Carmel’s own Madison Styer honored as 2026 Goddard School Teacher of the Year Regional Finalist

Annual program recognizes 16 teachers for their commitment to students  

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Goddard Systems, LLC, (GSL), the manager of The Goddard School® franchise system, the nation’s leading premium early childhood education provider, has announced Madison Styer, a toddler teacher at The Goddard School of Carmel –West as a 2026 Goddard School Teacher of the Year Award regional finalist.

Styer is a dedicated toddler teacher whose joyful energy, leadership, and commitment to best practices create a classroom rooted in trust, curiosity, and growth. Moreover, she is unwaveringly focused on consistently upholding the highest health and safety standards.

“At the heart of my work is supporting children and families,” Styer said. “This recognition affirms the care and dedication I have to helping our students thrive each day.”

Now in its 20th year, The Goddard School Teacher of the Year Award celebrates outstanding Goddard School educators who encourage curiosity, inspire discovery, and foster a love of learning in their students. This year, more than 7,500 teachers from across The Goddard School’s more than 680 locations were nominated by families and their colleagues in four classroom categories (infant, toddler, preschool/pre-K, and Kindergarten) across four regions (Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, and West). In total, more than 11,700 nominations were submitted. Sixteen teachers, including Styer, were selected as regional finalists for exemplifying excellence, leadership, creativity, and a safe, nurturing teaching approach.

“At the heart of The Goddard School’s high-quality early childhood education are educators who feel valued, trusted and equipped to lead,” said Dr. Lauren Loquasto, senior vice president and chief academic officer at GSL. “This year’s Teacher of the Year honorees demonstrate how thoughtful teaching can spark curiosity and support children as they discover and explore their interests. We are thankful for the enthusiasm, passion and care they bring to their classrooms.”

As a 2026 Teacher of the Year regional finalist, GSL gave Styer a $1,000 cash award, branded Goddard merchandise, and a framed certificate.

“Madison brings heart, leadership and positivity to our school,” said Denise Manders, owner of The Goddard School of Carmel – West. “We truly appreciate her dedication and natural ability to foster a warm and supportive environment for children, families and her fellow teachers.”

For more information about The Goddard School and the Teacher of the Year Award, please visit GoddardSchool.com.