Our Teachers

We are Lisa and Greg O’Brien, the on-site owners and business managers of The Goddard School located in Gainesville (Haymarket) Virginia.  In 2013, our toddler daughter inspired our recognition of the importance of a safe and nurturing learning environment. Three years later, we opened our doors and have worked hard to deliver that experience for hundreds of children.  We are proud that so many parents have entrusted us with their children’s education and become part of our Goddard School community.  We are still working hard to provide the best educational and care environment to our community, and are excited to be utilizing Goddard’s exclusive curriculum, The Wonder of Learning®, designed to embrace how children learn best - through curiosity! Originally from Virginia Beach, Lisa earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from JMU and a Juris Doctorate from UVA.  Greg grew up outside of Philly and earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Lehigh University.

Ms. Molly has an Advanced Career Studies Certificate in Early Childhood Development, from Lord Fairfax Community College. She is also working towards completing her degree in Education. Ms. Molly has been working with children, in teaching capacities since 2014. At The Goddard School previously, Ms. Molly started at an assistant teacher in Spring 2017, and later became a Lead Pre-Kindergarten teacher. She first joined the school's management team, as Assistant Director of Education in Summer 2020. In April 2022, Ms. Molly was promoted to Director of Education. She believes that one of the most important aspects of teaching is to first build relationships. Ms. Molly also believes that it is essential to provide an environment where children can feel safe, loved, comfortable, and free to express themselves. Ms. Molly is excited to continue working with our Goddard families in this administrative role.

Ms. Kaity has an Associates degree in Business Administration from Northern Virginia Community College. Ms. Kaity has been working with children, in teaching capacities since 2010. Previously, Ms. Kaity worked as a Lead Teacher at another NoVa Goddard School for 5 years. She joined our school in 2019, as a Lead Teacher, and became a Teacher Trainer and Curriculum Resource Specialist. Ms. Kaity joined the school's management team as Assistant Director in Spring 2022. In Spring 2024, she was promoted to Director of Advancement. Ms. Kaity believes it is important to first create an individualized learning environment for each child. In order to create a special bond, she uses meaningful positives interactions. Ms. Kaity also believes that all children should feel welcomed, loved, and safe to be themselves as the continue to grow. She is excited to continue working with families and their children, creating those special bonds with each.

Ms. Wafa has a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, from the Sudan University of Science & Technology and is soon to be pursuing a Master's degree. She has been working with young children in Early Childhood Education since 2007, including as lead teacher in other early childcare facilities. Ms. Wafa started at The Goddard School in August 2022, as a lead teacher in Twos. She also worked in special roles for the school staff as a Teacher Liaison and Curriculum Resource Specialist. Ms. Wafa joined the school's management team as Assistant Director in August 2024. Ms. Wafa believes that every child possesses a distinct learning style and deserves a safe environment that helps them express themselves freely. Ms. Wafa also believes in positive guidance. She uses kindness to help children feel good about themselves. By being warm and patient, Ms. Wafa helps them learn from their mistakes and makes sure they feel safe to express themselves and enjoy learning.

Ms. Romy has an Associates degree in Business Administration. She has been working in early childhood education since 2012. Ms. Romy has been with The Goddard School since November 2020.

Ms. Gulshan has an Associates Degree in General Education, from Salt Lake Community College. She has been working with young children since 2019. Ms. Gulshan has been with The Goddard School since December 2022.

Ms. Jenifer has an Associates degree in Graphic Design, from ITT Technical Institute and is looking at going back to school for a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She has been working with children of all ages since 2003. Ms. Jenifer has been with The Goddard School since April 2023.

Ms. Imen has a Master's degree in Language & Literature from Tunisia. She has worked with children of various ages in different capacities since 2015. Ms. Imen has been with The Goddard School since April 2024.

Ms. Melissa has a Health Information & Medical Coding Certificate from Everest College. She is currently pursuing a Child Development Associates Certificate. Ms. Melissa has been working with young children in early childhood since 2002. Ms. Melissa has been with The Goddard School since August 2021.

Ms. Pamela is currently working on a nursing certification. She has been working with young children in early childhood environments since 2008. Ms. Pamela has been with The Goddard School since October 2023.

Ms. Hailey has an Associates degree in Medical Assisting from ECPI University. She is currently working towards her Bachelors degree in Education & Health Science from Liberty University. Ms. Hailey has been working in early childhood education since 2020. Ms. Hailey has been with The Goddard School since August 2024.

Ms. Leslie has Childhood Development Associates education experience, as well as Business Administration education experience. Currently, she is in school to be registered as a Behavioral Technician. Ms. Leslie has been working with young children in a center-based environment since 2005. Ms. Leslie has been with The Goddard School since January 2024.

Ms. Hena has an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education from NOVA, and a Bachelor's degree in Business & Accounting from abroad. She has been working early childhood education with young children since 2009. Ms. Hena has been with The Goddard School since September 2023.

Ms. Lizz is currently working towards a Child Development Associates certification, and an Associates degree in Education. She has been working with young children since 2020. Ms. Lizz has been with The Goddard School since December 2023.

Ms. Skylar has an Associates degree in Arts from Coastal Carolina Community College. She has been working with young children since 2021. Ms. Skylar has been with The Goddard School since July 2024.

Ms. Christy has a Child Development Associates certification and is finishing an Associates degree in Early Childhood education at NOVA community college. She has been working with young children since 2008. Ms. Christy has been with The Goddard School since December 2023.

Ms. Stephanie has a Bachelor's degree in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry from the University of South Alabama. She has been working with young children since 2023. Ms. Stephanie has been with The Goddard School since June 2024.

Ms. Maddie is working towards a Career Studies Certificate in Early Childhood Education, from Lord Fairfax Community College. Ms. Maddie has been working with young children in teaching and childcare capacities, since 2015.