Our Goddard School Teachers

Taruna and Rahul are the owners of The Goddard School of Alexandria West and are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. As parents of two children themselves, they understand the trust families place in their school each day. Taruna holds a Master's Degree in Health Care Management from Marymount University, while Rahul brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in business, finance, and strategic planning. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and is both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Accountant. Together, they combine their professional expertise with a genuine passion for early childhood education to create an exceptional experience for every family. They believe in maintaining an open-door policy and are always available to listen, answer questions, and support families throughout their preschool journey. Their goal is to ensure every child feels valued.

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.