The Goddard School of Bethesda

Bios

• Mr Michael

  Michael Pesi is the owner of The Goddard School located at 6400 Goldsboro Rd., Bethesda, MD. Michael has been happily married to his wife, Aletta, since 2012. They have a son, Michael, who graduated from The Goddard School, and a son and a daughter who currently attend The Goddard School. Michael and Aletta recognize the importance of early childhood development in a safe and nurturing learning environment, which is why they chose The Goddard School. Michael earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biology and proceeded to pursue a Master’s in Biochemistry/Toxicology at Johns Hopkins University. While at Hopkins, Michael worked at the Kennedy Krieger School researching child brain development and genetics. Michael holds a Maryland Preschool Certification as well. Most recently, Michael was a Senior Educational Consultant at Quest Advanced Learning, LLC, where he gained experience in academic coaching, educational program development, and private school and college placement requirements. Also, he was a proud member of the United States Army Reserve stationed at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC. Michael and his family are active in their community, where they participate in many charities such as the Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude's Children's Hospital and the American Cancer Society. Michael enjoys spending time with his friends and family, attending sporting events, playing music and traveling to southern Africa. “I am very proud to represent the Goddard School in Bethesda, MD. This area is rich in diverse cultures and education. These families want their children to be provided the highest level of preschool care and academic development. I am committed to ensure that this need is not only achieved, but exceeds expectations.”

• Ms Nicole

  Ms. Nicole is the Academic Director at The Goddard School of Bethesda. Ms. Nicole earned her Bachelor's Degree from Towson University and her Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling for children from Johns Hopkins University. In addition, Ms. Nicole is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. Nicole has her teaching certifications in both Infant/Toddler and Preschool, and has taught 2s, 3s, and a photography class to preschoolers. She has been in Administrative and Director roles since 2007. She came here from the Goddard School of King Farm, where she was the Academic Director for 6 years, and the Goddard School of Columbia before then. Ms. Nicole has a son and daughter who both attend The Goddard School of Bethesda. She believes that the preschool years are a wonderful age to foster a lifelong love of learning, and she is committed to facilitating a positive and enriching experience for all children and families during their time here!

• Ms Brea

  Ms. Brea has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with minors in Biology and Sociology. She has the 90- hour Infant/Toddler and Preschool certifications. Ms. Brea has been teaching since 2015. She is a preschool graduate of the Goddard School of Chester Springs, PA! Ms. Brea was a teacher at the Goddard School of Exton, PA prior to moving to the DMV area. She began working at the Goddard School of Bethesda in the Roosters classroom and was promoted to the Assistant Director role. Ms. Brea loves the children’s excitement as they explore the world around them. She is committed to providing an environment where children can learn through play and become lifelong learners.

• Ms Somia

  Ms. Somia is the Assistant Director at The Goddard School of Bethesda and has been involved in early childhood education since 2004. Born and raised in Reston, VA, she is fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification. Ms. Somia's educational philosophy is based on the belief that educators can empower their students by diversifying their teaching methods beyond traditional academics. She strongly advocates for the significance of play in learning, believing that children should explore the world around them through curiosity, love, and the joy of learning.

• Ms Ashley

  Ms. Ashley is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has her Child Development Associates (CDA) and the 90-hour Infant/Toddler certification. Ms. Ashley has been teaching since 2018 and has found the field of early childhood to be an extremely fulfilling career. Her primary aim as an educator is to lead by example, showcasing respectful behavior and a relentless enthusiasm for learning. She strives to inspire her students to be kind and empathetic and to embrace the joy of continuous growth and improvement.

• Ms Caitlin

  Ms. Caitlin is one of our Lead Teachers and she has a bachelor's degree in psychology and is trained in crisis intervention for children with disabilities. She is currently pursuing further education to become an art therapist. Ms. Caitlin has been teaching in early childhood education since 2018. Her teaching style is to teach through nurturing each child's imagination, discovery, and creativity.

• Ms Deanna

  Ms. Deanna is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the 90-hour Preschool certification. Her teaching career began in 2015, and she finds joy in her students' enthusiasm, noting their eagerness to learn and kindness towards one another. She aspires to model hard work, dedication, and compassion in her role as an educator.

• Ms Esther

  Ms. Esther is a lead teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2002 and holds a 90-hour certificate in infant and toddler care. She loves spreading positivity, kindness, and joy through her teaching.

• Ms Grace

  Ms. Grace is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and has been teaching since 2002. Ms. Grace is passionate about being a preschool teacher and enjoys being involved in the daily growth and development of her students.

• Ms Helena

  Ms. Helena is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2017 and demonstrates kindness and patience in her work. Her other passions include reading, traveling, and working on cars.

• Ms Ilyana

  Ms. Ilyana is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the 90-hour Preschool Certification and is pursuing a social work degree. Her journey in teaching began in 2019, and she was inspired by the joy her niece and nephew brought her. She is deeply passionate about her students, finding their creativity and enthusiasm a constant source of inspiration. Her students not only brighten her days but also serve as a reminder of the values she wishes to instill-respect, responsibility, and resilience.

• Ms Ismat

  Ms. Ismat is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Master of Social Sciences degree from the University of Dhaka in Bangladesh, along with Child Development Associates (CDA) certification and 90-hour certifications in Preschool and Infant/Toddler education. Born and raised in Bangladesh, Ms. Ismat moved to Maryland in 1993 with her husband. She has been teaching since 1990 and strives to model patience and compassion for the children in her care. Ms. Ismat emphasizes the importance of recognizing that everyone is unique and believes in the necessity of compassion and understanding.

• Ms Nieva

  Ms. Nieva is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2021 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and her Child Development Associate (CDA). Additionally, Ms. Nieva has a 90-hour preschool certification and is pursuing a master's degree. Ms. Nieva was born in the Philippines and moved to America in 2019. Ms. Nieva speaks Tagalog and English. She wishes to model manners and create a warm and nurturing environment.

• Ms Patricia

  Ms. Pat is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda, pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. She has a son and a daughter, the latter of whom is also a teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. With over 25 years of teaching experience, Ms. Pat cherishes the unique ways each child learns and expresses themselves. She aims to demonstrate that everyone can learn from one another. Ms. Pat believes that all feelings are important and that every child deserves to be heard and to feel valued.

• Ms Patricia

  Ms. Patricia is a Lead Preschool Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and 90-hour certifications in Preschool and Infant/Toddler education. She has been teaching since 2006. She finds joy in seeing the children's smiling faces and strives to model good manners and effective self-expression through language.

• Ms Pia

  Ms. Pia is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has her Child Development Associates (CDA), her 90-hour Infant/Toddler certification, and her 90-hour Preschool certification. She has been teaching since 2008. Ms. Pia loves how the children at the Goddard School are open to trying new tasks and meeting new people. She wishes to model joy, fun, and happiness because she believes children will become amazing people with these three qualities!

• Ms Radmila

  Ms. Radmila is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2019. Through her passion for teaching, she is dedicated to shaping each child's academic future. She firmly believes in every child's uniqueness and is committed to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, prioritizing each child's emotional well-being.

• Ms Sedatrious

  Ms. Sedatrious is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda and has the Child Development Associate (CDA) and the 90-hour Preschool and Infant/Toddler certifications. With over 40 years of teaching experience, she is deeply invested in her students' well-being and growth. Ms. Sedatrious' classroom is filled with the sound of her students' laughter and the sight of their smiles, which she cherishes. Her teaching philosophy is built on love, kindness, appreciation, and respect, and she is committed to nurturing these values in her students.

• Ms Semiaja

  Ms. Semiaja is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds her 90-hour certificate in Infant and Toddler care and has been teaching since 2015. Her love for children is evident in the way she guides them through their early learning journeys, nurturing each child's young mind and helping them feel supported and celebrated as they grow and thrive through each milestone.

• Ms Shakia

  Ms. Shakia is a Lead Preschool Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. Ms. Shakia has an associate's degree and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in community education. She has the Child Development Associates (CDA) certification and 90-hour preschool, school-age, and infant/toddler certificates. Ms. Shakia has worked in early childhood education since 2000. She loves that all children are unique, happy, and willing to learn and try new things. Ms. Shakia wishes to model positive traits in her students, such as sharing and displaying a positive attitude.

• Ms Shannon

  Ms. Shannon is the lead teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2015 and holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology, along with an associate degree in Education. She aims to model qualities for her young students, such as curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

• Mr Somtoo

  Mr. Somtoo is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He holds an Associate of Arts degree in Business and a Bachelor of Business Design from the University of Maryland. He has been teaching since 2023 and is currently pursuing the 90-hour preschool certificate. Mr. Somtoo enjoys working with preschoolers and hopes to model kindness and patience through his teaching.

• Ms Sunny

  Ms. Sunny is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has earned her 90-hour certification in infant/toddler, as well as 45-hour certifications in preschool, school-age, and growth and development. Through her teaching, she strives to model compassion for everyone.

• Ms Sydney

  Ms. Sydney is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Nevada. Ms. Sydney models empathy and kindness for her students. Her favorite aspect of teaching is witnessing the connections her students make while learning through play and new material.

• Ms Tanesha

  Ms. Tanesha is a Lead Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has both the 90-hour Preschool/Infant certifications. She has been working with young children since 2011, and she loves how the children bring brightness and happiness into her classroom each day. She also loves how curious and open they are. She wishes to model consistency, emotional support, a positive attitude, and fun! She believes that it’s important to communicate with parents and adapt to the children’s needs.

• Ms Bryanna

  Ms. Bryanna is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School in Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2023 and has always known that she wanted to be a teacher. Through her teaching, she hopes to model kindness and compassion.

• Ms Candace

  Ms. Candace is the Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2013 and is passionate about advocating for children. Although she has spent some time as a motivational speaker, her true love lies in the classroom. Ms. Candace strives to demonstrate love, honesty, kindness, creativity, and, above all, growth in her teaching.

• Ms Janelle

  Ms. Janelle is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School. She holds an associate's degree in business and has her 90-hour certification in infant/toddler care. Ms. Janelle has been teaching since 2024 and strives to inspire joy in all her students.

• Ms Jewel

  Ms. Jewel is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Performing Arts and has been teaching since 2016. Ms. Jewel believes in modeling safety and nurturing excitement while learning through play in her classroom.

• Ms Kathleen

  Ms. Kathleen, an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda, is a key figure in the institution's commitment to child development. With an impressive 27 years of expertise, including owning and operating a licensed home daycare business in Bethesda, she brings a wealth of experience to her role. Her profound joy in working with children is evident in her daily contributions to their growth and development. Ms. Kathleen's aim to model kindness, sharing, and understanding at The Goddard School of Bethesda is a testament to her commitment to the institution's values.

• Ms Megan

  Ms. Megan is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2016 and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland. In her free time, she enjoys walking and hiking outdoors.

• Mr Michael

  Mr. Michael is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda, dedicated to empowering young minds through education. He is currently pursuing a degree in computer science and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Mr. Michael began his teaching career in 2018 and has experienced countless "eureka" moments with his students, which bring him immense joy. When children grasp new concepts, it ignites a spark of curiosity and understanding within them, inspiring hope and a sense of wonder. His goal is to instill in his students the values of curiosity, resilience, and determination.

• Ms Nasirih

  Ms. Nasirah is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2022 and is currently pursuing her 90-hour infant/toddler certification. Through her teaching, Ms. Nasirah exemplifies kindness, empathy, and a sense of fun!

• Ms Shama

  Ms. Shama is a Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the University of Dhaka. She has the 90-hour Infant/Toddler certification as well. Ms. Shama is from Bangladesh and speaks fluent English and Bangla. She has been an educator since 2017 and loves working at The Goddard School of Bethesda. Her favorite part of teaching is inspiring children to do their best and promoting self-worth and individuality.

• Mr David

  Mr. David is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He has been teaching since 2013 and holds a bachelor's degree in music, as well as a 90-hour preschool teaching certificate. He is passionate about teaching children the importance of active listening skills and the value of patience.

• Mr David

  Mr. David is our Soccer Coach at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He was a professional soccer player in Guatemala and is a certified and licensed coach by the U.S. Soccer Federation. His company, High Score Soccer, has been serving children from toddlers to teenagers since 2016. Their programs and services help students develop and grow in a healthy environment by encouraging students to practice sports as part of a well-rounded life. Our Physical Education program utilizes fun clinics to support learning and play through dynamic activities demonstrating traveling, balancing, and gross-motor manipulative skills.

• Ms Havyn

  Ms. Havyn is an Assistant Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She has been teaching since 2022 and is currently completing her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Ms. Havyn is passionate about teaching and aims to model patience, perseverance, and respect for her young learners.

• Ms Katie

  Ms. Katie is a Resource Teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Education and Human Development. Since starting her teaching career in 2010, she aims to embody empathy, humor, critical thinking, kindness, and respect in her teaching.

• Ms Marlene

  Ms. Marlene is our Spanish Teacher at the Goddard School of Bethesda. She has a special place in her heart for the children and a fun way of teaching. With a Child Development Associate (CDA) and her 90-hour Preschool certification, she has been working with preschoolers since 1991. Ms. Marlene is deeply moved by the happiness and joy that the children at the Goddard School experience, and she is dedicated to modeling these positive emotions. Her teaching philosophy is centered around collaboration, a love for reading, and a willingness to share, all of which she instills in her students.

• Ms Marshay

  Ms. Marshay is an assistant teacher at The Goddard School of Bethesda. This is her first year teaching, and she is actively pursuing the 90-hour infant/toddler certification. She hopes to model kindness, respect, and independence for her students.

• Terrell

  Mr. Terelle is the Kitchen Support Chef at The Goddard School of Bethesda. He has been teaching since 2017 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Human Development, as well as a ServSafe certificate. Mr. Terelle is happy to be part of the Goddard community and hopes to demonstrate how joy can spread through simple acts of kindness.