The Goddard School Opens 700th School, Marking Major Growth Milestone

King of Prussia, PA, Nov. 09, 2026 // GLOBE NEWSWIRE // --  Goddard Systems, LLC (GSL) today announced the opening of its 700th school, The Goddard School of Winter Garden - Horizon West, FL. The milestone represents nearly four decades of thoughtful growth and underscores the increasing demand for high-quality early childhood education and care among families nationwide.

From its beginnings as a single school in Pennsylvania to a franchise system spanning 37 states and Washington, D.C., The Goddard School has become one of the nation's most respected early childhood education brands and a leading franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs. The opening of its 700th school reflects the strength of Goddard's proven franchise model, the dedication of its franchisees and teachers and the confidence families continue to place in Goddard Schools.

"The opening of our 700th school represents far more than a number; it’s a celebration of 700 communities where meaningful journeys have begun for children, families and franchisees alike," said Darin Harris, CEO of GSL. "Behind every Goddard School is a family's search for a trusted early education partner, a child's love of learning taking root and an entrepreneur's commitment to making a difference in their community. As we mark this milestone, we celebrate the relationships, experiences and opportunities that have helped children flourish, supported families and empowered franchisees for nearly four decades.”

Since starting its franchising journey in 1988, The Goddard School has built a reputation for combining educational excellence with a proven franchise system. Franchisees receive comprehensive support across operations, training, marketing, real estate and education, helping them build thriving businesses while making a lasting difference in the lives of local families.

"While this milestone celebrates 700 schools, it also recognizes the hundreds of franchisees who have helped bring The Goddard School to communities nationwide," said Tim Linderman, senior vice president and chief growth officer, GSL. "Their entrepreneurial spirit, combined with the strength of our franchise system and comprehensive support model, has enabled us to serve children and families across the country. As demand for high-quality early childhood education continues to increase, we look forward to expanding access to The Goddard School in even more communities."

Recent expansion has introduced The Goddard School to new communities and markets, including the brand's first schools in San Francisco and Brooklyn, and the awarding of its first franchise license in Maine. Florida has been a key driver of growth, with 13 franchise licenses awarded in the state in 2026 alone, including six to new franchisees and seven to existing owners expanding their portfolios. The opening of The Goddard School of Winter Garden - Horizon West follows two other Florida openings this year in Estero and Westshore, with additional schools expected to open statewide before the end of 2026.

The Goddard School of Winter Garden - Horizon West is led by on-site operator Victoria VanSicklin, who brings more than two decades of early childhood education experience to the school. Throughout her career, VanSicklin has served children and families as both an educator and operational leader, building expertise in school leadership, teacher development and creating high-quality learning environments. VanSicklin is partnering with Pam and Shawn King, seasoned Goddard School franchisees who own six other locations in Florida and Georgia.

"It's especially meaningful to be part of this milestone because every child who walks through our doors is beginning a unique learning journey," said VanSicklin. "Our goal is to create a nurturing environment where children and families feel supported and lasting relationships are formed. I'm honored to help bring that experience to local families.”

SOURCE The Goddard School

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