating environment that encourages children to learn and thrive.

Ms. Davon is a lead teacher in the Infant program with two years of experience and a CDA in infant and toddler development. She finds it most rewarding to nurture children through their milestones and watch their unique personalities blossom.

Ms. Shantel is a lead teacher in our Two's program, with over 15 years of experience in early childhood education. She finds true joy in watching young children learn, grow, and thrive. One of her favorite parts of the day is seeing their bright smiles as they walk through the door each morning.

Ms. Destiny is a lead teacher in the Bridge/Preschool program with five years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and Family Studies from North Carolina A&T State University. She finds it most rewarding to watch children master new skills, grow in confidence, and trust in their own abilities.

Ms. Valerie is a lead teacher in the Preschool program and has over 25 years of experience in childcare and holds a CDA. She finds it most rewarding to watch children learn and grow while guiding them through each stage of development. She also enjoys creating fun, lasting memories with her students.

Ms. Saraih is a lead teacher in the Preschool program with over five years of experience in early childhood education. She is currently pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, with an expected graduation in Fall 2026. She finds it most rewarding to see children build confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning.

Ms. Hannah is a lead teacher in the Bridge/Preschool program with five years of experience in early childhood education. She has also completed specialized courses to strengthen her knowledge and skills in the field. She finds it most rewarding to watch children grow and develop while expressing their unique personalities and creativity.

Ms. Chaimae is a resource teacher offering help to all of our classrooms and bringing over five years of experience working with children. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology and is currently pursuing a second degree in Elementary Education. She finds it fulfilling when her students achieve their goals.

Ms. Marleny is a lead teacher in the Toddler program with four years of experience in early childhood education. She is currently pursuing her CDA through NOVA College and finds it most rewarding to support children as they grow, providing opportunities for them to explore and learn about the world around them.

Ms. Brittany is a lead teacher in the Two’s program with 17 years of experience in childcare. She finds it most rewarding to support children as they grow, guiding them through each stage of development and celebrating their progress.

Ms. Katherine is a lead teacher in the Toddler program with five years of experience in early childhood education, specializing in young toddler development. She finds it most rewarding to watch her students grow, build trust, and thrive in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Ms. Miche's journey into the world of Early Childhood Education commenced when she took on the role of babysitting her nephew and guiding him in his learning adventures. She is fueled by the enthusiasm of the children she works with and the joy she derives from observing their continuous development. One book that holds a special place in Ms. Miche's heart is "The Giving Tree." This cherished favorite resonates deeply with her because it beautifully illustrates the selfless act of giving without expecting anything in return, a sentiment that aligns with her approach to caring for and nurturing young minds.