The Goddard School of Atlanta (Buckhead)

Bios

• Jessica

  Jessica is an Atlanta native and grew up in the Buckhead area. She graduated from Georgia State University and joined the legal world as a paralegal after college. Jessica's been with the Goddard School since 2011 and has over 25 years of experience working with children. Jessica has always understood the importance of Early Childhood Education and how critical it is in the life of a young child. She loves being part of such an amazing team of professionals at Goddard Buckhead and enjoys the excitement each day brings.

• Kellen

  Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts Film Long Island University, CW Post Georgia State University Experience: Kellen's resume includes over 20 years of extensive experience in business and education. He is a member of the Buckhead Business Association, JDRF's One Group, and has received recognition as one of Atlanta's best young entrepreneurs. Favorite Children’s Book: Where The Wild Things Are Hobbies: Golf, Watching Sports, Reviewing Scientific Publications, Playing Air Drums Fun fact about me: I’m the Most Fun Person I Know.

• Gail

  Ms. Gail is our Director of Education and Family Support, after spending nearly 15 years as our Pre-K Lead Teacher. She was born in Richmond,VA and raised in Tucker, GA. She is a graduate of Georgia State University with a BS in Early Childhood Education and a Special Education. She is passionate about supporting the teachers, families, and students at Goddard Buckhead, with a particular focus in social and emotional development. Some of her favorite hobbies include reading, hiking, board games, and spending time with her husband. We are so happy to have Ms. Gail as a part of the Goddard Family!

• Janae

  Ms. Janae’ is our terrific Director of Operations. She has been with The Goddard School Buckhead since 2019. She is originally from New Jersey, but has decided to make Atlanta her home. She received her Bachelor degree in Psychology, with a focus in Sociology. After 3 years as a teacher at our school, she transitioned into her role as our Assistant Director in 2022 and became Director of Operations in 2024. In her free time, Janae’ enjoys reading, drinking wine, traveling, and spending time with family. We’re so happy to have her on our admin team!

• Tamara

  Ms. Tamara is our wonderful Executive Director. She has worked in the Early Childhood Development field for nearly 20 years, and has been with Goddard Buckhead since 2018. She’s originally from Long Island, New York and has been a Georgia resident since 2016. She received her Child Development Associate before going on to graduate from SUNY Old Westbury with a BA in Media and Communications. While she's not at the helm of our school, she enjoys working out, traveling, spa days, and spending time with her teenage son and her dog, Frenchie. We love her and are so happy to have her as a part of our Admin team!

• Carlene

  Meet Ms. Carlene, our amazing Twos 2 Lead Teacher! Originally from Ocho Rios, Jamaica, she holds a degree in Business Management and a Child Development Associate. She joined our school in 2023 and is returning for her second year as the Twos 2 Lead Teacher. With over 12 years of experience working with children, Ms. Carlene is passionate about her job. In her free time, she enjoys music, singing, and dancing. Her favorite children’s book is Corduroy, and she loves to sing and dance. We’re so happy to have Carlene continue as a member of the Goddard Buckhead team!

• Chantal

  Ms. Chantal is our wonderful Infant 1 Lead Teacher. She is originally from Connecticut, but has lived in Georgia for many years. She has been at Goddard Buckhead since 2020. She originally pursued Criminal Justice, but found Early Childhood Education and loved it! Her favorite part of teaching young children is watching them grow and change over the course of a year knowing that she had a part in it! To quote her... “I love knowing that a child has learned a skill from me that translates to another class. I like to think that I’m creating lifelong learners.” She plans to continue teaching young children and learn new skills in the field. She also plans to travel to new places and try new things that are outside her comfort zone. We are thankful to have this nurturing and dedicated member of our team! We love Ms. Chantal!

• Dajah

  Ms. Dejah is our amazing Toddler Two Teacher! Originally from New Jersey, Ms. Dejah is excited to bring her passion for education back to the Atlanta area after living here previously. Most recently, she worked at The Goddard School in Fountain Hill, PA, where she gained valuable experience in early childhood education. Currently pursuing a nursing degree, she brings a unique perspective to her classroom, blending her passion for healthcare with her commitment to helping others. She is also currently pursuing her Child Development Associate. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Dejah loves cooking, hiking, and spending quality time with her family. Her favorite children’s book is Miss Nelson Is Missing. We’re happy to welcome her to the Goddard Buckhead family!

• Dominique

  Ms. Dominique is our incredible Preschool Two Lead Teacher. She is originally from Brooklyn, New York, but has been a Georgia resident since 2008. She attended Kennesaw State College where she earned a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education: Birth through Kindergarten. Ms. Dominique loves the Toddler age and has been a loving and nurturing teacher at Goddard School Buckhead since February 2022. Outside of being a mother of 3 handsome little boys, a wife, and a teacher, Dominique loves to sing, watch movies, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends. We appreciate and love Ms. Dominique and are happy to have her here at Goddard School Buckhead!

• Kristen

  Ms. Kristen is our outstanding Bridge Lead Teacher, and is our longest running employee! She has been with Goddard Buckhead for over 15 years. She’s from Pittsburgh (Go STEELERS!), but has called Atlanta home since 2009. She has her B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Child Development and her Masters in School Guidance and Counseling. Her favorite part about teaching is spending time with her students and seeing their minds grow and develop over the years. She has professional goals to gain more knowledge of how children are changing in today's ever-changing society, and is pursuing her second Masters Degree in Elementary Education. She is the proud mother to three boys (13, 12, 7) who take up all of her free time!

• LeMacy

  Ms. LeMacy is our amazing Two's One Lead Teacher. She is a native of Atlanta. (Go Braves! Go United!) She is a proud graduate of Georgia State University with a B.A. in English. She has been with Goddard Buckhead since 2021, but she’s been a teacher and student of children for almost a decade. To quote her…”As a part of ‘the village’ that rears tomorrow's leaders, there is no greater feeling than seeing children develop into kind and intelligent people. I have a dream of writing a children's book series based on each developmental stage and beginning a podcast for primary school teachers.” Her favorite children’s book is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. We are so happy to have her as a part of our team!

• Maquia

  Ms. Maquia is our wonderful Infant 2 Lead Teacher. Originally from Columbia, SC, Ms. Maquia made a career shift from being a stylist to pursuing her true passion for early childhood education. She has experience working with all ages, but has a passion for Infants and Toddlers. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Maquia enjoys reading and spending time with her son. Her favorite children’s book is Where the Wild Things Are. We’re so happy to have Ms. Maquia as a new member of the team at Goddard Buckhead!

• Rashida

  Ms. Rashida is our terrific Preschool 1 Lead Teacher. She is originally from Upstate New York and has obtained an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts from SUNY Morrisville. Ms. Rashida is a very structured Lead teacher who has taught at our Goddard School for 5 years. In her classroom, you will find a fun filled learning environment, where she takes pride in teaching calming techniques that include child friendly yoga poses and different breathing strategies for our active toddlers. We are so happy to have her as a part of our team!

• Sayyidah

  Ms. Sayyidah is our wonderful Pre-K Lead Teacher. She is transitioning from her role as our Preschool 2 Lead Teacher. She is from Staten Island, New York, and she has a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. Her experience as a childhood educator includes working in a variety of early childhood centers, as well as a social caseworker at an elementary school. Her interests include hiking and art.

• Tiffany

  Ms. Tiffany is our amazing Toddler 1 Lead Teacher! She is a Georgia native and has lived most of her life here. She has worked with a broad age range of children, from birth-18 years old and has gained an abundance of experience. Tiffany is very passionate about children and has worked diligently in the ECE field since 2005. She is currently pursuing her Child Development Associate. Outside of the classroom, Tiffany enjoys shopping, cooking, traveling, and doing hair. Tiffany is entering her second year at Goddard Buckhead, and we are so happy to have her on our team!

• Yailyn

  Ms. Yailyn is our amazing Toddler Three Lead teacher! She is originally from Moore Haven, Florida, but has lived in Georgia for the past 3 years. Ms. Yailyn graduated from Technical College in 2020 and has been a part of the Goddard Team for nearly 3 years. She worked in early childhood for several years prior to joining the Goddard team. When not at school, Ms. Yailyn enjoys all kinds of artwork and baking. We are happy to have her here at Goddard Buckhead!

• Aniyah

  We’re thrilled to welcome Ms. Aniyah as our amazing Twos 1 Assistant Teacher! A proud Atlanta native, Ms. Aniyah brings over five years of experience working with children of all ages. She joins us from another Goddard School location right here in Atlanta and is excited to be part of our Goddard Buckhead family. When she’s not in the classroom, Ms. Aniyah enjoys cooking, walking, and even cleaning! Her favorite children’s books are anything by Dr. Seuss. We’re so excited to have her passion and energy on our team!

• Ms Beth

  Ms. Beth, the Admin Assistant, is from Seoul, Korea. She was raised in Flemington, NJ. With a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and over 20 years of experience working with children of various ages, Ms. Beth brings valuable skills to her role. She finds joy in hobbies like scrapbooking and Pilates, and her favorite children's book is 'Farfallina & Marcel' by Holly Keller. Ms. Beth treasures time spent with her two children and her husband, and her passion for reading extends even to recipe books.

• Brynn

  Ms. Brynn to our enthusiastic Toddler Three Assistant Teacher! With several years of experience working with elementary and middle school children, Ms. Brynn brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for working with children of all ages. She is also actively pursuing her pediatric sonography certification, further expanding her expertise. Ms. Brynn is thrilled to join the Toddler Three class and is eager to bring her fresh energy and enthusiasm to the classroom. We are confident that her positive spirit will contribute greatly to our community and enrich the learning experience for our toddlers.

• Colleen

  Ms. Colleen is our wonderful Preschool Two Lead Teacher! Ms. Colleen was born and raised in Georgia but spent time in Tallahassee, Florida obtaining her Associates of Art as well as working towards her Bachelor's Degree from Florida State University. Ms. Colleen joined the Goddard Buckhead teaching team in November 2021. Ms. Colleen has worked with all age groups in her time at Goddard, and is excited to jump back into the program. In her free time, Ms. Colleen enjoys playing her flute!

• Jade

  Ms. Jade is originally from Trinidad and Tobago. Before moving to Atlanta, GA she attended ATS Law School where she earned a certificate in Pre-Law & Paralegal studies. With a strong passion for children, she decided to switch fields in 2024 and joined the Goddard franchise. She has had a calling for teaching children from a young age and it has always remained close to her heart. In Ms. Jade’s free time, she loves to journal, paint, and go hiking. Her favorite children’s book is Pete The Cat. We are so happy to have Jade join our Goddard Buckhead team.

• Jazlyn

  We are excited to welcome Ms. Jazlyn to our Goddard Buckhead community as the Assistant Teacher in the Bridge classroom! Jazlyn is an Atlanta native who is currently working toward her CDA and Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She brings with her seven years of experience in the early childhood education field, having worked with both toddlers and preschoolers. Her dedication to supporting children’s growth and development shines through in her work each day. Outside of the classroom, Jazlyn enjoys braiding hair, coaching cheerleading, and creating art. Her creativity and love for children will make her a wonderful addition to our team and a positive influence in the lives of our students. We are thrilled to have Jazlyn join us and look forward to the joy, talent, and dedication she will bring to our Goddard family!

• Kayland

  Ms. Kayland is our wonderful Infant One Assistant Teacher. She is a Georgia native and has worked in the ECE field since 2018. She joined our Buckhead team in 2023 with a love for infants. She loves to watch the babies grow and their personalities blossom. In her free time she enjoys writing, reading, and spending time with her daughter. We’re happy to have her as a part of the Goddard team!

• Lashawn

  MS. LaShawn is wonderful Infant 2 Assistant Teacher! Originally from Spokane, Washington, Ms. LaShawn brings over 15 years of experience in childcare, working with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Outside the classroom, Ms. LaShawn loves spending time in nature, hanging out with friends, shopping, reading, and exploring new places. One of her favorite children’s books is The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which she enjoys sharing with little ones. We’re thrilled to have LaShawn’s warmth, experience, and joyful energy on our Goddard Buckhead Team!

• Ne-Queira

  Ms. Nikki is our amazing Two’s Two assistant Teacher, and joins us with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Ms. Nikki brings over 7 years of experience teaching Pre-K and school-age children. Her background in psychology allows her to deeply connect with each child, providing a supportive environment where every student can thrive. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Nikki enjoys running, cooking, building with Legos, and painting. Her favorite children's book is The Soup Grape. We’re happy to welcome Ms. Nikki to the Goddard Buckhead team!

• Olivia

  Ms. Olivia is our Toddler 2 Assistant Teacher! Olivia is a proud Atlanta native who is currently pursuing a degree in Public Health. Over the past year, she has discovered a passion for Early Childhood Education, gaining hands-on experience working with children of all ages. Olivia is excited to continue growing as an educator and brings a bright, energetic perspective to the classroom. Outside of her professional life, Olivia enjoys pottery, journaling, yoga, and pilates—activities that keep her grounded and creative. Her favorite children's book is Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. We’re thrilled to have Olivia as part of the Goddard Buckhead team and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make!

• Sommer

  Ms. Sommer is our wonderful Toddler One Assistant Teacher. She was born in Powder Springs, Georgia. Ms. Sommer's experience in early education includes paraprofessional and substitute teaching. Ms. Sommer enjoys walking and making candles. Ms. Sommer's favorite children's book is Brown Bear by Eric Carle.

• Aayonna

  Ms. Aayonna is nurturing Infant Support Teacher. Originally from Atlanta, Ms. Aayonna is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. With experience in early childhood settings and as a camp counselor, she has developed a strong foundation in supporting and inspiring young learners. Outside of teaching, Ms. Aayonna enjoys playing the flute, collecting vinyl records, and gaming on her Nintendo Switch. Her favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree. We’re happy to have her on the team at Goddard Buckhead!

• Anastasia

  Anastasia is a New York native and is currently a student at Georgia State University. She has previous experience as a nanny and at the Boys and Girls Clubs. She’s the oldest of six which gave her lots of hands-on experience with children, even at an early age! While she’s not with us, she enjoys thrifting and community service. Her favorite children’s book is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.

• Ericca

  Our Incredible Kitchen Manager and Infant Support Teacher. We're thrilled to have Ms. Ericca as a part of our team! With 28 years of experience working with infants and 2 years of experience with toddlers, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Ms. Ericca holds an Associates in Early Childhood Education and is passionate about the children's book, 'The Giving Tree'. When she's not working, Ms. Ericca enjoys unwinding and watching sports.

• Friday

  Meet our amazing Pre-K Assistant teacher, Mr. Friday! Mr. Friday is originally from Houston Texas, and moved to Atlanta in September 2023 when he joined our Goddard Family. He graduated from Mississippi State University where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. He has worked in ECE for 4 years and hopes to extend his love and expertise in s! On Friday’s free time, he loves to read and work out.

• Makeda

  We are excited to welcome Ms. Makeda to The Goddard School Buckhead as a Resource Teacher! Makeda is originally from Fort Valley, Georgia, and earned her bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain & Logistics from Georgia Southern University. While this is her first role as a childcare educator, Makeda has always been deeply passionate about supporting the growth and development of children of all ages. In her free time, she enjoys reading, going to the gym, and exploring her love of photography. We are so happy to have Makeda join our Goddard family and look forward to supporting her as she grows in her journey as an educator within our community.

• Mendy

  Ms. Mendy is our fun and energetic Resource Teacher.

• Michelle

  Ms. Michelle is our phenomenal Preschool/Pre-K Support Teacher. She is originally from Grand Rapids, MI, but moved to Atlanta in 1999 with her husband and children. She is the proud mother of four, and grandmother to one! She has an Associate Degree in Science, and has been at Goddard since August of 2021. Her favorite part of teaching is watching the friends in her class grow and learn every day. In her time outside of school, she loves to spend time traveling, reading, and hiking. Her goals for the future are to continue her education in the world of Early Childhood and continue to enjoy life! We are so happy to have Ms. Michelle be apart of our Goddard Family!

• Nidia

  Ms. Nidia is an outstanding Spanish teacher! She is a native Spanish speaker, originally from Panama. She has taught Spanish in grades K-6, and has been our Spanish teacher since 2023. She is extremely excited to be a part of your child's learning development and to experience their growth while teaching another language. She has a Bachelor's degree in Social Science. Ms. Nidia enjoys going to the movies and bowling in her spare time. We are so happy to have her on the Goddard Buckhead Team!