Delran - 19 April, 2006 -

John L. Minar was impressed with the education his two children received at a Goddard School so impressed that, two years ago, he decided to change careers and buy one of the preschool franchises. Minar opened a Goddard School on Hartford Road in January. It is the sixth Goddard School in Burlington County and one of about 200 nationally. According to Entrepreneur magazine, Goddard is the fastest-growing preschool in the United States. The company, based in King of Prussia, Pa., was founded in 1986 and began franchising two years later. Goddard Schools educate children ages 6 weeks to six years. According to company literature, they offer a wide range of activities to meet each child's need. Tuition, which is charged on a monthly basis, depends on the age of the child and the program, Minar said. Minar declined to discuss his startup costs. According to Enrepreneur magazine, the total investment is $470,000 with a 7 percent royalty. The new school sits in a shopping center that is still under construction. "I thought it was perfect for a preschool," Minar said. "I saw how (Delran) was growing with young families in the area and a lot of people moving here." Minar's new business employs 17. It is open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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