Our Teachers

Miss Shelina is honored to bring The Goddard School to Orlando - Lake Nona and the surrounding communities. She and her husband have 2 young children and have been resident of Orlando since 2005. Shelina can think of no other work environment that is more fun and rewarding than a preschool. She feels that it is extremely gratifying to know she is providing a safe, happy and high quality preschool program that allows parents to walk out of her school with peace of mind. She is excited to provide the students with the opportunity to develop into happy and confident learners who are prepared for school and life!

Hi, my name is Cathy and I have been the director of The Goddard School Orlando for 18 months now. I have a total of 20 years experience in the early childhood education field. I have a 16 year old daughter and have lived in Orlando for 3 years. I was born in Long Island New York and moved to Florida in 2000. I have spent most of my years in Florida living in Merritt Island. I love Disney and hanging out with my family on the weekends. My favorite children's book is I Love You Forever.

Hi! My name is Mrs. Van, I was born in Hawaii and moved to Orlando. I love to do different arts and crafts with my students in the classroom. I am patient, kind, and dedicated to inspire others. I am looking forward to getting to know you all and guiding your child through a successful year.

My name is Ms. Jenny Estevez. I’m from the Dominican Republic, and I am married with a wonderful daughter. I have been working in the early education field for 10 years. I chose this field because I have a deep passion for teaching and nurturing young children. Watching them grow, discover the world, and reach their potential brings me immense joy and fulfillment.  Although my academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, I found my true calling in childcare. My business skills have helped me stay organized, manage classroom dynamics effectively, and communicate with parents professionally. In my free time, I love spending quality time with my family and exploring new places through travel. These experiences not only bring me joy but also provide inspiration and creativity that I bring into my teaching. My favorite children's book is "Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See?

Hello, my name is Bellysol. I am from Caguas, Puerto Rico, and I moved to Orlando 30 years ago. I have been in the early education field for 15 years, and it has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. I chose this field because I have always had a natural connection with children and a deep desire to help shape their futures. I love teaching through singing, dancing, playing, and reading books with children. These activities bring learning to life, making it fun and engaging for them while fostering creativity, communication, and critical thinking. Children are our future, and being a part of their developmental journey fills my heart with joy and purpose. Watching them grow, overcome challenges, and discover their potential inspires me every day. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality moments with my family, listening to music that lifts my spirit, and exploring the outdoors to connect with nature. My favorite children's book is "The Very Hungry Caterpillar". 

Hello, my name is Ms. Julie! I have a passion for singing, drawing, and anything related to art. In my free time, I enjoy writing poems, songs, and stories—creativity is a big part of who I am! Music is my constant companion, and I love exploring every genre—it inspires everything I do. I chose to work in the childcare field because I have a genuine love for working with kids and being a positive role model in their lives. Seeing their curiosity, creativity, and growth fills me with joy and purpose. Helping children learn and develop through music, art, and play allows me to combine my passions with making a difference in their lives. My favorite children’s book is “Where’s Spot?”

My name is Mariana, and I’m thrilled to be a part of The Goddard School family. I recently began my journey in Early Childhood Education and chose this field because of my deep love for working with children. I currently hold a DCF credential and am eager to continue growing in this profession. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and relaxing at the beach. My favorite children’s book is “The Cat and The Hat”.

My name is Maria, and I’m originally from Venezuela. I’ve been living in the USA for 10 years and have dedicated the past 7 years to working in Early Childhood Education. Childcare is my true passion because I find so much joy in watching children grow, develop, and transform as they learn. Being a part of their journey and contributing to their milestones is incredibly rewarding. My favorite children’s book is “Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See?”

Hi, my name is Yasmine, and I’m 20 years old. I’ve been working with children for 2 ½ years, and this is my first year at The Goddard School. I’m so excited to be part of this incredible learning program and to witness the children’s growth, learning, and achievements every day. I chose the childcare field because I have a passion for helping children discover their potential and develop confidence in themselves. Being part of their journey as they learn, explore, and reach new milestones brings me so much joy and fulfillment. My favorite children’s book is “Puplicious” series. 

My name is Modesta, and I am originally from Colombia. I moved to the United States 13 years ago and am proud to be a mother of two and a grandmother to three wonderful grandchildren. I’ve been a preschool teacher for over 10 years, and working with children is truly my passion. I chose this field because I love that each child brings their unique personality and teaches you something new every day. Their development, growth, and well-being are incredibly important to me, and I strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment where they can thrive. My favorite children’s book is “The 3 Little Pigs”.

My name is Jennifer Medrano. I was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and moved to Orlando in 2010. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my best friend, Ms. Yasmine, and going to car meets. The Goddard School is my first job in childcare, and I’ve fallen in love with the field. I chose to work in childcare because I have a passion for helping children grow, learn, and discover the world around them. Seeing their progress and excitement as they reach new milestones brings me so much joy and fulfillment.  My favorite children’s book is “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”.

My name is Cassie, and I have been working in the education field for 2 years. I truly enjoy teaching children and watching them grow, both academically and personally. I chose to work in childcare because I have a passion for making a positive impact on young lives. Seeing the excitement in a child’s eyes when they learn something new or achieve a goal is incredibly rewarding. Being part of their journey as they grow and develop is what makes this field so meaningful to me. My favorite children’s book is “Rumble In The Jungle”.

My name is Cristalida. I've been working with children for 6 years. I love teaching and developing healthy relationships with children and their families. My favorite book is "The Cat In The Hat"

Hi! I am Ms. Leonor. I’m originally from Venezuela and moved to Orlando with my mother and daughter 3 years ago. I’ve been working in education for 15 years, starting with preschool and continuing through kindergarten. Ever since I was 12 years old, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I chose the childcare field because I’ve always had a passion for shaping young minds and helping children build a strong foundation for their future. Now, every day, I have the privilege of living my dream by supporting their growth, fostering their creativity, and watching them thrive. It’s a truly fulfilling journey! My favorite children’s book is “The Lorax”. 

My name is Destiny, and I have been working in childcare for about 5 years. I absolutely love being a teacher and helping shape young minds. My favorite things to do include eating delicious food, reading captivating books, and spending time on the beach. My dream is to become an elementary school teacher and a part-time photographer, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for me. I chose the childcare field because I believe that the early years are the foundation for a child’s future. Being able to guide and nurture children as they learn and grow is incredibly rewarding. I’m known for being kind and loving as a teacher, always creating a welcoming and supportive environment for my students.  My favorite children’s book is “Green Eggs and Ham”. 

Hi, my name is Laurie and I have been working with children for over 30 years through church, boy scouts, girl scouts, public school sub and in home daycare. I have been with Goddard for 2 years now. I have been married for 34 years. I have 2 wonderful children and 2 healthy grandchildren. I have my AA in Early Childhood Education and a certificate from the Orlando Science Center with the STEM program. In my spare time, I like crafting, light gardening and spending time with my grandchildren. I chose this field because of my passion is working with children, music, and captivating my classroom through engaging, thought-provoking activities. My favorite children's book is "Pete The Cat" series.

My name is Daniel, and I was born and raised in Central Florida, though my family is originally from Puerto Rico. I’m currently an undergraduate student majoring in Health Science at UFC, but my true passion lies in working with children. I chose the childcare field because I love making a positive impact on young lives. There is something deeply rewarding about helping children grow, learn, and discover the world around them. I’m grateful to The Goddard School for offering me the opportunity to work alongside such an amazing team, where I can combine my love for children with my desire to contribute to their development and well-being. My favorite children’s is “If You Give A Mouse A Cookie”.

My name is Luzmila Alvarez, and I’m originally from Ecuador. I am a social worker by profession, and I have 4 years of experience working with children here in the United States. I chose the childcare field because children are my true passion. Working with children allows me to make a meaningful difference in their lives, helping them grow into caring individuals. It's incredibly rewarding to see their progress and to be part of their journey. My favorite children's book is "The Very Hungry Caterpillar".

Hi! I’m Giulia, and I’m originally from Italy. I moved to the US after getting married. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Business Administration and worked in the travel industry in Italy for 20 years. I decided to transition into the childcare field because I’ve always had a deep love for working with children. I find joy in helping them learn, grow, and discover the world around them, and I wanted to be part of their development in a more meaningful way. In my free time, I teach Italian, enjoy running, and work out at the gym. I also love cooking, reading, and traveling with my husband. My favorite children’s book is “Llama Llama Red Pajama”.