Our Teachers

Liz Scott is the On-site Owner of the school. She has a Bachelor's Degree from Georgia Tech and an MBA in Real Estate & Corporate Finance from Georgia State University. She and her family have lived in Ponte Vedra Beach for over a decade after moving to the area from Atlanta. Their love for the community lead them to opening the Goddard School of Ponte Vedra Beach in June 2016, buy the Julington Creek Goddard in 2020, build our Baymeadows Goddard in 2022 and now build a new school in the Nocatee area. Liz and her husband, Trey, have three children, a son and twin daughters. As a family they love to travel to new places, enjoy time on the beach and watching their children discover new hobbies! "I am honored to be a part of such a high quality pre-school program in this community. I am honored to be a part of a program that helps shape the early childhood development for so many children in this community where children can grow and develop a lifelong love of learning." -Liz Scott

Marie Ann is the Regional Director for Goddard Ponte Vedra Beach, Goddard Julington Creek & Goddard Baymeadows/ETown. She has been part of the organization since 2016 and has three decades in the Early Childhood Education field. Marie Ann has a Bachelor’s in early childhood education from an English university, where she grew up. Additionally, she holds a National CDA in Early Childhood Education and a Director’s License. In 2002 she created and launched a language school known as “Kids Club – Vilajuiga” located in Catalunya, Spain, predominantly teaching English to non-native speakers. During this time, she also worked as a consultant language teacher for local schools and became a qualified and recognized examiner/invigilator for Cambridge University. Though originally from England, Marie Ann moved to the states in 2011 and has called it home since! Marie Ann and her husband have five grown children.

Christina joined the Goddard family in Feb of 2022 as our Director of Business & Marketing. Christina oversees all admissions for all three schools with a focus on managing and growing enrollments and welcoming new families to the schools. She is also responsible for all marketing initiatives and will be the point person on all billing and accounts receivable processes. Christina's background is in admissions and marketing with charter schools within the public sector in Duval and St. John's Co and she is excited to be a part of the early childhood education industry! We are SO thrilled to have Christina join our team as she has already made such a difference for our new families and in her efforts to support the management team at all three locations!

Donna Tavares, joins us as our Executive Director and brings over 30 years of expertise in early childhood education and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in the field. Hailing from Fall River, Massachusetts, Donna is driven by the joy of witnessing children’s wonder as they explore new concepts and the pride they feel with every milestone achieved. Her career began in 1993 as a family child care provider, eventually growing into running her own private preschool in Massachusetts. Known for her dedication and warmth, Donna is especially fond of teaching her favorite children’s song, "The More We Get Together," in sign language. When she’s not enriching young minds, you’ll find Donna crafting or spending quality time with her family, which includes her two children, 17-year-old grandson, and two adored Chihuahuas. A fun twist in her story—Donna reunited and married her high school sweetheart 34 years after they first met!

Katie Gonzales is our Associate Director. She is responsible for helping maintain the Quality Assurance program and compliance throughout our school in terms of health and safety. Katie has over 4 years of Goddard experience and is excited to join the Baymeadows Team! She holds a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, Staff Credential, and a Director Credential. Katie moved here from Louisville, Kentucky in 2007. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children outside in their garden, hiking and at the beach!

Danna was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She is a passionate Early Childhood Education Advocate and has over 15 years of combined experience in the field from teaching all ages to leadership roles . Ms. Danna holds a Director Credential, Child Development Associate and she is a Professional Development Specialist for the CDA Council. Danna believes that preschool education should be a nurturing, inclusive environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Danna’s goal is to support and collaborate with the Goddard staff and families on creating a supportive and responsive learning environment. Danna is happily married and have 2 teen boys and 3 fur babies. When not at work, she enjoys traveling to different countries, cruising and trying new restaurants.

Hannah Rogers serves as the Director of Curriculum and Compliance at The Goddard School, bringing a decade of teaching experience, primarily in VPK, and a passion for early childhood education. A Jacksonville native, Hannah finds joy in supporting teachers and fostering their professional growth. She is dedicated to collaborating with each team member to understand their unique needs and create a thriving, enriching environment for every child. Outside the classroom, Hannah loves spending quality time with her daughter, exploring nature through hiking, and diving into a good book. Her commitment to family, community, and educational excellence fuels her enthusiasm for this role, where she aims to make a meaningful impact across The Goddard School.

Savanah Hejl joined our team in August as an Administrative Associate. With the announcement of the Nocatee school, Savanah will now step into her new role as Business & Marketing Associate over all school locations - assisting with school admissions, marketing initiatives, faculty engagement, and operational support. Savanah will work out of the Baymeadows location three days a week (MWF) to support the school and assist the management team. If you happen to see her at the front desk or in the classroom, please don't hesitate to say hello or ask for assistance! When she is not working, Savanah enjoys spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their dog, Whalen. Fun fact about Savanah, she has lived in four different states, moving around with her Military family. Her favorite being Alaska, where she lived for three years!

Amelia is the Regional Director of Compliance and Standards. She has her Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education from the Univ. of North Florida and a Master's in Educational Leadership. As the Regional Director of Compliance & Standards Amelia is responsible for ensuring licensing and compliance within all the school as well as maintaining the Quality Assurance program in regards to health and safety which the Goddard brand is known for. Amelia has spent many years working in the Early Childhood Development arena at several highly respected schools. She joined the Goddard PVB family in early 2019. She has two young children, a son Vaughan and a daughter Vivian.

Yinelly is the Lead Teacher prekindergarten (VPK) in the Trailblazers classroom and joined Goddard in 2020 at the St John's location. Ms Yinelly has 15+ years of experience, she has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood & Elementary Education from the Department of Education of Puerto Rico. “I describe myself as a devoted and dedicated teacher. I enjoy seeing how children develop in their own unique way and seeing their little smiles every day.” Yinelly is from Puerto Rico and is proud of her culture and country! Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Ms. Liz is the lead teacher in the Voyagers classroom. She has been both a teacher and as a director with more than 15 years of experience in the classroom. She came from the CR 210 location and is excited to be part of the new Goddard school here at Baymeadows. Liz has a daughter and a 120-pound fur baby. She loves to spend time outdoors with her family. Her hobbies include crochet and getting crafty. Her favorite part of teaching preschool is letting the kids get messy and be creative to explore arts and sensory activities

Denisse is the Lead Teacher in the Baby Bells classroom and joined Goddard Baymeadows upon its opening in 2022. She transferred from the PVB Goddard to head up the infant team at Baymeadows. She is originally from the Dominican Republic, but moved to Jacksonville in 2012. She has over a decade experience in the early childhood arena. While Denisse is passionate about early childhood education for all ages, she has a special fondness for the toddlers. She believes that, in order for children to learn and grow, they must feel safe and loved within the classroom.

Tracie is a Lead Teacher prekindergarten (VPK) in our Innovators classroom. She joined us in 2021 at the St John's location. With over two decades of experience, she has her CDA and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Tracie's educational career also includes living and working in Italy for five years where she was a Youth Activities Director. In 2011 Tracie and her family moved to Jacksonville from New York. She has been married for over 40 years and has two adult daughters and three grandchildren. When she's not in the classroom, Tracie enjoys reading and working on professional development.

Ciara is originally from Pennsylvania, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She joins our Goddard family with over 10 years’ experience in the field of early childhood. When not in the classroom, she loves gardening and spending time with her two chihuahuas, Raven and Romeo.

Ms. Tia was born in New York and raised on the beautiful island of Antigua in the Caribbean. With 9 years of experience in teaching and interacting with children, she holds her 45 DCF hours and CDA. Outside of teaching, Ms. Tia enjoys traveling and doing her makeup. Her classroom is a welcoming space where children can explore their emotions, build strong connections, and develop independence. Ms. Tia looks forward to exploring new and fun activities with your child.

Hailing from right here in Jacksonville, FL, Ms. Sydney brings a vibrant energy and a passion for early childhood education. When she's not inspiring young minds, you can find her behind a camera capturing beautiful moments, lost in a good book, or exploring new destinations around the world. Fun fact: Sydney used to be a top track star! Her dedication and drive on the track translate into her commitment to providing the best care and education for our little ones.

Ms. Sondra joins our Goddard Team with two years experience and her CDA in early childhood education. She has recently started with us with the start of the new year! Ms. Sondra has always had a passion for teaching since she was a little girl. She believes teachers make a big impact on their student’s lives and makes a point make that a positive impact by being patient, kind, and willing to learn. When Ms. Sondra is not in the classroom, she loves spending time with her family and her newborn daughter.

Ms. Lexie joins our Goddard family with over 5 years of experience in the Early Childhood Education field and hopes to start working towards her CDA soon. Ms. Lexie moved to Jacksonville in 2016 from Sebring, Florida. In her free time, Ms. Lexie loves to play with her Australian Shepherd, Oakley, paint and go to Hockey Games! Ms. Lexie’s favorite quote is “ May the flowers remind us why the rain was so necessary”.

Leidy is a Lead Teacher in the Fabulous Fords classroom and joined us in 2020 from the Julington Creek Goddard. She is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education and holds over a decade of experience working with children. Born and raised in Columbia, Leidy is fluent in both Portuguese and Spanish. In 2011 she moved to Jacksonville from Columbia. Outside of work, Leidy loves to dance! It's one of her greatest passions.

Ms. Adriana joins our Goddard Team with 4 years experience in the early childhood education field. She discovered her passion for early childhood education while earning her Occupational Therapy Degree. When not at school, Ms. Adriana loves to sing karaoke, play sports, and to spend time with her husband and daughter

Ms. Trinity joins our Goddard Team with almost 2 years experience in the early childcare field. She moved here from New Orleans in 2022 and is loving the Florida life. Ms. Trinity is currently in the Army Reserves and was recently promoted! When not at school, Ms. Trinity loves doing hair.

Ms. Armanda joins our Goddard Team with a little over ten years experience in the early childhood education field. She earned her teaching certificate in Massachusetts before moving here in 2022. Ms. Armanda’s main goal as a teacher is to make a difference by inspiring students to love learning and make the classroom a safe place for them to build self confidence.

Kayla has been working in childcare for five years. She has lived in Florida for the past couple years and is originally from New Jersey. She adores working with children and and says, “it warms my heart to know I leave a positive impact on each child I meet!” Ms. Kayla spends her free time bonding with her son and DJ-in for private events. She is very excited to join the Goddard team!

Ms. Alex joins our Goddard team with 2 years experience in the early childcare field. She moved to Florida 3 years ago from Illinos. Ms. Alex is currently studying at the University of North Florida. When not at school, Ms. Alex enjoys playing chess, knitting, and spending time with her 2 cats and dog.

Ms. Paraskevi, who also goes by Ms. Evi, is a teacher in the Baby Bells classroom. Although new to Goddard in 2022, she has over a year of prior experience in childcare. Ms. Evi loves working with infants because they are experiencing so many things for the first time in their little world and you get to be part of their journey in their development. She moved to Jacksonville, FL from Brooklyn, NY in 2021. Outside of work, she enjoys focusing on fitness, crafting invitations, and traveling around the world. Fun fact: she has traveled to 9 countries outside of the United States.

Julie is the assistant teacher in the Early Einsteins room. Originally from Jacksonville, FL, she loves working at Goddard because of the amazing staff culture and the fun, friendly atmosphere. Julie is passionate about working with young children, as she enjoys seeing the world through their eyes and watching them learn and experience new things. A fun fact about Julie is that she has an extra vertebrae. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies with her family.

Ms. Sabrina, while new to the Goddard Baymeadows team, has been a part of our Goddard family since 2021, at the Julington Creek location. She has over 15 years of experience in childcare, working in every age group. Her heart and passion is working with infants. Ms. Sabrina believes that cultivating strong relationships and providing a stimulating environment are the most important aspects of her job.

Ms. Ilana brings 7 years of experience in early childhood education to our Goddard team. A Miami, FL native, she has worked with a variety of age groups and holds a staff credential while currently pursuing her degree. Ms. Ilana finds great joy in working with young children and being a part of their school experience. Her favorite book is The Lorax, and outside of the classroom, she enjoys engaging in artistic activities, reading, writing, and spending quality time with her family.

Brianna is a resource teacher currently pursuing her college degree. Hailing from Tampa, FL, she enjoys working with children and values the strong relationships she has with her colleagues. Teaching children new things and experiencing their boundless energy brings her great joy. Brianna has three cats that she considers her children, and her favorite song to sing with the little ones is "Baby Bumblebee." In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends and playing soccer. She is most often described as calm.

Ms. Miryam Corbett, originally from Yorktown, NY, has a degree in Computer Science and six years of childcare experience, Miryam has seamlessly transitioned her passion for technology into a love for early childhood education. Beyond her professional achievements, Miryam is a proud mother of three. Her home is shared with a playful cat named Apollo and a loving dog named Kassy. Mimi loves to travel and learn new cultures. Fun Fact about Mimi is she got married in Paris and honeymooned in the French Riviera.

Dominique holds her Associate’s Degree in Arts and is originally from Chicago, Illinois. Her favorite part about working at Goddard is how kind and supportive everyone is. She loves seeing children learn, grow, and explore their natural curiosity. In her free time, Dominique enjoys singing and spending time with her dog. Her favorite children's book is Where the Wild Things Are, and she is often described as kind. Dominique is also a huge country music fan.

Ms. Jourdan Romans, born and raised in New York, comes with over 20 years of heartfelt experience in childcare. Jourdan's journey began as a dedicated babysitter, evolving into the role of a nurturing nanny and invaluable mommy's helper. Despite not having children of her own, Jourdan has loved every child she has encountered throughout her remarkable career. Ms. Jourdan shares her home with a delightful trio – one dog, two feline friends, and even a Koi Fish. Beyond the classroom, Jourdan aspires to make a difference in the field of Deaf Education, showcasing her dedication to inclusivity and diverse learning environments.

Ms. Ro holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and brings over 4 years of experience in early childhood education. A Jacksonville, FL native, Ms. Ro enjoys working with different age groups and watching as children develop through the various stages. She is passionate about helping children grow and become confident in themselves. A fun fact about Ms. Ro is that she played the clarinet throughout middle and high school. Currently, she is pursuing her graduate studies in English Language Arts with an ESOL endorsement to further her career in education, with the goal of shaping the minds of future generations.

Ms. Arielle joins our team with two years of experience in childcare. Arielle is not only CPR and first aid certified but is also actively pursuing her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, showcasing her commitment to excellence in early education. Outside the classroom, she shares her love for creativity and expression through painting, and her nurturing spirit extends beyond the human realm to her two furry friends. Arielle's enthusiasm for fostering a positive learning environment is sure to create a joyful and engaging experience for our preschoolers.

Coach Mike Teifer joined the Goddard Baymeadows program in 2022 as our Physical Education teacher. Mike has been a resident of Ponte Vedra Beach for 35+ years. He graduated from Jacksonville University with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and then received a Master's degree in Education Administration from UNF. His career resume includes teaching physical education, coaching high school athletics, and running his own personal training business. Mike has always been heavily involved in coaching local youth athletics, including club baseball and flag football. Mike enjoys working with young children and introducing them to the fundamentals of sports and physical fitness while having fun in a play-based and team-oriented environment. Mike and his wife, Cheryl, live in Ponte Vedra Beach and have three sons – Robert, Chris, and Ryan.