The Goddard School of Estero

Bios

• Dave

  Dave Horell is a dedicated educator and entrepreneur passionate about nurturing children's development and fostering community connections. He brings valuable insights into child behavior and learning processes with a psychology degree from Pennsylvania State University. Dave's professional background includes management and sales roles at Sherwin-Williams and as an Allstate agent, where he developed strong leadership and customer service skills. He now co-owns a Goddard School in Estero, part of Goddard Systems, Inc., renowned for its high-quality, play-based early childhood education. Dave, his wife Autumn, and their children—Rylan (17), Reese (13), and Remmi (4)—are committed to becoming active members of the Estero community. They aim to build relationships and support local initiatives that enhance children's well-being and development. Dave looks forward to collaborating with educators, parents, and community leaders to create a nurturing environment for all children.

• Ms Rachel

  I was drawn to The Goddard School because of its strong reputation for high-quality early childhood education and its commitment to nurturing the whole child. I’ve dedicated my career to nurturing young minds and creating enriching, developmentally appropriate environments. I hold a master’s degree in Christian Education and have over 39 years in childcare, including 35 as a director. I enjoy reading and spending quality time with my three adult daughters. Family is very important to me, and I find joy in lifelong learning and meaningful connections. I love watching children learn—from a baby’s first steps to Pre-K graduation. Seeing that spark of confidence in their eyes is incredibly rewarding. I’d love to learn more about Canva to make our school’s learning displays more engaging and educational. My favorite children’s book is The Spooky Old Tree by the Berenstain Bears. The repetition always keeps children engaged during read-alouds.

• Ms Crystal

  As a native Floridian with over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, I bring a deep-rooted passion for helping young children learn, grow, and thrive. For the past six years, I’ve served in administrative leadership roles, balancing my love for management with my enthusiasm for being in the classroom. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with every age group, learning something valuable from each. My greatest joy comes from collaborating with teachers and families to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences—and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a child running up to greet you with pure excitement. Outside of work, you’ll find me cheering on my kids at their sporting events, reading, gardening, or diving into a good documentary.

• Ms Christine

  I am Christine, a dedicated VPK teacher with over 10 years of experience in early childhood education. Known for my strong communication skills with both parents and children, as well as my natural leadership qualities that help create a positive, structured, and nurturing classroom environment. I am passionate about working with young children because I love being part of their growth, curiosity, and milestones. I believe every child learns in their own unique way, and I find joy in helping them feel confident, supported, and excited to learn each day. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, who continue to inspire me both personally and professionally.

• Ms Dominique

  Hello! My name is Dominique, and I have been working with children since 2020. I am originally from Hollywood, Florida, and now proudly call the Fort Myers area home. I am passionate about creating a safe, loving, and engaging environment where toddlers feel secure, supported, and excited to learn through play and daily routines. Helping little ones grow, explore, and build confidence brings me so much joy. In my free time, I enjoy painting, reading psychological thrillers, and watching some of my favorite shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Friends, and Supernatural. I am so excited to work with your child and look forward to building meaningful relationships with both children and families. Together, we will make this a fun, positive, and memorable year filled with learning and smiles!

• Ms Elma

  My name is Ms Elma! I am so excited to be part of Goddard Schools in the infant room and begin this new chapter. I'm blessed to be able to join this amazing group of students and staff. I have been working in childcare since 2013 and have loved every moment of it. I knew at a young age that teaching children was my passion. I enjoy every aspect of teaching and have realized in my years that they can teach us as much as we teach them. I have my Director Credentials, and CDA. I was born in Ft. Lauderdale and raised in Naples. I’m a mother of three beautiful children. I am the second of four girls. Also, a happy Aunt to two. Hobbies include Dancing (my daughter dance competitive so we’re always at dance competitions) and listening to music, going to the beach, watching movies

• Ms Julia

  Hi! My name is Julia, and I’m excited to be joining the Goddard family. I have over five years of experience working in childcare and have had the opportunity to work with children of all ages, including infants. I have a strong passion for supporting children’s growth in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment, and my goal is to help every child feel loved, supported, and confident as they learn and develop each day. In my free time, I enjoy playing instruments, practicing archery, and working out. I’m grateful to be part of the Goddard family and look forward to making a positive impact every day.

• Ms J'zah

  Hi! My name is Jzah, and I’m originally from Miami, Florida. I moved here to pursue my degree and follow a path that unexpectedly led me to education—when you know, you know! I have been working in childcare for almost four years, and during that time I’ve truly discovered my passion for working with children. I love expressing my creativity through painting and drawing, and I’m a big foodie who enjoys trying new foods (just no seafood—I’m allergic!). I’m excited to get to know your little ones and to be a caring, positive presence in their learning and growth. I can’t wait to create many fun memories together!

• Ms Katherin

  My name is Katherin, I am a wife, a mother of three wonderful daughters, and a proud dog mom to our playful pug. Family is very important to me and shapes the way I care for and connect with others. Before moving to the United States, I worked for 11 years as a Marketing Supervisor in Venezuela, where I developed strong leadership, organization, and communication skills. After relocating, my career took a meaningful turn, and I discovered my passion for early childhood education. For nearly eight years, I have had the privilege of working with young children during important stages of their development. I value the trust families place in me and strive to ensure every child feels safe, valued, and loved in a nurturing, emotionally secure environment.

• Ms Paola

  I am proud to be part of The Goddard School community. I moved to the United States nearly four years ago and have spent almost four years working in Early Childhood Education. In my home country, I graduated from law school and worked as an attorney before discovering my true passion—teaching young children. I am the Lead Teacher in the Two-Year-Old Classroom, where I truly enjoy supporting children as they grow, express their emotions, and develop their unique personalities. This stage of learning is especially meaningful to me, as it is a time when children begin building independence, confidence, and strong emotional foundations. In the classroom, I love singing, dancing, and creating fun, consistent routines that help children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn. Every hug, smile, and milestone inspires me to support each child’s growth and help them flourish emotionally, socially, and cognitively in a loving and nurturing environment.

• Ms Prathiba

  I have spent my career serving in the non-profit and economic development sectors, connecting business owners, government leaders, and capital sources. My background spans business incubation, urban planning, and social investment, bridging public and private sectors. I began teaching in the DeSoto Kansas School District and have 13 years of experience as a substitute teacher, paraeducator, tutor, and early childhood lead. I find deep fulfillment in shaping young learners into successful, well-rounded individuals. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, gardening, beach outings, culinary adventures, and spending time with family and friends through movies, music, and dance.

• Ms Sofia

  I was born in Uruguay and moved to Florida at the age of six, an experience that shaped who I am today. Growing up, I enjoyed playing soccer, riding bikes, and spending time outdoors. I developed a strong connection to American culture while proudly embracing my Latino roots. One of my greatest challenges was learning English, which eventually became the language I speak, read, and think in. I am proud of that journey. My greatest accomplishments include becoming a mother, earning my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and becoming a VPK teacher. I value balance in my life and bring that same mindset into the classroom. I love reading, staying active, and creating a positive, engaging environment where children feel supported, curious, and confident as they learn and grow.

• Ms Autumn

  Autumn Horell is a passionate advocate for children's health and well-being. As a mother of three, she understands family dynamics deeply. With a degree in Physical Therapy from Mount Aloysius College, she has a strong foundation in promoting wellness. Her experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant at Flagship Rehab in Maryland honed her skills in helping patients achieve their goals. Autumn and her husband, Dave, are thrilled to open a new Goddard School in Estero, Florida. They aim to create a clean, safe, nurturing environment where children thrive. Committed to fostering a love of learning, they support the holistic development of every child. Their combined experience ensures that each child receives the highest quality of care and support on their educational journey while actively engaging with and growing alongside the Estero community.

• Ms Lisa

  Hi, my name is Miss Lisa. I have over 30 years of experience working with children and truly enjoy being part of their early growth and development. My favorite age group is infants, as I love teaching them new skills and watching their personalities begin to shine at such a young age. Supporting their milestones and providing a nurturing, loving environment is incredibly rewarding to me. I have lived in Naples for the past three years and am originally from Kansas City, Missouri. I am a proud and enthusiastic Kansas City Chiefs fan! In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, which I value deeply.