The Goddard School of Pittsburgh - Upper Saint Clair

Bios

• Lori

  Bob and Lori are the proud owners of The Goddard School of Upper Saint Clair, serving families throughout the South Hills. Inspired by their three children—Jake, Tyler, and Madison—they are passionate about providing the best early childhood education experience for preschool and daycare families. Lori holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Slippery Rock University. Bob earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from General Motors Institute and a Master’s in Business Administration from Purdue University. Together, they believe in nurturing children’s hearts, bodies, and minds while supporting families in finding balance. They are excited to partner with parents in helping children grow, learn, and thrive.

• Maddi

  Madison Santo is an owner of The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, PA, dedicated to nurturing children in Upper St. Clair. She holds a degree in Exercise Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and is passionate about early childhood education and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Madison believes children learn compassion by observing it modeled around them and is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every child can grow, flourish, and thrive.

• Tyler

  Tyler Santo is an On-Site Owner of The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, proudly serving families in Upper St. Clair and the surrounding South Hills community. He holds BA and MA degrees from Penn State University and previously served as the On-Site Owner of The Goddard School of Wexford. Passionate about early childhood education, Tyler is dedicated to creating a nurturing learning environment and building strong partnerships with families to help every child thrive.

• Ashley

  Ms. Ashley is a Co-Director at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, PA, committed to providing an enriching learning environment for children in Upper St. Clair. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from California University of Pennsylvania and a Private Academic Certification. Ashley began with Goddard in 2012 as a co-lead teacher in the preschool classroom, working at locations in Peters Township and Virginia. She is passionate about early childhood education and creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

• Kayla

  Ms. Kayla is a Co-Director at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, PA, bringing a passion for early childhood education to families in Upper St. Clair and nearby neighborhoods. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from California University of Pennsylvania and a PA Teaching Certification for Pre-K through 4th Grade. With extensive classroom experience, including two years teaching at The Goddard School in Peters Township, she is passionate about early childhood education and loves seeing children’s “light bulb” moments as they learn and grow.

• Rylee

  Ms. Rylee is a Support Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. A graduate of Canon-McMillan High School, she is currently pursuing her degree in Child Development and Education at Washington & Jefferson College. With prior experience at two other Goddard Schools, she brings a strong foundation in early childhood education. Rylee believes the most important thing a teacher can do is create a comfortable and nurturing environment where children feel supported as they learn and grow.

• Begumnaz

  Ms. Begumnaz is a Lead Teacher in our Preschool 1 classroom serving families throguhout the South Hills. She earned her B.A. in American Culture and Literature from Hacettepe University in Turkey and holds a certification in Pedagogical Formation from Mersin University. With a strong background in education and a love for cultural learning, she brings creativity and compassion to her classroom. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is empathize with children, helping them feel understood and supported.

• Briah

  Ms. Briah is a Lead Early Preschool 2 Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned her B.S. in Biology from West Texas A&M University and has experience as a Preschool Director in Texas and as a Pre-K teacher. Briah believes the most important thing a teacher can do is remain patient and calm, creating a positive and supportive environment for all children.

• Christine

  With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Ms. Chriss is one of our Lead Pre-K Teachers at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She continues her professional growth through ongoing coursework in Early Childhood Education. Chriss believes the foundation of great teaching is building trust and forming strong relationships with children, helping each one feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

• Fallyn

  Ms. Fallyn brings her passion for early childhood education to her role as Lead Kindergarten Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education from West Liberty University and has experience across multiple age groups. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is care deeply for each student, helping them thrive academically and emotionally.

• Harley

  Ms. Harley is a Preschool 2 Lead Teacher who holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Education from Clarion University, serving families within Upper St. Clair. With experience teaching children from preschool through kindergarten, she brings warmth and encouragement to the classroom. Harley believes the most important thing a teacher can do is guide and inspire children, helping them grow with confidence and curiosity.

• Jackie

  Ms. Jackie is a Lead Junior Kindergarten Teacher serving families across the South Hills. She earned her B.S. in Education from California University of Pennsylvania and holds PA certifications in Early Childhood (PreK–4) and English (7–12). Formerly a program director for Extended Day Services, she brings leadership and classroom experience. Jackie believes the most important thing a teacher can do is support every child to reach their full potential.

• Jaime

  Ms. Jaime is a Seasonal Support Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She holds a Child Development Associate credential and a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Grand Canyon University. With over four years of experience as a Lead Teacher at our school, Jaime brings a passion for fostering curiosity and growth. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is promote learning for every child and instill a lifelong love of education.

• Jocelyn

  Ms. Jocelyn is a Lead Preschool 1 Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She received her diploma from the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School and has prior experience as a Jr. K and Support Teacher at our Peters Township location. Jocelyn is committed to creating a nurturing classroom and believes the most important thing a teacher can do is nurture and teach children while fostering a love of learning.

• Kara

  Ms. Kara is a Lead Early Preschool 2 Teacher serving families in Upper St. Clair. She earned her B.S. in Education from Duquesne University and holds a PA teaching certification in Pre-K through 4th grade. With experience as a camp counselor and building substitute, Kara fosters a love of learning through engaging and compassionate instruction. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is teach children to love learning.

• Kaylee

  Ms. Kaylee is a Co-Lead Early Preschool 1 Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned her B.A. in Theater Arts from the University of Pittsburgh and has experience as a Resident Teaching Artist at Walt Disney World and Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Kaylee believes the most important thing a teacher can do is create a happy and safe environment for every child.

• Laura

  Ms. Laura is a Lead Pre-Toddler Teacher serving families in Upper St. Clair. She earned her Associate of Science in Website and Graphic Design from Florida Technical College and previously worked as a Personal Care Assistant in a Life Skills classroom. Laura believes the most important thing a teacher can do is create a safe and engaging environment for learning.

• Lea

  Ms. Lea is a Lead Pre-Toddler Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned her Associate in Specialized Business (Hospitality and Travel Management) from Bradford School of Business and has experience coaching youth basketball since 2018. Lea believes the most important thing a teacher can do is maintain a happy, calm atmosphere and provide a safe space for children to learn.

• Leah

  Ms. Leah is a Lead Junior Kindergarten Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned her B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Duquesne University and holds a PA teaching certificate (PreK–4). Currently pursuing her Master’s in Reading and Literacy, Leah is passionate about nurturing curiosity and growth. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is be there for children and support their learning journey.

• Madison

  Ms. Madison is a Pre-K Lead Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Carlow University and brings hands-on experience as both a nanny and a child development specialist. Madison believes the most important thing a teacher can do is listen—ensuring that every child feels heard, valued, and supported in their growth.

• Megan

  Ms. Megan serves as one of our Lead Preschool 2 Teacher,s bringing both classroom and international teaching experience. She earned a B.S. in Community, Environment and Development from Penn State and a B.A. in PreK–4 Education from Point Park University. Having also hosted AmeriCorps KEYS members, Megan fosters growth through nurturing relationships. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is care for students while inspiring a love of learning.

• Meredith

  Ms. Meredith is a Co-Lead Teacher in the First Steps classroom, serving families throughout the South Hills. She holds a Child Development Associate credential and a Certificate in Child Care from Western Area Career and Technology Center. Meredith has over five years of experience and previously led an infant classroom. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is provide guidance that helps each student succeed.

• Nicole

  Miss Nicole brings strong early childhood experience to her role as Preschool 1 Teacher. She previously worked with The Goddard School and other local centers. She holds an A.S. in Human Development from The Pennsylvania State Universityand is currently completing her Pre-K–4 degree. She believes in child-led learning and meeting each child where they are. Nicole is excited to support families in Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon.

• Perizat

  Ms. Perizat is a Co-Lead Infant Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She earned a combined B.S./Doctor of Medicine degree with a specialization in Preventive Medicine from Kyrgyz State Medical Academy and has prior experience at a local childcare center. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is help children explore the world to its fullest in a safe and supportive environment.

• Stacy

  Ms. Stacy brings over 12 years of infant classroom experience to The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, PA, where she serves as Lead Teacher in the Infant (Pearls) classroom. She earned her diploma from West Allegheny and is eager to begin her CDA certificate training. Ms. Stacy believes every child is unique and is dedicated to providing a nurturing, individualized environment where infants can grow, explore, and thrive.

• Tailor

  Ms. Tailor is a Lead Early Preschool 1 Teacher serving families throughout the South Hills. She earned her B.A. in Music Education from West Liberty University and is passionate about connecting with children through creative learning experiences. Tailor believes the most important thing a teacher can do is connect with students and make them feel safe in the classroom.

• Taran

  Mr. Taran is a Lead Teacher in the First Steps classroom at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. He earned a B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Pittsburgh and a M.Ed. from Pennsylvania Western University, Edinboro. With prior experience as a Behavior Support Technician and 8th-grade teacher, Taran believes the most important thing a teacher can do is teach students how to learn while supporting their curiosity.

• Angela

  Ms. Angie is a Support Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair, PA, where she helps create a nurturing and engaging environment for children of all ages. She graduated from Bethel Park High School and is passionate about guiding children to understand themselves, value others, and grow in a positive, supportive setting.

• Danielle

  Miss Danielle supports classrooms with a caring and student-centered approach. She holds a B.A. in Music Education and a Texas EC–12 Music Certificate from Bethune-Cookman University. She believes the most important thing a teacher can do is understand and listen to each child. Danielle is thrilled to help students thrive and support families in Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon.

• Danielle

  Ms. Danielle is a Seasonal Support Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Penn State and an Associate Degree in Specialized Technology from Kaplan Career Institute. Her background includes working as a Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant and serving as a Lead Preschool Teacher. Danielle believes the most important thing a teacher can do is listen and adapt to meet the needs of every child, ensuring they feel supported in their learning.

• Dixie

  Ms. Dixie is a Support Teacher at The Goddard School of Upper St. Clair. She studied Forensic Psychology at Louisiana State University of Alexandria and has valuable experience as a childcare owner and operator. Passionate about early childhood education, Dixie believes the most important thing a teacher can do is create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can grow and thrive.

• Jerry

  Mr. Jerry serves as a Support Teacher, bringing experience as both a Teacher’s Assistant and job coach. He attended La Roche College, earning credits in Computer Science before pursuing his passion for working with children in 2020. Jerry believes the most important thing a teacher can do is support students while making them feel at home, creating an environment where every child feels comfortable and valued.