The Goddard School of Verona

Bios

• Ms Mawara

  Ms. Mawara is a pharmacist by training. She has her administrative credentials and her director credentials. She is also a certified CPR, First Aid and AED instructor along with being a trainer for Abusive Head Trauma and SIDS Prevention. She and her husband are raising two children, both of them graduated from Goddard pre-K program. As a parent, she knows the importance of quality child care in the early stages of development of a child. Ms. Mawara wanted to bring a high quality education-based early childhood program to the community where the children can learn while having fun. Her vision led her to open the first Goddard School in Dane County where a great team of educators offer a play-based curriculum along with hands-on learning for the future academic success and a life-long love for learning.

• Ms Lauren

  Ms. Lauren has been a prominent figure in the early childhood education field since 2014, serving as both a lead teacher and a valued member of the management team. With a bachelor's degree in Education from Edgewood College and Registry Level 14, she exemplifies a commitment to professional growth and expertise. Her journey at The Goddard School began as a lead teacher, where her passion for nurturing young minds quickly propelled her into the Director role in June 2019. Ms. Lauren's educational philosophy revolves around meeting children at their developmental level and embracing life's wonders alongside them. She firmly believes that children are naturally eager learners, and she cultivates their growth through engaging activities, captivating stories, and meaningful experiences. With genuine enthusiasm, Ms. Lauren looks forward to working with all the children and their families at Goddard, creating a nurturing environment that sparks curiosity, creativity and a love for learning.

• Ms Precious

  Ms. Precious is a seasoned professional in early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Human Development & Family Studies, Sociology, and Social Welfare, as well as a Master's in Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis: K12 Leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her childcare journey began in 2012 as an intern, and since 2015, she has excelled in various administrative roles, including Classroom Manager, Educational Coordinator, Health & Safety Coordinator, and Site Director. Ms. Precious has attained impressive certifications, Level 16 at Registry, and expertise in Pyramid Model, Conscious Discipline, and WMELS. Her educational philosophy revolves around the principles of love and logic, complemented by individualized support to foster inclusivity for all children. Ms. Precious eagerly anticipates meeting your children and families and she is dedicated to creating a safe environment that caters to the unique needs of every child.

• Ms Aimee

  Ms. Aimee joined our family in March of 2018. She has her degree in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and has taken college courses in Early Childhood Education and Occupational Therapy from Concordia University and University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. She also has her DPI license through State of Wisconsin. Ms. Aimee has worked in school settings and as a nanny with children ages 6 weeks - 6 years. She is excited to start working with the children at Goddard.

• Ms Alyssa

  Ms. Alyssa is from Rockford Illinois and has been a nanny for five years. She has her CPR, SBS and SIDS training certifications. She recently acquired her Lead Teacher certification through State of Wisconsin. At a young age she knew she was interested in the education of children and inspiring them to follow their dreams. Her mother owns an in-home daycare where she learned about the childcare field. She loves working with children and seeing their smiley faces every day. Her hobbies include makeup and traveling.

• Mr Christopher

  Mr. Chris grew up in Middleton WI. He currently lives in Verona WI with his wife Lauren, daughter Evangeline, and their two doggos, Kassie and Mormy. Throughout their younger years, Chris and his wife moved all over the country, before settling back in Wisconsin. In his free time, Mr. Chris enjoys books, video games, board game nights, and Dungeons with Dragons. He always enjoys spending time outside with his family! Mr. Chris also has served in the US Navy. Through different professions throughout his adult career, Mr. Chris believes in serving in the most important profession. Building strong relationships to create lifelong learners is pivotal to child's development, and he thinks he's found that in being a teacher. We are so excited for Mr. Chris to join our Goddard Family! Please welcome him to our team!

• Ms Danielle

  Ms. Danielle was part of our opening team joined our family in April of 2016. She has graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville with her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood. She has been working in a preschool environment since 2014. Danielle has worked with all age groups, specializing in working with toddlers. Before moving into the office, Ms. Danielle was our lead toddler teacher. She is excited to continue to work with the Goddard Families in her new role.

• Ms Gabrielle

  Ms. Gabrielle, a proud resident of Madison since 2016, brought a decade of experience in childcare to our team back in 2020. With an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Rasmussen College, she is a dedicated advocate for developmentally appropriate practices. Ms. Gabrielle's passion for teaching shines through as she fosters a nurturing and enriching environment for her students. She skillfully utilizes her knowledge and expertise to ensure the best possible learning experiences. Outside the classroom, Ms. Gabrielle cherishes quality time with her son, who is also part of our Goddard family. An outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys exploring nature, indulging in retail therapy, and savoring the magic of music. We are delighted to have Ms. Gabrielle as an integral part of our school community.

• Mx Jaclyn

  Ms. Jaclyn grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois with her parents and two older sisters. Ms. Jaclyn moved to Madison in 2018 where she attended Madison College for Hospitality. She joins us with experience from Soccer shots where she is a Coach through the company and a nanny. Ms. Jaclyn is currently earning her Early Childhood Assistant Teacher credentials. During her free time, Ms. Jaclyn enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and friends. She is always camping, hiking, and attending concerts. She has fun painting. Ms. Jaclyn's philosophy when it comes to teaching is that "Children learn by modeling. If you as a teacher is excited about something, your kiddos will feed off that. Huge believer in positivity and smiles being contagious." We are excited to have Ms. Jaclyn join our Goddard Team

• Ms Jenni

  Ms. Jenni joined our Goddard family in 2017. She has completed child development courses from Madison Area Technical College and has taken multiple continuing education courses through MATC. She also has her Early Childhood Education Lead Teacher certification through state of Wisconsin along with her Skills and Strategies of Early Childhood certification. She has worked with preschool children since 2013 in an early childcare setting. Ms. Jenni loves working with children and finds that children are generally curious and active. She believes all children want to be loved and treated with respect. She looks forward to working with the families at the Goddard School.

• Ms Jennifer

  Mrs. K joins us after more than 20 years of dedicated work in Early Childhood Education. Throughout most of her career, she has focused on nurturing two- and three-year-olds. Mrs. K is an exceptionally enthusiastic individual who derives immense joy from guiding young children towards their own excellence. Outside of school, Mrs. K cherishes moments with her husband, Andy, and their two-year-old son, Owen. She delights in outdoor activities, scrapbooking, and exploring her creativity through various projects. One of Mrs. K's guiding principles is encapsulated in the words of Carl Buechner: "They may forget what you said, but they will not forget how you made them feel." We are thrilled to welcome Mrs. K to our Toddler/Preschool team!

• Ms Katie

  Ms. Katie became a part of the Goddard family in January of 2017. Ms. Katie received her Bachelors in Communicative Sciences & Disorders from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Ms. Katie most recently has worked with preschool age children at Wisconsin Early Autism Project as a teacher. She believes that children are generally eager to learn and thinks it is important to understand that each child learns at a different pace. Ms. Katie looks forward to using the F.L.E.X curriculum to work individually with all students.

• Ms Kayla

  Ms Kayla has been working in the child care field since 2013 and started here at Goddard in 2017. She obtained her degree in Early Childhood Education in 2015 from Concordia University. Her hobbies include camping, crafting, snowmobiling, and spending time with friends and family. Ms. Kayla's philosophy is to strive to see the world through the eyes of the children she teaches. She loves being able to explore the world with them and watch them discover new things every day. She loves working here at The Goddard school and looks forward to getting to know all the children and families she will work with.

• Ms Laura

  Ms. Laura grew up in Ripon Wisconsin with her parents. She currently resides in Madison with her 4 children, bonus child, and husband. During her educational years, Ms. Laura attended Marian University and Viterbo University. She also has a teaching DPI license through State of Wisconsin. When she graduated, Ms. Laura ran her own childcare facility for seven years! She has written WI Curriculum for Green Bay's Diocese. She since has incorporated it into her current teaching style! She enjoys the "Ah-Ha" moments along with seeing the bright future on all of the kiddos she cares for throughout the day!

• Ms Lei-Lani

  Born & raised in Texas yet made into the amazing teacher she is today here is Madison. Ms Lei-Lani has been in early childhood since 2018. She is Lead Teacher qualified through the State of Wisconsin. Coming from a big family, Lei-Lani is a nurturer by nature. Most Recently, she nannied for several families from her previous center. Prior to, she worked in the same center for five years. She enjoys exploring art through singing, dancing, painting and drawing. Her favorite age group is preschool and look forward to continuing to grow here at Goddard.

• Ms Lori

  Ms. Lori came to The Goddard School in May of 2017. She holds a Bachelors degree in History and Philosophy and has went on to get her Masters in Fine Arts. Ms. Lori holds her assistant teacher and infant toddler certifications through the State of Wisconsin. Ms. Lori has worked with children in multiple settings including life guarding, summer school, and as a youth t-ball coach. She is excited about being a part of a positive environment for all the children she will work with at the school.

• Ms Maria

  Ms. Maria joined the school as a resource teacher in 2019 and shortly after joined our infant/ toddler team. She has 5 years experience of working with younger children in different capacities. She is currently working on her childcare certification. Ms. Maria grew up in a Latino family resided in Madison area with her 4 siblings. Her hobbies are taking road trips, cooking, baking and watching classic movies. Ms. Marie is excited to be a part of Goddard team and is looking forward to know your children and watch them grow.

• Ms Marie

  Ms. Marie is a highly qualified educator with Lead teacher and Infant/Toddler certifications recognized by the State of Wisconsin. Committed to the safety and well-being of the children in her care, she is trained in CPR, Shaken Baby Syndrome, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome prevention. With a vision for continual growth, Ms. Marie aspires to pursue a degree in Special Education, demonstrating her dedication to inclusive and personalized learning. Her philosophy centers around celebrating the uniqueness of each child. Ms. Marie strives to foster an environment where children can explore their individual strengths and talents, nurturing their growth and development through a tailored educational approach. The children under her guidance thrive, confident in their abilities, and inspired to embrace their full potential.

• Mr Mark

  Mr. Mark joined Goddard in the summer of 2016. Mr. Mark Hymer has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. He came to The Goddard School from Lac Du Flambeau Public School. His teaching philosophy is all about changing activities to suit all learning styles. He strives to form strong bonds with each child so he can learn how to help them succeed and develop the love for life-long learning. Mr. Mark loves technology and is very excited to use all the tools he has available at Goddard. He looks forward to meeting all the Goddard families.

• Ms Marwah

  Ms. Marwah grew up in Rockford Illinois. When she graduated, she and her now husband moved to Madison WI. Ms. Marwah joins our Goddard School with her Lead Teacher Certification through the State of Wisconsin. During her free time, Ms. Marwah enjoys spending time with her family, completing arts & craft projects and the outdoors. We are excited for Ms. Marwah to join our Goddard School.

• Ms Natale

  Ms. Natale joined Goddard in summer of 2016. She has been teaching early education since 2014. She holds an Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and an associates in Early Education from Rock Valley College. Her philosophy is to ensure that all children feel safe while at school. She understands that all children learn differently and believes it is important to incorporate different learning styles and individualization in everyday learning.

• Ms Nea

  Ms. Nea became part of the Goddard family in February of 2017. She has her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Cloud State University and her DPI license with State of Minnesota. She has been working with children for many years and lives for that “lightbulb” moment when a child really learns about something new for the first time. Ms. Nea loves that this career is filled with constant rewards and daily reminders on why she loves what she does. Ms. Nea grew up in the small town of Foley, MN. She loves to spend time with her husband and three children, visit her family in Minnesota and spend Summer weekends on the pontoon. Ms. Nea looks forward to working with all the Goddard families!

• Ms Amara

  Ms. Amara grew up in Cedarburg, Wisconsin before moving to Verona when she was ten years old. She attended Edgewood High School and is currently furthering her education through MATC for practical nursing. Although she is studying for nursing, Ms. Amara has been on the childcare scene for a bit, working as gymnastics coach and at other facilities. In her free time, Ms. Amara is patiently awaiting the arrival of her first child. She loves to paint, draw, sign and play piano. We are excited to have Ms. Amara on our Goddard Team.

• Ms Anathea

  Ms. Anathea grew up in Tokyo Japan, before moving back to the United States around age ten! She then resided in Johnston Iowa with her sister and 2 pet bunnies. Ms. Ana holds a Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology from Tallahassee Community College. When she is not at school, Ms. Ana loves to read, draw, crochet, and bake! If she is not doing one of those listed hobbies, you can find Ms. Anathea playing Animal Crossing or Zelda Tears of Kingdom. We are excited to have Ms. Anathea join our team!

• Ms Anjeza

  Ms. Anjeza grew up in Berat, Albania and moved the United States of America with her husband and daughter in 2016. She has a Master's Degree in Linguistics Teaching and a Bachelor's degree in Education. Ms. Anjeza's favorite part of being a teacher is interacting with the students, building relationships with them to help motivate and support them in being successful. In her free time, Ms. Anjeza loves spending time with her family, reading books, and being outdoors!

• Ms Gabrielle

  Ms. Gabby was raised in the Fitchrona area with her 3 siblings, her being the eldest. She graduated from Edgewood High School in May 2020 and will be attending Madison Area Technical College in the Spring. Ms. Gabby plans to study Early Childhood Education. Ms. Gabby loves being a part of a child's growing process. She enjoys helping them learn and making each child smile. Ms. Gabby brings a young, vibrate smile and happy attitude to the Goddard School. In her free time, Ms. Gabby likes to paint and sing. She also enjoys a good binge-worthy tv show.

• Ms Geetha

  Ms. Geetha obtained her Master's degree in English from Madras University and has been in the teaching field since 2009. She has held multiple teaching positions in early childhood and school age care including Boys and Girls Club, After School, and Assistant Youth Supervisor. Ms. Geetha is excited to bring her expertise and fun loving teaching style to the Goddard School. She loves to teach and believes in educating children in a friendly way as well as building relationships with them. She looks forward to meeting all the Goddard families.

• Ms Leanne

  Ms. Leanne grew up in South Beloit, Illinois with her parents and sister. Her experience comes from working closely with neurodivergent affirming young adults. She currently has plans to continue her education by studying Psychology. When Ms. Leanne is not working at the Goddard School, she enjoys playing board games. reading fantasy novels, arts & crafts and heading to local coffee shops. Ms. Leanne loves seeing kiddos learn new things and being silly with them!

• Mr Miguel

  Mr. Miguel comes to the Goddard School, growing up in Madison WI with his parents and younger brother. He currently lives in Verona with his girlfriend and baby boy. Mr. Miguel is excited about his career in the Early Education field. He is currently done with the credentials to become an assistant teacher in the classroom. He enjoys working with all ages of children and being able to mentor them throughout these early years. In his free time, Ms. Miguel enjoys playing instruments, listening to music, and drawing. Please welcome Mr. Miguel to our Goddard School Team!

• Ms Sierra

  Ms. Sierra hails from Madison, WI, where she was raised in a big family as one of five children. While attending Waunakee High School, she earned her Assistant Teacher Accreditation. Ms. Sierra finds great joy in working with children and witnessing their growth and development. During her leisure time, Ms. Sierra indulges in painting, exploring walking trails, savoring chocolate, and cherishing moments with her family. Her favorite aspect of being a teacher is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

• Ms Tammy

  Ms. Tammy is a mother of 3 girls, ages 34, 24 & 14. She made a choice after her first child was born, to be a stay-at-home mom, and around the same time started an in-home daycare of her own. She maintained this for nearly 30 years before deciding to end this chapter of her life. She took a small break and realized how much she missed caring for children. That is when she decided to continue her career at Goddard. Ms. Tammy's interests include spending time with her children, hanging out with friends, attending outdoor music concerts, taking long brisk walks, home decor projects and organizing.

• Ms Taylor

  Ms. Taylor grew up in Evansville, Wisconsin, before moving to Orfordville, Wisconsin with her fiancé and three dogs. Ms. Taylor is in her final year of coursework for her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from The University of Arizona Global Campus. Ms. Taylor’s teaching philosophy is knowing that students learn best in an accepting and loving environment. She believes that every child is unique and gives children the freedom to be themselves while providing them safety and love! She loves encouraging her students to have courage, learn and try new things! In her free time, Ms. Taylor enjoys reading, cooking, traveling. When she can, she loves to garden and canning from produce she’s grown!

• Ms Willie

  Ms. Willie Mae comes to us from a childcare center in Madison. She has been in the childcare field for about 10 years. Ms. Mae is currently graduating from Madison College in Early Education! Ms. Mae enjoys spending time with her family, at church, leading worship, or with her grandchildren! When she is not busy, you can find Ms. Mae enjoying the sun and music. We are excited to have Ms. Mae on our team! Please welcome her to our Goddard Family!

• Mr Esau

  Mr. Esau has been the Chef extraordinaire for The Goddard School since 2016. He has been the master chef for a very well liked Madison restaurant for over 12 years. He also has experience working in healthcare facilities where health and safety is the top priority. Cooking is Mr. Esau's passion and he loves creating new dishes with his own recipes. He enjoys cooking for children. It's amazing to see the joy on children's faces when "Mr. E" enters the classroom with their favorite meals. Mr. Esau is raising a son and daughter (twins) along with his wife. He loves soccer and enjoys going to his son's soccer games.

• Ms Hannah

  Ms. Hannah grew up in Verona with her parents and older brother, Jake. She graduated Edgewood Highschool in 2017 and has completed all of her credentials of a Lead Teacher in Wisconsin. Although she is new to the career field, Ms. Hannah is really excited to get to know all the different kiddos and their needs that may differ from others. When students are working towards achieving milestones and understanding how things work, Ms. Hannah states that's what gives her a driving force to be a teacher! Please welcome Ms. Hannah to our Goddard Family!

• Ms Hannah

  Ms. Hannah grew up in southern Minnesota with her parents and two younger sisters. In 2018, she moved to Beloit, WI, to pursue her BA in Creative Writing. Following graduation, she accepted a role as a journalist, which brought her to the Madison area. In 2023, Ms. Hannah, a lifelong learner, began her Master's in Library and Information Science program at UW–Milwaukee with hopes of sharing her passion for learning throughout her community. Outside of work, Hannah enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her significant other and their two cats.

• Ms Keara

  Ms. Keara comes to us from a Goddard School in Deerfield, Illinois, where she was an Assistant Teacher in a 3 year old classroom. Since joining our team, she has found a home in our 4 year old Room. Her teaching philosophy mirrors that of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs by first assuring that a child's basic needs are met and then approaching child-led activities that are geared by a child's interest. In her free time, Ms. Keara enjoys working out, hanging out with her family and friends. She is excited to be apart of our Goddard School and build a life in the Madison Area!

• Ms Linnea

  Ms. Linnea grew up in Lake County, Illinois with a 2 brother and her parents! After highschool, Ms. Linnea studied art in Vermont before returning home and moving to Madison in 2019. Although this is her first childcare setting experience, Ms. Linnea had a huge part in caring for her younger brother, while her mom worked. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her partner, reading at Olbrich Gardens, or rollerblading down State Street. Ms. Linnea hopes to bring her art passion into the classroom here at The Goddard School and create some awesome projects with the kiddos! We are excited to welcome Ms. Linnea to our team.

• Ms Sonia

  Ms. Sonia was born in California but spent her entire life in Madison, WI. During high school, she took classes focused on early childhood development, igniting her passion for teaching at Goddard Schools. In her free time, Ms. Sonia enjoys outdoor activities such as taking walks with her dog or paddle boarding on the lakes. She also has a passion for painting and drawing. We are excited to see her bring her enthusiasm and creativity to our team.

• Ms Theodoti

  Ms. Theodoti attained her Sociology degree along with a Teaching Competence certificate in Greece at Pomteion University of Social Political Sciences and University of Crete. She moved to the United States in 2016 and is excited to start working with children in the early childhood setting. Ms. Theodoti believes that children learn and thrive best in environments where they are treated with respect and are able to show their individuality. She is excited to work with all of the Goddard families!