Our Goddard School Teachers

My name is Shannon Starbuck, and I am the Director of The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have a degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. Research shows that the first five years of life are critical to a child’s development and I love partnering with families in creating a strong foundation for their child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. I am also passionate about supporting teachers to ensure effectiveness and excellence! When I am not here at school, I love spending time with my family and attending East Carolina Football games! Go Pirates!

My name is Janna Elliott, I am the Assistant Director at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I am a Registered Nurse and soccer mom! I worked as a nurse for 25 years while at the same time homeschooling my four daughters. As a teacher, individualizing their experiences and learning opportunities according to their interests was an integral part of their personal growth and educational development. I continue to believe and am thrilled to continue that strategy with our students here at Goddard! I love teaching and working with children of all ages but especially the formative years of early education. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and grandchildren, reading great books, and watching my daughter play soccer for UAB!

My name is Akeya, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and I studied at Liberty University! In addition, I am currently working on my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I love working with children because I enjoy providing a strong foundation of learning and it is incredible to watch them grow. My son went to Pre-K here at the Goddard school! I enjoy being with my family and traveling!

My name is Areli, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have 3 siblings who I love and have given me experience with children. I love working with children because I believe they are our future and I want to be a part of their learning experience. When I am not teaching, I like to read, run, and ride my bike. Something interesting about me, I speak Spanish and like to sing songs in Spanish!

My name is Mahaley, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I love working with children because I like seeing them grow and watching their individual personalities come out. I also feel like you can learn a lot from them as well. When I am not teaching, I like to hang out with friends or stay at home with my dog. I have always wanted to work with children, and I am so thankful to be at the Goddard School!

My name is Megan, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my master’s degree in education, and I studied at National University. I have 2 years of professional experience with children, and I love working with them because they are fun to be around. I also love watching them grow and learn every day. When I am not teaching, I like to spend time with my own family. I have a husband and two little girls of my own!

My name is Sarah, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Intervention and I studied at Walsh University. I have 12 plus years of experience with children and I love watching them learn and grow. My students make me laugh everyday and encourage me to use my imagination! When I am not teaching, I like to go to the beach, read, go on road trips, and enjoy Ohio State sporting events (Go Buckeyes)!

My name is Chelsea, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Intervention, and I studied at Walsh University! In addition, I have my NC state credentials in the field of Early Childhood Education. Working with children is my passion and I have 11 plus years of experience. I love how fun, curious, and eager to learn they are (they keep me young)! I believe preschool is the foundation of a successful learning experience for every child and my goal is to always make learning fun and engaging. When I am not teaching, I enjoy traveling, shopping, watching sports (Go Buckeyes!), taking trips to the beach, watching tv and spending time with family and friends.

My name is LaRhonda, and I am a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. My bachelor’s degree is in Justice Studies with a minor in legal studies from Methodist University however my passion has always been early childhood. I have my Montessori certificate and have taken several Education classes and trainings. I have 9 years of experience with children, and it makes my heart smile to see them grow and learn each day! My favorite age group is the infants because they truly keep you on your toes! Also, they are cuteness overload! When I am not teaching, I love to spend time with my family, watch Netflix, and relax!

My name is Tori, and I am on staff at the Goddard School in Brier Creek. I support in all classrooms and in the office. I am currently in school working towards my early childhood credentials and I have 5+ years of experience with children. Working with children is my passion because they are so impressionable and kind! When I am not working, I love being with my family and my puppy. I also like art and being creative!

My name is Yvette, and I am an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from the University of Ghana. I have four years of experience with children, and I love helping them explore their wild imaginations as they grow in every aspect of their lives. When I am not teaching, I enjoy reading, cooking, and watching movies. I also love going out sightseeing.

Kruti is the proud owner of The Goddard School® of Raleigh Brier Creek. Kruti has been part of the Triangle community since 2001. She is deeply committed to creating a positive, enriching environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive. With a Master’s degree in Molecular and Microbiology, Kruti brings a scientific perspective to early childhood education. Her background helps shape her approach, emphasizing curiosity, discovery, and a love of learning. Kruti's passion for nurturing both the academic and emotional development of children drives her to create an atmosphere where each child can reach their full potential. Kruti is dedicated to ensuring that The Goddard School® of Brier Creek is a place where families feel welcome, supported, and valued.

My name is TahKeira, and I am a Lead teacher at The Goddard School in Brier Creek. I have my early childhood credentials and I have over 10 years of experience working with children. I love working with children because it gives me an opportunity to watch them grow and become confident in themselves. It also gives me a chance to be creative! When I am not teaching, I like to do some retail therapy, and I also enjoy hanging out with my boyfriend and friends. I have such a big heart, and I really love kids!