Our Goddard School Teachers

The Goddard School of Manhattan has locations on the Upper East Side and Upper West Side. We are a school, not a daycare center. We are committed to providing the highest level of stimulating development and warm nurturant care for Infants, and an age-appropriate curriculum for One Year-Olds and up in our Toddler, Preschool, and Pre-Kindergarten classrooms. Our schools are state-of-the-art facilities with many large sun-filled rooms. Our degreed teachers utilize our unique curriculum to teach your child in a fun and loving environment. As a parent, you stay connected with daily activity reports emailed to you, with photos and videos! Contact us for a tour of our Infant/Toddler Center and our Preschool Center. Bill Swan Ph.D., Onsite Owner

Sandra Sa has a Master's Degree from Teachers College, Columbia University and has NYS Teaching Certification. She started her tenure at The Goddard School in January 2012 as Education Director after working 8 years in leadership in another successful preschool. She has supported the growth of The Goddard Schools over the years, and she heads the Kindergarten Exmissions Program for the schools. Sandra's passion lies in supporting the education of young children while being a resource for families and teachers during this important time in a child's life.

Ana is the Program Director for the Upper East Side Goddard School. She graduated with a Master of Arts in Early Childhood/Childhood Education with a focus in General and Special Education from Mercy College in 2017. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Ana has 20 years of teaching experience with children in 2's, 3's, and UPK classes. As a teacher, she was dedicated to ensuring the children were safe, happy, engaged, and ready for their next steps. She also has experience as a Program Director where she supported her staff and enjoyed working closely with families.

Ms. Ciara is the Assistant Program Director at the Upper East Side Goddard School. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in both Finance and Psychology. With years of experience tutoring math and working with young children, Ms. Ciara is passionate about early childhood education. She is excited to be a part of the Goddard community, where she is committed to supporting the team and always going the extra mile to ensure the success of both students and staff. Ms. Ciara is dedicated to creating a positive, nurturing environment where children can thrive and grow.

Mark is the Education Director at the Upper East Side Goddard School. Mark has been working in Early Childhood Education since 2009 and is passionate about supporting and working with the children, families, and teachers to continue to help their growth and development in their education career. Mark received his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Social Work, and shortly after, returned to school and received his Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education. Before transitioning into administration in 2021, Mark taught Pre-K for over 8 years and loved working with the age group, families, and the curriculum. He knows and understands the hard work, dedication, and passion put into being an educator, and the rewarding experience that comes with it.

Sandra is a Lead Teacher in our Infant/Toddler Program. She has an Associate in Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Hostos Community College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree from City College. She has been working with children since 2005, mostly as an assistant teacher working with 2-4 year olds. Sandra feels privileged to be part of this team of teachers, and is passionate about facilitating growth and learning for the children.

Ms. Floribel is a lead teacher in our infant program. She has been with the Goddard School teaching infants and toddlers since 2017. Her continuing education at John Jay College has provided knowledge in Cognitive and Psychological development which helps her in the classroom. She believes that a caring, nurturing, and inviting curriculum leads to a great learning experience for each child. Furthermore, she believes one of the key elements of learning is communication, and that talking through our routines with children helps them expand their vocabulary and make connections. Ms. Floribel loves working with all ages but enjoys the infants and toddlers the most and is fascinated by the speed of their growth and learning.

Ms. Shydasha is a lead teacher in our Infant Program. She’s been working with infants and toddlers since 2010, and here at Goddard since 2022, and has loved every moment of it.  Over the years, she’s also spent time with kids of all ages, but her heart always brings her back to the little ones. She believes every child is unique and special in their own way and loves watching them discover the world around them. Her goal is to create a warm, loving space where each child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn.

Ms. Ilonka is the lead teacher in our Toddler classroom. She has been working in early childhood education since 2007 and holds an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She’s passionate about helping little ones explore the world around them and loves leading hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Ilonka always takes the time to give extra support when it’s needed and truly believes that with love, patience, and care, every child can build a strong foundation for the future. 

Kaysha is a Lead Teacher in our Preschool Program. She attended Hunter College, where she double majored in Childhood Education and English Language Arts. She has experience working with different age groups. In 2019, she discovered her passion to work with younger children. The early years of a child’s learning experience is crucial, and Ms. Kaysha strives to make a positive impact on all the children who she teaches.

Ms. Cynthia has been a valued Assistant Teacher at the Upper East Side Goddard School location since 2022. She holds her Associate's Degree in Early Education from Hostos Community College and has been working in education and childcare since 2018. She wishes to pursue a bilingual Early Childhood Education BA and Masters in the future. Ms. Cynthia is passionate about engaging with the children at their level, encouraging confidence and teaching independence.

Ms. Emma is a Music Teacher at multiple Goddard locations. With over a decade of experience in the world of performing and a BFA in Musical Theatre from Pace University, Emma is eager to share her love of music with the next generation of bright students. She believes that music can be used as an integral tool in early childhood development. Whether singing, dancing, or taking turns strumming the guitar, class with Ms. Emma is sure to be a day of fun songs and warm energy. Emma is happiest when she is singing and smiling with the kids and looks forward to cultivating a nurturing learning environment.