Our Teachers

I have been a resident of Fishhawk for over 10 years. I live here with my husband Shekar and our two boys, Aditya and Adarsh. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from George Mason University, Virginia. I have worked in corporate America for ten years as a professional engineer. I am excited to bring a high quality preschool program to our community. We noticed a clear need for a premier preschool in the area as we shopped for childcare for our boys. I am honored to bring the Goddard program that will help shape the early childhood development for the children in our community.

My name is Amanda. I have been happily married to my wonderful husband, Vince, for twenty-four years! We have three amazing children: Mattie, Camie , and Parker. Both of my daughters are in college, pursuing a pre-medical track. As for my background, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Education from Ashford University. I have spent fifteen years teaching Pre-K, with five of those years here at Goddard! In my last year as a Pre-K teacher, I was honored with the Pre-K Teacher Award for the Southeast Region of all Goddard Schools—an achievement I hold dear. This is my third year as Director, and I absolutely love it! I enjoy mentoring teachers, planning school-wide events, and fostering a positive learning environment for both students and staff. My favorite quote: Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn (Benjamin Franklin)

My name is Shelby, and I am honored to serve as the Director of Operations at The Goddard School Lithia. Originally from Alabama, I met my wonderful husband, Ryan, who is active duty military. Together, we have a 2-year-old daughter, Ellison, who attends our school. Being both a director and a parent gives me a unique perspective that helps me navigate this role effectively. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Troy University and went on to teach 5th grade, 3rd grade, and Kindergarten. After my daughter was born, I transitioned into Early Childhood education, allowing me to continue my passion for teaching while staying close to her. This shift led me to become a Lead Teacher in both a VPK and Toddler classroom. Through these experiences, I discovered my true passion for serving families, students, and teachers through Childcare Management.

Hi, my name is Susan. I have been married for over twenty-five years and have two children in college. I have a BA in Sociology from Wofford College. I’ve worked with children both at home and in school settings for over twenty years. I have been working at Goddard for over a year and I love working in the infant room! Favorite Quote: Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded.

My name is Nivea and I am from Brazil. I have been living in the United States for over a year with my family. I am a mother of two girls. I have a BA in Physical Therapy. I have been with Goddard for almost a year. This is my first time working in childcare. I love working at Goddard and caring for the infants. Favorite Quote: Children learn what they live

Hello, my name is Ana and I am the Lead Teacher in our Pre-Toddler program. I joined the Goddard School in May 2021 as an Infant Lead Teacher. Shortly after, I earned my Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials and am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. My studies in psychology help me deepen my understanding of children's cognitive development, allowing me to support their education in age-appropriate and meaningful ways. As a passionate and dedicated teacher, I find joy in nurturing young children's curiosity and creating a positive, enriching learning environment. I feel truly honored and blessed to have been recognized with the 2025 Goddard Southeast Infant Teacher of the Year award, an accolade that reflects my commitment to early childhood education. Favorite Quote: "To teach is to touch a life forever."

My Name is Jenna and I am a mother of three children. I have been a part of the Goddard Family for over five years. I have obtained my Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials while working at the Goddard School. I feel that teaching is a rewarding profession, and I enjoy seeing the students learn and grow. Favorite Quote: For a small child, there is no division between playing and learning.

My name is Mariella. I have a bachelor’s degree in advertising and graphic design and have my National Child Development Associate (CDA). I am an experienced toddler teacher and am very passionate about creating a safe and stimulating learning environment. I have been a toddler teacher at the Goddard School for over 4 years I am committed to helping my students reach their full potential. Favorite Quote: Every child is an artist (Pablo Picasso)

My name is Patricia. I was born in Long Island, NY and moved to Florida when I was a teenager. I am an avid reader and I love to draw and paint. In my free time, I like to do anything that requires creativity. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. I am compassionate and love to help others. I am currently working on getting my teaching certification in teaching English and reading. My favorite quote: Not all who wonder are lost (J.R.R. Tolkien)

Hi, my name is Marisol. I’m an educator with a passion for helping children grow and express themselves through creative activities. I have many years of experience working with children and hold a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). I continually participate in training to further my education. I love seeing kids explore their emotions and creativity! I also want parents to feel at ease while they are at work, knowing their children are being well taken care of and engaging in fun, enriching activities. Favorite Quote: You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. (A.A. Milne)

Hello, My name is Teresita. I am a dedicated teacher with a passion for working with young children. Helping them learn and grow brings me so much joy. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, creating special moments and memories together. One of my favorite quotes that inspires me is "while we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about" Author Unkown

My name is Oslyn and I am originally from North Carolina. I have been working with children for five years, and I have a special passion for supporting preschool and toddler-aged learners. I currently hold a National Child Developmental Associate (CDA) credential and will soon be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. In my free time I enjoy painting, working on cars, and studying psychology. My ultimate goal is to become a child psychologist, combining my love for child development with my interest in mental health. Favorite Quote: If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair. (Shirley Chisholm)

My name is Damaris and I am originally from Honduras. I am a proud wife and mother of two wonderful children. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music and decorating for the holidays—it brings me joy and creativity! I’ve been working with children since I was fourteen years old and have over twenty-two years of professional experience in early childhood education. I currently hold a National Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and am committed to continuing my education to stay current on best practices in child development. Supporting young learners and helping them grow brings me so much fulfillment. Favorite quote: In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you (Matthew 7-12).

My name is Shadi, which means “happiness” in Farsi. I was lucky to grow up with my amazing parents and four siblings in Tehran, Iran. I lived in California with my husband and daughter for twelve years and moved to Florida in July of 2023. I then started working at the Goddard School in Lithia with the wonderful team and families. I feel this is the greatest treasure I found in Florida! I have a B.S. in Biology and have experience working as a researcher. I started volunteering at my daughter’s school and fell in love working with children. I started taking courses and currently studying to obtain a major in early childhood education. I have now worked in this field for eight years and have achieved a lot of experience. Favorite Quote: Imagine your life as a love letter to the universe. Then go out and express all within your heart.

My name is Nilyan (Ms. Nil). I am happily married and the proud mother of two daughters who have graduated from college and now have beautiful families of their own. I have over 15 years of experience working with children in various roles, including tutor, teacher assistant, and volunteer with the Diabetic Association. I hold a degree in Economics and a National Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Teaching brings me immense joy—I love watching children grow, learn, and discover the world around them. There is something incredibly special about helping to shape young minds and knowing you’ve made a positive impact on their journey. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach, listening to music, dancing, riding motorcycles, and most of all, spending time with my family. Favorite Quote: "It's important to meet each child's individual needs and give them love. Leave positive lessons for each child to help them in their future and see them happy."

My name is Ms. Maritza, and I’ve been teaching for over 15 years. I hold a National CDA and have completed all required trainings to work with children. Teaching is my passion—I truly enjoy guiding young learners and watching them grow and develop across all areas. With 15 years of experience in early childhood education, I’m dedicated to helping children reach their full potential. My favorite quote: "Make today amazing!"

Hello, my name is Shavita. Florida has been my home for the past three years. I live here with husband and two lovely children. I like to dance, hike, read, and spend time with my family and friends. I have a Master’s Degree in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s Degree in Math and Science with a Post Graduation Diploma in Computer Applications. I am honored to be a part of the Goddard Family and your child’s learning experience. I have been an educator in the past and continue to inspire and support children in their educational, social, and emotional journey. Favorite quote: Learning is a continuous process, and we learn by doing and by creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe and loved.

Hello, my name is Karla. I have been married for twenty-four years and have three handsome boys. I love the outdoors and reading, it’s my favorite way to relax. I have an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood. Teaching is my passion, and I have been teaching since I was sixteen. Favorite Quote: A child’s play is not simply a reproduction of what he has experienced but a creative reworking of the impressions he has acquired. (Vygotsky)

My name is Lande. I would describe myself as someone who is highly motivated, and I enjoy working as part of a team. I am a proud mom of an incredible son. I speak English, Creole, and French. I have an Associate Degree in Nursing and am a certified nurse assistant. I have been working in the childcare field since 2021. I am so happy to be a part of the Goddard team and honored to contribute to your child’s education! My favorite quote: Teachers encourage, minds to thing, hands to create, and hearts to love.

My Name is Kimberly (Ms. Kim). I am originally from Tampa, Fl but grew up in Texas before moving back to Tampa in 1990. We are a proud USMC family. I am a happy wife, proud mom of two adult children, a granny to my amazing grandchildren, and a dog-mom to three large fur babies. I have owned/operated an Accredited/Gold Seal Licensed FCCH for thirteen years and worked for HCSO in child protection. I have been an Early Childhood Educator for thirty plus years and I can’t imagine doing any other job! The past nine years I have been teaching VPK. I have an AA Degree, my National CDA, Developmental Disabilities training, and I continue taking early childhood training classes each year. My happy place is the beach and spending time with family and friends. My favorite hobby is finding fun and engaging activities for my students! Favorite quote: Educating the mind without education the heart is no education at all! (Aristotle).

Hi, my name is Maria. I was born in Argentina and moved to the United States in 2017 through an Au Pair Program. My husband and I are new parents to our beautiful baby boy. We are huge NY Yankee fans, and we enjoy watching baseball together. I love traveling, going to the beach, and reading. During my six years as an Au Pair, I pursued my passion for Early Childhood Education and earned a certification in Early Childhood Administration as well as an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Hillsborough community college. Favorite Quote: Play is the highest form of research (Albert Einstein)

My name is Hope. I was born in Washington State, and because I am part of a military family, I ended up in Florida in 2017. I live with my best friend and our sweet Black Mouth Cur Ross. Any free time I have is spend reading or spending time with my nephew Marshall. I have my preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. Currently I am in school to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been working in this field for five years, and three of the years I have been teaching Pre-kindergarten at the Goddard School. Teaching young children is my passion. Favorite quote: The duties of a teacher are neither few nor small, but they elevate the mind and give energy to the character. (Dorothea Dix)

Hello, My name is Ms. Lexi. I was born and raised in Hungary. I moved to the United States in 2016 with my daughter and husband. We love visiting Hungary and other European countries in the summer. I have a B.A. in English and American studies. I am currently enrolled at the College of Central Florida’s Early Childhood Education Program. I have been working with young children since 2018 and enjoy watching them learn and grow! Favorite Quote: Play is the highest form of research (Albert Einstein)

My name is Kim. I’ve lived in Florida for the past seven years but have lived all over the United States. I love art, cats, nature, music, and movies. I have completed some college, majoring in Art. I am currently taking a break, but I want to pursue a career in teaching. I feel that working with children is very healing for the soul and your inner child. Favorite Quote: I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people. (Vincent Van Gogh).

Hi, my name is Jackie. Along with my husband, I own two companies. One company that we have owned for 25 years, Most Beautiful Weddings, where my role was the wedding director. The other company we’ve owned for thirty years is JJR Janitorial and Carpet Cleaning. While I love both my companies, I have found working in the Early Childcare field so enjoyable! I have been with Goddard School since 2022 and I work as a resource teacher. I am responsible for preparing the snacks for our little learners and helping the teachers as needed. Favorite Quote: Life is too short, live like it’s important.

My name is Olivia and I’m a resource teacher at The Goddard School. I come from a military family (Marines) where my dad served fifteen years and my older brother for five. I love to spend my free time going to the beach, shopping, or journaling. I graduated from Bloomingdale High School and am now a student at Hillsborough Community College. I am working on my A.S. Degree in Early Childhood Education, and plan to continue my education at a university to obtain my bachelor’s degree. I recently started my childcare career in June of 2024, and I am so excited and grateful to continue my journey with the Goddard family! Favorite Quote: The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all -Mulan