The Goddard School near the intersection of Grosser and Gilbertsville Road is set to move to a new location at 2912 North Charlotte Street in Gilbertsville, next to the BB&T Bank.
The school decided several months ago to construct a new building so that it could better accommodate its growing number of students, which now totals at 116 children.
“We need more space, and the demand from the community is growing,” said Sal Boccella, the owner of the school. “It just made a lot of sense.”
Boccella explained that the Gilbertsville area is growing due to the construction of many more housing developments, and that families moving into those houses need a preschool for their younger children.
“It’s a growth area. There’s a lot of space and a lot of people moving into new housing developments,” said Boccella.
Boccella also mentioned that he is planning on hiring at least four to six new teachers to match the increase in enrollment.
Howard L. Stoltz Construction Company began work this past April, and the new school is planned to open in mid February of next year. It will have a floorspace of 8,400 square feet with nine classrooms, all of which will be much bigger than ones at the current location.
The facility also has upgraded vinyl flooring, two playgrounds, a kitchen, a teacher’s lounge, and an office.
“The bigger classroom will make a better environment for the children, and for the teachers,” said Boccella.
In addition to more students there will be more security features, including a hand scanner at the front door that will only unlock for someone if it recognizes their handprint. An improved alarm system has also been installed for both of the playground gates.
Boccella stated that many parents want to give their children a jump start at an early age, and estimates the school could have around 160 students after it opens.
“Parents are looking for a program like the Goddard School. It has great teachers, it’s accredited, and it has a curriculum and structure every single day. There’s a need for a high level preschool.”
