Day care center · Grimes, IA · reviewed since 2017
iHow the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 55%76+41.5Reliability 24%66+16Value 14%66+9.3Replies to reviews 7%95+6.7Craft & service penalty95−0.5Momentum penalty67−3.3Experts Score= 70Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.70SCORE
BGradeiLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#27 of 45 after school careiPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 41%
4.8★★★★★54 Google reviews · 24 photos
94%five-star reviews
4.43★last 12 monthsiAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
5%1–2★, last 20 reviewsiShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
Google reviewers rate The Goddard School of Waukee 4.8 out of 5 based on 54 reviews, with the owner responding to 39% of comments. Parents frequently cite the facility's welcoming atmosphere, professional staff, and effective communication as key benefits. Many note that children develop social and academic skills through engaging curriculum and age-appropriate activities. Reviewers also highlight the center's cleanliness and the strong relationships formed between families and employees, describing the environment as safe and nurturing. No recurring criticisms appear in the provided excerpts.
Google rating: 4.8 out of 5 from 54 reviews (94% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 54 Google reviews (33 with written comments).
Owner responses: the business replied to 39% of reviews.
Most recent review: October 6, 2026.
Service: After School Care serving Grimes, Iowa.
Data from Google, last updated November 6, 2026.
Score profile vs other after school care
Score per factor (100 = best)iEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: craft & service and replies to reviews; weakest: value.
The Goddard School of WaukeeAfter School Care median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactioniSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.The Goddard School of Waukee: 76/100 on this factor. Category median: 77.B
76
ReliabilityiReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.The Goddard School of Waukee: 66/100 on this factor. Category median: 69.B
66
Craft & serviceiCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.The Goddard School of Waukee: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 89.A
95
ValueiValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.The Goddard School of Waukee: 66/100 on this factor. Category median: 83.B
66
MomentumiMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.The Goddard School of Waukee: 67/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.B
67
Replies to reviewsiReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.The Goddard School of Waukee: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 75.A
95
Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
Star ratings
54 Google reviews we collected
4.8of 5
5 stars5194%
4 stars00%
3 stars00%
2 stars00%
1 star36%
Praise vs complaints
Phrases our text analysis found in 33 written reviews
98%praise
Praise3998%
Complaints13%
PriceiGoogle asks reviewers whether the price was great, reasonable or overpriced; these are their answers.
Price verdicts customers left with their Google review
67%fair
Great price133%
Reasonable133%
Overpriced133%
Not sure00%
Topic share
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
7topics
Staff & attitude1435%
Quality & results923%
Honesty & trust615%
Would recommend513%
Communication410%
Speed & response13%
Price & value13%
What customers talk about
We read 33 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“Teachers are educated, professional, kind to our kids, and very important - excellent at communication.”
“Liz and Holly do a wonderful job running this place.”
“It’s a genuinely warm and welcoming environment for both kids and parents.”
“I highly recommend Goodard school to any parent looking for a daycare that prioritizes both care and education.”
“Communication with teachers has always been excellent and easy.”
“…solving skills are the most noticeable - no matter what happens, she immediately comes up with proposed solutions and creative ways to tackle what’s i…”
“…exceptional opportunities they provide, where every child is given a fair chance to thrive from the moment they step through Goddard School doors.…”
People customers mention
Liz6 reviews
Holly6 reviews
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
Reviews for your job
Customers hired The Goddard School of Waukee for 1 kind of job. Pick one to see what they paid and said.
MMegan2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 weeks ago★★★★★
We love Goddard. The teachers are incredible and really care about the development of their kids. SO happy this is where our little is learning everyday.
Great priceEducational services
VViolet1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a month ago★★★★★
A very welcoming environment which makes me comfortable my child is in a safe environment
VValentina6 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
Liz and Holly do a wonderful job running this place. It’s a genuinely warm and welcoming environment for both kids and parents. There is always someone at the front desk ready to help. Teachers are educated, professional, kind to our kids, and very important - excellent at communication. They really do make the well…
SshyamLocal Guide · 13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
I'm thrilled to share the experience at Goodards school! the staff is incredibly nurturing and attentive, creating a warm and welcoming atmorphere that makes children feel safe and loved. I like their commitment to fostering both development and educational skills. My son has shown very good improvement in social…
CCuiLocal Guide · 14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
We're really happy with The Goddard School. The staff there are amazing, and my daughter enjoys all the daily activities.
MMercy2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
Goddard School of Waukee is a great place to develop your child/children skills. Everyone are professionals and your child will get the education they need to prepare for the next level. I absolutely love it there and I can not wait until my no other children get enrolled.
We love Goddard. The teachers are incredible and really care about the development of their kids. SO happy this is where our little is learning everyday.
Price assessment: Great price
Services: Educational services
Age group: Preschool (3–5 yrs)
Response from the owner · 4 weeks ago
Megan, it's wonderful to hear that you love The Goddard School of Waukee! Our teachers are committed to providing a caring and enriching environment for all children. Thank you for being a valued member of our community.
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Violet Aluvisia1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews Violet has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
A five-star rating is insufficient to capture this school needs 2,000 stars + the exceptional quality of the Goddard School, which warrants on-site recognition and a trophy. Every teacher, including the owner, Liz, and Ast Director Holly, should be commended for their outstanding efforts. Liz the owner is a rare and understanding individual who prioritizes the needs of parents and children, while Holly's dedication to maintaining order and ensuring seamless operations is truly commendable. The Goddard School has earned my loyalty in 2024, and I firmly believe it stands unrivaled in the Waukee school district. My daughter's remarkable progress over the past two years is a testament to the school's excellence, and I will not consider transferring her until she reaches kindergarten. My daily commute from Cumming, IA to Waukee is a deliberate choice, driven by my confidence that my child is loved and learning under the Goddard School's curriculum. I wholeheartedly endorse the school's approach and highly praise its faculty and staff.
You won't find a school like Goddard School in the Waukee school district, a testament to the exceptional opportunities they provide, where every child is given a fair chance to thrive from the moment they step through Goddard School doors.
I feel deeply grateful that I'm able to go to work with peace of mind knowing my daughter is in good hands, receiving love and care, and thriving in a safe environment where safety is the top priority.
Price assessment: Reasonable price
Response from the owner · 6 months ago
Courtney, we're so grateful for your endorsement and kind words about our team and curriculum. It's a joy to have your daughter with us, and we're committed to her continued growth and safety. Thank you for being part of our community!
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Valentina Huszar6 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Valentina has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Liz and Holly do a wonderful job running this place. It’s a genuinely warm and welcoming environment for both kids and parents. There is always someone at the front desk ready to help. Teachers are educated, professional, kind to our kids, and very important - excellent at communication. They really do make the well being of our children their priority, in addition to education. Our 4-yr-old has been with Goddard for less than a year and is already showing so much progress in learning and developing. Her problem solving skills are the most noticeable - no matter what happens, she immediately comes up with proposed solutions and creative ways to tackle what’s in front of her (or me at times :)). Our 6-month is happy and thriving - we love seeing her in business meetings with other babies in the morning. Can’t say enough about how happy we are!!
Response from the owner · Edited 11 months ago
Thank you, Valentina, for sharing your wonderful experience with The Goddard School of Waukee! Holly and I, along with our dedicated team, are committed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for both children and parents. It's fantastic to hear about your 4-year-old's progress and problem-solving skills, as well as your 6-month-old's happiness and growth. We truly appreciate your support and are so glad to have you as part of our Goddard family.
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Natalie HowardLocal Guide · 46 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Natalie has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
My daughter has attended this school for several months. One of the most important things besides her joy in attending is the happiness of the teachers. This school has the most rested, patient, and generally happy early education teachers I've ever met. I don't know all the ways the school makes this possible but what ever it is it's working. They have even been able to retain staff during the pandemic. Something most schools haven't been able to do. In uncertain times I'm very glad I have the certainty of this school. I feel supported by the director and teachers. My daughter is happy and learning emotional regulation as well as academics. They also maintain NAEYC ratios. Which means less waiting and more attention for my kiddo. Update: My daughter will be leaving Goddard for kindergarten. We are sad to say good bye but will being headed back with our next kiddo later this fall. This is hands down the best school for my kids. I work full time and often wish I could be home with them all day. But I don't question the emotional support and access to fun for my kiddos at Goddard. So glad Goddard is there for us. I personally feel so supported by the staff and teachers. They are a bunch of child development experts who love your kids and your family.
Response from the owner · a year ago
Thank you, Natalie, for sharing your heartfelt experience with The Goddard School of Waukee. It's wonderful to hear how much your daughter has thrived and how supported you feel by our dedicated team. We take pride in creating a nurturing environment where both children and teachers can flourish. We look forward to welcoming your next child this fall and continuing to be a part of your family's journey. We truly appreciate your support and are so glad to have you as part of our Goddard family.
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shyam kumarLocal Guide · 13 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews shyam has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I'm thrilled to share the experience at Goodards school! the staff is incredibly nurturing and attentive, creating a warm and welcoming atmorphere that makes children feel safe and loved. I like their commitment to fostering both development and educational skills. My son has shown very good improvement in social interactions and motor skills, thanks to the engaging and age-appropriate activities they provide. I highly recommend Goodard school to any parent looking for a daycare that prioritizes both care and education.
Response from the owner · a year ago
Shyam, thank you for your extraordinary 5-star review! We take pride in our nurturing staff at The Goddard School - Waukee and their commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and confidence in every child. It's heartening to hear about your son's improvement in social interactions and motor skills. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We truly appreciate your support and are so glad to have you as part of our Goddard family. 💙
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Cui DavisLocal Guide · 14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Cui has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We're really happy with The Goddard School. The staff there are amazing, and my daughter enjoys all the daily activities.
Response from the owner · 2 years ago
We appreciate your positive feedback and are pleased to hear that your daughter enjoys the daily activities! Our dedicated staff strives to create a nurturing environment that fosters natural curiosity and instills a sense of belonging. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's early education at The Goddard School.
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Mercy Morris2 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Mercy has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Goddard School of Waukee is a great place to develop your child/children skills. Everyone are professionals and your child will get the education they need to prepare for the next level. I absolutely love it there and I can not wait until my no other children get enrolled.
Response from the owner · 2 years ago
We're thrilled to hear that you find our school a great place for developing your child's skills, Mercy! Our team of professionals is indeed committed to fostering young hearts and minds and preparing them for the next level. We look forward to sparking a lifelong love for learning in your other children as well. Thank you for your extraordinary feedback!
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Brittany HalsrudLocal Guide · 4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Brittany has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We loved our preK experience so much. Our daughter was very loved at Goddard. We were always warmly greeted by Holly & Liz. Her teachers Miss Teresa, Miss Laura and Mr Liam all cared about her and taught her life skills and academics so she is ready for kindergarten. She was very safe there. We already miss them so much.
Response from the owner · 2 years ago
We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our Pre-K program, Brittany. It's great to know that Holly, Liz, Miss Teresa, Miss Laura, and Mr Liam were able to provide a nurturing and safe environment for your daughter. We're glad your daughter feels ready for kindergarten, and we miss her too! Thank you for sharing your experience.
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Morgan Degner1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews Morgan has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I cannot say enough positive things about Goddard. Every morning we are welcomed with a smile and my children race to go to their classrooms! The staff has really become apart of our family. I can trust that my children are being well taken care of. Liz and Holly always make sure to ask how the kids are doing and that really matters to me!
