In response to Jane Doe:
We have had many special events including Muffins for Moms, Donuts for Dads, and this year we combined the two events for "Pastries for Parents." In addition, over the past year we have hosted and organized parent socials, family events, parents night out, and concerts for the children. We will continue, as always, to provide these special events for the school. This upcoming year we are very excited to be planning our first ever Mini Block Party in September 2011.
In reference to fees: Tuition and fee information is always disseminated at least 30 days ahead of time. The summer camp fees are to cover the weekly visitors and extra special events that are held during the summer.
In reference to transitions: We always send out a transition certificate and letter whenever we are transitioning students to the next level. We offer Meet and Greets, visitation opportunities, and classroom welcome letters to each family. Referring to the school handbook will provide an abundance of information regarding classroom policies, and the front office is always open for discussion regarding concerns. We do not allow parents to bring in food or toys that constitutes as a choking hazard, such as Pretzel Goldfish.
We do hope that you will find a good fit for you and your family. Regards,
The Goddard School

My daughter has gone here from the time she was 6 weeks old until she was 2. I think the teachers she had were, overall, very good. My issue has always been with administration and the corporate guidelines. For instance,
1) she started in June 2009 and they had Dads and Donuts the Friday before Father's Day that year. They have not since had any recognition or special treats since then.
2) A corporate rule is to charge extra during the 8 week summer camp (to date is was $200 on top of the $1245/month tuition). In addition, we were just slapped with an extra $150 charge for materials for the next classroom she'd be in.
3) When she moved from the infant class up to the 6-9 mos classroom, we received a print out of changes and accommodations (i.e., bring sippy cups, where food will be stored, changes in scheduled naptime and move to cots). Since then we haven't received any notification or prep when she is moved to the next classroom. This is a concern when we accidentally do things that are not allowed. For example, provide pullups that don't detach at the sides, or bring pretzel Goldfish crackers which aren't allowed (although regular Goldfish crackers are). We haven't received a snack menu in months either.
Overall, there have been unnecessary cost increases without warning and a general lack of communication that makes The Goddard School one that I would not recommend and consequently, have removed my child from.