The Goddard School

We are honored to present the 2026 Anthony A. Martino Memorial Scholarship to Andrew Chen, a pre-k graduate of The Goddard School of Urbana, MD! Andrew, who will attend the University of Pennsylvania this fall, is a nationally recognized educational game designer who believes learning should be both informative and immersive. “My time at The Goddard School encouraged me to explore ideas, think independently and approach learning in a hands-on way,” said Andrew. “Those early experiences showed me that education can be engaging and interactive, which later inspired my interest in educational game design. By combining technology and creativity, I hope to make complex issues like sustainability more accessible and motivate people to take action.” Congratulations, Andrew! Read more about Andrew and the scholarship program here: https://lnkd.in/gzwMsEsz.

Record growth. Expanding opportunity. Meaningful impact. The Goddard School celebrated its strongest first quarter in history, awarding 35 new franchise licenses and continuing to grow in key markets nationwide. From new entrepreneurs to experienced multi-unit operators, franchisees are choosing Goddard for its proven model, strong support systems, and commitment to delivering high-quality early childhood education. Discover where we’re growing—and how you can be part of it: https://lnkd.in/ewZy_vDg #Franchising #ChildcareFranchise #FranchiseDevelopment

The Goddard School of Yukon, OK, is now open! This is the first location for owner Kristin Richards, a Yukon native who recognized the growing need for high-quality childcare in the community. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to bring The Goddard School to the community that helped shape who I am today,” said Kristin. “Our goal is to provide early childhood education that sets a strong foundation for lifelong learning. We’re excited to offer an environment where children feel safe, supported and inspired to learn, and where parents and educators feel valued as true partners in each child’s growth.” For more information, visit the school’s website: https://lnkd.in/gk3g-ZWS. 

Sibling rivalry is universal. Navigating it well is key to healthy child development. In this Psychology Today article, Dr. Kyle Pruett, a member of our Educational Advisory Board, shares expert insights on managing conflict between young siblings and why a strong sense of parental love is the foundation for positive relationships. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/g2-U6m2w.

In honor of Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating the inspiring journeys of sisters and Goddard School franchisees Marissa Pratt and Kristina Ford. Their story highlights the power of family, entrepreneurship, and a shared passion for early childhood education. From supporting one another as sisters to building thriving schools, they demonstrate what’s possible when personal purpose meets professional opportunity. Read their Q&A to learn more about their path to franchise ownership and what makes it so rewarding: https://lnkd.in/ekppcshQ #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #MothersDay

The Goddard School of Peoria, AZ, is now open! This is the third location for seasoned Goddard School franchisees Kimberly Camarillo and JoEllen Johnson, who have supported the community and families in the greater Phoenix area via The Goddard School of Goodyear since 2009 and The Goddard School of Buckeye – Verrado since 2025. “As longtime Goddard School owners, we’re passionate about creating a secure, nurturing space where children can grow during their most critical early years—while also providing working families with high-quality care and education they can rely on,” said Kimberly. “We’re excited to bring The Goddard School experience to Peoria and to begin building meaningful partnerships with local families by helping children reach their fullest potential.”    For more information, visit the school’s website: https://lnkd.in/duyPiHB2.

We’re excited to recognize the 2026 Goddard School Teacher of the Year, Melissa Augustine from The Goddard School of Wayne, NJ! Melissa represents the very best of early childhood education. She brings intelligence, kindness and a genuine passion for learning to her classroom every day. Please join us in celebrating Melissa and the meaningful impact she has on her school community. Congratulations, Ms. Melissa! 

The Goddard School of Kingstowne - Franconia/Springfield, VA, is now open! This is the second location for owners Rahul and Taruna Jain, who opened The Goddard School of Alexandria – West in 2021.   “We’re excited to officially open The Goddard School of Kingstowne – Franconia/Springfield and become part of the Franconia community,” said Rahul. “Building on the success of our school in Alexandria, our team is excited to bring the same high-quality, nurturing learning experience to local families. We’re committed to fostering an environment where children feel safe, supported and inspired to explore, grow and thrive every day.” For more information, visit the school’s website: https://lnkd.in/gdvWruWr.

In this First Time Parent Magazine article, our learning environments manager, Rorie Wells Ellerson, shares simple, screen-free activities that are perfect for the spring season. As Rorie writes, early learning doesn’t require elaborate plans, special supplies or hours of preparation. In fact, some of the most impactful learning moments for young children happen during simple, everyday experiences, especially those rooted in play, nature and connection. Check out the article here: https://lnkd.in/du7MuM_m.

And that’s a wrap! #ACE2026 was an inspiring week of learning, collaboration and celebration for the entire Goddard Systems team. Throughout the event, we engaged in meaningful deep dives into our recently announced Mission, Vision and Values and strategic objectives, while also investing in personal and professional growth. Sessions ranged from timely and thought‑provoking topics like AI and emotional intelligence to fun, energizing experiences such as mahjong and barre3. Our always‑entertaining awards ceremony and reception capped off an unforgettable event.   Giving back to our communities is a core part of who we are at Goddard, and we were proud to support an exceptional organization this week. BookSmiles is a veteran-owned and operated non-profit organization whose mission is to give new life to books and distribute them to promote childhood literacy, inspire readers, support educators and strengthen communities. As part of our “Share the Story” book donation drive, every GSL colleague was encouraged to bring their favorite children’s book to donate.    We thank our entire team for taking the time to join us in New Jersey this week. Your commitment and passion drive our continued success. And a special thanks to the dozens of colleagues and select Goddard School franchisees who helped coordinate, present and lead the event. We are all returning home feeling energized and inspired to drive our system to new heights! #GoddardFamily