Our Goddard School Teachers

Nazlin and Al-Karim have owned and operated The Goddard School in Woodbridge, VA since 2014 and The Goddard School in Lakeridge, VA since 2013. They are thrilled to be able to provide Goddard School's outstanding program to the families in Woodbridge. As the parents of three children, they understand the value of a safe, nurturing and fun learning environment - a primary reason why they chose The Goddard School. Their continued commitment to education is evident; Nazlin holds a degree in Pre-Nursing, trained as an esthetician and completed an internship at a preschool in England and Al-Karim received his B.S. in Actuarial Science. Nazlin and Al-Karim invite you to visit their school in Woodbridge. They are excited to introduce you to their incredible faculty, including an Educational Director, and share with you The Goddard School F.L.E.X Learning Program.

As your director, my belief in recognizing and maintaining a healthy relationship is important within the family, as well as the extended family that Goddard will be a part of from parents to children, to our staff and our community that supports a diverse culture of respect, acceptance, and learning. I believe it is the educator’s responsibility to guide a child, meeting their needs and assisting them to reach their full potential. It is my desire to assist with laying down a concrete foundation of early learning, resulting in children who represent Goddard with “The Voice of the Future” and becoming strong leaders as citizens of this proud nation. My professional background and experience as a Child and Youth Counselor, with minor in psychology, behavior and special needs has given me the privilege to work in a broad range of areas from crisis intervention, adoption, childbirth and delivery to education, behavior and management.

Ms. Debbie has been working with children for 31 years. She had her own in-home daycare and was the vice president of Eastern Prince William Family Child Care for 28 years. She loves to share her knowledge with others and watch the children learn and grow.

Ms. Farjana has over 5 years of experience working with young children in a licensed childcare center. She uses her techniques and experiences to work with her students to provide them with the best care. When she is not working with children she loves to be social and enjoys gardening in her yard.

Ms. Dada holds her bachelor's degree in Hotel and Tourism Management. She has previously worked as a childcare provider in Wyoming and as a teaching assistant in Thailand. She also has experience in the Human Resources field. When she is not teaching she enjoys spending time with her son.

Ms. Dina is the Assistant Teacher in the Toddlers 2 classroom and has over 15 years of experience working with young children in licensed childcare. She loves being active with the children in her care and supporting their inquisitive minds and bodies!

Ms. Raihana comes to us with 2 years of experience as a day care aide. She currently holds her bachelors in Sociology. When Ms. Raihana is not teaching she enjoys spending time with her two children.

Ms. Araceli - Lead Teacher Ms. Araceli has eleven years of experience in licensed childcare, working with toddlers, and she earned her bachelor's degree in accounting. She joined our team in 2015 and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She believes young children have the most fun learning through music, movement, and engaging sensory activities.

Ms. Madina is our assistant teacher in our Pre-kindergarten program. She comes to us with two years of experience as an assistant teacher. She enjoys watching her students grow and learn each day. When she is not teaching, she enjoys doing makeup.

Ms. Leah has over 10 years experience working in licensed childcare and earned her Master's Degree in Early Education. At any given time, you will find Ms. Leah incorporating music and dance into the children's day!

Ms.Shaista is our resource teacher; She goes to different classrooms where needed! Her favorite classroom is the infant room. During her free time, she works on graphic design and photography. She likes to keep herself active by going to the gym. Ms. Shaista is studying Political Science.

Ms. Ashley has been a valued member of the Goddard School team for four months and brings two years of experience as a teacher assistant. She is passionate about fostering a love of learning and celebrating each child’s growth and achievements.

Miss Sheila Kent was born and raised in the Philippines and has cherished living in the United States for the past 17 years. As a devoted mother of two wonderful children, she draws inspiration from them in all aspects of her life. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has a deep love for the nursing profession. In addition to her healthcare background, Miss Sheila has a strong passion for teaching and feels truly grateful for the opportunity to nurture and inspire young minds at The Goddard School.

Ms. Olivia has been a dedicated member of the Goddard School team for six months, bringing three years of experience in childcare. She is passionate about creating a warm and supportive environment where children can thrive and develop a love for learning.