The Goddard School of Midlothian (Walton Park)

Bios

• Ms Sarah

  Ms. Sarah has been the proud On-Site Owner of The Goddard School at Walton Park since 2023, after joining in 2019 as Director of Education. Her journey with Goddard began in 2006, and she has taught nearly every age group. In 2011, she earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. In addition to her role at Walton Park, Sarah is actively engaged in the broader Goddard community. She serves as a member of the Culture & Faculty Input Group, shaping initiatives that strengthen teacher engagement and school culture across the system. She also contributes as a Franchisee Mentor, supporting and guiding new franchise owners as they grow into leadership. Sarah treasures children’s imagination, curiosity, and big hearts, and is passionate about fostering a supportive faculty and positive, inclusive culture. Outside of school, she enjoys time with her husband and two children, exploring the outdoors, traveling, reading, and volunteering.

• Mr Ted

  Mr. Ted is one of the proud owners of The Goddard School at Walton Park and has been a dedicated Goddard franchisee since 2005. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hampden-Sydney College and an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ted can think of no work environment more fun and rewarding than a preschool. He loves the joy, curiosity, and eagerness to learn that young children bring each day. For him, the most gratifying part of ownership is providing a safe, happy, and educational program that gives parents true peace of mind when they leave their children in his care.

• Ms Christina

  Ms. Christina joined The Goddard School at Walton Park in 2018 and became a Director in 2023, after spending two years as an Assistant Director. She earned her Associate’s degree from Brightpoint Community College and began her journey with us teaching in the Toddler and School-Age classrooms before moving into leadership on our admin team. Christina believes that connecting with children and families makes this the most rewarding job in the world, and she shares, “I love the Goddard community here at Walton Park.” Outside of school, Christina is passionate about animal rescue and serves on the Junior Council at Richmond Animal League. She also enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her family and friends.

• Ms Debbie

  Ms. Debbie joined The Goddard School at Walton Park in 2017, became Assistant Director in 2020, and stepped into her current Director role in 2023. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Family Life and Child Development from Radford University. As the oldest of eight siblings, Debbie’s passion for working with children began early in life. She has experience in public schools as both a Kindergarten Assistant and an Instructional Assistant, in addition to her years teaching preschool. Debbie shares, “I always knew that my happy place would be working with children in some capacity. I’ve learned so much from their little minds over the years and am reminded daily how incredibly special each and every child is to us.” Outside of school, Debbie loves being by the water and enjoys tennis, running, and practicing yoga. She is also a proud grandmother—her three grandchildren attend our school!

• Ms Blair

  Ms. Blair joined our school in 2021. We welcomed her as an Assistant Director in June of 2024! Since first joining us, she has gone from a part-time resource teacher to a full-time Pre-Kindergarten Lead teacher! She studied education at Longwood University for 4 years and is now finishing her degree through Arizona State. Ms. Blair says, "Teachers have the best job. We get to encourage, advocate, and inspire. Although I am the one teaching, I learn something new from my students every day. Every child that walks through my door holds a special place in my heart." When not teaching, you can find her attempting to grow plants in the garden with her husband, painting, or sitting on the couch with her dog and a good book!

• Ms Aniya

  Aniya holds a Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science. With a passion for teaching, she joined our faculty in 2022. She values the opportunity to impart life lessons and practical skills to her students while also learning from them in return. Aniya believes that this mutual exchange enriches the educational experience for both her and her students. Outside the classroom, Aniya is a devoted mother of two boys (both here with her at Goddard) and she and her family share their love for traveling, visiting museums, and seeking new adventures. She finds joy in yoga, spending time in nature, writing, and exploring local RVA festivals. Aniya is also a skilled cook, a fan of Anime, and played Rugby during her college years at VCU.

• Ms Annie

  Annie holds a Master of Education and has experience as a special education teacher at an elementary school in Minnesota. She is passionate about building strong relationships and creating a supportive, engaging environment where students can thrive and discover the joy of learning. We are thankful she joined our faculty in 2023! Annie is the proud mother of two children who are both here with her at Goddard! She enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors. Originally from Cheltenham, PA, Anna brings a nurturing and enthusiastic approach to her work, making a meaningful impact on her students and their families.

• Ms Astrid

  Astrid is pursuing her CDA certificate while passionately working in early childhood education with us since 2022. She delights in celebrating children’s milestones and building personal connections with them and their families. Astrid brings a creative and nurturing presence to her classroom and those around her. As the middle child among five siblings, Astrid’s experiences with her younger sisters enrich her nurturing approach. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with friends, and indulging in horror movies, true crime documentaries, and Dominican cuisine. Originally from the Dominican Republic, she is also a "dog aunt" who loves gardening and savoring sweet treats.

• Ms Chloe

  Chloe graduated with an advanced diploma and honors in all her courses. She is currently pursuing her education online through Liberty University. With over a year of professional experience working with children and a passion for shaping young minds, Chloe joined our team in 2025. She loves supporting children as they grow, learn, and develop into their own unique selves, and she looks forward to many more years of helping them thrive. Outside of the classroom, Chloe is engaged and excited to welcome her first baby in January 2026. She enjoys spending her free time with her family, fishing, traveling, and relaxing with her two dogs. One of seven siblings, Chloe cherishes the bonds of family and the joy of shared experiences. Above all, she has a deep love for dogs, which will always hold a special place in her heart.

• Ms Diana

  Diana graduated from St. Joseph’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She brings a thoughtful and encouraging presence to the classroom and loves being part of each child’s growth. Since joining our team in 2023, watching children reach their milestones—big or small—has been one of her favorite parts of working in early childhood education, and she’s passionate about helping each child feel seen and supported. Originally from Long Island, Diana has also spent three years living in Tennessee, where her love for country music grew. She enjoys reading, listening to music (especially Taylor Swift), and shopping in her free time. Diana comes from a big family with three brothers and shares her home with a beloved cat. Her calm energy, dedication, and caring nature shine through in everything she does.

• Ms Elizabeth

  Elizabeth, who joined our team in 2024, is a passionate teacher with extensive experience in working with children, starting from after-school clubs and volunteer programs to swim lessons. She grew up in a family of educators, which inspired her own love for teaching. After moving to Richmond, Elizabeth began teaching preschool and quickly discovered her joy in helping children develop their communication skills. Elizabeth is deeply motivated by the curiosity and eagerness to learn that children display, believing that with the right tools, they can achieve anything. Outside of teaching, Elizabeth loves to bake and has a deep appreciation for elephants, considering them wise creatures. As the youngest of ten children, Elizabeth has been surrounded by a close-knit family and is grateful for the influence of such inspiring role models. She also speaks French and German, although she finds speaking them challenging.

• Ms Jenni

  With a degree in Early Childhood Education and over 25 years of experience in preschools, Ms. Jenni joined our school in 2024, bringing with her a passion for nurturing young minds. Since 1998, she has dedicated herself to creating engaging and playful learning experiences for preschoolers, finding joy in watching them discover and explore their world. Outside the classroom, Ms. Jenni is a devoted mom to three wonderful children. Her love for the outdoors is evident in her frequent visits to the lake, beach, and pool. She also enjoys camping and exploring state parks, where she can fully embrace her love for nature. Her diverse interests and experiences enrich her teaching, making her a dynamic and caring presence in the lives of her students.

• Mr Josh

  Josh holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Religious Studies from VCU and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University. With a deep-rooted connection to child care, having grown up in an in-home daycare run by his mother and starting his career at a child development center at age 15, Josh brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role. A passionate Titanic buff and Britney Spears mega fan, Josh also enjoys movies, pop culture, and collecting mid-century modern furniture and 1990s memorabilia. Josh joined our School in 2022 , making this the third Goddard School he has worked at, two in Virginia and one in NYC!

• Ms Juanita

  Ms. Nita holds a CDA credential and is passionate about sparking a love of learning in young children. With nearly 40 years of marriage to her husband Rick, she enjoys spending her free time crafting, watching movies, shopping, and participating in outreach with her church family. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, she also has a background in teaching swimming and enjoys crocheting. Since joining our team in 2012, Juanita has guided hundreds of pre-K students on their journey to Kindergarten, using her experience and nurturing approach to help build strong foundations for future learning. A proud mother of three, she brings warmth, dedication, and a deep love for early childhood education to every classroom she enters.

• Ms Kanesha

  Kanesha holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and has been a dedicated child care professional for over 10 years, joining us in 2022. She thrives in the dynamic environment of her work, finding joy in the ever-changing nature of each day. Known for her unshakeable calm amidst the chaos that child care can bring, Kanesha ensures a steady, supportive presence for the children she cares for. Outside of work, Kanesha is a proud mother of two sons (both here with her at Goddard!) and loves shopping for them. Engaged and planning a wedding for next year, she also enjoys her favorite movie, "The Cat in the Hat." Her unwavering composure and passion for nurturing young minds make her a truly exceptional educator.

• Ms Katherine

  Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Human Development and brings a calm, nurturing energy to her role in our Infant 2 room since joining our team in 2025. She loves watching even the youngest children begin to explore the world around them and finds so much joy in their curiosity, giggles, and early milestones. Katie is passionate about creating a warm, responsive environment where babies feel safe, loved, and ready to learn. Outside of work, Katie enjoys being outdoors-whether she’s hiking, camping, or relaxing on her back porch. She also loves working out, thrifting, and spending time with friends. A former college field hockey player, Katie enjoys baking and cooking, and once spent time working at Disney World! She brings joy, patience, and a thoughtful approach to everything she does.

• Ms Keely

  Keely is on the cusp of completing her degree in Early Childhood Development and plans to pursue a degree in Psychology next. She finds immense fulfillment in making a positive impact on children's lives, helping them learn and grow, and creating a welcoming environment where both children and their parents feel valued and trusted. Keely has been a valued member of our team since 2020. Outside of her professional life, Keely is an avid reader, enjoys crocheting, and loves engaging in creative activities such as drawing and crafting. Born on Halloween, she has a beloved cat named Milo and enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and friends.

• Ms Lauren

  Lauren holds a BS in Biology from CNU and a Master's in Elementary Ed. from WGUin addition to an Elementary Ed K-8 Credential. With 5 years of experience teaching Outdoor Education and teaching both 1st and 4th grades, Lauren’s passion for working with children shines through. She loves the moment when a child learns something new and you can see that "aha!" moment. We are thankful she joined our team in 2024. Outside of teaching, Lauren is a wife and mom of two (both here with her at Goddard). She enjoys "grandma" hobbies like needlepointing, antiquing, and spending time in her garden. Fun facts: Lauren has lived in six different states, she can’t stand the smell of wet peanut butter, and despite working with snakes in two jobs, they remain her biggest fear!

• LK

  With a wealth of experience in early childhood education, LK joined our team in 2024, bringing a rich background to their role. They believe that young children are wonderfully curious and trusting. They view their role as supporting learning by leading through example, fostering exploration, and demonstrating kindness and respect. LK treasures the opportunity to be both silly and authentic with students, creating a warm and encouraging environment. Beyond the classroom, LK is a talented singer/songwriter and hails from Augusta County, where they grew up with seven siblings. They share their home with a beloved Pitbull named Charlie.

• Ms Noha

  Noha joined our school in 2024 as a dedicated educator with a robust academic background and a wealth of experience in the field. She earned her BA in Communication from Virginia Tech in 2011 and went on to complete her M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Denver. Noha also holds a culturally and linguistically diverse education endorsement (K-12). With a strong foundation in early literacy, Noha has served as an early literacy team specialist and has contributed as a grade-level representative on various committees, including MTSS, PBIS, and school accountability. Her commitment to fostering inclusive and effective learning environments has been a hallmark of her career. Originally from the area, Noha returned to Virginia after spending eight years teaching in Denver, Colorado, where she met her husband. They are now settled in Richmond with their two young sons who are both with us! In her free time, Noha enjoys attending live music & traveling.

• Ms Whitney

  Whitney is the lead teacher in our Infant 1 room and has been a dedicated part of our team since 2017. Known for her warm, inviting personality and strong leadership, Whitney creates a nurturing, engaging space that truly feels like a “first home away from home” for our littlest learners. She’s always on top of routines and needs, and her teamwork, organization, and positivity set the tone for a calm and loving environment. Outside the classroom, Whitney is a devoted wife and a proud mom to her daughter. She brings the same energy and care to her personal life as she does to her work. A passionate Eagles football fan, Whitney is full of laughter and always lifts the spirits of those around her. She’s a vital part of our infant wing and a joy to work with every day.

• Ms Delaney

  Delaney pursued an Elementary Education major with a minor in Children’s Literature at Longwood University and is currently working toward her CDA. Since joining our team in 2023, she has loved teaching children something new every day and especially enjoys sparking their excitement for learning. Delaney brings patience and enthusiasm to the classroom, creating a positive space where students feel encouraged to explore and grow. Delaney comes from a family of five and shares her home with three dogs and four cats. She enjoys reading, writing, and has a strong passion for plants and gardening. A fan of music from the ’60s and ’70s, Delaney also played soccer in high school. Her nurturing nature and diverse interests add warmth and curiosity to her teaching style.

• Ms Fabiola

  Ms. Fabiola began working at our school in 2023. She graduated high school in 2020 and attended the Career and Technical Center's Early Childhood Education program. When asked what she loves about working children she said, "What I love about working with children is that at the same time we are teaching them, we also learn from them." In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children (who both attend our school), decorating, and getting coffee!

• Ms Krystin

  Krystin has been a cherished member of our team since 2016, always working in our infant classrooms. She holds a High School Diploma and a Certificate of Completion from Job Corps. Krystin’s gentle nature and deep love for babies make her an essential part of our infant wing team. She takes joy in getting to know each little one and supporting their earliest milestones with care and patience. Outside of work, Krystin enjoys cooking, baking, and spending time with family and friends. A former track and field athlete and passionate Dallas Cowboys fan, she brings warmth and kindness to everything she does.

• Ms Morgan

  Morgan graduated with an associate’s degree from Brightpoint in 2020 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at VCU. She joined our faculty team in 2023 and is passionate about contributing to children’s growth and development. She delights in watching them develop their unique personalities while learning from them every day. Raised in a small town with her parents and older brother, Morgan is an aunt to a baby boy, a role she cherishes deeply. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, tackling escape rooms (where she holds two records in Richmond), reading, and roller-skating. Morgan also has a cat named Snickers and proudly built her own gaming PC from scratch.

• Ms O'Kary

  Kay has been a dedicated and loving part of our infant team since 2008. She holds a High School Diploma and a Cosmetology certification. Kay loves teaching our littlest learners and takes pride in watching them grow and reach new milestones. Her experience, patience, and nurturing nature make her a steady and beloved presence in the infant classrooms. Outside of work, Kay enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and reading. She also loves watching boxing, dancing, and singing—bringing a joyful and energetic spirit wherever she goes. Kay’s long-standing commitment and care make her an irreplaceable part of our team.

• Ms Tracy

  Tracy brings a calm, curious, and flexible spirit to her role as a floater. Since joining our school in 2023, she has supported classrooms across all age groups and enjoys getting to know each child’s unique personality. Tracy especially loves watching children's curiosity in action and seeing how proud they are when they learn something new. Her thoughtful presence and adaptability make her a valuable part of every room she steps into. Outside of work, Tracy enjoys life with her husband and two sons. She loves spending time outdoors, cycling, and practicing yoga and meditation. A big baseball fan, Tracy also enjoys punk music, video games, and being near the water. Her steady energy and wide range of interests bring warmth and versatility to our team.

• Ms Brenae

  Brenae, attended VCU to pursue Graphic Design with a minor in Sociology. She brings creativity and curiosity to her role in early childhood education, where she values the compassion and patience that come from working with young children. She believes that learning and teaching happen at all ages, all the time. Since joining our faculty in 2023, she has spent most of her time with our Toddlers and Twos and loves the excitement each day brings. In her free time, Brenae enjoys designing books and websites, playing video games, and watching The Real Housewives. She’s also working on learning Dutch and has a growing collection of unfinished crochet projects. With 4 tattoos and the unique ability to apply mascara with her left hand, she brings personality and flair to everything she does. Her favorite animals are cows, which reflect her fun and lighthearted spirit.

• Ms Briana

  Briana joined our faculty in 2023 and is currently pursuing her CDA certificate. Her passion for education shines through her commitment to teaching children how to be kind and respectful, while also embracing her own playful side. She delights in learning new things alongside the children and watching them discover and engage with the world around them. Outside school, Briana loves reading, watching TV, and hanging out with friends. She’s always on the lookout for new finds through online shopping and enjoys spending time outdoors exploring new places. Her enthusiasm for both her professional and personal interests enriches her interactions with the children and makes her a dynamic and inspiring presence in the classroom.

• Ms Caroline

  Caroline is a 2024 graduate of Monacan High School, where she finished in the top ten percent of her class and received awards for excellence in AP Physics as well as the Leadership for the 21st Century Scholarship. She currently attends VCU, where she is pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Caroline joined our team in 2024, bringing a calm, encouraging presence to the classroom. She loves the joy, creativity, and curiosity that young children bring each day. She especially enjoys watching children grow in confidence and seeing their smiles as they explore and learn. Outside of the classroom, Caroline enjoys hands-on hobbies like building model roller coasters, gardening, and swimming. She also has a soft spot for cows, cake, and popcorn—and drives a car affectionately named Carlina!

• Ms Kristen

  Kristen joined our team in 2024 and quickly fell in love with some of our littlest learners. After graduating high school through homeschooling, she is currently finishing her CDA as she pursues a career in early childhood education. She brings experience from babysitting, Vacation Bible School, and working with the kids’ ministry. Kristen loves working with children because they are fun and creative, and she enjoys being a friend and helper as they learn and grow. Kristen is the oldest of two siblings and shares a close bond with her family. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, reading, art, and building puzzles. She’s also a big fan of podcasts and loves using alcohol markers in her artwork. Kristen’s patience, creativity, and caring spirit makeher a wonderful part of our team.

• Ms Melanie

  Melanie is a valued member of our team who joined us in 2023. She supports classrooms as a floater during her breaks from Longwood University, where she is studying Speech-Language Pathology. She brings a calm, friendly presence and a genuine love for working with children of all ages. Whether she’s jumping into daily routines or lending a helping hand wherever needed, Melanie is always reliable, attentive, and kind—making her a trusted part of our school community. Outside of work and school, Melanie enjoys quiet moments and meaningful connections. Her thoughtful nature and steady approach help create a sense of calm wherever she goes. With a heart for helping others and a passion for child development, Melanie is always ready to support both students and staff alike.

• Ms Phoenix

  Phoenix is a dedicated individual with a wide range of interests and skills who joined our team in 2024. After graduating from high school, Phoenix has over 15 years of experience working with children in various settings, from volunteering and babysitting to a brief role as a private nanny. She finds great joy in watching children’s personalities blossom, appreciating the unique quirks and habits they develop as they grow. As the oldest of 3 siblings, Phoenix shares a home with her mom and stepdad. She’s also an animal lover, with 2 dogs and 4 cats, and dreams of one day having chickens. Alongside her work with children, Phoenix is a licensed nail tech and enjoys video games, crocheting, and indulging in her love for Formula 1 and LA Dodgers baseball. She is a devoted Dungeons & Dragons player and has been learning Korean for the past six years.

• Ms Samantha

  Since joining our team in 2024, Samantha brings a strong background in education and communication to our team. She earned her Associate of Arts from Montgomery College and a Bachelor’s degree in Digital Journalism from VCU, where she is also a writer for The Commonwealth Times. A proud first-generation college graduate, Samantha previously worked as a tutor for children and quickly discovered her passion for early childhood education. She loves how imaginative young children are and enjoys creating meaningful, playful learning experiences that bring out their creativity and confidence. Outside the classroom, Samantha enjoys concerts with friends, traveling, journaling, and exploring nature. She’s a self-proclaimed foodie who loves discovering new spots to eat and spending quiet days at home with her tuxedo cat, Oreo. Samantha brings warmth and curiosity to everything she does—both in and out of the classroom.

• Ms Shailynn

  Shailynn has been a valued member of our team since 2023, bringing consistency, care, and a warm, positive spirit to every classroom she supports. She loves getting to know each child’s unique personality and finds joy in building connections and creating fun, supportive environments where they can thrive. Whether she's helping with daily routines or stepping in wherever needed, Shailynn is always ready to lend a hand and bring a sense of calm and kindness to the day. Outside of work, Shailynn enjoys doing hair and makeup, going shopping, and trying new foods. She’s also a talented artist who enjoys painting and drawing in her free time. Creative and compassionate, Shailynn brings both heart and style to everything she does.