Our Teachers

Akhil Govil, owner of the Goddard School, Leesburg, VA, has worked with various non-profit organizations that have recognized both him and his wife for their commitment, youth leadership, and cultural education. Madhu, his wife has spent her career putting her customers first. Both Akhil and Madhu’s families dedicated themselves to education and taught them the value of it. Madhu’s family established many schools in Delhi, India. Together they created learning opportunities for many children who didn’t have access to education. It is their goal to achieve the highest quality of early childhood education within the Goddard School in Leesburg.

Ms. Catavia Buck is the Director of The Goddard Schools of Leesburg. Ms Catavia joined our Goddard family in July 2021. She earned M.A in legal studies family law, her second master’s in early childhood education is in progress and she is a Goddard trained qualify director. She come from a very extensive early childhood education background, she have been in an early childhood administrative role for more than 20 years and she absolutely love it. Ms. Catavia is a single mother of a 20-year-old young man, Tyler, whom is currently student at George mason university. When she is not at school, she loves to spend time with her family and friends. She also enjoys traveling and visiting new places. Ms. Catavia is First Aid, CPR certified, and Mat trained. ``I am excited to apply my experience and education to support our School, Team, and Student growth``

Ms. Hasna Belayachi is the Executive Director of The Goddard Schools of Leesburg, Ashburn Virginia, and Waldorf, Maryland. As Executive Director, I take great pride in knowing that our Schools are one that strives for excellence and quality in the Early Childhood Education Industry. Part of my role as Executive Director is to keep abreast of and advocate for the Early Childhood profession. I currently sit on various committees including The Quality Child Care Committee; Training and Professional Development Committee and various planning committees for conferences. Being a part of these professional networks allows me the opportunity to share information with our team and build knowledge. Prior to becoming the Executive Director with The Goddard School, I was a Director for over 14 years in the Early Childhood Education field, where I gained valuable training and knowledge to implement curriculum, philosophies, policies, and procedures have degrees in Modern Literature and Early Childhood Education. I am also credentialed with my Child Development Associates. I hold Level 4 ECE Director credential. I enjoy spending time with my family that includes my son, Adam, who attended The Goddard School. As an Executive Director of The Goddard Schools, I’m committed to working with and supporting the Directors to provide your child with the best care and highest quality of education possible. Quote: “I love helping the children grow and making a difference in their lives, as well as helping them become what they want to be.”

PRESCHOOL-Ms. Alicia comes to The Goddard School with over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. She has her degree in education and was the owner and operator of an in-home child-care facility for 7 years. She also worked as a Preschool teacher at another center. She is excited to join Ms. Maria, in our Preschool classroom, meet all of our families and grow our children’s knowledge and education.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN- Ms. Blair has over 10 years experience in Early Childhood Education and has taught Pre-K for the past 8 years. She has her Associate's Degree and is currently working on her degree in Early Childhood Education. She is also First Aid & CPR certified. 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

Carol Perez , LEAD TEACHER Private Kindergarten My name is Carol Perez and I have had the privilege of being a part of The Goddard School of Leesburg Since 2018.  After spending twenty years teaching Preschool and Prekindergarten, I was excited to expand my role at Goddard Leesburg, as a Co Lead Teacher in the Kindergarten class.  Together with Ms. Ramya as an amazing and creative teacher, I am committed to providing your family with a loving and developmentally sound foundation for a lifetime of learning. I am so excited to be teaching Kindergarten again this year! I am originally from Philippine. I have my bachelor’s degree in science and Child Development Associate. I am married and have two children. I enjoy Cooking and baking. I am looking forward to exploring, learning, and collaborating with the kindergarteners this year!  I believe all children can learn given the correct tools and environment. Every student has a unique character and learning style that needs to be respected by educators to grow intellectually, emotionally and socially. Thank you for sharing your precious children with us! LEARNING FOR FUN! LEARNING FOR LIFE!

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

PRE-KINDERGARTEN- Ms. Elma has over 10 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education. She has received her Child Development Associates, is certified in Medication Administration, CPR and First Aid. 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.