The Goddard School of Skokie (Evanston/ Wilmette)

Bios

• Andrew & Mary Fratini

  Hello, we are Andrew and Mary Fratini, proud owners of the NAEYC Accredited Goddard School® located in Skokie, Illinois. We are thrilled to be able to provide The Goddard School’s outstanding program to the children and families in the North Shore. Andrew is a graduate of The University of Dayton with a degree in Electronic Media. Before opening The Goddard School, Andrew spent his career in the healthcare industry working as a Director of Client Success for a healthcare software company. Mary graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Finance before working in sales and event marketing for eighteen years. Recognizing the need and demand for a high quality alternative to daycare, we decided to open the Goddard School in August of 2016. Very simply our mission is to offer families the absolute best preschool for early childhood development. We are also committed to providing an eco-friendly environment for our students and are proud to be offering an organic food program. We invite your family to visit our beautiful, NAEYC Accredited school in Skokie. We are excited to introduce you to our incredible faculty, including our Executive Director and Assistant Directors of Education and Operations, and look forward to talking with you about The Goddard School’s play-based curriculum. Thank you for the opportunity to share in your child's growth!

• Arianna

  Arianna has an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Studies-Administration, Management, and Leadership with a Professional Educator's License in K-2nd grade, and endorsements in ESL and Special Education. Arianna is responsible for everything relating to education, curriculum, staff development and child development. She comes to The Goddard School with over 10 years' experience teaching and leading programs. "I believe that children grow and nourish in a positive and engaging environment. Our role as early childhood educators is to guide children through their discovery of the world around them by providing meaningful and interesting experiences. I believe that communication is a key factor in the success of a child and therefore encourage those lines to be open between myself, the teachers and parents."

• Jene'

  Jene’ has been actively involved with Early Childhood Education for the past 26 years. Prior to joining The Goddard School in Skokie in 2017, Ms. Jene’ spent 8 years at The Goddard School in Round Lake, IL., first as a lead Pre-K teacher and then as a Director Designee. Jene’ believes that every child is unique and can learn at their own pace. As early childhood educators, she believes that teachers should make learning fun for the children and the children will succeed. Jene’ has her CDA in Early Childhood Education and her Bachelor’s Degree from Rasmussen University. Her favorite children’s book is Please Mr. Panda and in her free time, Jene’ enjoys cooking, going to movies, spending time with family and friends and making crafts.

• Julie

  Julie has been actively involved with Early Childhood Education over the past two decades. She has had the privilege of working with children ranging from 6 weeks through 6 years. She is thrilled to a part of The Goddard School and she looks forward to encouraging a sense of wonder and exploration within each child, as their world unfolds. Julie loves nature, photography, sports and cultural arts. She is inspired as she witnesses her own 3 children, her grandchildren and her students grow and change, each different, and special in their own unique way. Julie believes learning is a lifelong adventure. She is enriched as she sees children begin on their journey with their eyes, minds, hearts and souls open ready to learn and discover.

• Allison

  Allison is from Chicago and has her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Elmhurst College. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Allison worked as a lead teacher at a Preschool in Park Ridge. Allison believes that each child has the ability to learn and it’s up to teachers to inspire and influence a love of learning for years to come. Her goal is to instill a love of books and reading in all children. Allison’s favorite kids book is Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds. In her free time, Allison enjoys hiking, being outdoors and completing puzzles.

• Caitlin

  Caitlin is from Chicago and joins our team as a Lead Teacher. She is obtained her Elementary Education Degree from Northeastern Illinois University. Caitlin has experience working at Chicago Public Schools and as a Nanny. Caitlin believes that young children are like sponges and are constantly learning. “I believe in having a strong foundation and safe classroom environment for children to grow.” Her favorite children’s book is Harry Potter. In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys reading, spending time with her family, exercising and being outdoors.

• Darris

  Darris brings over 14 years of Early Childhood Experience to The Goddard School. She has her Child Development Associate Credential and is currently working towards her degree. Darris believes that every child learns through exploring and play. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping, traveling and going to the movies. Her favorite book is The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. Darris is very excited to be a part of The Goddard School!

• Debi

  Debi is from Buffalo Grove and has over 29 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Debi has her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential and at one point ran her own in home program for over 13 years. Debi believes that every child’s needs are different. It is important for her to form meaningful relationships with each child and family as it ensures her ability to guide them in a way that is most beneficial to them. Her favorite children’s book is “I Love You Forever”. In her spare time, Debi enjoys reading, walking and playing the piano.

• Deena

  Deena is from Chicago and is currently working towards her CDA for Infants and Toddlers. She worked in a preschool for a child development while in high school and was a Nanny prior to working here at Goddard. Deena believes that creating a learning environment where the children feel encouraged to express themselves is very important. Her goal is to engage children in activities that are safe, fun and create a positive learning environment. Deena’s favorite book is Corduroy By Don Freeman. In her spare time, she likes to take her dog to the dog park, watch movies and spend time with her family.

• Elisa

  Elisa is from Chicago and has her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Concordia University. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Elisa worked in an Early Childhood Center in River Forest. Elisa believes that no child is the same as another. We should take the time to understand them as individual children and offer them a safe and fun learning educational environment. Elisa’s favorite children’s book is The Three Little Pigs. In her spare time, she enjoys playing sports, drawing, dancing and singing.

• Elizabeth

  Liz is from Niles, IL and is working on her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential from Oakton Community College. Liz believes that children are curious and learn through hands on experience. She feels that play is important as it is through play that children learn about everyday situations. Her favorite books are Good Night Moon and If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. In her spare time, Liz loves to read mystery novels, swim in oceans and at water parks, ride horses and go on road trips!

• Emely

  Emely lives in Des Plaines and has her Associate Degree in Early Child Development from Truman College. She has a passion for working with children and wanted to become a teacher to be a part of children’s lives. Emely believes that every child is important and unique. “No child should ever feel less than or not a part of a group. Children are all so special in many ways. Children need our attention and love.” Emely’s favorite book is Pete The Cat: I Love My White Shoes. In her spare time, Emely enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, going shopping and watching movies.

• Emily

  Emily joins us with her Bachelor’s degree in early childhood special education from Loyola University of Chicago. She has experience working with Pre-K and school aged children as a Lead teacher. Emily believes that children are like sponges. They learn through their environment and people in their surroundings. “As a teacher I believe it is our role to facilitate and implement engaging activities that will foster positive, meaningful experiences”. Emily enjoys all books written by Mo Willems, with Knuffle Bunny. In her spare time, she enjoys PC Gaming, Lego building and watching movies.

• Jason

  Jason is from Park Ridge and has his Associates of Science degree from Lincoln College and is currently taking courses at National Louis University for his Bachelors’ Degree. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Jason worked at various early childcare centers, working as a Twos and Young Preschool teacher. Jason believes that children learn through their daily experiences. “Play is a very important part of a child’s life. Children learn how to problem solve and develop socially by interacting with other children and teachers. His favorite children’s book is “Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes”. In his spare time, Jason enjoys rollerblading, listening to music, going to concerts and playing video games.

• Kelly

  Kelly is from Northbrook, IL and has her Bachelors’ Degree in Marketing from Roosevelt University. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Kelly worked at the Northbrook Park District for 8 years with children preschool through school age. Kelly believes all children should be provided with a positive learning environment that allows them to play and explore. Kelly’s goal is to provide a comfortable classroom setting for each individual student. Her favorite book is Pete The Cat. In her spare time, Kelly loves to cook (not bake), spend time with her family and friends and play with her German Shepard puppy.

• King

  King is from Chicago, IL and has his CDA Credential for Preschool. King has a teenage daughter, a school age son, and 2 toddlers that are currently enrolled here at Goddard. All of King’s children have either graduated or are attending the schools that he has taught at, as he has worked in local Early Childhood Education Centers for several years prior to joining The Goddard School. King believes that as a teacher, he is given one of the greatest gifts, and that is the opportunity to form close relationships with his students and families. He sees each child as a unique individual with a natural thirst for learning, as well as an eagerness to make a positive contribution to their classroom and surrounding community. His favorite book is A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead. King loves spending time with his children, being outdoors and enjoying new adventures! He also loves reading books that are spiritual in nature and watching independent films.

• Kristina

  Kristina is from Oak Lawn and joins our team as a Lead Teacher. She received her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton Community College and her Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre & English Secondary Education from Illinois State University. Kristina is also a certified Yoga instructor for children and adults and has experience in teaching youth tumbling and dance. Kristina believes that through love, learning flourishes. “When we model how to cultivate meaningful connections with others, as well gratitude within the self, we help shape happy, intrinsically motivated, compassionate and confident children.” Her favorite children’s book is The Three Billy Goats Gruff. In her spare time, Kristina enjoys crafting, reading, writing, singing and being a plant lady.

• Lejla

  Lejla is originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina and completed her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Lejla worked as a substitute teacher in an early childhood center and did her student teaching in a First-Grade classroom. Lejla believes that children learn best in a nurturing and supportive environment. “I believe each child is an individual and I strive to provide an environment to develop self-confidence, emotional learning and foundational skills.” She believes children should feel free to explore, initiate learning and be able to express themselves. Lejla’s favorite children’s book is The Proudest Blue by Ibtinaj Muhammad. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking lots of different foods. She also likes learning about traditional dances from all over the world.

• Liliane Tsaka

  Tsaka joins our team as a Preschool Lead Teacher. She has her Bachelor’s Degree from Northern Illinois University. She has years of experience working as a teacher at The Goddard School in Lincoln Park. Tsaka has a passion to teach children passing along her “joie de vivre”. She believes that all children can excel if given the right opportunity and environment. Her favorite child author is Dr. Seuss. In her spare time, Tsaka loves taking road trips, power walking, photoshop, exploring new coffee shops, reading and spending time with her children.

• Lorina

  Lorina is from Chicago and has her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton Community College. She believes that play allows the children to explore, imagine, create, and interact with others. “I believe this promotes cognitive, language, physical, and social development.” Her favorite children’s books are Good Night Moon, Brown Bear, and Dr. Seuss books. In her spare time, Lorina loves to reading, yoga, travelling and doing volunteer work.

• Maura

  Maura is from Chicago and has her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwestern University. She joins us with experience as a Lead Teacher in a Two’s classroom at the Wilmette Park District and as an Assistant Teacher at summer camp program for third graders. She believes that young children learn best by playing and doing. “Exploration is very important for a child’s development, and I believe it is important to encourage asking questions and curiosity as opposed to just giving a child the correct answer.” Maura also believes that it is extremely important to be patient and loving with each child and to show them individual respect. Her future goal is to earn a graduate degree in Early Childhood Education and further her understanding of early childhood development. Maura’s favorite children’s book is Goodnight Moon. In her spare time, she enjoys playing rugby, keep active by skateboarding, and painting. She also enjoys cooking and baking as well.

• Moriah

  Moriah joins our team as a Co-Lead Teacher for the Penguins classroom. She has her Bachelors’ degree in Early Childhood Education from National Louis University. She has years of experience working with infants, and preschool aged children. Moriah believes that teachers should provide a safe and stimulating environment. Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. In her spare time, Moriah enjoys coloring, painting, baking, riding her bike, reading and arts and crafts.

• Nebiat

  Nebiat has over 27 years of experience in Early Childhood Education and joins us mostly recently from a center in Evanston. Nebiat spent over 16 years at a center in Chicago where she assisted Infant, Toddler and Preschool rooms. She loves encouraging children to actively play and explore. Nebiat earned her Associates Degree in Child Development from Truman College in Chicago, Il.

• Payge

  Payge has her bachelor’s degree in Elementary education from Loyola University of Chicago. Prior to working at Goddard, she worked as an infant teacher but also has experience working with toddler through Pre-k age groups. She believes that children are natural learners and observers. Not only are we teaching and supporting them academically but emotionally as well. Children can learn from us and more importantly we can learn from them. Payge’s favorite children’s book is Fancy Nancy and all the books in that series. She enjoys art, writing and reading in her spare time.

• Sarena

  Sarena is from Waukegan and received her Bachelors’ Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters’ Degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University. Sarena believes in providing a safe, nurturing and learning environment for all children. An environment where all children feel a sense of belonging where they can be creative as well as learn and grow. Sarena’s favorite children’s books are the Llama, Llama series. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing and shopping. She is excited to be a part of our Goddard team.

• Stephanie

  Stephanie is from Schaumburg and has her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Child Advocacy Studies from Northeastern Illinois University. Stephanie brings over 9 years of early childhood experience with 7 years at The Goddard School. Stephanie believes every child is unique and special. Children learn best through play and as a teacher, her goal is to make sure that each child feels safe and loved! Stephanie’s favorite kids book is Elephant and Piggie: Let’s go for a Drive! In her free time, Stephanie enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to concerts, comic book conventions and sporting events!

• Suraiya

  Suraiya is from Pakistan and lives in Skokie. She earned has her CDA and her Bachelor of Degree in Economics and Political Science from Karachi University in Pakistan. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Suraiya worked as a Montessori teacher in Pakistan and as an Early Childhood Teacher at a center here in Skokie. She believes that every child learns differently and that we should guide them on a positive track so that they can be successful in life. Her favorite children’s book is “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” by Bill Martin Jr. In her spare time, Suraiya likes to read books and work in her garden.

• Tracey

  Tracey is from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada and currently lives in Chicago. Tracey has her Bachelors’ Degree from North Park College (now University) and an Early Childhood Educator's Teaching License. Prior to working at The Goddard School, Tracey worked as a preschool teacher and a PreK Teacher for over twenty years. Tracey believes that children are naturally curious and so eager to learn. “Each child should be looked at as an individual so as a teacher I try to set up a learning environment with a variety of activities to help each child reach their full potential.” Her favorite children’s book is Friends by Helen Heine. In her spare time, Tracey enjoys reading, creating with Legos, drawing, painting, and going for walks with her husband Greg.

• Urszula

  Urszula is from Poland and started working at The Goddard School in 2016 as an Infant teacher. She obtained her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Triton College. Urszula believes that each child is an individual and as a teacher she values each child’s needs and abilities. “I believe each child learns through play, and I am responsible for providing children with a positive learning experience.” Her favorite children’s book is The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, bike riding, and travelling to new and exciting places.

• Yasmine

  Yasmine is originally from Haiti and currently lives in Hoffman Estates. She has her Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education Leadership-Child Development from Rasmussen University. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Yasmine worked at centers in Evanston and Wilmette. She was also a nanny for over 4 years. Yasmine believes that every child is unique and will learn at their own pace. Yasmine has a long term goal of becoming a Director of an Early Childhood Center. Her favorite children’s book is The Kissing Hand and in her spare time, Yasmine loves to shop and spend time with her family.

• Izzy

  Izzy is from Wilmette and is working on completing her bachelor’s degree in communications from The University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. Prior to starting at Goddard, she was a camp counselor, a youth group leader, and a Sunday School Teacher. She believes in fostering a safe and fun learning environment for children to explore, learn and grow. Her goal is to set children up for a successful future. Izzy’s favorite children’s book is Gray Squirrel at Pacific Avenue by Geri Harrington. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, connecting with nature, and playing with her two dogs.

• Ellen

  Ellen is from Wilmette and prior to joining The Goddard School, she worked as a camp counselor. Ellen is excited to be working towards completing her degree in Early Childhood Education at DePaul University. Ellen believes in incorporating children’s creativity and imagination in activities. She also believes in planning activities that make children happy and fun! Ellen’s favorite book is Good Night Moon. In her spare time, she enjoys running, dancing and walking her dog.

• Francis

  Francis is from Jamaica and has many years of experience working with children. She is working towards her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton College. Francis believes in a play-based approach to learning. She truly loves children and believes that they learn a lot through hands on experiences as well as expressing themselves. Her goal as a teacher is for children to love to learn. Francis' favorite children’s book is “Stand Tall” by Molly Lou Melon. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and her church family.

• Ms Guadalupe

  Lupe joins our team as a center wide resource while she is pursuing her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Oakton Community College. Lupe believes that children should have the right to be creative and to be in a safe and nurturing environment. Her favorite children’s book is “Are You, My Mother?” by P.D. Eastman. In her spare time, Lupe enjoys spending time with her family, reading and writing. She is excited to be a part of our school!

• Kameal

  Kameal is from Skokie and prior to starting at Goddard, she worked as an Assistant Teacher at an community center. She believes that children grow in many ways. She will strive to help children develop and provide a warm and welcoming environment. Kameal’s favorite children’s book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear by Bill Martin Jr. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.

• Mahveen

  Mahveen is working on completing her Associates Degree, in Early Childhood Education from the College of DuPage. Prior to joining The Goddard School, Mahveen worked as an assistant teacher in a preschool classroom. Mahveen strives to having an open mind with a positive attitude and making sure the children in her care are happy! Mahveen’s favorite children’s books are Corduroy by Don Freeman and If You Give a Mouse A Cookie by Laura Numeroff. In her spare time, she enjoys being around her family and friends, shopping, baking, and reading.

• Michael

  Michael has his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry, with a specific focus on pre-medical coursework, from The University of Illinois at Chicago. He joins our school with almost 14 years of combined experience of working as: an early childhood teacher, youth art teacher, and summer camp program leader and Assistant Director with the Skokie Park District. Michael believes that every child is an individual, each of them has their own optimum way of learning, and that they all should have access to the very best learning experience possible. “Every child deserves a healthy and safe learning environment to develop both educational and social skills. The ideal/optimal methodology for achieving this is through play-based learning and encouraging socialization between all teachers and students in the classroom, throughout the school days.” His favorite children’s book is “The Giving Tree,” by Shel Silverstein. In his spare time, Michael enjoys lifting weights and exercising.

• Reena

  Reena is from Nepal and lives in Evanston. Reena holds her CDA for Infant & Toddlers and has her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Nepal Commerce Campus, in Nepal. Before coming to Goddard, she worked at a Montessori School in the area. Reena believes in making sure children are safe and happy while in a safe loving environment. Her favorite children’s book is “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” by Bill Martin Jr. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, visiting Temple and exploring downtown Chicago.

• Rezia

  Rezia is from Bangladesh and lives in Skokie. She joins our team as an Assistant Teacher for the Sea Lions classroom. Rezia has her Bachelor of Science degree and her master’s degree in Botany from National University in Bangladesh. She has years of experience working with infants and toddlers. Rezia believes that each child is an individual. “As an educator I will value and develop each child’s strengths, interests, skills and abilities to extend their learning.” She believes the environment plays a major role in the success of an early childhood program. Rezia is looking forward to developing relationships with the children and their families. Her favorite children’s books are Winnie the Pooh and Good Night Moon. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping and exploring different places.

• Kayla

  Kayla is from Waukegan and is currently working on her Associate Degree in Medical Imaging from Harper College. She believes all children are equal and grow at their own rate and strives to provide a caring and motivating atmosphere for the children in her care. Kayla’s favorite children’s book is The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister. In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with her friends and trying different restaurants.

• Lynn

  Lynn is originally from Stevens Point, Wisconsin. She has her bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Dayton, and a Culinary Arts Degree from the Cooking & Hospitality Institute of Chicago. Over the past 12 years, Lynn has worked in restaurants as a cook, pastry chef, and manager. She was worked in contract foodservice environments, including business dining and senior living. Her favorite children’s book is Dragons Love Tacos. In her free time, Lynn enjoys going on nature walks, gardening, crafting, baking, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

• Nievelissa

  Lissa was born in the Philippines and came to the U.S. in 2013. In addition to her Bachelor of Science degree in Community Nutrition from the University of the Philippines, she has her Early Childhood Education Certification from Oakton Community College. Prior to coming to The Goddard School, Lissa was a longtime assistant in their church's Sunday school, working with children from infancy through three years old. Lissa believes young children learn best when they feel they are valued and accepted as they are. She believes that early childhood educators should have unconditional positive regard for all children. Her favorite children’s books are God Knows All About Me (by Kate Toms) and Corduroy (by Don Freeman). She is an avid crafter and also loves designing shirts.

• Renasia

  Renasia is from Chicago and prior to working at The Goddard School, she was a teacher assistant at a child care center and worked as a summer camp counselor. Renasia believes that as a teacher she is responsible for providing all children a safe and comfortable learning environment. Renasia’ s favorite book is “Smile”. In her spare time, Renasia likes to draw, style hair, and listen to music.

• Salina

  Salina is from the area and joins our team as a center wide resource. Salina has experience babysitting and as a Sunday School Teacher. Salina believes that teachers should be patient with children. They should act as a guide and focus on the children’s education and growth. Salina’s favorite children’s book is Corduroy by Don Freeman. In her spare time, Salina enjoys reading books, bike riding and sewing.