Our Teachers

Meet Jane & Genia, two local moms behind The Goddard School in Deerfield! Their passion for early childhood education inspired them to open Goddard as a high-quality alternative to daycare. With bachelor's degrees in Business and Psychology, and a master's degree in Education, Jane previously was a teacher and worked with a large social welfare not-for-profit organization. Genia holds a bachelor's and master's degree in History, and a teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education. Before joining forces with Jane, Genia spent 10 years in the not-for-profit industry, working with immigrant families on cultural integration. Together, Jane and Genia are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children, offering healthy, nutritious meals, and a wide variety of enrichment classes. Jane lives in Highland Park with her husband, two children & labradoodle, Nika! Genia lives in Deerfield with her husband, three children & their fluffy cat, Motek!

Ms. Rebecca holds a bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Originally from North Carolina, she dedicated six years to teaching preschool and pre-K before transitioning into the roles of teacher mentor and assistant director. In August 2019, Ms. Rebecca relocated to Chicago and spent three years as the director of a Preschool in Lincoln Park before joining The Goddard School of Deerfield. Her true passion lies in creating a nurturing environment that supports the growth and development of children, families, and educators alike. When she's not fostering learning experiences, Ms. Rebecca enjoys exploring her culinary skills through cooking and baking, as well as cherishing quality time with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Katie holds a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood with a minor in Sociology from Northern Michigan University. With over ten years of teaching experience, she has held various roles including assistant teacher, lead teacher, Assistant Director. Throughout her career, Ms. Katie has worked with children of all ages, from infants through pre-K. Passionate about early childhood education, Ms. Katie finds immense joy in witnessing each child's growth and development as they reach their full potential. Building meaningful relationships with families is an integral part of her teaching philosophy. In her free time, she cherishes moments spent with her husband and daughter, Ella. Together, they enjoy exploring the outdoors, traveling to Michigan to visit family, and cooking as a family activity. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Haram was born in Mexico and relocated to the United States in her teens. As a young adult, she quickly discovered her passion for teaching young children! While working at the Bunnell House Lab Preschool and another local School District in Alaska, she developed a deep love for nurturing and educating small children. Ms. Haram then pursued and completed her degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She is happily married to her best friend and is the proud mother of three children, Kairi, Ean, and Lia. Known for her creative, energetic, and loving personality, Ms. Haram firmly believes that play, creativity, and imagination are the greatest tools for children's learning and development Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Julia is pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology at DePaul University. She has almost a decade of experience working with infants, children, and young adults, starting as a babysitter and then moving on to swim instructing and lifeguarding through the Park District of Highland Park. She later served as a supervisor at Hidden Creek Aqua Park, training and mentoring high school and college-aged lifeguards and swim instructors. Julia aspires to become a secondary education English teacher and plans to apply her knowledge of psychology to help high school students transition into young adulthood. She firmly believes in the lifelong importance of emotional literacy, creativity, and curiosity. Outside of her professional interests, Ms. Julia loves houseplants, creative writing, and spending quality time with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Nadia earned her bachelor's degree in Performance and Music Education from The Ufa State Institute of Arts in Russia. With a lifelong dedication to working with children, she finds great joy in teaching music to young learners. Witnessing the excitement and enthusiasm children display as they learn and perform is what fuels her passion for teaching. Ms. Nadia firmly believes that music plays a crucial role in children's overall development. Her primary focus is to ensure that children have fun while learning through engaging activities such as singing songs, participating in dances, and exploring dramatic plays. Creating an enjoyable and enriching musical experience for her students is Ms. Nadia's top priority. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Ingrid is a native Spanish speaker who initially learned English while studying in Vancouver, Canada. She pursued a career as an English Teacher for ESL students after attending the University of Guanajuato in Mexico. Ms. Ingrid taught preschool, elementary, and high school in Mexico before moving to the United States. She worked as a bilingual nanny, specializing in bilingualism, and later became a bilingual teacher assistant in a middle school while studying at Fort Hays State University to become a Spanish Teacher. Ms. Ingrid's passion lies in helping students with her native language. In her free time, she enjoys reading, singing, and dancing, with her favorite children's books being "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch and "Corduroy" by Don Freeman. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Maria Socorro Serrano, or Soco as everyone calls her, is originally from Guanajuato, Mexico. Soco has been living in Illinois since 2022 and has a solid background of working in restaurants around the Chicago suburbs. During this time she earned certifications in Food handling and Kitchen Management. Soco's dedication to her work is matched by her deep love for children. Children's innocence, sincerity, and boundless potential inspire Soco daily. Soco is excited to bring her warmth, nurturing spirit, and strong work ethic to the Goddard School of Deerfield, where she feels honored to be a part of a team. Outside of work, Soco feels heavily connected to nature. From walking around in the serene parks of her neighborhood to nurturing a variety of flowers and herbs on her balcony. Soco's strolls and her small garden oasis not only clear her mind but also bring her peace. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ana Fonseca, originally from Bogotá, Colombia, arrived in the United States in June 2023 to reunite with her children and her three beloved grandchildren. She brings valuable experience in food preparation and handling, holding a certification in Food Handling, and has also performed cleaning duties. In Colombia, Ana worked in a daycare for children aged 0 to 6 years old, where she supported daily classroom tasks, including maintaining order and security, providing entertainment, feeding, cleaning, and offering personalized attention to the children. Outside of her professional work, Ana enjoys swimming and has a passion for working with both children and the elderly. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Ellen holds an Early Childhood Certificates from Oakton Community College with over 35 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has nurtured and taught infants, toddlers, and children with special needs. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Ellen finds fulfillment in her personal life. With almost 40 years of marriage to her wonderful husband, together, they have raised two accomplished daughters and their beloved dog, Romeo. Recognizing the importance of giving back, Ms. Ellen and her family actively volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, a cause close to their hearts. During her free time, Ms. Ellen indulges in various interests and activities. She loves shopping (especially for shoes!) watching movies, baking, cooking, and crafting, and especially spending quality time with her family! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Stephanie holds a bachelor's degree in Child Development from Northern Illinois University. She believes in creating a fun and loving learning environment while building trust with each child. Ms. Stephanie also values open communication with families to involve them in their child's growth and learning. She lives in Arlington Heights with her husband and their beloved new puppy, Coco, and recently got married on the breathtaking Big Island of Hawaii! With her experience as a Lead Teacher and her ever-present warm smile, she is wholeheartedly dedicated to making the learning experience a joyful one. Outside of work, she enjoys going to the gym and spending time with her loved ones. Whether it's quality time with her family or connecting with friends, she values these moments. She also enjoys cooking new recipes with her family! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2019

Ms. Sonali, born and raised in Mumbai, embarked on her journey as a preschool teacher upon arriving in the United States. With a degree in science and a passion for early childhood education, she has dedicated herself to nurturing young minds. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Sonali channels her creativity into painting captivating landscapes using acrylics on canvas. In addition to her artistic skills, she enjoys reading and preparing delicious meals for her family and friends. Ms. Sonali's diverse background, commitment to professional growth, and genuine love for art and literature shape her holistic approach to teaching, creating an enriching environment for her preschool students. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2019

Ms. Olivia earned her associate's degree in Early Childhood Education in June of 2020. With a deep-rooted passion for empowering children to unlock their full potential and achieve their individual goals, she finds fulfillment in guiding and nurturing young minds. Ms. Olivia's affinity for toddlers is fueled by their infectious energy, playful nature, and innate curiosity. Ms. Olivia's affinity for toddlers is fueled by their infectious energy, playful nature, and innate curiosity. During her free time, Ms. Olivia enjoys cuddling up to her Pitbull and watching movies with her husband in the cozy confines of their home. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Alexis grew up in Vernon Hills. She holds a bachelor's degree in Applied Educational Studies from National Louis University. Her lifelong passion for working with young children has been a driving force in her journey as an educator. Even during her high school years, Ms. Alexis dedicated her time and expertise to the preschool at Stevenson High School, laying the foundation for her career in early childhood education. Throughout her professional journey, Ms. Alexis has enriched the lives of children in various roles, including her time at the park district day camp in Buffalo Grove and as a current figure skating instructor! Her love for figure skating extends beyond the ice rink, as she cherishes every opportunity to spend quality time with her family and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2020

Ms. Marwah, was born and raised in Iraq. She relocated to Qatar after she got married, and then settled in the United States. Ms. Marwah has a passion for teaching and working with children. With a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, she brings a unique perspective to her classroom. Ms. Marwah taught the Arabic language in a private school in Chicago and has volunteered in libraries and elementary schools. She strongly believes in providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, cooking, and hanging out with friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Stephanie is a dedicated educator who holds a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design and a Minor in Business Administration from Lakeland University. While studying, she discovered her passion for working with children through her experiences as a babysitter. As a teacher, Ms. Stephanie finds great fulfillment in building meaningful connections with her students and witnessing their holistic growth. She firmly believes in nurturing their physical, mental, and emotional development, and takes joy in seeing their progress and achievements. In her free time, Ms. Stephanie embraces an active lifestyle by engaging in regular workouts, playing Animal Crossing, and cultivating her creativity through the relaxing art of knitting. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Emma graduated from Columbia College Chicago, where she studied graphic design. However, after returning to the field of early childhood education two years ago, she discovered a new passion. With a long history of being a nanny and babysitter, she has always enjoyed working with children. Ms. Emma's goal is to support each student in developing their skills and fostering independence. During her free time, she finds joy in painting and cherishing moments with her family. Joining the Goddard family has filled Ms. Emma with excitement and anticipation for the wonderful journey ahead! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Jamie has had a passion for working with children since her time at Highland Park High School and shortly after enrolled in Early Childhood Education classes at the College of Lake County. With a future goal of obtaining a degree in Recreational Therapy, and over 6 years of experience working with two-year-olds through babysitting, nannying, and teaching roles, Ms. Jamie is committed to building strong connections with each child and family and creating a nurturing and inclusive environment through hands-on experiences and creative activities. In her free time, Ms. Jamie enjoys kayaking, boating, and nature photography. Quality time with friends and family holds a special place in her life, enriching her experiences and grounding her in a sense of community. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Maddy holds a degree in Business from the University of Phoenix, however, her true passion lies in early childhood education, which she further pursued through various courses at Carroll University. With a strong belief in the power of education, Ms. Maddy is committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. She understands the importance of celebrating the diverse perspectives of her students and strives to ignite a love for learning in each one of them. Outside the classroom, Ms. Maddy enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones, whether it's making lasting memories, dancing at concerts, or immersing herself in captivating books. She also finds great joy in the company of her feline friend, Grandpa, who never fails to bring a smile to her face. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Lynda was raised in Chicago, but is originally from Vietnam and can fluently speak Vietnamese! Ms. Lynda's educational journey led her to Western Illinois University in Macomb, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Health Science. During her time in college, she discovered her passion for working with young children and dedicated four years to gaining valuable experience in this field. Beyond her dedication to early childhood education, Ms. Lynda enjoys spending her free time traveling, event planning, and spending time with her family and friends! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Susan graduated from Roosevelt University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She has a wealth of teaching experience, having taught Primary Education in the city for several years before focusing on her own family. Throughout the past decade, Ms. Susan has worked with various age groups, including PreK, Preschool, two-year-old transition classes, and Summer camps. She has also facilitated enrichment classes such as Art, Cooking, Imagination Station, and Words with Friends. During her leisure time, Ms. Susan enjoys power walking, playing canasta, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Dani has completed numerous courses in early childhood education and has begun taking elementary education courses at the College of Lake County to further her knowledge and passion for working with children. Since graduating from high school in 2016, she has worked with all ages, from infants to pre-K. Her love for children began at the age of 14 when she started babysitting for family and friends, which inspired her to pursue a career in education. Ms. Dani hopes to continue her studies and advance her career in teaching. In her free time, Ms. Dani enjoys spending time with her son, family, and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Janice Suero, a native of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, has a substantial background in childcare. Having recently relocated to Illinois, she is enthusiastic about her prospects for professional growth, with aspirations to evolve into a Lead Teacher role. She has a genuine passion for teaching and relishes the moments spent with our youngest learners, celebrating their small yet significant milestones and achievements! Ms. Janice recognizes the importance of effective communication and values open and clear dialogues with both parents and co-workers, recognizing that this enhances the experiences for all involved. Ms. Janice has two children and a dog named Lina, who she enjoys spending her free time with! Additionally, Ms. Janice's enjoys music, dancing, watching TV, and meditation. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Born and raised in Moldova, Ms. Tatiana's is a beloved educator, full of passion and compassion. Since 2018, she has been an integral part of preschools around the Northshore, where her love for teaching and nurturing shines through. Her affinity for children of all ages, combined with her own experience as a mother to two daughters and a proud grandmother of three, creates a unique connection that fosters a sense of safety and understanding. In her meticulously maintained classroom, Ms. Tatiana creates an environment where learning and love intertwine. Her dedication to creating a safe and enriching space for children is a reflection of her warm and nurturing personality. Her legacy is one of heartfelt care and a genuine commitment to shaping young minds. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Brinagh has always had a natural affinity for caring for children, a passion that she developed from a young age. Currently, she is pursuing a psychology degree at Roosevelt University in Chicago and is eager to delve deeper into the field of child psychology through further education. Ms. Brinagh finds great joy in understanding the inner workings of young minds and is thrilled to be a part of The Goddard School, where she can engage with intelligent and captivating children. Outside of her work, Ms. Brinagh finds enjoys reading, drawing, and painting. She firmly believes in fostering creativity and encourages everyone to explore the limitless possibilities of their imagination. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2021

Ms. Christina, originally from Norway, has spent many years immersed in its rich culture and landscapes, developing a deep appreciation for hiking amidst Norway's words and wilderness. This connection with nature continues to inspire her adventures today, fueling a love for travel and a desire to explore different corners of the world and absorb their unique beauty. Her affection extends not only to the great outdoors but also to the smaller joys in life. Christina finds fulfillment in the grace and companionship of horses, as well as in the endless fascination of interacting with young children. At home, she shares a special bond with her cat Luna, finding solace in their affectionate moments together. Through her varied interests and experiences, Christina embodies a life enriched by curiosity, compassion, and a deep-rooted love for the natural world and cherished companions. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Joanna, originally from Poland, relocated to the United States at the age of 19. Her journey in working with children began as a nanny, a role she wholeheartedly embraced for eight years. Ms. Joanna's unwavering passion for nurturing young minds led her to continuously support children in their exploration and discovery of the world around them. She firmly believes in celebrating each child's uniqueness and guiding them to learn and grow while embracing their individuality. As a student at the College of Lake County, Ms. Joanna earned her nursing assistant certificate, focusing primarily on biological sciences. Alongside being a devoted mother to her two grade school boys and stepdaughter, she indulges in her love for travel, immersing herself in diverse cultures, experimenting in the kitchen, and forming connections with new acquaintances. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Meryem, originally from Turkey, holds a degree in early childhood education from Bahçesehir University. She began her career with internships at leading preschools in Istanbul, gaining valuable experience in childhood development. After graduating, she worked as a preschool teacher, emphasizing creativity and curiosity through play-based learning and building strong relationships with families. Ms. Meryem believes in creating a nurturing environment for each unique child to explore and grow. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, experimenting with new recipes, and traveling to experience different cultures. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Ms. Fatima grew up in Wheeling and attended Wheeling High School. Teaching has been her dream since she was a little girl, and her journey began by babysitting for friends and family during her high school years. It was during this time that she also lent a hand to her first-grade teacher, engaging with students during circle time and independent work. Inspired by this experience, Ms. Fatima set her sights on a career in education, embarking on her college journey with a passion for shaping young minds. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge in the field as she continues to grow as an educator. To Ms. Fatima, children are full of playfulness, happiness, and the joy of life. Making a positive impact on their lives is what drives her passion for teaching. Outside of the classroom, she finds enjoyment in hitting the gym, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Lara, originally from São Paulo, Brazil, made her way to the United States in 2019. With a bachelor's degree in Pharmacy and Biochemistry, she brings a unique perspective to her role. Prior to her relocation, Ms. Lara resided in Germany, where she dedicated several years to teaching the German language. However, her true passion lies in working with children, particularly the little ones! Ms. Lara firmly believes that a nurturing and loving environment enables children to achieve great things, fostering their learning and growth through playful experiences. When she's not busy in the classroom, you can find Ms. Lara indulging in her hobbies of baking, rock climbing, and camping. In her free time, she cherishes moments spent at the playground with her husband and two daughters, or engaging in their favorite board game, Rummikub. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Dulce pursued Early Childhood Education classes during her time in college. However, she made the decision to stay at home and prioritize caring for her own two-year-old daughter. Now, with a renewed passion for teaching, she is planning to return to school to complete her teaching degree and earn her bachelor's degree. With seven years of experience working with children, Dulce truly enjoys witnessing their growth and celebrating their accomplishments. She finds great joy in working with kids and is excited to continue making a positive impact on their lives. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Anusha, born and raised in Chennai, India, holds a degree in English Literature. She is excited to pursue her passion as an Assistant Teacher, finding joy in the morning smiles of children of all ages. Ms. Anusha believes that working with children is rewarding because of their pure, innocent, and lovable nature when forming connections and building relationships. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading books and cherishes moments spent relaxing with her family and friends. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Rani, a Highland Park native and graduate of Deerfield High School, has dedicated the past decade to working with 3–5-year-olds. Her experience spans across various preschools, daycares, and camps, as well as serving as an Exhibit Guide at Kohl Children's Museum. With a belief that learning should be enjoyable and occur in a caring environment, Ms. Rani fosters a deep connection with children, who reciprocate their love for her. During her leisure time, she indulges in singing, musical theater, and reading, with a special fondness for reading to children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2022

Ms. Eva is a passionate teacher who grew up in Buffalo Grove, and graduated from Buffalo Grove High School. After discovering her love for working with children, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher by enrolling at Harper College. Her passion for teaching was ignited when her fiance's little brother Sammy was diagnosed with autism in 2018. Witnessing Sammy's journey and supporting him in achieving milestones became a pivotal moment in Ms. Eva's life. She found it immensely rewarding and fulfilling, which motivated her to help other children as well. Ms. Eva's goal is to provide support to children and help them accomplish their goals in life. In her free time, Ms. Eva enjoys going on adventures with her fiance, hiking, exploring new cuisines, visiting museums, and spending quality time with her adorable puppy, Obi Wan Kenobi. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Emily is originally from Jalisco, Mexico, and now lives on a farm in McHenry with 25 chickens, three dogs—a pit bull named Pabz, a golden retriever named Winona, and a Jack Russell terrier named Pita—and a black cat named Bagel. Emily has a deep love and natural affinity for bugs and animals. Emily holds a degree in illustration and has been working in childcare for six years. Her large inner child fuels her passion for this line of work. She loves learning with the children, being a kid with them, and genuinely enjoys being involved in what they do, finding them endlessly fascinating. She is also passionate about art, especially drawing and painting cartoons, and loves to sing and dance. Her favorite animal is the frog, and she's a pro at catching them anywhere, anytime. Emily loves Mexican food and is skilled at making it. She is also a huge fan of SpongeBob, especially seasons 1-5, and often references it in her daily life. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024

Ms. Eva relocated from Minnesota to Illinois in 2021, and has since discovered her true calling in child care, and it has been a fulfilling journey !Nurturing and educating children has become Ms. Eva's passion, and she finds great happiness in witnessing each child's growth. Throughout her experience in child care, Ms. Eva has worked with children spanning from Preschool to School Age, each interaction leaving a positive impact on her. Known for her fun-loving, quiet, and calm demeanor, Ms. Eva brings a sense of joy and tranquility to the learning environment. When she's not in the classroom, you'll often find Ms. Eva immersed in her hobbies—drawing, writing, enjoying an occasional video game, or watching her favorite children's movie, Monsters Inc.! Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Karen holds a degree in nursing and has practiced for 35 years, with a portion of her career dedicated to working with pediatric patients. Her love for young children, their curiosity, and their ever-learning minds is incredibly exciting to her and brings her great pleasure. She is thrilled to be at The Goddard School, where she can contribute to their growth and development. Throughout her nursing career, Ms. Karen has developed a deep appreciation for the unique perspectives and boundless energy of young children. She finds joy in fostering their growth and supporting their inquisitive nature. In her leisure time, Ms. Karen enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new recipes, and relaxing with a good book. She values these moments of connection and relaxation, which rejuvenate her and inspire her dedication to her work with children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2023

Ms. Claudia, a graphic designer and publicist, was born in Bogota, Columbia. With a passion for creativity and learning, she has earned certifications in illustration, art, and child care. Claudia’s journey began in a children’s club in Colombia, where she cared for and taught young learners. Despite her professional path taking her through various different organizations and companies, her love for teaching never faded. She continued to volunteer at her former school and in local religious communities, offering her time to support children’s growth. Now, Ms. Claudia is thrilled to be at The Goddard School, where she can channel her passion for education and creativity into inspiring the next generation. Flourishing at the Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024.

Born and raised in Cucuta, Columbia, Ms. Yuliana was a dedicated lawyer with experience in advocating for children’s rights, particularly within migrant communities. Moreover, Ms. Yuliana worked within private households as well as assistant teaching while living in Columbia. She executed several projects focused on families’ rights and sexual abuse prevention. Since moving to the U.S. in 2023, Ms. Yuliana has made it her goal to expand her knowledge and is currently taking English as a Second Language (ESL) courses through the College of Lake County. In her free time, Ms. Yuliana loves to practice sports, go for a run, and enjoys traveling as well. She also loves reading, music, and sharing her culture with children. Flourishing at The Goddard School of Deerfield since 2024