Our Teachers

Our teachers blend the highest education standards with nurturing care to help foster well-rounded child development.

Teacher smiling at and holding two infants

Warm, Nurturing & Highly Trusted

Learning happens best in a warm and nurturing environment, which is why our teachers take the time to make sure your little one feels safe and cared for every day to help them develop a lifelong love of learning. 

A teacher sitting on the floor with students playing a learning game

Expertise & Skills

Our caring teachers are highly experienced in the best methods to support your child with teachable moments of exploration, discovery and learning each and every day. 

  • Ms Parina

    Ms Parina

    Owner
    We're thrilled to offer our outstanding STEAM program to our community. With two children of my own, I deeply value a secure, high-quality, loving, and learning environment. With a background in Business Administration and over a decade of management experience, I've operated The Goddard School of Lake Forest since 2016 and am excited to open a new location in Tustin. My focus is on creating a nurturing atmosphere where children thrive socially and academically. Our curriculum integrates Yoga, Chess, Robotics, Spanish, Mandarin, Sign Language, and more. Seeing children's joy and receiving their hugs is the highlight of my day. I invite you to visit, meet our dedicated teachers, and learn about The Goddard approach. Let us show you how we support children's growth and development.
  • Ms Jennifer

    Ms Jennifer

    Director of Education - Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Dance, & Psychology
    Jennifer has been the Director of Education at The Goddard School since 2019, where she leads the STEAM curriculum and oversees enrichment programs such as yoga, chess, and robotics. With a passion for early childhood education, she is dedicated to fostering the growth of young learners and mentoring her team to help them thrive every day. With over eight years of experience in Teaching, Administration, Event, and Marketing Management for ECE centers, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. As a mother of two, Jennifer is deeply committed to supporting families and believes in nurturing each child's unique potential. She lives by the motto, "Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded," and is honored to serve the families in her community.
  • Ms Mary

    Ms Mary

    Mentor Director - 10 Years as a Preschool Director & Teacher
    A mother of two, Ms. Mary joined the Goddard School in 2024 after 10+ years in various early childhood roles and responsibilities. "I have been very fortunate to have discovered what I believe in my core to be my truest purpose and it happens to connect with my truest passion which is, working with children. For over the last decade, I have built my career in Early Childhood Education, working with children in ages ranging from 6 weeks to 6 years, fulfilling positions across each classroom and gaining experience all along the way to have shaped me into a well-rounded administrator. It is my goal to create a safe and loving environment for children as they create lasting memories while they learn and grow. I am honored to become a part of this community and will work hard each day to be a support and resource to families and the wonderful team of educators."
  • Ms Lana

    Ms Lana

    Director of Admissions & Community Outreach - Bachelor's Degree in Civil Law & Early Childhood Education Studies
    Ms. Lana joined The Goddard School in 2021 and has quickly become a beloved member of the team, infusing joy and positivity into every interaction with children, families, and colleagues. As a devoted mother of two, she deeply understands the importance of laying a strong educational foundation in the early years. Ms. Lana is passionate about creating a nurturing and loving environment, believing that the first six years of a child’s life are critical for future success. Her commitment extends to building and supporting the Goddard community, where she plays a vital role in helping families understand the Goddard curriculum and programs. Ms. Lana’s enthusiasm for fostering a supportive and caring atmosphere shines through in all her endeavors.
  • Ms Tanya

    Ms Tanya

    Admin Support - Master's in Early Childhood Education
    Ms. Tanya brings over 10 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, working with children from infancy through school age. As a mother of two, she is dedicated to creating an environment where children can explore their world through play and reach their full potential. Having served as a Pre-K teacher at Goddard for over two years, Ms. Tanya is now transitioning to an administrative role, supporting all classrooms. She strives to be an exemplary teacher, role model, and administrative leader for children, families, and fellow educators. Her commitment to excellence has earned her two nominations for Goddard Systems' Teacher of the Year.
  • Ms Maryam

    Ms Maryam

    Admin Support - Master's in Psychology and ECE certification
    Ms. Maryam holds a BA in Psychology, a Certification in Child Development, and an M.A. in Psychology with a focus on Family Therapy. With over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, she joined The Goddard School in 2017. Throughout her career, Ms. Maryam has worked with various age groups, from infants to school-age children, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a genuine love for teaching. Known for her positive energy and warmth, she excels in creating a supportive and safe environment where children can thrive. Ms. Maryam is dedicated to ensuring that each child feels valued and loved, which she believes is crucial for their development and success.
A Goddard School teacher drawing at a table with two young students

Careers

If you want to help shape the hearts and minds of young children in a fun, nurturing environment, we’d love to have you work with us! We’re always looking for great teachers to join our family.

Check Out Our Job Listings