New Goddard School opens in Nexton, promising innovative early education and jobs

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCIV) — Nexton announced Tuesday the opening of the Goddard School of Summerville, an education facility that claims it will bring play and inquiry-based learning to families in the area.

It marks the fourth location for franchisees Bill and Amy Strickland, who also own the Goddard School of Fort Mill (Gold Hill), The Goddard School of Fort Mill (Doby’s Bridge) and the Goddard School of Rock Hill. The latest location is located on 110 Connectivity Lane in Nexton’s new Dayfield Park development.

“We are thrilled to bring The Goddard School to Nexton, a dynamic, family-centric community that values education and growth,” said Bill Strickland. “Nexton’s strategic location within Charleston ensures accessibility for families seeking nurturing childcare and exceptional early education services. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Nexton community and contributing positively to its educational landscape.”

The school has over 11,000-square-foot early childhood education center has nine classrooms to provide care for and educate approximately 150 children, ages six weeks to six years old. Additionally, the school adds approximately 25 teaching jobs to the community, according to the news announcement.

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The new school features an indoor gymnasium and multiple outdoor playgrounds alongside a turf field. Additionally, the school is equipped with hospital-grade sanitization equipment to ensure a healthy environment.

The play- and inquiry-based learning experience offered at The Goddard School of Summerville uses the most current, academically endorsed methods in early childhood education to nurture the extraordinary in every child.

Children can explore and discover music and art, learn how to communicate using sign language and secondary languages and develop problem-solving skills through games. Just as importantly, a targeted curriculum focused on social-emotional development teaches children life skills, such as how to be kind to themselves and others, officials said.

The Goddard School is open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.