The Goddard School of Sparks

Bios

• John, Jody and Kristen

  John and Jody, our original owners, opened The Goddard School in 2008. Jody earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and has worked with children for over 35 years. Mrs. Jody’s experience has made her aware of the significance of providing a quality preschool setting with caring, professional teachers. John graduated from CSU, Northridge with his degree in Kinesiology. After an extensive background in management/customer service and working with children as a coach, he wanted to operate a business that played an important role in the community. Kristen officially joined The Goddard Family in 2017 to support the ownership team. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Hospitality from CSU, Chico. Ms. Kristen has an extensive background with customer service from her work experience at The Ritz-Carlton and she is excited to operate a school that incorporates learning for life and for fun. All Owners are CPR, First Aid certified and completed a background check.

• Mrs Emily

  Mrs. Emily has over 10 years of experience in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field in both teacher and administrative roles. She received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Truckee Meadows Community College. Mrs. Emily has a passion for building positive relationships with the children and their families and believes in open communication. Her favorite preschool moments are the “Ah-Ha moments” when a child completes a new activity or overcomes a challenge for the first time. In her free time, Mrs. Emily loves cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers with her husband and son! She is excited to bring her experience to The Goddard Family and be part of your child’s love for learning! Mrs. Emily continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Gabby

  Mrs. Gabby has her Bachelor degree in Elementary Education from the University of Nevada, Reno. Mrs. Gabby comes to us with 11 years of experience working with children of all ages. Her passion is getting to know each child individually to better teach them for their future. She enjoys making learning fun and hands on. Mrs. Gabby is very excited to be working here at Goddard and could not imagine doing anything else. Mrs. Gabby continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Anna

  Ms. Anna is the Lead Teacher in the Bridge Classroom. Ms. Anna has her Associate’s Degree in General Studies in addition to over 16 years of experience in the early childhood education field. She has a passion for incorporating social/emotional learning in curriculum centers. Ms. Anna is a native Nevadan and has twin daughters. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and being outside. Ms. Anna continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Catherine

  Mrs. Catie is the Lead Teacher in the Preschool 1 Classroom. Mrs. Catie has her Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from The University of Nevada, Reno. She has been working with children in different school settings, including the Washoe County School District for several years and is excited to continue her career here at Goddard. In her free time, Mrs. Catie loves to read, hike, go camping, and spending time with her three children! She is excited to bring her passion and creative lessons to the Preschool 1 classroom and to be a part of the Goddard Family. Mrs. Catie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Cynthia

  Mrs. Cynthia is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Twos classroom. Mrs. Cynthia has a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies from Liberty University and is currently pursuing her master’s in psychology from Liberty University. Mrs. Cynthia has been an infant and toddler teacher in the early childhood education field for several years and has two children of her own. She has a passion for child development and ensuring all children feel loved and valued. Mrs. Cynthia speaks Japanese and is excited to introduce foreign languages into the classroom. In her spare time, Mrs. Cynthia enjoys going on hikes, reading, and finding all the good sushi spots in town. Mrs. Cynthia is delighted to be a part of The Goddard Family and to create a love for learning! Mrs. Cynthia continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department

• Ms Diana

  Ms. Diana is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Preschool 1 classroom. She graduated from University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology including course work in child psychology. She is currently working towards receiving an additional degree in Developmental Psychology. Ms. Diana enjoys studying different languages including ASL, Korean, and Chinese. In her free time, Ms. Diana loves to spend time with her family, her dog and read. She is thrilled to be part of the Goddard Family and is excited to bring a lifelong love of learning to our school! Ms. Diana continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Ellison

  Ms. Ellie is the Co- Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 2 classroom. Ms. Ellie earned a degree in music and geography from the National University of Galway, Ireland. Her love for working with children began when she started teaching children Jiu-Jitsu and music lessons. She loves seeing the children accomplish a new martial art move for the first time. Ms. Ellie is excited to be part of The Goddard Family and to create a love for learning for your child at a young age. Ms. Ellie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Jessie

  Ms. Jessie is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 1 Classroom. Ms. Jessie graduated from The University of Nevada, Reno with her Bachelor’s in Literature. Ms. Jessie has worked in the early childhood education field for over three years and is excited to be a part of the Goddard team. Ms. Jessie’s favorite teacher hobby is Circle Time because it helps foster a love of reading and learning. Ms. Jessie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Karina

  Ms. Karina is the Lead Teacher in our Toddler 2 Classroom. Ms. Karina holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from University of Nevada, Reno. She has several years’ experience working with children ranging from infants to 6 years old. In her spare time, she enjoys being creative and sewing. Ms. Karina is excited to be a part of The Goddard School family and help the children learn and grow! Ms. Karina continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Leesha

  Ms. Leesha is the Lead Teacher in the Twos classroom. Ms. Leesha has worked in the early childhood education field for over four years and holds an Infant/Toddler CDA from Honolulu Community College. She loves engaging in centers with children and helping them get crafty! In her free time, Ms. Leesha enjoys spending time with her family, going to the park, and crafting! She is delighted to be part of The Goddard Team and creating a love for learning for children at a young age! Ms. Leesha continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mr Maxwell

  Mr. Max is a Lead Teacher in our Pre-K 2 classroom. Mr. Max holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree. He has nearly 10 years’ experience teaching in the school district and is excited for the opportunity to work with younger children. Mr. Max enjoys teaching students about animals and science including the caterpillar transformation to butterflies! Mr. Max is excited to bring a lifelong love of learning to The Goddard Family! Mr. Max continues his education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. He is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Miriam

  Mrs. Miriam is a Lead Teacher in our Toddler 1 classroom. Mrs. Miriam studied Elementary Education at TMCC. Previously she worked in the medical field including working with children of all different backgrounds. Mrs. Miriam enjoys forming relationships and ensuring children feel safe and loved in her care. She believes that reading is one of the greatest ways to learn and is excited to share her love for books with children! As a mom of three, she adores the “A-ha moment” when kids accomplish a new task on their own! Mrs. Miriam is delighted to be a part of The Goddard Family and to create a love for learning at a young age. Mrs. Miriam continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Silvia

  Mrs. Silvia is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Pre-K 1 Classroom. Mrs. Silvia studied Communications and Advertising Guatemala and she received her Bachelors in General Studies with a concentration in Psychology from Columbia College in Salt Lake City. She has been working with children in different preschool settings for several years and is excited to be a part of the Goddard team. In her free time, Mrs. Silvia enjoys traveling; and the whole process from planning all the details to the travel itself. Mrs. Silvia continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Yazmin

  Mrs. Yazmin is the Lead Teacher in the Infant Classroom. She holds an Associates in Child Development and is planning to further her education in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Yazmin has over 7 years experience working in a preschool setting and has always loved working with Toddlers. In her free time, Mrs. Yazmin loves going on road trips with her husband. She is also an incredibly talented artist and enjoys being creative at home as well as in her classroom. Mrs. Yazmin is excited to be part of the Goddard School and engage with all the children and families in her classroom. Mrs. Yazmin continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Yolanda

  Ms. Yolanda is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Preschool 2 classroom. She has over 20 years of experience working in the early childhood setting, primarily with Early Head Start. Ms. Yolanda has a passion for working with children by fostering their love of learning through social emotional activities. She has coursework in Early Childhood Education through Truckee Meadows Community College. She is thrilled to be a part of your child’s learning experience. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her 3 sons. When you see her, please be sure to introduce yourself! Ms. Yolanda continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Alexa

  Ms. Alexa is the Assistant Teacher in the Infant classroom. Ms. Alexa has several years’ experience working with children and is currently enrolled at The University of Nevada, Reno pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education, with a graduation date of May 2025! Ms. Alexa has worked with children since 2020 and has a passion for infant development. She is delighted to be part of The Goddard Team and creating a love for learning for children at a young age! Ms. Alexa continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Ashley

  Ms. Ashley is the Assistant Teacher in the Toddler 1 classroom. Ms. Ashley is a recent graduate of The University of Nevada, Reno with a degree in Community Health Sciences and has several years’ experience working with children. In the classroom, Ms. Ashley enjoys arts and crafts, and playing with the children outside! In her spare time, Ms. Ashley enjoys hanging out with friends, family, and getting crafty! Ms. Ashley continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Jacqulyn

  Ms. Jackie is an Assistant Teacher in the Toddler 2 classroom. Ms. Jackie is a mom of three who loves helping children work together! She regularly assists with her children’s sports teams and enjoyed the relationships she has created thus far which led her to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Jackie enjoys teaching children about literacy and reading. She is happy to help in preparing your child to be school ready while learning about kindness and friendships! Ms. Jackie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Madeline

  Ms. Madeline is the Assistant Teacher who supports in all the classrooms. Ms. Madeline has a bachelor’s degree in speech language pathology and audiology from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has several years of experience working in a preschool setting and is excited to continue in her early childhood education career. Ms. Madeline enjoys baking and hiking in her free time. She is excited to bring a love of teaching to the Goddard Family! Ms. Madeline continues his education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Vanessa

  Ms. Vanessa is the Co-Lead Teacher in the Preschool 2 classroom. Ms. Vanessa has several years’ experience working with children and is currently pursuing her degree in Social Work at Truckee Meadows Community College. Ms. Vanessa loves being hands on with children and building connections with her students. She loves spending time with family, hiking, and being outside! Ms. Vanessa is delighted to be part of The Godard Team and creating a love for learning for children at a young age! Ms. Vanessa continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Beyonca

  Ms. Beyonca is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Beyonca is currently a senior at Spanish Springs High School and will be studying Public Health at UNR in the fall. Ms. Beyonca has experience working with children by helping coach at volleyball camps and local schools! She also attended The Goddard School, Sparks as a child and is happy to be returning in a new role. Ms. Beyonca continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Camryn

  Ms. Camryn is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Camryn is currently enrolled at Truckee Meadows Community College pursuing her degree in Social Work. Ms. Camryn has experience in the early childhood education field and loves seeing children grasp new skills! In her spare time, Ms. Camryn enjoys spending her time with family and trying out new coffee shops. Ms. Camryn is thrilled to be part of your child's learning experience! Ms. Camryn continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Mrs Heather

  Mrs. Heather is one of our substitute teachers who helps in all the classrooms. Mrs. Heather graduated from Sacramento State University with a degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in art. She also holds a teaching credential and taught at the elementary level for 4 years. Mrs. Heather has an abundance of experience including homeschooling her three children, directing a homeschool for 11 years, and teaching kid’s ministry. She has a passion for watching the next generation grow and learn while developing relationships with the children. She enjoys getting messy with art and science lessons! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and volunteering at her church. Mrs. Heather continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Jillyan

  Ms. Jillyan is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Jillyan is currently enrolled at The University of Nevada, Reno pursuing her degree in Finance. Ms. Jillyan has experience in the education field as a tutor and loves seeing children grasp new skills! In her spare time, Ms. Jillyan enjoys spending her time with family. Ms. Jillyan is delighted to be part of The Goddard Team and creating a love of learning for children at a young age! Ms. Jillyan continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Juliana

  Ms. Julie is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Julie is currently studying pre-nursing at Truckee Meadows Community College and hopes to enter pediatric medicine. She fell in love with the infant and toddler classroom during her first year of working in child care. One of her favorite preschool moments is when she can help a baby take their first steps! Ms. Julie is excited to join The Goddard Family and creating a love for learning at a young age. Ms. Julie continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.

• Ms Macy

  Ms. Macy is a Flex Teacher who helps in all the classrooms at The Goddard School. Ms. Macy is currently transferring to the University of Nevada, Reno to study Education. Ms. Macy has experience volunteering at an elementary school and enjoys babysitting! She enjoys reading and attending concerts in her spare time. Ms. Macy is excited to bring her passion for learning and positive energy to the team. Ms. Macy continues her education through Goddard Systems University (GSU) classes. She is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Washoe County Sheriff Department.