Our Teachers

Mr. and Ms. Govil are the proud owners of The Goddard Schools in Leesburg, Ashburn, Waldorf, and Alexandria. With nearly 20 years of experience operating Goddard Schools, they bring deep expertise in early childhood education. Mr. Govil holds degrees in Chemical Engineering (B.S.), Systems Engineering (M.S.), and an MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School. Ms. Govil, with a B.S. in Chemistry, has led multiple ventures focused on customer-first growth and expansion in new markets. Both have dedicated decades to nonprofit efforts and have been recognized for their impact on youth leadership and cultural education. Their passion for lifelong learning was instilled early—Ms. Govil’s family even created schooling opportunities for hundreds of children in India. The Govils are honored to be part of the Leesburg community and are committed to supporting children and families through exceptional early education.

Ms. Hasna Belayachi is the Executive Director of The Goddard Schools of Leesburg, Virginia, and Waldorf, Maryland. As Executive Director, part of my role is to keep abreast of and advocate for the Early Childhood profession. I currently sit on various committees including The Quality Child Care and Training and Professional Development Committees. Prior to The Goddard School, I was a Director for over 14 years in ECE, where I gained valuable training to implement curriculum, policies, and procedures. I have degrees in Modern Literature and Early Childhood Education. I hold Level 4 ECE Director and Child Development Associates credentials.

Ms. Alicia comes to The Goddard School with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Alicia joined the Goddard School of Leesburg in 2019. She has her degree in education. She was the owner of an in-home-childcare facility for 7 years and 2 years as Monitor in LCPS. Ms. Alicia also worked as a Pre-school teacher at another center. She enjoys working with the children to develop their knowledge and education.

Ms. Blair has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood Education and has taught Pre-K for the past 10 years at the Goddard School of Leesburg. She has her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and has a CDA certificate. Ms. Blair has a true passion for educating children. She loves watching the 'wow' moments when they learn a new concept, and the proud look on their faces when they accomplish a task.

Ms. Carol is our Lead Kindergarten Teacher. She joined the Goddard School of Leesburg in 2018. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, she brings deep knowledge and dedication to her role, creating a warm, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for young learners. Originally from the Philippines, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Science and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. She believes every child has a unique learning style that should be honored, and that with the right tools and support, all children can grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Outside of school, she enjoys cooking, baking, and spending time with her husband and two children.

TODDLER - I am very excited to join The Goddard School of Leesburg and looking forward to all the wonderful moments that come with teaching young two-year-old’s. I began working in a preschool environment in 2008. I enjoy working with all age groups but have a special love and understanding for the twos. I have obtained 80+ hours of Early Childhood Education training and in the process of completing my Child Development Associates. LEARNING FOR FUN! LEARNING FOR LIFE

Ms. Elma has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood Education. She has been with the Goddard School of Leesburg since 2007. Ms. Elma received her CDA credential and is also MAT, CPR and First Aid certified. Ms. Elma always makes sure to provide her students with a safe, educational, and fun environment. She enjoys working with children and believes that adults can learn many things from children.

INFANT - Ms. Karina has over 13 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Karina enjoys the younger classrooms and has been an Infant, Toddler as well as a Two’s teacher. Her priorities within a classroom always begin with health, safety and love. Ms. Karina is also fluent in Spanish and implements the language within her classroom on a daily basis.

PRESCHOOL - Ms. Maria comes to Goddard with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education teaching preschool for the last 15 years. She has her degree in Early Childhood education. She strives to create a positive stimulating learning environment where children can thrive.

Ms. Fay comes to The Goddard School with over 15 years of experience in early childhood education. She worked for 11 years with Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Enrichment programs and for over 3 years with Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers. Ms. Fay loves interacting with children of all ages! Ms. Fay was led to education by watching her two boys grow into men, she wanted to continue to nurture and care for children.