The Goddard School of Montclair

Bios

• Marianne

  Hello and welcome! I’m Marianne Romola, the proud owner of the Goddard School of Montclair. Along with my husband, Jim Freda, we've had the privilege of running the Goddard School of Sparta since 2006. Over the years, we've built a strong reputation as one of the top Goddard schools in New Jersey, and we're thrilled to bring that same dedication and care to Montclair. While I have a background in textile marketing and culinary arts, Jim and I spent 27 wonderful years owning a deli and catering business in our hometown. Today, our family includes our adorable little dog, Brooklyn, and our son, Gavin, a graduate of our school and now a student at Indiana University. Starting this new chapter in Montclair is truly exciting for us. Our school operates with our exclusive Wonders of Learning Curriculum, which allows children to learn through natural curiosity to develop critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration skills. We can't wait to meet you and your family!

• Alissa

  Hello! My name is Alissa DelConte, and I am truly honored to be the Director of the Goddard School of Montclair. I’ve been working in Early Childhood Education since 2009, after graduating from Kean University with a B.A. in English. During my time at Kean, I studied both General Education and Special Education for P-12, which deepened my devotion to supporting all learners. Before joining Montclair, I spent 8 years at The Goddard School in Sparta, where I had the joy of working as a Toddler, Get Set, Preschool, and Pre-K teacher, as well as Assistant Director. This has allowed me to deeply understand and appreciate the unique needs and potential of every child. I truly believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and joyful learning environment where each child can shine and grow. Every child brings something special to their own learning journey, and I’m excited to watch them thrive here at The Goddard School of Montclair.

• Jacqueline

  Hi there! My name is Jackie Capote, and I’m excited to be the Curriculum Director here at The Goddard School of Montclair. My husband, our two daughters, and I have been proud Montclair residents for over 10 years. Every day, my daughter Penny and I love walking through town together on our way to school—it’s one of the many joys of being part of this wonderful community! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Art, as well as a Master’s degree in Urban Education with a specialization in English as a Second Language. With 16 years of experience in the public school system, I’m thrilled to now be bringing my passion for education to The Goddard School. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with both teachers and students, helping to implement individualized instruction and create student-centered learning environments. I’m excited to be working with such young learners and I can’t wait to see the wonderful things we will accomplish together!

• Samantha

  Hi! My name is Ms. Sam and I am proud to be the Assistant Director here at the Goddard School of Montclair. I graduated from The College of Charleston in 2022 with a B.A. in Computing in the Arts. During my time in college, I had the opportunity to volunteer at various after-school programs, where I worked with children teaching music, computer science, and providing academic tutoring. I've always had a deep love for working with children, and after my time with a young children's STEM enrichment program, I realized that my true calling lies in early childhood care and education. There is so much joy for me in watching children discover, explore, and develop a love for the world around them. I’m always excited to find creative and engaging ways to spark curiosity and inspire young minds. After spending time in both the Twos and Preschool classrooms, I am truly thrilled to continue fostering a safe, loving, and enriching environment where every child feels valued and empowered to grow.

• Abdullah

  Hi parents and guardians, my name is Abdullah. I have been working in childcare since I was 18 years old. Over the years, I have worked with children of all age groups, from infants to school-aged children. I hold my CDA in Infants/Toddlers, and I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where every child can grow, learn, and develop to their fullest potential. What I love most about working with children is witnessing their daily growth and development. It is truly rewarding to see the progress they make as they explore the world around them. I also believe that being a teacher is a reciprocal relationship—while I teach my students, they teach me just as much in return. As educators, we have the privilege of shaping the next generation of leaders, doctors, teachers, scientists, and more. Thank you for entrusting me with your child's care and education. I am thrilled to help in building the foundation for your child’s remarkable future!

• Amanda

  Hi everyone! My name is Amanda, and I am an Early Childhood Education major with over 10 years of experience working with children. I love what I do and am so fulfilled by helping the youngest learners explore the world around them. I take pride in providing a structured classroom that emphasizes things like routine and responsibility. I also love bringing learning to life through music, movement, and storytelling—The Very Hungry Caterpillar is one of my favorite books to read aloud, and it never fails to spark excitement and curiosity among the children. I believe that a healthy classroom is the foundation of meaningful learning, and I am passionate about supporting both children and staff in creating a safe, thriving community.

• Cheyenne

  Hi, My name is Cheyenne, and I am honored to be trusted with the care and education of your most precious gift—your children. Before joining The Goddard School, I spent several years babysitting and had the opportunity to work as an assistant teacher for about a year. These opportunities gave me valuable insights into the unique needs and development milestones of children. What I love most about teaching is simply being there for the children. Establishing meaningful connections with them is something I truly cherish, as it creates an environment where they feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. I believe that building trust and nurturing these relationships is the foundation for their growth. In the classroom, I strive to make learning as enjoyable as possible. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be part of your child's education. I look forward to creating a classroom environment where children learn best: through play!

• Clarissa

  Hi there! I’m Ms. Crissy. I am an energetic, motivated, and nurturing individual with a talent for working with children and helping them develop the skills they need for both school and life. Witnessing the excitement and eagerness children display as they learn new things each day is incredibly fulfilling to me. I firmly believe that learning should be fun, and I am not afraid to get creative, messy, or silly to engage my students while providing meaningful educational experiences. As a mother of two boys, Aydin (7) and Kareem (19), I am well-acquainted with the energy, athleticism, and emotional growth that come with raising young children. This has made me adaptable and patient, and I welcome all personalities in the classroom, embracing each child’s unique qualities and helping them thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment. I am dedicated to creating an atmosphere where every child feels valued and encouraged to identify themselves as capable learners.

• Jenniffer

  Hi, my name is Jen and I have had the privilege of working with young children since 2015. I find being an infant and toddler teacher to be incredibly rewarding. Teaching in Early Childhood, particularly at the toddler age, is both fun and challenging in the best possible way. It is truly a dream come true to be part of their early learning journey. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is witnessing the progress children make as they discover more about themselves, their peers, their teachers, and the world around them. I am deeply inspired by the growth they show, both socially and emotionally. My favorite part of the day is the morning meeting, where I enjoy engaging with the children and reading books to them. One of my all-time favorite children's books is My Five Senses, as it fosters curiosity and exploration. I approach each day with love and commitment to the children in my care. It is an honor to contribute to their growth and development during these formative years.

• Mara

  Hello! My name is Mara, and I am a Toddler teacher at The Goddard School of Montclair. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Seton Hall University. I have been working with toddlers since 2023 and have since developed a passion for creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments. I enjoy introducing new and exciting materials that encourage discovery, exploration, and independent thinking through a play based curriculum. My favorite thing about working with toddlers is witnessing their natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. I strive to create a nurturing, stimulating environment where each child is recognized as a unique learner, and I am committed to supporting their growth through purposeful play.

• MeKenya

  Hello, I'm Ms. Mekenya! Before becoming a full-time teacher at The Goddard School, I worked as a community ambassador, where I focused on raising awareness about the importance of voting and civic engagement within the community. Additionally, I served as a paraprofessional in the Verona School District, where I received specialized training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for the Autism program. With over a decade of experience in childcare, elementary school mentorship, and special education, I have been dedicated to supporting children’s growth and development since 2014. My background has provided me with a strong foundation in working with diverse learners and tailoring my approach to meet each child's unique needs. I am excited to continue fostering a nurturing environment here at The Goddard School where children love learning for life.

• Monaysha

  Hi Pre-K families! My name is Monaysha, but I go by Mo, and I’m thrilled to be a part of your child’s early learning journey as we work together to get them Kindergarten ready! I have been teaching since 2016 and am honored to have been awarded Teacher of the Year during my time. I’m an alum of Kean University and Fortis Institute, where I studied Elementary Education and Infant & Pediatric Massage. My educational philosophy is built on the belief that every child is capable of learning and succeeding. As educators, it’s our responsibility to recognize each child’s unique strengths and challenges, and tailor our teaching to meet their individual needs. Outside of my work, I find joy in writing, singing, and recording music. These creative outlets allow me to express myself and recharge. I’m truly excited for the year ahead and look forward to getting to know each of your children!

• Nathia

  Hi families! My name is Nathia and I have been working in childcare since 2009, gaining valuable experience with children ranging from infants to middle schoolers. Throughout my career, I have come to believe that a strong, nurturing bond between a teacher and child is the cornerstone of fostering a thriving learning environment. As a mother of seven wonderful children, family is central to my life, and I bring that sense of connection and care into my work with young learners. I am committed to creating a supportive atmosphere in the classroom, where children feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. One of my favorite activities is singing—so don’t be surprised if you catch your little one humming a tune! Outside of work, I enjoy watching The Lion King, dancing, and playing games, all of which help me connect with children in a fun and meaningful way. I am excited to continue creating an environment where children can grow through both structured learning and joyful play.

• Nigesa

  Hi everyone! My name is Nigesa, or Nini. I am originally from New York City and come from a large family with many younger siblings and relatives. My natural creativity and energetic personality allowed me to connect easily with the younger members of my family, and by the age of 13, I had already become the designated babysitter. This sparked my interest in working with children and solidified my desire to pursue a career in education. I took my first step into the field by working at a daycare in Brooklyn for four consecutive summers, then began working as an ABA Therapist for a year. Currently, I am on track to earn my B.A. in Early Childhood Education. Working with children is not just a career for me—it is a genuine passion. I find immense joy in their authenticity, which makes every moment spent with them incredibly rewarding. I look forward to furthering my journey in early childhood education and encouraging children to become young problem solvers.

• Orianna

  Hi, my name is Orianna and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to work with your child at the Goddard School! I have been working in childcare since 2018, and with each moment my love for children and dedication to early childhood education has grown. I enjoy being part of a dedicated team of caregivers committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for your child to thrive in. In my personal time, I enjoy going on walks, shopping, and reading. One of my favorite children's books is The Cat in the Hat, and I look forward to sharing it—and many other wonderful stories—with your little ones. I am excited to get to know your child and support their individual needs as we explore the fun-fueled Infant curriculum.

• Ronella

  My name is Ronella, and I have been dedicated to the Early Childhood Education field since 2014. I take great pride in being a positive role model for children, providing them with the guidance and support they need during such formative years. Being an integral part of their daily growth and development is incredibly fulfilling, and there is no greater reward than knowing I am helping to shape their future. As a teacher, my goal is to make a lasting impact on each child’s early years, fostering a love of learning, confidence, and kindness. The joy I feel when I see their smiles, knowing they’ve had a meaningful and fun day, is truly unmatched. One of my favorite children's books is *I Like Myself!* as it beautifully encourages children to embrace self-love and positivity. I am truly excited to be joining The Goddard School team and look forward to harnessing your child’s natural curiosity through hands-on learning, play, and asking questions.

• Sheila

  Hi! My name is Sheila and I’m excited to be a part of the Goddard School of Montclair. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Montclair State University and am proud to be a part of the Infant team here. Being the youngest with three older sisters, I was blessed with becoming an aunt in junior high school. This, along with my first job as a YMCA camp counselor, inspired me to continue my career and education in early childhood care. I come to The Goddard School with previous experience as a sports / swim instructor, camp counselor, and party coordinator alongside my background in other early childhood education facilities, school settings, and recreation programs. Children are the future and I am grateful to have the opportunity to foster growth in the youngest learners. Infancy is the most impactful stage of development, and I am eager to bring my creativity, positivity, and knowledge into the classroom.

• Stefania

  My name is Stefania, and I am thrilled to be part of the team here at The Goddard School. I’d like to share a little about myself. I grew up in New Jersey in a large, close-knit Italian family, where I am one of seven siblings. I am also a proud mother to a lively two-year-old son, and we share our home with our cat, Shadow. Reading and writing are two of my greatest passions. These activities not only provide me with a creative outlet but also serve as my favorite way to unwind and reflect. My educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that each child is unique and learns in their own way. I strive to tailor my approach to meet the diverse needs of my students, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to flourish both academically and emotionally. I look forward to working with your child and supporting them as they make connections to their own life and familiar concepts.

• Trabys

  Hello, my name is Trabys, and I am thrilled to be one of the Toddler teachers here at the Goddard School. I have always had a deep love for childcare. After high school, I pursued some college coursework but took time off to focus on raising my own children. Throughout this journey, my children have taught me invaluable lessons in patience, the joy of learning, and the importance of appreciating the small moments in life. When I was ready to re-enter the workforce, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in Early Childhood Education. I spent two years as a head teacher at another facility before joining The Goddard School. I am committed to ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, and respected as they grow and learn. I find joy in incorporating music into the classroom and supporting children as they develop their unique personalities. I am excited to continue fostering an environment where they can thrive both academically and personally.

• Valen

  Hello, my name is Valen. I am a compassionate, nurturing, and energetic individual with a commitment to supporting the growth and development of young children. I have been working in the early education field since 2021, and I am dedicated to providing a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment where children can learn, explore, and thrive. I hold a CPR Certification and am currently pursuing my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential to further enhance my skills and knowledge. I find great joy in working with children because each day offers a new opportunity to inspire and learn from them. I find great fulfillment in helping children succeed, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future educational journeys. I look forward to being part of your child's learning and look forward to engaging with them, fostering their curiosity, and helping them grow into an inquisitive young learner.

• Vineece

  Hello parents and guardians! My name is Ms. Vineece, and I have had the privilege of working in childcare since I was 18 years old. Teaching runs in my family—my mother was a teacher for 14 years, and her dedication to education has greatly influenced my own love for teaching. Since childhood, I have been drawn to the world of education, often playing "school" with my younger family members. Today, I find immense joy in making a meaningful impact on the lives of the children I teach. What I love most about teaching is witnessing the growth and development of each child, day by day. It is incredibly fulfilling to see how children evolve, both academically and personally, as they gain confidence and new skills. I am truly enthusiastic about shaping the future of young learners, and I am excited to continue fostering self-assurance and natural curiosity in children here at The Goddard School!

• Zaharra

  Hello, My name is Ms. Zaharra, or Ms. Z. I have had the privilege of working with children since 2017, and my desire to foster their growth and development continues to drive my professional journey. I am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education, and I am eager to apply the knowledge I have gained to positively impact the children I work with, as well as collaborate with my colleagues to create enriching learning environments. In addition to my work in education, I have a personal interest in creative hobbies. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy baking a variety of treats and crafting homemade soaps and candles. These activities allow me to unwind and explore my artistic side. I look forward to bringing my enthusiasm, and newfound knowledge into the classroom to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children I serve.

• Lorena

  Hi, my name is Lorena, and I am so excited to continue my teaching journey with The Goddard School of Montclair. I discovered my passion for working with children at the age of 13 when my mom opened an in-home daycare facility. Later on, I gained experience as an infant, toddler, and Preschool teacher at a Montessori school, eventually earning my CDA in Preschool aged children. Working with varying age groups taught me a wide range of skills, and I find it so interesting to see how each age group and each individual child develops and hits their milestones. My teaching philosophy is that children learn through play and I strive to provide enriching opportunities for children to explore, discover, create, and imagine. I view each child as a unique individual with a great capacity to learn and make positive contributions to the world around them. My ultimate goal is to create a welcoming environment where children and families from all different backgrounds feel welcomed and celebrated

• Maeve

  Hello families! My name is Ms. Maeve and I am so excited to be joining the Goddard Montclair team! I worked for one year at another Goddard School location so I am new to Montclair but not to Goddard! I have always enjoyed spending time with kids and watching them grow and learn new things about themselves everyday. They help me learn new things about myself in the process! Early childhood education is crucial to the growth of a child, and being able to support kids while also giving them the space to learn who they are on their own is so rewarding. I also have experience as a Nanny for three wonderful years, a Summer camp counselor for three summers and have also volunteered at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center doing Art workshops with children. I am looking forward to meeting all of you!

• Marrisa

  Hello, my name is Marrisa, and I am currently a senior at Montclair State University, where I am pursuing a major in Psychology with a minor in Child Psychology. My ultimate goal is to become a child psychologist, and I find great joy in understanding the developmental and emotional needs of children. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have a strong interest in dancing, choreographing, and reading, and I am excited to share these hobbies and interests with your child. One of my favorite children's books is Charlotte's Web, as it beautifully illustrates themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth—values I hope to instill in the children I work with. I am happy to be a part of the Goddard family and look forward to empowering your children to ask questions and spark their inner curiosity!