Our Teachers

Susan has a BS in Education from Indiana University. She has been a preschool teacher, student teacher and substitute teacher. When Eric and Susan had their own children, she focused on raising their 2 children. While raising their 2 kids, she focused on being a lead room parent, Brownie leader, Cub Scout mom, assistant soccer coach, and religion teacher. Susan also taught at her children’s elementary school, teaching 72 preschoolers a week. Pre-school is her favorite age to teach because they are eager to learn everything. The students want to feel safe, laugh and play, which is the best way for the kids to learn. Susan’s love of kids shines through every day and she also understands what parents and teachers go through each day to provide the best educational experience for their children. Susan looks forward to putting her skills and love into the children, staff and their families at The Goddard School of Ashland.

Eric and Susan always talked about owning their own business together where they could help and support people along the way. The Goddard School of Ashland is the perfect fit with Susan’s educational background, Eric’s business background, and the love they have for children and their families. Eric has over 30 years of business experience in various leadership roles within Fortune 50 companies, mid-size, and startup organizations. Eric is also an adjunct instructor at Virginia Commonwealth University where he teaches undergraduate business school students about entrepreneurial finance and business strategy. Eric looks forward to putting his skills and love into the children, staff and their families at The Goddard School of Ashland.

Ms. Alexis has been with The Goddard School of Ashland since 2007 when she began as a lead teacher and fell in love with the early childhood education setting. In 2012 she became part of Goddard’s administrative team as Assistant Director and in 2013 promoted to the Education Director position. She graduated from Marshall University in West Virginia with a Bachelor's Degree in Art Education. Ms. Alexis has two sons, who have graduated from the Goddard School of Ashland. If you ask Ms. Alexis what she loves about her job most, its that as a director you build strong bonds with families you carry with you forever.

Ms. Summer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Randolph Macon College and has experience working in both public school and child care settings. She joined the Goddard faculty in 2012 as a lead teacher in the toddler room and later moved to lead teacher in preschool. She joined the administrative team in the Fall of 2015 and most recently transitioned to the Teacher Coordinator role in 2024. Ms. Summer has three sons, who have graduated ,or are currently attending The Goddard School of Ashland. You can find Summer rotating in classrooms daily training and being of assistants to teachers.

Ms. Trish joined the Goddard faculty in 2012 as a lead teacher in our infant program. She has experience working in all age groups, from toddler to school age. Ms. Trish received her Child Development Associates Degree in 2019. She joined the administrative team as the Assistant Director in the Summer of 2021. Ms. Trish has a daughter, Brynn, who currently attends The Goddard School of Ashland. One of the things she enjoys most about working in early education is that every day is different and has the capabilities to learn something new.

Ms. Kristen joins the Goddard School of Ashland with a long career working with children. Her experience includes caring for infants and toddlers in an early childcare environment for 18 years as well as providing care for infants and toddlers in her home. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them learn, grow, and smile everyday. She sates that "It makes me feel special to be a part of them growing up!"

Ms. Sam joined the Goddard School of Ashland in 2021 as a Toddler Teacher. She discovered the joys of watching the littlest of learners experience new things and use their curiosity to explore their surroundings. She went on to completed her Bachelors in Communications from Liberty University. In the Summer of 2024 she became a member of the administration team as Assistant Director. Ms. Sam has two children, who currently attend The Goddard School of Ashland with her daily.

Ms. Leah joined the Goddard School of Ashland in 2023. She developed a love for creating arts and crafts projects, STEM projects, hands-on activities, as well as being outdoors while caring for her two children at home. She believes that children are curious and ready to be adventurous. Her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them grow and learn every single day.

Ms. Heather joins the Goddard School with a background in Early Childhood Education. For eight years she worked with children of all ages as a the Childcare Director at a local country club. Additionally, she has worked with children from the ages of 2-5 in an early childcare center setting. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow, meet new milestones, and learn new things!

Ms. Grisel comes to the Goddard School with an MBA in Human Resources, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and has completed select courses in Child Development. She gained experience working with children as she taught sports, arts and crafts, and reading comprehension to children from the ages of 3 to 7 in a church setting. As a teacher, Ms. Grisel believes that it is her responsibility to guide children to the next steps they will follow in school as well as in the community.

Ms. Liz joined us at Goddard Ashland in 2022. In high school she completed the tech classes in childcare development, and it was there she fell in love with early childhood education. She began teaching by volunteering in her churches child care and often helped her mom who was a music teacher. She has spent most of her career in the preschool and pre-kindergarten age groups but even worked in the toddler classrooms. Her most favorite thing is watching children learn and grow and we are excited she is part of our Pre-K teaching team.

Ms. Cayla joins the Goddard School of Ashland with plans to continue her college education in Early Childhood Education. She describes herself as a smiley, caring, and hardworking person who strives to be a positive role model in children's lives. Her experience working with children includes caring for children from the ages of 2 to 4 as a babysitter. She states that she loves working with children "because they brighten your day"!

Ms. Britt holds an Associate's Degree in International Business from Stratford University. She has worked in a variety of age groups of children including infants, toddlers and teenagers. She loves watching children learn and grow. Ms. Britt says being able to see children excited about learning something for the first time is joyful! We are lucky to have Ms. Britt at school, building relationships with families since 2014.

Ms. Katelin joined the Goddard School in 2013. She helped where needed in various classrooms, working with all ages from infants to school age. In the Fall of 2017 she assumed the role of Lead teacher in our infant classroom. Her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow each day!

Ms. Kelsey comes to the Goddard School of Ashland as a student currently attending Liberty University. She has experience working with children as a babysitter. Her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow into their own person. She believes, as a teacher, it is her responsibility to build strong relationships with students while providing a safe and fun learning environment!

Ms. Kylee joined the Goddard School of Ashland in December of 2020. She has worked with a variety of age groups from infants to preschoolers. She believes children learn best through hands-on activities. Her favorite aspect of working with children is helping them build confidence and showing them, they can do anything!

Ms. Robin earned a Bachelor's Degree at Randolph Macon Women’s College and has been teaching for many years, working primarily with kindergarteners for Hanover County public schools. She is patient and dependable teacher who has been nurturing children at The Goddard School since 2010, providing a fun, loving after school experience!

Ms. Shelby interned as a teaching assistant at Chickahominy middle school with 7th and 8th grade ESL instruction and 8th grade language arts. She also worked as a recreation aide at Kersey Creek Elementary with 7 and 8 year olds. Her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them develop and learning their individual personalities.

Monae joins the Goddard team with her experience working in an individual childcare setting. Monae has developed her instructor skills by having taught children words, shapes, math, and reading. Monae is currently Richard Bland College with an associate in psychology. She is most excited to teach her students new skills and to share in their excitement as they understand.

Ms. Aiyana comes from a large family and is a natural caregiver. She has cared for her siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews from a young age. Additionally, as a high school student, she enjoyed volunteering as an art mentor at her local elementary school. She states that her favorite aspect of working with children is "helping them grow into cool & kind individuals!"

Ms. Lamaree joins the Goddard School of Ashland as a graduate of Germanna Community College where she earned her Child Development Associate credential. She has experience working with children as a babysitter and has provided care for family members throughout the years. She says that one of her favorite aspects of working with children is providing them with lots of fun activities so that they can grow and develop.

Ms. Nani joins the Goddard School of Ashland excited to begin her career in early childhood education. She gained experience working with children at her church, where she taught Sunday School for children from Pre-k to 3rd grade. Ms. Nani is a creative, outgoing, and loving caregiver who values each child individually. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is their creativity and imagination!

Ms. Elizabeth comes to the Goddard School of Ashland as a college student currently studying Early Childhood Development. She has several years of experience caring for children as a babysitter. Ms. Elizabeth believes that, as a teacher, it is her responsibility to provide children with the opportunity to grow while feeling safe and secure. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is how imaginative they are!

Ms. Valeria joined the Goddard School in the Winter of 2023. She has over 10 years of experience working as a Coordinator and teacher, in a church setting, for children from the ages of seven to eleven. She is a patient and dedicated teacher who is a natural nurturer! Ms. Valeria shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing their personality emerge at a very young age!

Ms. Justice is joining the Goddard team as the lead teacher in Couriers classroom. Justice is currently working towards her degree in Early Education at Brightwood. She has spent several years nannying and working with children aging from 2 to 12 years old. Ms. Justice loves being able to teach children and learn from them at the same time.

Ms. Jillian has her days always filled with something with adventure and something new for her students. The children and their energy always make Ms. Jillian happy and excited to teach. Jillian has her ECE studies certificate and is attending Western Governors University, working towards her BA in education. We are excited to welcome Ms. Jillian as the lead teacher of our Navigators classroom.

Ms. Maggie is currently attending James Madison University as she is working towards her degree in Writing, rhetoric, and technical communication. Maggie has worked with students of all ages and loves witnessing their infectious enthusiasm for life and the sense of wonder they bring to every interaction. She now joins Goddard as a floating teacher. Fun fact- Maggie attended The Goddard School of Ashland when she was a child!

Our school has welcomed Ms. Melissa as the lead teacher in First Mates. Melissa has experience working as a lead and assistant teacher with ages 6 weeks to 24 months. Ms. Melissa loves being able to provide an atmosphere where the children feel safe and nurtured. That way they feel comfortable to be themselves and grow. She loves that everyday working with her class is different.

When asked to describe herself in three words, Ms. Freedom says she is passionate, determined, and trustworthy. Ms. Freedom promotes a safe and nurturing environment for all her students. Ms. Freedom is currently studying Criminology at George Mason.

Ms. Sharee is currently pursuing her Early Childhood Education degree at Liberty University. Known for her patience, compassion, and caring nature, Ms. Sharee is dedicated to fostering a nurturing learning environment. When she’s not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with family, listening to music, and exploring new places.

With over 3 years of experience working with children, she has a deep understanding of their unique needs and developmental stages. Ms. Stacey’s dedication to her students is evident in her warm and nurturing classroom environment. She believes in fostering a love of learning and creating a safe space for exploration and growth. Beyond her role as a pre-K teacher, Ms. Stacey is also a dedicated volunteer youth leader, impacting the lives of middle and high schoolers on Sundays. Her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children of all ages is truly inspiring.

Ms. Trinity is a nurturing and experienced childcare professional dedicated to fostering growth and development in young minds. With a background in childcare and babysitting, she has cultivated a deep understanding that each child learns uniquely and at their own pace. Ms. Trinity cherishes the transformative journey of watching her students grow from curious learners to compassionate and independent "big people." She equally values the heartfelt bonds formed between teacher and student.

Ms. Mia is a talented preschool teacher with a love for learning and growth. Since 2021, she has been a guiding force in her school, inspiring young minds and fostering a positive learning environment. Mia’s favorite part of her job is the unexpected moments that children bring to the table, creating shared laughter and lasting memories with both students and parents

Ms. Genevra is a compassionate and experienced educator, with a lifelong passion for nurturing young minds. Her caregiving journey began at 12, helping raise her younger sister, and continued through volunteer work, babysitting, tutoring and teaching. As a certified teacher since 2019, Ms. Genevra has worked with students from 6-year-olds to high schoolers, including two years as a full-time Spanish teacher. She treasures the opportunity to connect with each child, appreciating their unique curiosity and fresh perspective on the world.

With a passion for education that runs deep in her family, Ms. Nseya has dedicated five years to nurturing young minds. Inspired by her mother, a special education teacher for twelve years, she witnessed firsthand the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Ms. Nseya finds immense joy in watching her students grow and develop. Her commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment is evident in her dedication to helping each student reach their full potential.

Ms. Addison has babysitting and childcare experience. Addison has always enjoyed working with children because she loves getting to help them grow and have fun every day. She loves teaching children new things, promoting creativity, and watching friendships grow among her students.

Ms. Caitlyn is a dedicated teacher with nearly four years of experience in childcare, supplemented by extensive babysitting background. She passionately believes that children are the future and strives to make a positive impact by setting a good example and providing exceptional care. With her patient, calm, and caring nature, Ms. Caitlyn creates a safe and supportive environment that fosters social, emotional, and cognitive growth. She is committed to helping children thrive and reach their full potential, and parents can trust that their little ones are in caring and capable hands.

Ms. Kyla joins the Goddard School of Ashland as a student currently studying Applied Mathematical Biology and Environmental Science at William & Mary College. She has over 6 years of experience teaching children in an early childcare setting. She has also worked with children as a volunteer at a youth Summer camp art program at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Ms. Kyla believes that the most important thing a teacher can do is adapt to the needs of each child individually!

Mr. Gabe is a dynamic educator with experience as a summer camp counselor and substitute teacher (grades 1-12). He thrives on the energy and curiosity of younger students, finding joy in helping them learn and grow. With his warm approach, Mr. Gabe creates a stimulating environment that fosters exploration and discovery.

Ms. Makayla is a kind and passionate educator with a heart for children. Currently pursuing a nursing degree in college, her dedication to helping others shines through in her interactions with young minds. Her previous experience working with children has provided her with valuable insights into their unique perspectives and developmental needs. Ms. Makayla finds joy in watching children grow and discover their individual personalities.

Ms. Michaela is a dedicated educator with a strong foundation in teaching and childcare. She began by babysitting for various ages and tutoring, followed by three years as a teacher in Richmond Public Schools, where she taught lower grades. After working as a teacher's assistant in North Carolina, Ms. Michaela returned to Richmond to take on a lead teaching role. She holds a Master's degree in Education from The College of William & Mary, further enhancing her expertise and commitment to education.

Ms. Rose is a seasoned childcare professional with nearly a decade of experience nurturing infants, toddlers and school-age children since 2016. Holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Doctorate, Ms. Rose brings a unique blend of academic expertise and hands-on experience to her role. Ms. Rose's extensive education and experience have equipped her with a profound understanding of child development, enabling her to provide personalized care and guidance. Her warm, knowledgeable and supportive approach creates a stimulating environment where children thrive and reach their full potential.