The Goddard School of Las Vegas (South)

Bios

• Gagan

  Gagan Verma, co-owner of The Goddard Schools located in Henderson and Las Vegas (South), NV, earned his MBA from Columbia University, NYC, and a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from DCET. He also passed levels I & II of the CFA Charter. After a successful career with fortune 100 companies in risk management, corporate finance, and management consulting, he joined his wife in 2020 to operate their childcare business that aligns with their values and provides exceptional early childhood educational and developmental services for children. Mr. Verma also had the privilege of serving on the board of Spread the Word NV, the largest child literacy-related nonprofit in Nevada. He is very excited and proud to be a part of The Goddard School and is committed to providing the highest quality preschool experience for the children in this community. Mr. Verma is CPR and First Aid certified and has completed a background check with the Las Vegas Metro Police Department.

• Jyoti

  Jyoti Verma, co-owner of The Goddard Schools located in Las Vegas (South) and Henderson, NV. She has been the On-Site Owner of The Goddard School in Henderson, NV for 10 years and recipient of the respected Circle of Excellence Award. Jyoti has earned her Master of Science degree in MIS and Marketing, and a Bachelor’s degree in Arts (Economics Major). She was always passionate about children, education, and community hence, wanted her life-work to crystallize around those three focal points. She’s excited to operate a business that plays an important role in the community by providing exceptional service for children and that is centered on her most important priority—family. Ms. Jyoti is proud to be a part of The Goddard School and is committed to providing the highest quality preschool experience for the children in the community.

• Gia

  Gia is originally from Granada Hills, California. She’s been rocking the Early Childhood Education world since 2000! She earned her AA in Early Childhood Education from CSN and her BA in Business Administration from NSC—bringing a perfect mix of heart and hustle to everything she does. She works in the field because “You deserve to go to work each day and be happy! I always say we have the best families, faculty, and facilities.” When she’s not in the office, you’ll find her spending time with her family, at sporting events, or shopping on amazon! Some of Gia’s favorite things? Mexican food, pizza, dips, and coffee. Green is her go-to color—full of life, luck, and a touch of magic! Fun Fact: I have been to Nicaragua twice to rebuild a school and serve children, it was life-changing!”

• Jen

  Jen is originally from Seattle, Washington. She earned her associate’s degree in early childhood education from CSN and has been nurturing little learners in the ECE field since 2012, bringing years of experience and a whole lot of heart to her work! She works in the field because “I love seeing children learn, grow, and reach new goals!” When she’s not in the office, you can find her reading, crafting, or spending time with her family and friends. A few of Jen’s favorite things? Coffee, tacos, pineapple, and Mr. Goodbar. Her favorite color is orange—the bright burst of sunshine and energy! Fun Fact: “My grandpa played football for the 49ers!”

• Crystal

  Crystal is originally from Worthington, Minnesota. She started her journey in Early Childhood Education back in 2012. With her CDA already in hand, she’s currently expanding her skills by pursuing her Early Childhood Education degree at CSN—always eager to learn and grow! She works in the field because “I believe those first few years of life are so important! I love watching the children learn and grow.” When she’s not in the office, you can find her spending time with her family or reading. Some of Crystal’s favorite things? Poke, Dr. Pepper, and Reese Cups. Yellow is her happy color—it’s like a little burst of joy wherever it goes! Fun Fact: “I’m an avid reader!”

• Samantha

  Sam is originally from Camden, Delaware. She has been working in the field of early childhood education since 2013 and is currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education at CSN, committed to advancing her knowledge and skills to better support her students. She works in the field because “I want to better tomorrow’s youth and I love their bright smiles!” When she’s not in the office, you can find her reading, or traveling, or spending time with her family. Some of Sam’s favorite things? Nachos, coffee, sour gummy worms, and Doritos. She loves the color pink—the perfect mix of soft and sassy! Fun Fact: “I was the last baby born in Delaware, in 1989.”

• Alesea

  Alesea is originally from Westerly, Rhode Island. She gained early experience in the field by helping run a preschool program at her high school, sparking her passion for working with young children. She teaches because "I love kids and would like more practice working with different age groups." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her traveling, going on cruises, and spending her time with her family and pets. Some of Alesea's favorite things? Pizza, Mango Snapple, and a variety of chips. Her favorite color is pink- bright and cheerful. Fun Fact: "I have visited Australia."

• Alyah

  Alyah is originally from Orange County, California. She has several years of experience working with toddlers in a preschool setting and loves helping little ones learn and grow through play. Alyah teaches because "I love seeing how kids get excited when learning something new and being able to make their day by teaching them!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with her family including her two daughters. Some of Alyah's favorite things? Seafood boil, Dr. Pepper, and Hot Cheetos. Puprle is her go-to color, vibrant and totally her vibe. Fun Fact: "I love dancing!"

• Charlene

  Charlene is originally from the Big Island, Hawaii. With an Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Family and Education under her belt, she's spent 20+ years joyfully supporting families and their tiny humans. She teaches because "working with young children and families is my passion!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her reading books, watching movies, or playing card games. Some of Charlene's favorite things? Yard House Poke Nachos, Mango Smoothies from Tropical Smoothie, and chocolate! The color magenta lights up her world with its vibrant, joyful energy. Fun Fact: "I've visited the Smithsonian in Washington, DC."

• Evelyn

  Evelyn is originally from Los Angeles, California. Freshly graduated with her Associates of Arts in Early Childhood Education from CSN, she's excited to put her skills and passion into action. She teaches to "show children that learning can be fun!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her crocheting, reading, drawing, or going to concerts. Some of Evelyn's favorite things? Vietnamese food, lavender rose tea, and popcorn. She loves the cool contrast of the colors rich black and sweet, soothing lavender. Fun Fact: "I was born on New Year's Day!"

• Hayley

  Hayley is originally from North Carolina but moved all around growing up a child of the military. She has experience working with toddlers and preschoolers in early childhood education, where she enjoys supporting young learners' growth and discovery. She teaches because "I like to help kids realize their full potential and give them a safe space to do that." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her doing something art-related, learning the guitar or reading a book! Some of Hayley's favorite things? Orange chicken, Pepsi, Kinder Bueno, and any type of chip. Her favorite colors are dark green, and dark red- a rich, cozy combo that matches her warm and grounded personality! Fun Fact: "I have practiced art mediums since I was nine years old."

• Addyson

  Addy is originally from Phoenix, Arizona. She is a recent addition to the early childhood education community but brings two years of student teaching with her and is eager to learn and grow. She teaches because “It’s an amazing feeling to watch the kids learn and grow!” When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll find her spending time with her family or doing her own nails. A few of Addy’s favorite things? Tacos, Baja Blast & Mountain Dew, and Cheez-It’s. She loves the calm, gentle shade of light blue. Fun Fact: “I used to be in the color guard in high school!”

• Areli

  Areli is originally from Modesto, California but lived in Mexico for ten years and Washington state for six years. She has a degree in special education and has one year of hands-on experience in early childhood education. She teaches because “to make a difference in students’ lives by cultivating in them a love for learning and self-improvement.” When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her cooking, hiking, reading, or spending time with her family. Some of Areli’s favorite things? Costco pizza, lemonade, any type of Mexican candy, and her favorite colors are the bright, sunny yellow and the sweet, vibrant pink. Fun Fact: “I went to college in Mexico!”

• Ashlynn

  Ashlynn is originally from Hilo, Hawaii. She has five years of experience in early childhood education and is enthusiastic about pursuing further education soon. She teaches because "children are a joy, when I see them learning it makes me feel happy to have been a part of that little moment!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with her family, shopping, traveling, trying new restaurants, or reading a book. Some of Ashlynn's favorite things? Arizona green tea, beef jerky, sunflower seeds, and Poke! Blue and yellow are her go to colors- cool, cheerful, and full of life. Fun Fact: "I'm a huge fan of Disney! We go to Disneyland at least twice a year but Disney World is my favorite!"

• Katryna

  Katryna is originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado. She brings three years of experience in early childhood education, having operated an in-home daycare before relocating to Nevada. She teaches because "I love to witness students growing and learning. I love the fulfillment of helping children overcome challenges." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with her family, singing karaoke, hiking, or playing outside with her kids. Some of Katryna's favorite things? Chinese food, Sprite, and sweet potato fries with ranch. Purple is her favorite color- a vibrant shade full of creativity and fun! Fun Fact: "I have been Hula dancing since I was three years old!"

• Kayla

  Kayla is originally from Las Vegas, Nevada. She is new to early childhood education and brings fresh energy to the classroom. A proud graduate of Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts, she is currently pursuing her degree at the College of Southern Nevada. She teaches because "I want to inspire the next generation of learners." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her dancing, cooking, journaling or painting. She's also an avid gym enthusiast. Some of Kayla's favorite things? Poke, wings, tacos, popcorn, pickles, and Dr. Pepper. She loves the color blue- it reminds her of peaceful skies and endless possibilities. Fun Fact: "I'm a vocal performer throughout the Valley. I have had the opportunity to sing opera at Michael Jackson's former residency and a pop-up performer for Fox 5 Productions."

• Malaya

  Crown is originally from Portland, Oregon. She has worked with children for the past three years and is currently pursing a degree in English Education to further her passion for teaching and literacy. Crown teaches because "I believe every child has the right to explore their curiosities." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her either spending time with her friends, or pets or reading a book. Some of Crown's favorite things? Kimchi Jjigae, bug juice, and turtle chips. Her favorite colors? Pink and green- the perfect mic of sweet and fresh! Fun Fact: "My favorite book is Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky."

• Symia

  Symia is originally from Compton, California. She is a recent addition to the early childhood education community and is eager to learn and grow. Symia teaches because "I have had a handful of amazing teachers who understood me and helped me get to where I am now, I would like to be that for other children." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her at the gym, or painting, or hanging out with friends. Some of Symia's favorite things? French fries with Hidden Valley ranch, Tostitos Salsa Verde chips, and Arizona Half Tea-Half Lemonade. She loves all the colors- pink, green, red, orange, brown, and yellow but pink totally steals the show as her all-time favorite! Fun Fact: "I learned how to do hair, nails and lashes growing up and would do all my friends' and families'."

• Symphanie

  Xavier is originally from Oxnard, California. They've got hands-on experience tutoring kids from kindergarten through 6th grade and are pumped to bring the best teaching practices into early childhood education. Plus, they've got plans to head to UNLV for Film School. They teach because "I believe in helping the youth reach their full potential because they are the future." When they are not in the classroom, you'll find them playing video games like Overwatch, Minecraft, and Animal Crossing. A few of Xavier's favorite things? Mac and cheese, root beer, and salt and vinegar chips. They're all about the color black- simple, bold, and a little mysterious. Fun Fact: "I love anime: my favorites are JJK, Bungo, Straydogs, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Fire Force."

• Thomas

  Thomas is originally from California. He is a recent addition to the early childhood education community and is eager to learn and grow. He teaches because "I want to shape young minds, to help them start on the right path to success." When he's not in the classroom, you can find him relaxing and spending time with his family, or going to see new movies. Some of Thomas' favorite things? Pizza, iced sweet tea, hot Funyuns, and Turbos. He loves the color green- fresh, calm, and full of good energy. Fun Fact: "I dislike raw tomatoes but love tomato sauce!"

• Tina

  Tina is originally from Los Angeles, California. She brings six years of hands-on experience teaching and caring for young children and is currently working toward her degree in Early Childhood Education- always eager to learn and grow alongside her students. She teaches because "I love seeing children grow and learn new things!" When she's not in the classroom, you'll find her spending time with her family, especially her nephew. A few of Tina's favorite things? Raising Cane's, In-N-Out, hot Cheetos, and strawberry lemonade. Her favorite color is Lavender, the perfect mix of calm and charm! Fun Fact: "I love shopping!"

• Amber

  Amber is originally from Missouri. She is a recent addition to the early childhood education community and is eager to learn and grow. Amber teaches because "I teach so I can help make a better world for the future." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her spending time with friends, family, or her adorable rescue pup! Some of Amber's favorites? Cane's chicken tenders, Cheez-It's, and coke. Her favorite color is bright, happy yellow- just like her personality! Fun Fact: "I recently rescued a dog that has become a big part of my life, his name is Bear."

• Ave

  Ave is originally from Honolulu, Hawaii. She is a recent addition to the early childhood education community and is eager to learn and grow. She teaches because "I want to participate in developing curious minds and ambitious individuals." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her watching films and tv, spending time with her dog, collecting CDs, or playing drums. Some of Ave's favorite things? Adobo, Calamansi juice, and Reese Cups. The colors burnt orange and dark blue- bold, cozy, and calm. Fun Fact: "I can solve the Rubik's cube in under one minute!"

• Brycelyn

  Brycelyn is originally from Oahu, Hawaii. She has a growing background in early childhood education and is excited to continue learning and expanding her skills. Brycelyn teaches because "I enjoy being part of young children's life to help them grow!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her painting, hanging out with her nephews, or going to the beach! Some of Brycelyn's favorite things? Sushi, pasta, chocolate chip cookies, Arizona Tea and Mountain Dew. She's all about calming lavender and vibrant teal- colors that match her warm and creative spirit! Fun Fact: "I love dolphins and butterflies."

• Faith

  Faith is originally from Corona, California. She is currently working on her degree in elementary education and brings hands-on experience from the world of early childhood education. She's no stranger to little learners and loves helping them grow every step of the way! She teaches because "I enjoy working with children helping them to learn and grow." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her painting, or drawing- she loves art. Some of Faith's favorite things? Mexican food, sour gummy worms, and Coke. Red is her go-to color- confident, lively, and full of heart. Fun Fact: "I used to scuba five, the deepest depth I have reaches was 120 feet!"

• Kerra

  Kerra is originally from Denver, Colorado. She is a recent addition to the early childhood education community and is eager to learn and grow. She teaches because "I enjoy being able to give children the option of enjoying school!" When she's not in the classroom, you can find her reading and watching films with her friends. Some of Kerra's favorite things? Sushi, Matcha, and jalapeno chips. Her favorite colors are green and yellow- bright, happy, and full of good energy. Fun Fact: "I have had every hair color in the rainbow!"

• Makaila

  Makaila is originally from Burnsville, Minnesota. She brings hands-on experience in early childhood education and is currently continuing her studies online to grow her knowledge even further. Makaila teaches because "I love to watch children's minds expand and grow into the person they are going to be." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her reading a book or playing with her guinea pigs. Some of Makaila's favorite things? Sushi, Gatorade, and popcorn. She's all about the color green- fresh, fun, and full of life! Fun Fact: "I am the youngest of four siblings."

• Natasha

  Natasha is originally from Orcas Island, Washington. She brings ten years of experience working with neurodivergent children and holds a bachelor's degree in both sociology and psychology, making her a pro at understanding big feelings and bright minds! She teaches because "I enjoy helping children feel seen, understood, and capable while having fun, playing, and supporting them as they grow into the best versions of themselves." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her reading, painting, or spending time in nature. A few of Natasha's favorite things? Salads, water, and fruit. She's drawn to the color yellow, the color of sunshine, smiles, and good energy. Fun Fact: "I grew up on a small island with no traffic lights, nothing commercial, and it is only accessible by ferry boat!"

• Sherry

  Sherry is originally from Fresno, California. She brings a few years of early childhood education experience, has a background as an esthetician. She teaches because “I truly just enjoy working with children.” When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her playing tennis or golf and reading. Some of Sherry’s favorite things? Spaghetti, Mexican food, sparkling water, and watermelon. She loves the bold energy of the color orange and the classic depth of navy blue. Fun Fact: “I’m a world traveler!”

• Sydney

  Sydney was born in Naperville, Illinois, but raised in Henderson, Nevada. She is currently working on her early childhood education and theater degree simultaneously. She is new to the early childhood education field and teaches because "I want to give children a fun and safe space to be themselves." In her spare time, she likes hanging out with her family and friends, attending concerts, and seeing live performances. She likes to sing and dance! Her favorites include mac and cheese, Dr. Pepper, and Cheez-It's; her favorite color is blue. Fun Fact- "I have 5 cats and 1 dog!"

• Tamala

  Tammy is originally from New Orleans, Louisiana. She's been in the early childhood education community since 2012- over a decade of guiding tiny hands and big imaginations. She teaches because "I believe children are a joy to work with because they are funny, loving, and a pleasure to be around." When she's not busy lighting up the classroom, you'll find her surrounded by her family; she's not just a mom but also a proud grandmother! She loves cooking up delicious meals, and hosting fun-filled game nights that keep everyone laughing! A few of Tammy's favorite things? Coke, popcorn, chips, and shrimp. The color yellow has her heart- cheerful, bold, and always bringing the brightness! Fun Fact: "I love making new things out of old things."

• Victoria

  Victoria is originally from Flagstaff, Arizona. She brings a few years of early childhood education experience, has a background in babysitting, and is currently pursuing a Psychology degree from UNLV - mixing heart, and smarts, and plenty of care to help little learners thrive. She teaches because "I love to watch the kids learn and grow." When she's not in the classroom, you can find her baking cakes and cookies in the kitchen! Some of Victoria's favorite things? Goldfish crackers, tacos, and green tea. She's all about the bold color red- warm, powerful, and impossible to miss. Fun Fact: "I have five siblings!"