The Goddard School of Ashland

Bios

• Mr Eric

  Eric and Susan always talked about owning their own business together where they could help and support people along the way. The Goddard School of Ashland is the perfect fit with Susan’s educational background, Eric’s business background, and the love they have for children and their families. Eric has over 30 years of business experience in various leadership roles within Fortune 50 companies, mid-size, and startup organizations. Eric is also an adjunct instructor at Virginia Commonwealth University where he teaches undergraduate business school students about entrepreneurial finance and business strategy. Eric looks forward to putting his skills and love into the children, staff and their families at The Goddard School of Ashland.

• Ms Susan

  Susan has a BS in Education from Indiana University. She has been a preschool teacher, student teacher and substitute teacher. When Eric and Susan had their own children, she focused on raising their 2 children. While raising their 2 kids, she focused on being a lead room parent, Brownie leader, Cub Scout mom, assistant soccer coach, and religion teacher. Susan also taught at her children’s elementary school, teaching 72 preschoolers a week. Pre-school is her favorite age to teach because they are eager to learn everything. The students want to feel safe, laugh and play, which is the best way for the kids to learn. Susan’s love of kids shines through every day and she also understands what parents and teachers go through each day to provide the best educational experience for their children. Susan looks forward to putting her skills and love into the children, staff and their families at The Goddard School of Ashland.

• Ms Alexis

  Ms. Alexis has been with The Goddard School of Ashland since 2007 when she began as a lead teacher and fell in love with the early childhood education setting. In 2012 she became part of Goddard’s administrative team as Assistant Director and in 2013 promoted to the Education Director position. She graduated from Marshall University in West Virginia with a Bachelor's Degree in Art Education. Ms. Alexis has two sons, who have graduated from the Goddard School of Ashland. If you ask Ms. Alexis what she loves about her job most, its that as a director you build strong bonds with families you carry with you forever.

• Ms Samantha

  Ms. Sam joined the Goddard School of Ashland in 2021 as a Toddler Teacher. She discovered the joys of watching the littlest of learners experience new things and use their curiosity to explore their surroundings. She went on to completed her Bachelors in Communications from Liberty University. In the Summer of 2024 she became a member of the administration team as Assistant Director. Ms. Sam has two children, who currently attend The Goddard School of Ashland with her daily.

• Ms Trish

  Ms. Trish joined the Goddard faculty in 2012 as a lead teacher in our infant program. She has experience working in all age groups, from toddler to school age. Ms. Trish received her Child Development Associates Degree in 2019. She joined the administrative team as the Assistant Director in the Summer of 2021. Ms. Trish has a daughter, Brynn, who currently attends The Goddard School of Ashland. One of the things she enjoys most about working in early education is that every day is different and has the capabilities to learn something new.

• Ms Addison

  Ms. Addison has been on our team since 2024. Ms. Addison has babysitting and childcare experience. Addison has always enjoyed working with children because she loves getting to help them grow and have fun every day. She loves teaching children new things, promoting creativity, and watching friendships grow among her students.

• Ms Cayla

  Ms. Cayla joins the Goddard School of Ashland with plans to continue her college education in Early Childhood Education. She describes herself as a smiley, caring, and hardworking person who strives to be a positive role model in children's lives. Her experience working with children includes caring for children from the ages of 2 to 4 as a babysitter. She states that she loves working with children "because they brighten your day"! Ms. Cayla has been on our team since 2023.

• Ms Jillian

  Ms. Jillian has her days always filled with something with adventure and something new for her students. The children and their energy always make Ms. Jillian happy and excited to teach. Jillian has her ECE studies certificate and is attending Western Governors University, working towards her BA in education. Ms. Jillian has been on our team since 2024.

• Ms Katelin

  Ms. Katelin joined the Goddard School in 2013. She helped where needed in various classrooms, working with all ages from infants to school age. In the Fall of 2017 she assumed the role of Lead teacher in our infant classroom. Her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow each day!

• Ms Kylee

  Ms. Kylee joined the Goddard School of Ashland in December of 2020. She has worked with a variety of age groups from infants to preschoolers. She believes children learn best through hands-on activities. Her favorite aspect of working with children is helping them build confidence and showing them, they can do anything!

• Ms Lamaree

  Ms. Lamaree joins the Goddard School of Ashland as a graduate of Germanna Community College where she earned her Child Development Associate credential. She has experience working with children as a babysitter and has provided care for family members throughout the years. She says that one of her favorite aspects of working with children is providing them with lots of fun activities so that they can grow and develop. She has been a part of the Goddard Family since 2022.

• Ms Liz

  Ms. Liz joined us at Goddard Ashland in 2022. In high school she completed the tech classes in childcare development, and it was there she fell in love with early childhood education. She began teaching by volunteering in her churches child care and often helped her mom who was a music teacher. She has spent most of her career in the preschool and pre-kindergarten age groups but even worked in the toddler classrooms. Her most favorite thing is watching children learn and grow and we are excited she is part of our Pre-K teaching team.

• Ms Mallori

  Ms. Mallori believes every child should feel included and empowered in the classroom. She creates a warm, safe, and loving environment where children feel comfortable to learn and grow. By modeling how to apologize, learn from mistakes, and try new things, she helps students build problem-solving skills and confidence. Mallori is a licensed Elementary Education teacher, and we are so excited to have her on our team!

• Ms Melissa

  Ms. Melissa has been with The Goddard School in Ashland since 2024. Ms. Melissa loves being able to provide an atmosphere where the children feel safe and nurtured. That way they feel comfortable to be themselves and grow. She loves that everyday working with her class is different.

• Ms Monae

  Monae joins the Goddard team with her experience working in an individual childcare setting. Monae has developed her instructor skills by having taught children words, shapes, math, and reading. Monae is currently Richard Bland College with an associate in psychology. She is most excited to teach her students new skills and to share in their excitement as they understand. She has been with our Goddard School since 2023.

• Ms Shareka

  Shareka has experience working with children ages 0–3 and loves being a part of their earliest milestones. She enjoys watching infants learn to walk and feed themselves, and she’s always excited to hear toddlers repeat their first words. Shareka enjoys giving children new challenges that help them learn and grow, and she loves engaging with them during circle time. Her favorite part of working with young children is the joy and fun they bring—no day is ever the same!

• Ms Shelby

  Ms. Shelby has been with the Goddard School in Ashland since 2019. Ms. Shelby interned as a teaching assistant at Chickahominy middle school with 7th and 8th grade ESL instruction and 8th grade language arts. She also worked as a recreation aide at Kersey Creek Elementary with 7 and 8 year olds. Her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them develop and learning their individual personalities.

• Ms Stacey

  With over 3 years of experience working with children, she has a deep understanding of their unique needs and developmental stages. Ms. Stacey’s dedication to her students is evident in her warm and nurturing classroom environment. She believes in fostering a love of learning and creating a safe space for exploration and growth. Beyond her role as a pre-K teacher, Ms. Stacey is also a dedicated volunteer youth leader, impacting the lives of middle and high schoolers on Sundays. Her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children of all ages is truly inspiring. Ms. Stacey joined the Goddard School in 2024.

• Ms Summer

  Ms. Summer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Randolph Macon College and has experience working in both public school and child care settings. She joined the Goddard faculty in 2012 and has carried out various roles during her tenure with the school. Ms. Summer has three sons, Robbie, Isaac, & Maddox, who have graduated ,or are currently attending The Goddard School of Ashland.

• Ms Aitana

  Aitana has been working with children for many years, beginning her journey at just 13 years old when she started babysitting for families. In high school, she studied child development and cared for a small group of children as part of her coursework. Since 2018, Aitana has continued her passion in preschool settings. She loves working with children because, even on the hardest days, there is so much love to give and receive. Helping children learn and grow truly feels magical.

• Ms Aiyana

  Ms. Aiyana has been with the Goddard School in Ashland since 2022. Ms. Aiyana comes from a large family and is a natural caregiver. She has cared for her siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews from a young age. Additionally, as a high school student, she enjoyed volunteering as an art mentor at her local elementary school. She states that her favorite aspect of working with children is "helping them grow into cool & kind individuals!"

• Ms Aubrey

  Ms. Aubrey is a vibrant and caring individual who shines with enthusiasm and protection. With experience caring for her 6-year-old brother, she's developed a deep appreciation for children's boundless imagination and creativity. Ms. Aubrey delights in the unique ideas and perspectives that children bring, and she's excited to nurture their creative spirits. Ms. Aubrey joined our Goddard School in 2025.

• Ms Ayana

  Ms. Yanni joined our Goddard School team in 2025 Ms. Yanni is a compassionate and stable educator, known for her empathetic nature. With experience in balancing care and guidance, she understands the importance of positively influencing young minds. Currently pursuing Early Childhood Education, Ms. Yanni is dedicated to nurturing young learners. Many may also know her as a coach with Soccer Shots, where she fosters teamwork and fun in a dynamic environment.

• Ms Britt

  Ms. Britt holds an Associate's Degree in International Business from Stratford University. She has worked in a variety of age groups of children including infants, toddlers and teenagers. She loves watching children learn and grow. Ms. Britt says being able to see children excited about learning something for the first time is joyful! We are lucky to have Ms. Britt at school, building relationships with families since 2014.

• Ms Freedom

  When asked to describe herself in three words, Ms. Freedom says she is passionate, determined, and trustworthy. Ms. Freedom promotes a safe and nurturing environment for all her students. Ms. Freedom is currently studying Criminology at George Mason.

• Mr Gabe

  Mr. Gabe has been a part of the Goddard community since 2025. Mr. Gabe is a dynamic educator with experience as a summer camp counselor and substitute teacher (grades 1-12). He thrives on the energy and curiosity of younger students, finding joy in helping them learn and grow. With his warm approach, Mr. Gabe creates a stimulating environment that fosters exploration and discovery.

• Ms Heather

  Ms. Heather joins the Goddard School with a background in Early Childhood Education. For eight years she worked with children of all ages as a the Childcare Director at a local country club. Additionally, she has worked with children from the ages of 2-5 in an early childcare center setting. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow, meet new milestones, and learn new things! She has been on our team since 2023.

• Ms Jasmine

  Ms. Jasmine is a dedicated student at Virginia Commonwealth University, pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. With experience babysitting other children and caring for her younger brother, she's developed a passion for working with kids. Through her experiences, Ms. Jasmine has come to appreciate children's innate curiosity and love for hands-on activities. She enjoys witnessing their growth and excitement as they learn new things, making her a great fit for roles involving child development and education. Ms. Jasmine has been with our school since 2025.

• Ms Kelsey

  Ms. Kelsey comes to the Goddard School of Ashland as a student currently attending Liberty University. She has experience working with children as a babysitter. Her favorite aspect of working with children is watching them grow into their own person. She believes, as a teacher, it is her responsibility to build strong relationships with students while providing a safe and fun learning environment! Ms. Kelsey joined our team in 2021.

• Ms Kerry

  Ms. Kerry joins the Goddard School as a student attending Reynolds Community College with plans to complete a degree in social work. She has experience working as a babysitter for children from the ages of 6-10 years old. She says that her favorite aspect of working with children is building strong relationships and seeing their creativity flow!

• Ms kiarra

  Kiarra’s experience working with children has been both fun and educational. No matter what is going on in life, children always seem to know how to put a smile on her face. They’ve given her countless joyful experiences and even taught her a thing or two along the way. Through her work, Kiarra has learned that every child is unique and has different needs. She loves being part of something bigger-helping children learn, grow, and feel supported every day.

• Ms Kristen

  Ms. Kristen joins the Goddard School of Ashland with a long career working with children. Her experience includes caring for infants and toddlers in an early childcare environment for 18 years as well as providing care for infants and toddlers in her home. She shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them learn, grow, and smile everyday. She sates that "It makes me feel special to be a part of them growing up!" Ms. Kristen joined our team in 2022.

• Ms Leah

  Ms. Leah joined the Goddard School of Ashland in 2023. She developed a love for creating arts and crafts projects, STEM projects, hands-on activities, as well as being outdoors while caring for her two children at home. She believes that children are curious and ready to be adventurous. Her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing them grow and learn every single day.

• Ms Madison

  Maddie has been working as a nanny for about a year, caring for a one-year-old, three-year-old, and four-year-old in their home. She loves building meaningful connections with the children and watching them grow more comfortable and confident each day. Seeing them learn, grow, and develop their own unique personalities is one of her favorite parts of the job.

• Ms Maegan

  Maegan is currently studying Health Sciences and has experience caring for children both as a babysitter and in a daycare setting. She loves seeing children’s smiles and hearing their laughter each day. Maegan values building strong, trusting relationships with the children she works with and takes pride in creating a positive and supportive environment. She loves knowing that she’s making a difference by helping children learn, grow, and feel cared for.

• Ms Makayla

  Ms. Makayla is a kind and passionate educator with a heart for children. Currently pursuing a nursing degree in college, her dedication to helping others shines through in her interactions with young minds. Her previous experience working with children has provided her with valuable insights into their unique perspectives and developmental needs. Ms. Makayla finds joy in watching children grow and discover their individual personalities.

• Ms Michaela

  Ms. Michaela joined our Goddard team in 2025. Ms. Michaela is a dedicated educator with a strong foundation in teaching and childcare. She began by babysitting for various ages and tutoring, followed by three years as a teacher in Richmond Public Schools, where she taught lower grades. After working as a teacher's assistant in North Carolina, Ms. Michaela returned to Richmond to take on a lead teaching role. She holds a Master's degree in Education from The College of William & Mary, further enhancing her expertise and commitment to education.

• Ms Robin

  Ms. Robin earned a Bachelor's Degree at Randolph Macon Women’s College and has been teaching for many years, working primarily with kindergarteners for Hanover County public schools. She is patient and dependable teacher who has been nurturing children at The Goddard School since 2010, providing a fun, loving after school experience!

• Ms Ryleigh

  Ryleigh has been working with young children for about five years. She began her journey working with ages 4–12 before moving on to care for infants and toddlers ages 0–1 and 2–3. Over time, she has had the opportunity to work with children of all developmental stages and personalities. Ryleigh has loved her work so much that she chose childcare as her career. She believes watching children grow and learn is a gift, and the bonds created with each age group are unforgettable. The memories she makes with the children are truly priceless.

• Sydney

  Sydney is currently attending Norfolk State University, where she is studying Psychology. Her experiences working with children have been incredibly positive—she loves their creativity, high energy, and ability to absorb new knowledge. Sydney feels it’s an honor and a joy to be part of each child’s journey. She believes children are funny, full of personality, and that no two days with them are ever the same.

• Mr Trey

  Trey is the older cousin in his family and has always been the go-to babysitter. He loves listening to children’s creative ideas and enjoys being a positive influence in their lives. Trey strives to set a strong example for the children he works with and is passionate about helping them grow. He is also an aspiring educational counselor, excited to support students in meaningful ways in the future.

• Ms Valeria

  Ms. Valeria joined the Goddard School in the Winter of 2023. She has over 10 years of experience working as a Coordinator and teacher, in a church setting, for children from the ages of seven to eleven. She is a patient and dedicated teacher who is a natural nurturer! Ms. Valeria shares that her favorite aspect of working with children is seeing their personality emerge at a very young age!

• Ms Zeinab

  Zeinab is currently attending VCU, where she is earning her degree in Psychology. She has experience working with children at KidsZone and in a gym childcare setting while living in Northern Virginia. Zeinab loves creating a warm and comforting environment where children feel safe, happy, and supported.