The Goddard School of Orange

Bios

• Mr Chris

  Chris’ background and dedication to The Goddard School in Orange add a unique and valuable dynamic to the leadership team. As a recently retired Connecticut State Trooper with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, Chris brings a wealth of experience in discipline, organization, and crisis management to the school. His transition from a long career in law enforcement to working alongside his wife, Kim, at the school speaks to his commitment to their shared vision and mission for the school. By maintaining the facility, greeting families, and managing daily operations, Chris helps create a safe and welcoming environment for both the children and staff. His hands-on approach to supporting the school’s day-to-day functions shows a great balance between leadership and personal connection with the families. Chris’ background in law enforcement shaped his role at The Goddard School and his approach to managing the facility.

• Ms Kimberly

  Ms. Kim’s impressive educational background and teaching experience make her a strong leader for The Goddard School in Orange. With a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a master’s degree in Elementary Curriculum, and ten years of teaching experience at the elementary level, she brings both expertise and a deep passion for education to the school. Her pride in serving the children and families in the surrounding communities since 2006 shows her dedication to the local area and her long-term commitment to providing quality education. Her leadership, grounded in both hands-on teaching experience and advanced educational qualifications, has likely been instrumental in creating a nurturing and educational environment at the school. Ms. Kim’s vision for early childhood education shaped the direction of The Goddard School in Orange over the years.

• Ms Melissa

  Ms. Melissa is an outstanding fit for her role as Director at The Goddard School. With a background in Psychology and Human Services, combined with extensive experience in the early childhood education field, she brings both knowledge and passion to her position. Her previous role as a director at a large childcare facility provided her with valuable leadership experience, which now informs her ability to support both the children and faculty at Goddard. She is enthusiastic about contributing her creativity and expertise to the program, and her energy and dedication are already making a positive impact. Ms. Melissa’s leadership style has shaped a nurturing and supportive school culture, benefiting students and staff alike.

• Ms Sue-Ann

  Ms. Sue’s vast experience and deep commitment to early childhood education truly shine in her role as the On-Site Owner of The Goddard School in Orange. With over 30 years of experience working with children from infancy through school age, along with her degrees in Early Childhood Development and Elementary Education, she brings a wealth of expertise to the school. Her journey from Director to Director of Operations and now to becoming a partner highlights her dedication and leadership within the school community. Her State of Connecticut Head Teacher Certificate and Directors Credential add another layer of expertise, helping her guide both the educational side and the operational aspects of the school. It’s wonderful that she has been part of The Goddard School since 2005, shaping the foundation of the school and watching it grow. Ms. Sue’s leadership has impacted the overall direction and success of The Goddard School in Orange.

• Ms Alyssa

  Ms. Alyssa seems to have a wonderful mix of experience and enthusiasm for her work, especially with her background in Education and Sociology. Her years of experience working with children of all ages since 2014 will definitely add a lot to her role in the Darling Duckling classroom. It’s great that she’s excited to be working alongside Ms. Steffanie—collaborative teaching is such a valuable way to support both the children and each other.

• Ms Amanda

  Ms. Amanda holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University. She has gained extensive experience working with children through various roles, including private nannying, babysitting, and, more recently, as a certified behavior technician/therapist. In her role as a Behavior Technician, Ms. Amanda has provided direct one-on-one behavioral interventions to teach communication, social, and daily living skills, utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques. At The Goddard School, Ms. Amanda serves as faculty support, offering a helping hand across multiple classrooms. She enjoys spending time with her daughter, engaging in activities such as cooking, reading, playing at the park, and singing. Ms. Amanda has been a valued member of The Goddard School since 2025.

• Andrea

  Miss Andrea graduated from Gateway Community College with a degree in Studio Art and Graphic Design. She has extensive experience working with preschool-aged children as an assistant teacher in two different schools in the New Haven area. In addition, she has served as a long-term building substitute, working with students in grades K–6. Andrea loves being silly and having fun with the children, while also teaching the importance of manners and respect. In her classroom, “everyone is best friends.” She places a strong emphasis on creating an environment where every child feels emotionally secure, supported, and curious about learning.

• Mr Brayden

  Mr. Brayden joined The Goddard School in Orange in 2023 and serves as a valued member of our faculty, assisting in Bridge class. He holds a degree in Kinesiology from New England College in New Hampshire. With a strong background in athletics, Mr. Brayden is an avid wrestler and actively volunteers at youth wrestling camps during his free time. He is passionate about promoting physical activity and is excited to share his sports and fitness knowledge with the children to help them stay active, healthy, and engaged.

• Mrs Eileen

  Ms. Eileen serves as a co-teacher in our Pre-Kindergarten program and holds the roles of Team Leader and Lesson Plan Coordinator for our faculty. She has been working with young children since 1992 and joined The Goddard School in 2009. She has pursued studies in social work and special education and holds an associate's degree in early childhood education. Her extensive experience and leadership contribute significantly to our nurturing and effective learning environment.

• Ms Gabrielle

  Ms. Gabby holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy from Fairfield University and an Associate's degree in Psychology from Housatonic Community College. She has been working with children since 2020, gaining experience across preschool and pre-kindergarten levels. Passionate about science, Ms. Gabby frequently incorporates science activities into her classroom to foster curiosity and hands-on learning. Her collaborative spirit and dedication are evident in her willingness to go the extra mile, often exemplified by her saying, "I have one more question." She has been a valued member of The Goddard School since 2025.

• Ms Grace

  Miss Grace joined The Goddard School in Orange in 2024 as a co-teacher in our Two's classroom. Over the past two years, she has gained valuable experience working with children of various ages in different roles. In our Two's classroom, Miss Grace engages children in hands-on learning experiences that nurture their innate curiosity and support their emotional growth. Our curriculum encourages children to ask questions and explore their world, fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime. We are excited to have Miss Grace as part of our team, where her enthusiasm and dedication contribute to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our Two's students.

• Miss Jaiyla

  Miss Jaiyla joined The Goddard School in 2025. She previously taught toddlers where she gained valuable experience working with young children. Her favorite part of teaching is finding creative and fun ways to help children learn and grow. Jaiyla brings a cheerful outlook and an open mind to our school community. We are excited to have her teaching alongside Miss Andrea in the toddler room.

• Ms Jennifer

  Ms. Jennifer’s combination of an associate’s degree in early childhood from Gateway Community College and a bachelor’s degree in child studies from Post University makes her well-equipped to support children in the Infant Loveable Lambs classroom. With her experience spanning from infants to Pre-K, she brings a broad perspective to her work. It’s clear that her passion for early childhood education is strong, especially since she’s been part of the Goddard Family since 2018. Her experience and positive attitude must make her a wonderful co-teacher alongside Ms. Joyce.

• Mrs Jocelyn

  Miss Jocelyn brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a vibrant personality to our Twos program at The Goddard School. Since 2021, she has been working with children, and we are thrilled to have her as part of our team. In our Twos classroom, Miss Jocelyn engages children in hands-on learning experiences that nurture their innate curiosity. Our Wonder of Learning™ education program immerses children in literacy, science, arts, and math, fostering a holistic approach to learning. Outside of her professional role, Miss Jocelyn enjoys spending quality time with her daughter, embracing the joys of family life. We are excited to have Miss Jocelyn as part of our Goddard family, where her dedication and vibrant spirit contribute to creating a nurturing and engaging environment for our students.

• Mr Joshua

  Mr. Josh is currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at the University of New Haven, aiming for a career in law enforcement. When not engaged in his studies or work, he enjoys sports—particularly football—spending time with family and friends, caring for his new puppy, Maverick, as well as fishing, hunting, and traveling. At The Goddard School, Mr. Josh brings energy and enthusiasm to his interactions with the children, enriching their learning experiences.

• Mrs Josselyn

  Mrs. Josselyn has been a valued member of The Goddard School in Orange since 2025, where she brings her passion for early childhood education and engaging curriculum to the preschool classroom. With an Associate of Arts in Teaching and Early Care and Education from Delaware Technical Community College, she combines her academic knowledge with hands-on experience to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for young learners. Mrs. Josselyn has been dedicated to working with preschool children since 2018, helping them develop essential skills that lay the foundation for their academic and social success. Her teaching approach is centered on creating engaging and developmentally appropriate experiences that foster creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning in her students. In the classroom, Mrs. Josselyn focuses on providing a safe and supportive environment where each child’s unique needs are met. She is committed to making every day in the classroom an exciting one!

• Ms Joyce

  Ms. Joyce serves as a co-teacher in our toddler program at The Goddard School in Orange, Connecticut. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and has been working specifically with infant and toddler age groups since 2003. Ms. Joyce has been a valued member of our team since our opening in 2006, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Her extensive background in early childhood education contributes significantly to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our toddlers, fostering their growth and development during these formative years.

• Ms Joyce

  Ms. Joyce brings a wealth of experience to The Goddard School, particularly with her extensive background working with infants and toddlers since 2006. Her CDA and Head Teacher certificate from the State of Connecticut highlight her commitment to early childhood education. Her long-standing collaboration with Ms. Jenn over the past six years is a testament to the strong teamwork and consistency she brings to the classroom. With her deep experience, she must be a key figure in fostering a nurturing and educational environment for the young children she works with.

• Mrs Melissa

  Mrs. Melissa serves as a co-teacher in our Preschool program. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, followed by a Master's degree in the same field. Mrs. Melissa has been working with young children since 2008 and has been a valued member of The Goddard School team since 2011. Her extensive experience and advanced education contribute significantly to providing a nurturing and effective learning environment for our preschool students.

• Mrs Michelle

  Ms. Michelle has been a dedicated member of The Goddard School team since 2021, teaching in our toddler program. She brings eight years of experience working with children ranging from infants through preschoolers. She has completed coursework in Early Childhood Education at Housatonic Community College, enhancing her ability to foster a nurturing and educational environment for our toddlers. At The Goddard School, Ms. Michelle's experience and commitment contribute significantly to the growth and development of our students, ensuring they receive a strong foundation during their early years.

• Ms Mya

  Ms. Mya joined The Goddard School in Orange in 2022 and serves as support faculty in one of our pre-kindergarten classes. Over the past two years, she has gained experience working with children of all ages. She graduated from the University of New Haven with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a minor in Psychology. The university's Criminal Justice program emphasizes psychology-based studies, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of crime-solving and public safety issues. At The Goddard School, Ms. Mya's academic background and enthusiasm contribute to creating a nurturing and engaging environment for our pre-kindergarten students, supporting their developmental milestones and fostering a love for learning.

• Ms Sara

  Miss Sara brings a wealth of experience to The Goddard School, having worked with children from infancy through school age. She joined our team in 2023 and is enthusiastic about embracing The Goddard School's play-based, child-centered approach to learning. This philosophy emphasizes nurturing the whole child—socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically—to inspire a lifelong love of learning. At The Goddard School, we believe that some of the most profound lessons can happen at any moment. Our teachers create fun learning experiences that foster well-rounded development in a safe, caring environment. Miss Sara is excited to contribute to this dynamic environment and continue her professional growth within our community.

• Ms Shabnam

  It seems like Ms. Shabnam brings a diverse background to The Goddard School, combining her academic qualifications in Food Science Engineering and Math with extensive teaching experience. Her 14 years in classrooms with students of varying ages, including elementary and high school levels, likely gives her a unique perspective on education. It must be interesting to see how she applies her experience with older students to the early childhood setting.

• Ms Steffanie

  Ms. Steffanie brings a wealth of experience to The Goddard School, with her background as a toddler, preschool, and infant teacher, as well as her time as a director. Her diverse roles and responsibilities, particularly in coordinating the infant/toddler classrooms, show her strong leadership and organizational skills. The fact that she assists with lesson plan development, training, and the daily operation of the building highlights her dedication to both the educational and logistical sides of running a successful program. With her associate's degree in early childhood education and years of experience, she must be a tremendous asset to the team.

• Mrs Alexandra

  We are excited to welcome Ally to The Goddard School as our onsite Speech and Language Pathologist. With six years of experience specializing in the birth to five age group, Ally brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. In her role, she collaborates closely with both faculty and families, sharing strategies and providing ongoing support to foster optimal child development. Speech and language therapy plays a crucial role in early childhood development, offering numerous benefits: Enhanced Communication Skills: Therapy helps children express thoughts and feelings effectively, improving both verbal and non-verbal communication. Improved Social Interaction: Developing language skills enhances social abilities, enabling children to interact confidently with peers and adults. School Readiness: Early intervention supports academic success by preparing children with the necessary language skills for school.

• Ms Brianna

  Miss Brianna joined The Goddard School in 2023 and serves as faculty support throughout the building. With four years of experience working with children across various age groups, she brings a diverse skill set and a passion for fostering children's growth and development. Outside of her professional role, Miss Brianna has a deep appreciation for music and enjoys attending concerts. Her enthusiasm for music aligns with The Goddard School's commitment to integrating music into early childhood education, recognizing its benefits in enhancing creativity, confidence, and brain development. At The Goddard School, we believe in the power of play-based learning, incorporating activities like music, movement, art, and outdoor exploration to support children's cognitive, social, and emotional development. Miss Brianna's interests and experience contribute to our nurturing environment, supporting our mission to inspire a lifelong love of learning in every child.

• Caitlyn

  Ms. Caitlyn joined The Goddard School in 2025 while interning for her senior project. She is eager to gain hands-on experience in the early childhood field as she advances toward her degree in theatre. With four years of experience working with children, Ms. Caitlyn brings valuable insights and enthusiasm to her role. She is excited to contribute to The Goddard School community and support the growth and development of its students.

• Ms Gina

  Ms. Gina brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as Office Administrator at The Goddard School in Orange. With her bachelor’s degree in early childhood development, a Master’s in Elementary Education, and a State of Connecticut Head Teacher Certificate, she has a solid foundation in education. Her 20+ years of working with children, from infants to school-age, further enhances her ability to manage both educational and administrative tasks effectively. It’s clear that her prior role as Director of Education allowed her to develop a strong understanding of the school’s needs, which must make her a valuable asset in her current position.

• Mrs Jean

  Miss Jean is an invaluable resource across all classrooms at The Goddard School in Orange. With over 30 years of experience working with children, she brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our community. Since joining our team in 2006, Miss Jean has fostered happiness and creativity in every classroom she supports, enriching the educational experience for both students and staff.

• Miss Jillian

  Ms. Jillian joined The Goddard School in 2025 while pursuing her degree in nursing at Salve Regina. She is eager to gain hands-on experience in the early childhood field as she advances toward her degree. With a few years of experience working with children, Ms. Jillian brings valuable insights and enthusiasm to her role. She is excited to contribute to The Goddard School community and support the growth and development of its students.

• Ms Julieanne

  Miss Julieanne began her journey with The Goddard School as an intern in 2023 and has since joined our team as full-time support faculty. She actively engages with children across all classrooms, assisting them in their daily activities. In addition to her role at Goddard, Miss Julieanne is pursuing a real estate license, demonstrating her commitment to personal and professional growth. In Connecticut, aspiring real estate professionals must complete 60 hours of classroom instruction and pass a final exam to be eligible for the state licensing exam. Her diverse interests and dedication enrich our school community, and we are excited to support her as she continues to develop both professionally and personally.

• Ms Kasey

  Ms. Kasey joined The Goddard School in 2022 and serves as support faculty in our toddler and preschool programs. She has completed two years at Gateway Community College and brings several years of experience working with children at the toddler and preschool levels. Gateway Community College offers a comprehensive Early Learning Center (ELC) that provides a full-day preschool program for children aged 2.8 to 5 years old. The ELC emphasizes a child-centered curriculum, encouraging development at each child's own pace. It offers various instructional models, including Child Development, Modified Montessori, and Diversified Creative Curriculum. At The Goddard School, Ms. Kasey's dedication and experience contribute significantly to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our students, fostering their growth and development.

• Ms Keely

  Miss Keely began her journey with The Goddard School as an intern in 2025 and has since joined our team as part-time support faculty. She actively engages with children across all classrooms, assisting them in their daily activities. In addition to her role at Goddard, Miss Keely has a passion for art and has had pieces of art featured at Boothe Memorial Park in Stratford. Her diverse interests and dedication enrich our school community, and we are excited to support her as she continues to develop both professionally and personally.

• Kelsey

  Ms. Kelsey joined The Goddard School in 2025 while pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education at Coastal Carolina University. She is eager to gain hands-on experience in the early childhood field as she advances toward her degree. With five years of experience working with children, Ms. Kelsey brings valuable insights and enthusiasm to her role. She is excited to contribute to The Goddard School community and support the growth and development of its students.

• Mrs Leah

  We are thrilled to welcome Leah to The Goddard School as our onsite Occupational Therapist. With a decade of experience specializing in pediatric occupational therapy and family support, Leah brings a wealth of expertise to our team. In her role, she collaborates closely with faculty and families, sharing strategies and providing ongoing support to foster optimal child development. Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in early childhood development, offering numerous benefits: Enhancing Daily Living Skills Improving Motor Skills Supporting Sensory Processing Facilitating Social and Emotional Development: Through targeted interventions, therapists enhance social interactions and emotional well-being, preparing children for successful peer relationships and school readiness. Leah's expertise aligns seamlessly with The Goddard School's commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment.

• Mr Patrick

  Patrick serves as the Nurse Consultant at The Goddard School in Orange. He is a registered nurse (RN) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and is scheduled to advance to an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in 2024. Patrick brings extensive experience from various healthcare settings, including pediatric and obstetric care, infertility clinics, rehabilitation, and home care. Beyond his professional role, Patrick enjoys spending time with his diverse family of animals, which includes dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, and lizards. He has been a valued member of The Goddard School community since 2020, contributing to the health and well-being of both students and staff.

• Mrs Samina

  Mrs. Samina brings a wealth of experience to The Goddard School, having worked with children mostly in an elementary setting as well as school age. She currently teaches at Amity Middle School. Samina joined our team in 2025 and is enthusiastic about embracing The Goddard School's play-based, child-centered approach to learning. This philosophy emphasizes nurturing the whole child—socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically—to inspire a lifelong love of learning. At The Goddard School, we believe that some of the most profound lessons can happen at any moment. Our teachers create fun learning experiences that foster well-rounded development in a safe, caring environment. Mrs. Samina has a passion and commitment to contribute to this dynamic environment and continue her professional growth within our community.

• Ms Seyedeh

  Ms. Seyedeh provides invaluable classroom support across our infant through kindergarten programs. She has been a dedicated member of The Goddard School in Orange since 2006, bringing over 30 years of experience working with children. Ms. Seyedeh holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology, which enhances her understanding of child development and enriches her interactions with students. Her extensive experience and educational background contribute significantly to creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment for our students.

• Ms Violet

  Ms. Violet joined The Goddard School in 2022 while pursuing her degree in Psychology at Sacred Heart University. She is eager to gain hands-on experience in the early childhood field as she advances toward her degree. With three years of experience working with children, Ms. Violet brings valuable insights and enthusiasm to her role. She is excited to contribute to The Goddard School community and support the growth and development of its students.