The Goddard School of Winston-Salem

Bios

• Teresa

  Mike and Teresa Starke are the proud owners of The Goddard School of Winston-Salem. After relocating to the area in 2020, they experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to find high-quality early childhood education that offers both exceptional care and a strong educational foundation. Inspired by their own search as parents, they opened The Goddard School to serve families in their community with a program they truly trust and believe in. Mike and Teresa are devoted parents to four wonderful children who keep them engaged and active in the Winston-Salem area. Teresa is a dedicated Physician Assistant who has spent the past five years caring for children in the Brenner Children’s Emergency Department. Mike brings a background in athletic development, currently serving as the Director of Sport Performance for the Men’s Basketball program at Wake Forest University. Together, they are committed to creating a warm, nurturing environment where children can thrive, learn, and grow.

• Carla

  My name is Carla Ocampo, and I bring 36 years of experience in Early Childhood Education along with a deep passion for supporting young children and their families. I hold a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have dedicated my career to creating nurturing, high-quality learning environments where children can grow socially, emotionally, and academically. For the past 11 years, I served as the Director of the FDA Child Care Center in Maryland, where I provided leadership and mentorship while ensuring excellence in early learning and care. I strongly believe in building meaningful partnerships with families and using best practices to help every child feel safe, valued, and excited about learning. I recently relocated from Maryland to support my family as my daughter prepares to welcome a new baby. I am truly happy to join The Goddard School in Winston-Salem and look forward to working closely with children, families, and staff as part of this wonderful school community.

• Claire

  Claire “B” brings over 19 years of experience in early childhood education to her role as Director at The Goddard School of Winston-Salem. With more than 12 years as a School Director, including serving as Director of Operations and Head of School for a nonprofit, B is passionate about creating a nurturing, high-quality learning environment for children, families, and teachers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, a Level III North Carolina School Director certification, and is pursuing her Master’s in Administration at UNC Greensboro. Having led Goddard Schools across multiple states—and as a proud Goddard parent herself—B is excited to bring her expertise and enthusiasm to the Winston-Salem community. Outside of school, she enjoys time with her husband and two daughters, both proud Goddard graduates. B is thrilled to welcome families and help every child build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

• Adja

  I graduated with an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. I love working with children because I enjoy helping them explore, learn, and grow in a fun and supportive environment. My teaching approach focuses on encouraging curiosity, fostering confidence, and celebrating each child’s unique strengths. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, crafting, spending time outdoors, and I’m excited to bring energy, creativity, and care to every day with my students. I’m looking forward to a wonderful year full of learning, discovery, and fun!

• Angelica

  My name is Angelica Blount and I am a dedicated Early Childhood Teacher from Gastonia, North Carolina, and have lived in Winston Salem since 2020. I have worked in early childhood education since 2017, developing a strong foundation in child development, classroom management, and instructional practices. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where I graduated magna cum laude. I am currently furthering my education by pursuing Medical Assisting studies through Penn Foster. As a mother to a nine-year old daughter, I bring both professional experience and a personal understanding of children’s learning and development. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child feels supported and encouraged to grow.

• Brittany

  My name is Brittany Dawson, and I have 19 years of experience in early childhood education, with a special love for babies! I earned my Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Stanly Community College and am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Walden University. I love working with babies because I enjoy creating a calm, nurturing space where they feel safe, loved, and comforted. Supporting their early growth, building trusting bonds, and being part of their first milestones brings me so much joy.

• Chrislyn

  I love teaching because I enjoy supporting children as they grow emotionally, socially, and academically in a safe and loving environment. I strive to build strong and trusting relationships with both children and families so each child feels supported, understood, and valued. I am committed to supporting each child’s development while always keeping safety and well-being a top priority. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Elementary Education and am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health at Winston-Salem State University.

• Darcy

  I am thrilled to join The Goddard School in Winston Salem, NC! I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Elon University, along with a certification in Academically and Intellectually Gifted instruction. With 30 years experience in elementary education and 4 years in early childhood development, I am dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where young children can thrive. I look forward to partnering with your family and watching your child learn and grow during the year ahead.

• Kierra

  My name is Kierra Dearmon, and I am an early childhood educator with a strong commitment to supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of young children. I worked in early childhood education for 3-4 years and have experience working with infants through school-age students. I am currently working to complete my education at Forsyth Technical Community College to earn my Associate's in Early Childhood Education. I also hold certifications in early childhood education, infant and toddler education, and CPR/First aid. I enjoy working with children because I value the opportunity to help them build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning during their most formative years. I genuinely enjoy working with children because I love watching them grow, explore, and discover the world around them.

• Kimberly

  Hi, I'm Kimberly! My passion for education started very early in life when as a toddler I would line up my dolls and stuffed animals and “teach” to them for hours. With a background in both Early Childhood Education and Psychology and an NC Early Educator Certification, it brings me such incredible joy to see the world through the eyes of my two-year-old friends as they explore and discover new and exciting things each day. It is my mission to create a safe, inclusive and supportive classroom environment that fosters learning through play and a lifelong love of knowledge. I love spending time with friends and family, have fostered hard-to-place dogs for many years and love going to country music festivals and concerts. I look forward to partnering with each family in the cognitive, emotional and social development of your child! 

• Lara

  Hi, I’m Ms. Lara!! I have been in the early childhood education field for 2 years. I attended North Davidson Highschool and continued my education at Davidson Davie Community College where I earned my Associates degree in Teacher preparation and I have also successfully completed the EDU 119 course as of last year! I am truly looking forward to teaching your little ones and being a part of these truly remarkable early years where so much development and learning take place. I have always dreamed of being a teacher and I am so grateful it is now my reality. Watching them learn new things each and every day while watching them grow into their personalities while knowing I have been entrusted with being a part of it is such a wonderful experience that I am genuinely lucky to be a part of. I look forward to all of the fun we will have while learning!

• Latasha

  My name is Latasha Wilson. I bring a strong background in early childhood education, with experience working with children from birth through age five in private, public, and nonprofit settings. I hold a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and a North Carolina teaching license for Birth through Sixth Grade. Throughout my career, I have focused on creating developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support all areas of a child’s development—social-emotional, communication, cognitive, and physical. I use ongoing observations and assessments to understand each child’s needs and to tailor instruction so every child can thrive. I am truly excited to be part of The Goddard School and to partner with you throughout this journey.

• Mirabel

  Hello, my name is Mirabel Herrera, and I’m so excited to be part of the team at The Goddard School of Winston-Salem! I am currently attending Durham Technical Community College, where I’m working toward my associate’s degree in early childhood education. I have earned my EDU and Child Development Certificate. I love working with children because every day is filled with laughter, learning, and little moments that make a big impact. Watching children grow, explore, and discover the world around them brings me so much joy. I’m passionate about creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment where every child feels loved, confident, and excited to learn!

• Anna

  "I am Anna Fletcher. I obtained an Associate of Arts Degree from Forsyth Technical Community College with honors. I earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. I volunteer at my church and at Reynolda House. I enjoy reading and participating in a book club with friends. Friends and family are a meaningful part of my life. I enjoy working with children because they bring so much joy! I want to help children overcome failures and grow to their fullest potential. I am very excited to begin this journey at the Goddard School!"

• Rebecca

  Rebecca enjoys caring for and shaping young hearts one laugh at a time. First AID/ CPR certified, BEEI certified, PNANC certified, FARE certified. When Rebecca is not nurturing future trailblazers, you’ll find her advocating for mental health, suicide prevention, and the planet. She is the mother to a 6 month old daughter and has 6 cats. She is so excited to join Goddard and help each child grow and develop in a safe and loving environment.

• Claire

  My name is Claire Stewart, and I am currently pursuing a degree in Health and Wellness at High Point University, with a minor in Special Education on the Pre-Occupational Therapy track. As a Presidential Scholar and recipient of a Certification in Professional Assessment, I am committed to academic excellence and have developed strong skills in evaluating and supporting individuals effectively. In addition to my studies, I work at The Goddard School of Urbana in Maryland, where I assist in fostering children’s growth and development. I am deeply passionate about promoting wellness, advancing inclusive education, and empowering children to reach their fullest potential and bringing my skills and passion to the Goddard School in Winston Salem.

• Jordan

  Chef Jordan Rainbolt is thrilled to join the family at The Goddard School. As the owner and chef behind Native Root, a local pop-up and private dining business, Jordan has spent her career celebrating seasonal ingredients and sustainable cooking. She is excited to create a fun, hands-on food culture where children can discover where their food comes from and learn the importance of sustainable eating. Her goal is to make healthy food exciting and help our students build a happy, lifelong relationship with what’s on their plates

• mariah

  My name is Mariah Smith, and I am a passionate childcare professional with three years of experience working with young children. I have completed several trainings, including SIDS prevention, CPR, and First Aid, and I have a strong background in early childhood education. I absolutely love watching children grow, learn, and reach their goals each day. Building meaningful relationships with children and their families is one of my favorite parts of what I do. This fall, I plan to return to school to complete EDU 119 and continue expanding my education in early childhood.

• Mia

  I am currently a college student at WSSU, Go Rams! I'm also going to school to earn my nursing degree (BSN) and am currently working on my minor in sociology.  My current goal is to become a NICU nurse, help young babies in need, and make a difference in their lives. I enjoy working with kids because I love watching them grow, make connections, help them reach their milestones, and create lasting bonds that will impact them in a positive way. I am excited to pursue my passions and strengths and share them with the Goddard School.

• Muraka

  My name is Muraka Fisher and I have been a preschool teacher since 2019 and hold a teachers achievement certificate from Cerro Coso community college in California. I have experience in all preschool aged groups from infant to pre-kindergarten. I’m a mother of three awesome children and military spouse to a US Navy veteran (25 year retiree). I’m a passionate, dedicated educator and look forward to being an integral part of a child’s educational journey at The Goddard School community. I am looking forward to building strong positive relationships with the families and supporting the children to grow and develop successfully.