Our Goddard School Teachers

Ms. Sarah has been the proud On-Site Owner of The Goddard School at Walton Park since 2023, after joining in 2019 as Director of Education. Her journey with Goddard began in 2006, and she has taught nearly every age group. In 2011, she earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. In addition to her role at Walton Park, Sarah is actively engaged in the broader Goddard community. She serves as a member of the Culture & Faculty Input Group, shaping initiatives that strengthen teacher engagement and school culture across the system. She also contributes as a Franchisee Mentor, supporting and guiding new franchise owners as they grow into leadership. Sarah treasures children’s imagination, curiosity, and big hearts, and is passionate about fostering a supportive faculty and positive, inclusive culture. Outside of school, she enjoys time with her husband and two children, exploring the outdoors, traveling, reading, and volunteering.

Mr. Ted is one of the proud owners of The Goddard School at Walton Park and has been a dedicated Goddard franchisee since 2005. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hampden-Sydney College and an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ted can think of no work environment more fun and rewarding than a preschool. He loves the joy, curiosity, and eagerness to learn that young children bring each day. For him, the most gratifying part of ownership is providing a safe, happy, and educational program that gives parents true peace of mind when they leave their children in his care.

Ms. Debbie joined The Goddard School at Walton Park in 2017, became Assistant Director in 2020, and stepped into her Director role in 2023. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Family Life and Child Development from Radford University. As the oldest of eight siblings, her passion for working with children began early. Before joining Goddard, she worked in public schools as a Kindergarten Assistant and Instructional Assistant, in addition to teaching preschool. As a Director, Debbie is passionate about supporting our teachers, partnering with families, and creating a warm, welcoming environment where every child can thrive. Outside of school, Debbie enjoys being by the water, playing tennis, running, and practicing yoga. She is also a proud grandmother—her three grandchildren attend our school.

Ms. Lauren joined The Goddard School at Walton Park in 2024 and became a Director in 2026. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Christopher Newport University, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Western Governors University, and holds a Virginia Elementary Education (K–8) teaching license. Before joining Goddard, she taught Outdoor Education, 1st grade, and 4th grade. As a Director, Lauren is passionate about supporting our faculty, partnering with families, and creating an environment where every child is encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive. Outside of school, Lauren is a wife and mom of two, both of whom attend Goddard. She enjoys needlepointing, antiquing, and gardening. Fun fact: despite working with snakes in two different jobs, they are still her biggest fear!

Ms. Christina joined The Goddard School at Walton Park in 2018 and now serves as Leadership Support, bringing years of classroom and administrative experience to our team. She earned her Associate’s degree from Brightpoint Community College and began her journey with us teaching in the Toddler and School-Age classrooms before moving into leadership, first as an Assistant Director and later as a Director. In her current role, Christina supports our school community and leadership team, helping to keep our days running smoothly while continuing to build connections with our children, families, and faculty. She believes those relationships are what make this work so rewarding and shares, “I love the Goddard community here at Walton Park.” Outside of school, Christina is passionate about animal rescue and serves on the Junior Council at Richmond Animal League. She also enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her family and friends.

Ms. Blair joined our school in 2021. We welcomed her as an Assistant Director in June of 2024! Since first joining us, she has gone from a part-time resource teacher to a full-time Pre-Kindergarten Lead teacher! She studied education at Longwood University for 4 years and is now finishing her degree through Arizona State. Ms. Blair says, "Teachers have the best job. We get to encourage, advocate, and inspire. Although I am the one teaching, I learn something new from my students every day. Every child that walks through my door holds a special place in my heart." When not teaching, you can find her attempting to grow plants in the garden with her husband, painting, or sitting on the couch with her dog and a good book!

Whitney is the lead teacher in our Infant 1 room and has been a dedicated part of our team since 2017. Known for her warm, inviting personality and strong leadership, Whitney creates a nurturing, engaging space that truly feels like a “first home away from home” for our littlest learners. She’s always on top of routines and needs, and her teamwork, organization, and positivity set the tone for a calm and loving environment. Outside the classroom, Whitney is a devoted wife and a proud mom to her daughter. She brings the same energy and care to her personal life as she does to her work. A passionate Eagles football fan, Whitney is full of laughter and always lifts the spirits of those around her. She’s a vital part of our infant wing and a joy to work with every day.

Kay has been a dedicated and loving part of our infant team since 2008. She holds a High School Diploma and a Cosmetology certification. Kay loves teaching our littlest learners and takes pride in watching them grow and reach new milestones. Her experience, patience, and nurturing nature make her a steady and beloved presence in the infant classrooms. Outside of work, Kay enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and reading. She also loves watching boxing, dancing, and singing—bringing a joyful and energetic spirit wherever she goes. Kay’s long-standing commitment and care make her an irreplaceable part of our team.

Krystin has been a cherished member of our team since 2016, always working in our infant classrooms. She holds a High School Diploma and a Certificate of Completion from Job Corps. Krystin’s gentle nature and deep love for babies make her an essential part of our infant wing team. She takes joy in getting to know each little one and supporting their earliest milestones with care and patience. Outside of work, Krystin enjoys cooking, baking, and spending time with family and friends. A former track and field athlete and passionate Dallas Cowboys fan, she brings warmth and kindness to everything she does.

Caroline is a 2024 graduate of Monacan High School, where she finished in the top ten percent of her class and received awards for excellence in AP Physics as well as the Leadership for the 21st Century Scholarship. She currently attends VCU, where she is pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Caroline joined our team in 2024, bringing a calm, encouraging presence to the classroom. She loves the joy, creativity, and curiosity that young children bring each day. She especially enjoys watching children grow in confidence and seeing their smiles as they explore and learn. Outside of the classroom, Caroline enjoys hands-on hobbies like building model roller coasters, gardening, and swimming. She also has a soft spot for cows, cake, and popcorn—and drives a car affectionately named Carlina!

Ms. Kamryn joined our Goddard family in 2026 and is an Assistant Teacher in our Infant 2 classroom. She finds working with children incredibly rewarding and loves building relationships with them, helping them feel safe and comfortable, and watching how much they learn and grow over time. Kamryn also enjoys bringing creativity into the classroom through fun, engaging activities. Outside of school, Kamryn loves spending time with her family, including her three sisters, two dogs, and cat. She enjoys going to the gym, staying busy, trying new things, and has been cheering since she was three years old! An animal lover at heart, Kamryn’s caring nature, energy, and love for helping little ones grow make her a wonderful addition to our Goddard family.

Diana graduated from St. Joseph’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She brings a thoughtful and encouraging presence to the classroom and loves being part of each child’s growth. Since joining our team in 2023, watching children reach their milestones—big or small—has been one of her favorite parts of working in early childhood education, and she’s passionate about helping each child feel seen and supported. Originally from Long Island, Diana has also spent three years living in Tennessee, where her love for country music grew. She enjoys reading, listening to music (especially Taylor Swift), and shopping in her free time. Diana comes from a big family with three brothers and shares her home with a beloved cat. Her calm energy, dedication, and caring nature shine through in everything she does.

With a wealth of experience in early childhood education, LK joined our team in 2024, bringing a rich background to their role. They believe that young children are wonderfully curious and trusting. They view their role as supporting learning by leading through example, fostering exploration, and demonstrating kindness and respect. LK treasures the opportunity to be both silly and authentic with students, creating a warm and encouraging environment. Beyond the classroom, LK is a talented singer/songwriter and hails from Augusta County, where they grew up with seven siblings. They share their home with a beloved Pitbull named Charlie.

Keely is on the cusp of completing her degree in Early Childhood Development and plans to pursue a degree in Psychology next. She finds immense fulfillment in making a positive impact on children's lives, helping them learn and grow, and creating a welcoming environment where both children and their parents feel valued and trusted. Keely has been a valued member of our team since 2020. Outside of her professional life, Keely is an avid reader, enjoys crocheting, and loves engaging in creative activities such as drawing and crafting. Born on Halloween, she has a beloved cat named Milo and enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends.

Morgan graduated with an associate’s degree from Brightpoint in 2020 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at VCU. She joined our faculty team in 2023 and is passionate about contributing to children’s growth and development. She delights in watching them develop their unique personalities while learning from them every day. Raised in a small town with her parents and older brother, Morgan is an aunt to a baby boy, a role she cherishes deeply. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, tackling escape rooms (where she holds two records in Richmond), reading, and roller-skating. Morgan also has a cat named Snickers and proudly built her own gaming PC from scratch.

Astrid is pursuing her CDA certificate while passionately working in early childhood education with us since 2022. She delights in celebrating children’s milestones and building personal connections with them and their families. Astrid brings a creative and nurturing presence to her classroom and those around her. As the middle child among five siblings, Astrid’s experiences with her younger sisters enrich her nurturing approach. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with friends, and indulging in horror movies, true crime documentaries, and Dominican cuisine. Originally from the Dominican Republic, she is also a "dog aunt" who loves gardening and savoring sweet treats.

Brenae, attended VCU to pursue Graphic Design with a minor in Sociology. She brings creativity and curiosity to her role in early childhood education, where she values the compassion and patience that come from working with young children. She believes that learning and teaching happen at all ages, all the time. Since joining our faculty in 2023, she has spent most of her time with our Toddlers and Twos and loves the excitement each day brings. In her free time, Brenae enjoys designing books and websites, playing video games, and watching The Real Housewives. She’s also working on learning Dutch and has a growing collection of unfinished crochet projects. With 4 tattoos and the unique ability to apply mascara with her left hand, she brings personality and flair to everything she does. Her favorite animals are cows, which reflect her fun and lighthearted spirit.

Alicia joined our team in 2025, bringing years of experience with her. Prior to working with children, she attended the Culinary Institute of America in New York and studied Culinary Arts! Ms. Alicia is a proud boy mom of an elementary schooler who is also here with us at Goddard. Her favorite part about working with children is being able to witness them grow into themselves. Outside of her school day, she enjoys spending times with her family and writing poetry.

Ms. Dee joined our Goddard family in 2026 and is an Assistant Teacher in our Bridge classroom. She loves working with children and especially enjoys seeing the wonder in their eyes as they learn, explore, and navigate the world around them. Outside of school, Dee enjoys strength training, painting, and baking cookies for her friends and family. A military child who is now a military spouse, she lived in Germany for nearly seven years and had the opportunity to visit more than five countries during her time there. Dee also loves dragonflies, pandas, and all things purple! Her creativity, sense of adventure, and appreciation for the wonder of childhood make her a wonderful addition to our Goddard family.

Kanesha holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and has been a dedicated child care professional for over 10 years, joining us in 2022. She thrives in the dynamic environment of her work, finding joy in the ever-changing nature of each day. Known for her unshakeable calm amidst the chaos that child care can bring, Kanesha ensures a steady, supportive presence for the children she cares for. Outside of work, Kanesha is a proud mother of two sons (both here with her at Goddard!) and loves shopping for them. Engaged and planning a wedding for next year, she also enjoys her favorite movie, "The Cat in the Hat." Her unwavering composure and passion for nurturing young minds make her a truly exceptional educator.

Ms. Tiaira joined our Goddard family in 2025 and is a Lead Teacher in our Preschool 1 classroom. A graduate of Monacan High School, she studied Child Development in Nebraska and later graduated with honors from Bryant & Stratton College with a degree in Corporate Business. Tiaira has spent much of her life working with children and loves knowing she plays a role in helping shape young learners and building a foundation for their future success. Outside of school, Tiaira is a proud mom of two and enjoys singing, gardening, reading, dancing, crocheting, and creating art. She loves comedy and laughter, is a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and can often be found enjoying anything creative. Tiaira’s caring nature, creativity, and passion for helping children grow make her a wonderful part of our Goddard family!

Ms. Fabiola began working at our school in 2023. She graduated high school in 2020 and attended the Career and Technical Center's Early Childhood Education program. When asked what she loves about working children she said, "What I love about working with children is that at the same time we are teaching them, we also learn from them." In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children (who both attend our school), decorating, and getting coffee!

Aniya holds a Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science. With a passion for teaching, she joined our faculty in 2022. She values the opportunity to impart life lessons and practical skills to her students while also learning from them in return. Aniya believes that this mutual exchange enriches the educational experience for both her and her students. Outside the classroom, Aniya is a devoted mother of two boys (both here with her at Goddard) and she and her family share their love for traveling, visiting museums, and seeking new adventures. She finds joy in yoga, spending time in nature, writing, and exploring local RVA festivals. Aniya is also a skilled cook, a fan of Anime, and played Rugby during her college years at VCU.

Ms. Debbie joined our Goddard family in 2026 as a Lead Teacher in our Preschool 2 classroom. With nearly 30 years of experience in early childhood education, she earned her Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Brightpoint Community College and has spent her career learning different curriculum approaches and growing her passion for teaching young minds. Debbie loves that working with children keeps her own sense of curiosity and wonder alive, and she hopes to never stop looking at the world the way children do. Outside of school, Debbie is a proud mother of three and loves spending time with family and friends. She enjoys reading, crafting, dress-up days, and hiking—recently becoming a Master Hiker alongside her middle daughter! Her experience, creativity, and genuine love of learning make her a wonderful part of our Goddard family.

Annie holds a Master of Education and has experience as a special education teacher at an elementary school in Minnesota. She is passionate about building strong relationships and creating a supportive, engaging environment where students can thrive and discover the joy of learning. We are thankful she joined our faculty in 2023! Annie is the proud mother of two children who are both here with her at Goddard! She enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors. Originally from Cheltenham, PA, Anna brings a nurturing and enthusiastic approach to her work, making a meaningful impact on her students and their families.

Chloe graduated with an advanced diploma and honors in all her courses. She is currently pursuing her education online through Liberty University. With over a year of professional experience working with children and a passion for shaping young minds, Chloe joined our team in 2025. She loves supporting children as they grow, learn, and develop into their own unique selves, and she looks forward to many more years of helping them thrive. Outside of the classroom, Chloe is engaged and excited to welcome her first baby in January 2026. She enjoys spending her free time with her family, fishing, traveling, and relaxing with her two dogs. One of seven siblings, Chloe cherishes the bonds of family and the joy of shared experiences. Above all, she has a deep love for dogs, which will always hold a special place in her heart.

Ms. Nita holds a CDA credential and is passionate about sparking a love of learning in young children. With nearly 40 years of marriage to her husband Rick, she enjoys spending her free time crafting, watching movies, shopping, and participating in outreach with her church family. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, she also has a background in teaching swimming and enjoys crocheting. Since joining our team in 2012, Juanita has guided hundreds of pre-K students on their journey to Kindergarten, using her experience and nurturing approach to help build strong foundations for future learning. A proud mother of three, she brings warmth, dedication, and a deep love for early childhood education to every classroom she enters.

Ms. Heather joined our Goddard family in 2025 and is a Lead Teacher in our Pre-K 2 classroom. A graduate of Monacan High School, Heather discovered her passion for teaching young children while completing a Child Development program through the Chesterfield Technical Center. She has been an early childhood educator for over five years and especially loves watching children learn new things and seeing their excitement when they accomplish something they’ve worked hard to master. Outside of school, Heather enjoys shopping, spending time at the beach, and relaxing with her family. She and her husband are proud parents to a sweet baby boy who is also part of our Goddard family, along with their dog, Piper. Heather’s enthusiasm for celebrating children’s growth and accomplishments makes her a wonderful part of our Pre-K team!

Ms. Kaycie joined our Goddard family in 2026 as our Private Kindergarten teacher. Originally from Chicago, she graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a degree in Elementary Education. She loves watching children grow, discover new things, and become more confident in who they are, especially helping each child recognize just how special they truly are. Outside of school, Kaycie lives with her husband and their two cats, Sophia and Starsen. She enjoys playing video games, swimming, baking, playing the ukulele, getting creative with anything artsy, and listening to Taylor Swift—a longtime favorite since seventh grade! A Chicago girl at heart, she’s also a Chicago Blackhawks fan. Kaycie’s warmth, creativity, and passion for helping children flourish make her a wonderful addition to our Goddard family!

Phoenix is a dedicated individual with a wide range of interests and skills who joined our team in 2024. After graduating from high school, Phoenix has over 15 years of experience working with children in various settings, from volunteering and babysitting to a brief role as a private nanny. She finds great joy in watching children’s personalities blossom, appreciating the unique quirks and habits they develop as they grow. As the oldest of 3 siblings, Phoenix shares a home with her mom and stepdad. She’s also an animal lover, with 2 dogs and 4 cats, and dreams of one day having chickens. Alongside her work with children, Phoenix is a licensed nail tech and enjoys video games, crocheting, and indulging in her love for Formula 1 and LA Dodgers baseball. She is a devoted Dungeons & Dragons player and has been learning Korean for the past six years.

Cleve joined our team in 2025 and spends his days working with our School Age friends. With a background in art, film, and theater, he brings plenty of creativity and personality to his work with children. Cleve attended VCU and completed the Digital Film Academy, along with training in First Aid/CPR/AED and early childhood health and safety. He loves working with children because of their honesty—and because they get his jokes! Outside of Goddard, Cleve is a writer, artist, and all-around creative. He previously lived in New York City and has a 20-year-old son who still calls NYC home. His creative accomplishments include award-winning filmmaking, a weekly comic strip in the former Richmond News Leader, and a published novel, Full-Blood Half-Breed. His creativity, humor, and unique perspective make him a wonderful addition to our School Age team!

Kristen joined our team in 2024 and quickly fell in love with some of our littlest learners. After graduating high school through homeschooling, she is currently finishing her CDA as she pursues a career in early childhood education. She brings experience from babysitting, Vacation Bible School, and working with the kids’ ministry. Kristen loves working with children because they are fun and creative, and she enjoys being a friend and helper as they learn and grow. Kristen is the oldest of two siblings and shares a close bond with her family. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, reading, art, and building puzzles. She’s also a big fan of podcasts and loves using alcohol markers in her artwork. Kristen’s patience, creativity, and caring spirit makeher a wonderful part of our team.

Shailynn has been a valued member of our team since 2023, bringing consistency, care, and a warm, positive spirit to every classroom she supports. She loves getting to know each child’s unique personality and finds joy in building connections and creating fun, supportive environments where they can thrive. Whether she's helping with daily routines or stepping in wherever needed, Shailynn is always ready to lend a hand and bring a sense of calm and kindness to the day. Outside of work, Shailynn enjoys doing hair and makeup, going shopping, and trying new foods. She’s also a talented artist who enjoys painting and drawing in her free time. Creative and compassionate, Shailynn brings both heart and style to everything she does.

Cyane joined our Goddard family in 2026, but her Goddard story actually began many years earlier. She attended Goddard as a toddler while her mom worked at the school! Cyane graduated from high school in 2026 through an early career program, gaining hands-on classroom experience with Kindergarten, first, and fourth grade students along the way. She loves helping children learn new things and watching as they begin to understand and master new skills. One of six siblings, Cyane has always enjoyed being around children and has known since elementary school that she wanted to become a Kindergarten teacher. Outside of school, she enjoys driving, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends. Her enthusiasm for children and passion for a future in education make her a wonderful addition to our Goddard family!

Ms. Katelyn joined our school in the spring of 2023 during her senior year of high school. She is currently in the Early Childhood Education program at a local Career and Technical Center pursuing her Child Development Associates. Ms. Katelyn says, "I love watching kids grow into the young people that they become through their first words and steps. I also enjoy talking to the older kids about their hobbies and interests." In her free time, she enjoys spending time at the beach, shopping at flea markets and reading.

Ms. Kendall joined our Goddard family in 2025. She graduated from VCU in 2025 with a B.S. in Mass Communications and a concentration in Broadcast Journalism. Kendall loves that no two days are ever the same when working with children and especially enjoys seeing their unique personalities develop as they interact with the world around them. Originally from the Hampton Roads area, Kendall moved to Richmond to attend VCU and spent two years as a trainee with Richmond Ballet. She now shares her love of dance by teaching it to others and also occasionally writes for The Richmonder. In her free time, Kendall enjoys shopping, watching movies, and discovering new places around Richmond. Her creativity, curiosity, and appreciation for each child’s individuality make her a wonderful part of our Goddard family!

Ms. Kara joined us in the spring of 2023 while attending her senior year in high school. She is also currently enrolled in Early Childhood Education at the local Career & Technical Center getting her Child Development Associates. Her favorite thing about working with children is how much their personalities show in everything they touch. In her time away from school, Ms. Kara enjoying baking, reading, and crocheting.

Ms. Terah joined our Goddard family in 2026. She has enjoyed spending time with young children throughout her life, from helping with children at church to being a big sister to her younger siblings. Terah loves having the opportunity to help children grow, learn new things, and discover the world around them. Outside of school, Terah enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and photography. She is one of four siblings and also has a dog named Thanos, whom she had the honor of naming! A fast reader with a creative side, Terah once won third place in a photography competition. Her caring nature and enthusiasm for helping children learn make her a wonderful addition to our Goddard family!

Ms. Mavel joined our Goddard family in 2026, bringing more than seven years of experience working with children through nannying and child care. She studied Public Relations at St. Mary’s University and Pastoral Youth Ministry at Pacific Rim Christian College in Hawaii, building a strong background in communication, leadership, and working with children and families. Mavel loves watching children learn, grow, and discover the world around them, especially getting to witness those exciting “aha!” moments along the way. Outside of school, Mavel is a proud mom of two sweet boys who also joined our Goddard family! She loves traveling, exploring new places with her family, interior design, decorating, and all things creative. She is also a big Disney fan and believes an iced coffee can make almost any day better. Mavel’s warmth, creativity, and passion for children make her a wonderful addition to our team!