The Goddard School of Arvada (Ward Road)

Bios

• Dan & Andi

  Dan and Andi Resnick are the owners of The Goddard School off of Ward Road in Arvada. Andi graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in Anthropology and received her Masters in Special Education from Metropolitan State University. Dan graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in Psychology. Dan worked in Denver as an Analyst and Investor Relations Specialist for a financial firm called Braddock Financial. He left his financial career in Downtown Denver to pursue his passion in bringing a high-quality early education school to the Arvada area. As parents to their young children, Finnley and Rian, Dan and Andi understand the importance of how high-quality curriculum and strong social integrations influence the positive development of their children. They are excited to be able to bring a high-end preschool to Arvada and the surrounding area! Dan and Andi look forward to welcoming you to the Goddard family!

• Chelsey

  Hello, my name is Chelsey Ott, and I am the Director at the Goddard School of Arvada (Ward Rd). My journey in education began at Iowa State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. After graduating, I took on a Program Coordinator role at University Community Childcare in Ames, where I had the privilege of working for 10 years. In that position, I collaborated with families, teachers, board members, university personnel, and interns to create a welcoming, inclusive, and productive environment for everyone involved. I now live in Denver with my husband, Dr. Logan Ott, and our four children Annalise, Atlas, Alec, and Ainsley. I am deeply passionate about fostering a supportive, engaging, and nurturing learning environment for each child and their family. My top priority is to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and valued, and that they are given every opportunity to reach their full potential.

• Nick

  Hello! My name is Nick Kays and I am an Assistant Director here at Goddard. I graduated from George Mason University with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Science in 2021. Post-graduation, my experience in Early Childhood Education began as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher here for three years. After my time as a teacher, I worked as an Assistant Director in Jefferson County Public School’s SAE program at Kyffin Elementary for a year and a half, and I am so excited to now be back at Goddard as an Assistant Director! I truly enjoy working in the field of Early Childhood Education and have developed a passion for guiding students to develop a love of learning through a positive and fun educational environment. I look forward to directing this passion toward the continual development of our school!

• Ahnna

  Hi my name is Ahnna, and I have worked in childcare since 2021, I love working with kids and have a son of my own. I am from Washington state and love to travel and travel back home twice a year. I look forward to meeting you all and watching your children grow.

• Allison

  Hi my name is Allie, I started education at the Head Start in Arvada. I believe children are the future and their education should be nourished. I am a mom of a 6 year old, we love listening to music together. We are foodies and love trying new things! I also enjoy spending time in the mountains with family. We stay very busy, as we have 5 dogs and a Guinea pig.

• Ana

  Hi My name is Ana Hernandez and I am 22 yrs old, I was born in Tijuana, Mexico, but grew up in Colorado. I am a certified Medical Assistant with my associates degree. I worked in pediatrics before coming to Goddard, and I have always loved working with children. I love being outdoors and going on adventures. I love furthering my education in anything that I am doing, and I am excited to further my knowledge in education with Goddard.

• Brianna

  Hello my name is Brianna Brill, I am 20 years old and go by Bri. I am one of the teachers in the Toddler 1 classroom. I started working with children when I was 17 years old, and also have 7 younger siblings. In my free time, I like to hang out with my family, dogs and my boyfriend.

• Brianna

  Hi I am Bree and I am a teacher in the Pre-Kindergarten 2 classroom! I previously worked at a Montessori preschool, and have been around kids my entire life. I have love teaching and watching my students grow! I want to continue my education as a childhood educator and hope to be an elementary teacher one day. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, taking care of my plants, and doing art!

• Brittany

  Hi my name is Brittany, I am the new Assistant Director here at Goddard. I have worked here since they opened in 2021. I started as a Pre-Toddler teacher and then moved on to become the Junior K teacher. I graduated from Arizona State University, with an Elementary and Special Education degree in 2012. I also received a degree from ASU in Nutrition in 2021. On March 13th 2023, I gave birth to my beautiful boy Owen. I am so thankful to have him with me at Goddard every day. Working with children has always been my passion. I started working with children when I was 14 as a babysitter. I have nannied, worked for the public school system as a kindergarten and second grade teacher. I even worked as a kindergarten through third grade pod teacher during COVID. I feel incredibly blessed to be able to work for Goddard. It is such a wonderful school. I love animals and hope to live on a farm one day where I can own chickens, goats and horses with my own garden.

• Cassandra

  Hello my name is Cassie and I am the Director of Operations. I have 3 children of my own, Jacob 21, Kolton 12, and Rella 10, and two fur babies, Rasta and Journey. We enjoy spending time outside hiking in the flatirons and going to theaters watching new movies that were just released. I recently received my Directors Certificate through Front Range Community College and plan on finishing my degree in ECE in the near future.

• Catherine

  Hi! My name is Catherine, but everyone calls me Cat. I have 2 wonderful dogs, who I love being around. I have been in childcare for over year and absolutely love watching the children in our room grow! Music is a huge part of my life, and I love having music time with the kiddos. I look forward to being a part of your child's education.

• Chelsey

  I started working in early childhood education in 2018, and have had the privilege of being an educator ever since. I have primarily worked with children between the ages of 1-3 throughout my career. My favorite part about teaching is watching children hit different milestones, whether it's kicking their first ball or learning to regulate their emotions. I love watching them learn and grow. When I'm not at work, you can find me at a concert or cuddled up watching a movie with my cat.

• Cori

  Hello everyone! My name is Ms. Cori. I grew up in Colorado, the mountains are my happy place! I started working in childcare a few years ago in a before and after school program. I love practicing self care and spending time with my family. Reading is one of my favorite hobbies! I chose this field because my grandma was a teacher. I look forward to meeting you!

• Cyan

  Hello, my name is Cyan! I am a teacher in the Preschool 2 classroom. A little about me: I love being outdoors; hiking, camping, and paddleboarding! I am big reader so most of the time you can see me relaxing with a book and an ice coffee! My future goal is to get my master’s in counseling and work in a school setting. I hope to grow my skills with younger children to older youth!

• Danielle

  Hello, my name is Danielle and I am one of the floats. I was a nanny for a year before coming to Goddard. I am a native to Colorado, where I enjoy going to the mountains and paddle boarding on free time. I am a mother to a baby boy and also have a 13 year old son.

• Dietra

  Hi! My name is Dietra. I am the mother of 2 amazing boys. Oliver is 9 and Owen is 6. I am a Colorado native and enjoy hiking the Rocky Mountains, reading and relaxing by the pool. I was a stay at home mom for 9 years and during that time I worked as a birth doula. I have a passion for helping mothers birth their babies. Recently I entered the ECE world and truly enjoy working with kids and being a part of their growth.

• Iana

  Hey yall! My name is Ms. Iana! I am one of the teachers here in the Infant Room. I have been working with children for about 4 years now. I started with volunteering at my church and have been at Goddard since June of 2022. I was born in Ukraine, but have been in Colorado for as long as I can remember. I love anything that has to do with Jesus, coffee, and the outdoors. During my free time, you can find me going on spontaneous drives to the mountains, camping, or staying inside with a cup of coffee watching Gilmore Girls. Each day is an adventure for me, filled with meaningful moments and a deep appreciation for Gods creation. I absolutely love my job here and I am excited to watch your kiddos learn and grow here at Goddard.

• Izzabell

  Hi! My name is Izzy and I am a mom to an amazing little boy. I have worked in early childhood for a couple years and am excited to be at The Goddard School! When I am not here, you can find me playing with my son or playing video games. I'm excited to get to know you're kids and help them grow to their greatest potential.

• Jamie

  Hi, my name is Jamie Cliburn and I am a native of Colorado. I was born in Denver and a native to Lakewood. I have been happily married to my husband Shawn for 14 years. We have two children. Zack, who is 12, and Cheyenne, who is 7. My family is my life. I have worked in childcare for a little over 20 years. My favorite age group is infants. I look forward to meeting you and your littles.

• Jennifer

  Hello! My name is Jennifer, but you can either call me Jenny or Jen. I have one beautiful daughter Naia and love spending time with her. I love going to music shows and festivals in my free time, so there is never a day without music!

• Kaleah

  Hi! I'm Leah, I used to work in Preschool 2 for about 2 years before I took a break for 9 months. After realizing how much I miss the kiddos. I'm back and ecstatic to be working with you and your families in PreK 2!

• Kristen (Rylee)

  Hi! I'm Rylee! I am 26 years old and have been in education for over 3 years. I recently started teaching the preschool age about a year and a half ago. I have an associates degree in Theatre Performance and Elementary Education. I love to dance, and grew up as an avid tap dancer. My hobbies include sewing costumes and attending anime/ comic conventions. I love yellow redbulls! Lastly, I love my family. I'm married to my husband Liam, and live with Devin, Leeroy, Alex, and our animals.

• Larien

  I'm pretty boring. I play video games, read, draw, and do my makeup. Other than that I stay at home with my fiance and help take care of the two cats. I love animals and kids so much! My family has 9 animals combined. I've been babysitting since I was 10 years old and would love to continue to teach kids. Not much else to say, my favorite color is blue and I love Disney.

• Madalayne

  Hi! My name is Maddie and I am one of the teachers in the JRK classroom. I’ve been working with kids since 2022 and love watching the kids learn and grow. Outside of work, I love, music, going to concerts, reading and knitting.

• Madisyn

  My name is Madisyn, I am 21 years old. I am one of the teachers in the Toddler 2 and love helping these little ones grow! I enjoy cooking, taking care of my reptiles, fish, and dogs, as well as spending time with my family. I was born and raised in Colorado. I love spending weekends outdoors in Boulder or anywhere in the Mountains!

• Paige

  Hi my name is Paige, I have been in childcare for a little over a year. I am a musician and songwriter outside of work. I ma also starting school for language interpretation. I am looking forward to teaching your kids and making memories.

• Sarah

  Hi my name is Sarah, I am one of the teachers in the Preschool 1 classroom. I graduated in 2010 with a Fine Art degree with a minor in education from Metropolitan State College of Denver. I worked with preschool since 2002 and decided after graduating that my heart was for preschoolers. I actually started teaching at my church when I was 13. I have been married since 2010 with 3 kids. When I have free time I like to paint. I love to sing and I am known to make up songs. I also have a corny since of humor, which I have passed down to my kids (I feel bad for their teachers). I am still active in my church by singing and teaching. My favorite children's book is "There is a monster at the end of this book!" My favorite game when I was a kid was Sorry or Uno. My favorite kid song is "Twinkle twinkle little star." I love working with kids and never know when they are going to surprise me. I am glad to be working with such a great school that works together and feels like family.

• Shea

  Hi, my name is Shea Blackman! I have worked with children since I was 14 through babysitting and moved on to big group childcare in May of 2023. Outside of work I love chopping it up with my friends, spending time with my dog, fishing, and kayaking.

• Sofiya

  Hi! I'm Sofiya, I am 26 years young. I was born in Ukraine and raised in Colorado. I love spending time with family. I am a really good cook, and I can also speak 3 languages! For fun, I love to go hiking, shopping.

• Tamara

  Hi my name is Tammy, and I am the Kitchen support staff. I have been in this industry for over 10 years. I love meeting your children and helping provide nutritious food. I love when I walk in a classroom, and they are excited to see me and excited to see what I have brought them to eat. They always want to give me a High 5! I look forward to meeting you and all your sweet kiddos.

• Abigail

  Hi, my name is Abbie. I am a teacher in the PK2 classroom. I grew up in Boulder and was a dancer through high school. I previously worked at a dance studio as well as traveled the U.S. teaching high school dancers. I find so much joy in teaching and connecting with young kids! In my free time, I love to travel and hang out with friends and family.

• Alex

  Hi, my name is Alex and I am one of the infant teachers here at the Goddard School. I have been nannying and baby sitting since I was in middle school, and used to teach ballet to kids 2 to 6 years old. I graduated from Auburn University in 2022 with a degree in Apparel and Merchandise. My favorite things are dancing, fashion, the outdoors, and of course the kiddos!

• Amy

  I'm a wife and mom of two wonderful children. I've taught in childcare/ preschool for over a decade. I have received my BA degree in secondary social science from UNC in Greely. Not only do I enjoy nurturing and taking care of children, I also enjoy houseplants and garden vegetables and flowers. I've always wanted to be a teacher and feel lucky that I am able to work and connect with children each day.

• Miss Annalise

  Hi! My name is Annalise. I am a support staff here at Goddard. I am a junior in high school. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with loved ones and listening to music. I hope to work in the classrooms in August once I turn 16. My favorite part of working at Goddard is seeing all the kids smiles, as well as how welcoming the staff and families are.

• Jordin

  Hi, my name is Jordin. I was born in Denver, Colorado. I have a twin bother, as well as an older brother. I have 2 cats named Pickles and Pepper, and a dog named Peaches. I have always had the passion to educate, support and experience growth within the children and classroom. I have taken a few college courses towards my education degree and I intend on continuing my education. In my free time, I love to make art; painting, pottery and drawing. My interest includes astrology, cooking, traveling and just relaxing! I am looking forward to getting to know you all.

• Libby

  Hi! My name is Libby and I am a teacher in the infant room. I just moved to Colorado from Montana. I have been working with children for about 5 years. My favorite thing about working with children is seeing them reach new milestones and learn new things! My favorite things to do outside of work include yoga, hiking, and being around loved ones!

• Mckena

  Hi! I am Momo. I have been a teacher for about a year and a half. I was an art teacher at boys and girls club, before I came here. Art is a huge passion of mine. And so is coffee. My favorite thing about teaching is seeing all the little milestones. There is nothing quite as rewarding.

• Raygen

  Hi! My name is Raygen! I am one of the teachers in the Pre-k 1 classroom. I have been working with kids from 8 month to 12 years old, since I was 13 years old. I love watching your little ones learn new things and grow, as this is a highlight of my day. In my free time you can either find me reading or outside. I have 4 younger siblings and have and still enjoy watching them grow.

• Yhadira

  Hi, my name is Yhadira and I'm from Peru. I came to Colorado two years ago. I love its climate and mountains. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education thanks to my scholarship from the Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University, and since my second year of college, I've worked in various schools, daycares, and NGO's. I enjoy creating lessons and activities where children have fun. I love painting with watercolors, hiking and eating my favorite food, ceviche.

• Kiona

  Hi my name is Kiona. I have worked with kids for 8 years. I love working with kids. I have a toddler of my own. I am a very creative person. I love to do anything that involves art. I enjoy spending my time outdoors in the sunshine. I'm very bubbly and love to socialize.