Working families on San Antonio’s far West Side will soon have a new option for early childhood education. After three years of planning and nearly $7 million in investment, Akbar and Shermeen Bhaidani have opened the third location of their Goddard School franchise, now called The Goddard School of San Antonio – Potranco.
Local need drives the project
Both Bhaidani parents grew up in the San Antonio area and have long wanted to give back to the community that raised them. They noted a “massive need” for quality childcare on the far West Side, where existing programs have long wait‑lists and many families travel great distances for a spot.
“We value this community, and we saw there was a dire need that was here,” Akbar Bhaidani said. “We take our responsibility very seriously and want to grow with the community.”
What the school offers
The new campus, located at 12759 Jeff Ranch, provides space for up to 200 children from six weeks old through five years old. The Goddard brand reports that 97 % of its graduates are kindergarten‑ready, far above national averages that range from 40 % to two‑thirds.
Facilities include hospital‑grade equipment, lock‑secured vestibules, and a curriculum that emphasizes the whole child—academics, social‑emotional learning, and kindness. The Bhaidani’s say the school is constantly sanitizing and follows strict safety standards; the state has already awarded the franchise a perfect 100 % safety and education score.
Community response
Since breaking ground, the Bhaidani family has hosted open‑house events to let parents tour the building, meet staff, and learn about the program. Early feedback has been positive, with many families expressing relief that a high‑quality option is now within walking distance.
Enrollment is open now, and interested parents can learn more through the school’s Facebook page, “The Goddard School of San Antonio‑Potranco.” The official opening is slated for early to mid‑September.
About the Goddard franchise
The Bhaidani family already operates two Goddard Schools in Texas, including a location in Kyle that boasts a five‑star rating from over 50 reviews. Their experience in early childhood education positions the new campus to become a trusted resource for West Side families seeking a safe, nurturing environment for their youngest members.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
