by Jeff Achen
Thisweek Newspapers

Bob and Brenda McCampbell couldn't be happier to open a new preschool in Apple Valley.

The local couple says their business decision to open a Goddard School, one of 200 providing early childhood education throughout the nation, was not only a perfect fit for their family, but will contribute to the quality of education in the area.

A former Navy pilot, Bob is currently a commercial pilot on a voluntary leave of absence from Northwest Airlines. He said he has felt uncertain about the shaky airline industry long enough.

"The need for pilots isn't real strong with them laying off some pilots,î Bob said. "It's a pretty depressing environment with the volatility in the industry.î

Because they've never been completely comfortable with their entire security wrapped up in Bob's aviation career, they had begun looking at business opportunities a few years ago.

They found a lot of the food franchise businesses didn't fit their wants. Then they discovered the Goddard Schools.

In spring 2004, they flew to the headquarters in Pennsylvania to learn more about the Goddard corporation and about a half dozen schools. They found their fit and signed the preliminary franchise agreement last July.

The McCampbells say what was initially a pragmatic decision to find a safety net, has become an emotional pursuit.

"One of the things Goddard prides itself on is it's not a day care, it's a preschool. The focus is on the language arts, cognitive development, music, social sciences, manners and etiquette and nutrition,î Bob said. "It's a very healthy element to the community and we're very proud of it.î

Brenda, who is originally from Mexico, is currently translating English to Spanish for the school district. Spanish is one of the key educational components in the preschool and serves as an example of the teaching method throughout the school. Teachers will use Spanish and English throughout the day while interacting with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The same goes for other subjects.

"They learn through play,î Bob said. "It's very child directed, not teacher directed.î

The McCampbells strongly believe in the learning potential of young children and feel it's not exploited enough. They're happy their school will be teaching infants through 5-year-olds sign language, Spanish, science and more. They're also excited about their professional and experienced staff.

Barbara Vergenz, the school's director, started Stepping Stones preschool in Savage and has served as a teacher, administrator, and principal in schools south of the river.

"I think it's the most important level of education, these early years,î Vergenz said. "I believe in choice for parents very strongly. Goddard is going to offer parents a new choice. Every time we add a new choice for parents, we bump up the quality of education overall.î

Currently, Goddard employs four lead teachers, all experienced in early childhood, either licensed or degreed.

"They're all teaching the exact area of early childhood that is their love,î Bob said. "I think that makes a big difference too.î

The Goddard School is currently enrolling students and opens Dec. 5. They hope to open with 15-20 students and grow from there. Bob said his only regret is that they didn't go into business four or five years ago.

Jeff Achen can be reached at av.thisweek@ecm-inc.com.

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