Pennsylvania · West Chester · 19382

The Goddard School · 703 W Nields St, West Chester

703 W Nields St, West Chester, PA 19382 · Chester County

2 core-safety citations in last 12 months Keystone STAR 3

Part of The Goddard School · 59 Pennsylvania locations

The Goddard School is a certified child care center in West Chester, PA, with capacity for 132 children. It holds a Keystone STAR 3 rating. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it 7 times. The state cited 61 violations, 9 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for health & medication (16 of 61). 21 citations came in the last 12 months, including 2 on a core-safety topic. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is #34 of 37 centers in West Chester and has more citations per inspection than 85% of Pennsylvania certified centers.

Inspection record

More citations than 85% of 4,789 Pennsylvania certified centers, per inspection, weighted by topic. Among the most cited

#34 of 37 centers in West Chester

9 Core-safety citations

52 Other citations

7 Inspections

0 Complaint investigations that found violations

61 citations from 7 state visits since Aug 16, 2021 · 21 in the last 12 months · last inspected Apr 14, 2026

Every state visit

Violation found No violation Top row: inspections · bottom row: complaint investigations, self-reported incidents and other visits

What inspectors cited most

Health & medication 16

Training & qualifications 12

Records & paperwork 12

Building & playground safety 7

Background checks 6

Emergency preparedness 3

Supervision 2

Food & feeding 1

Transportation 1

Staff ratios 1

Citations, newest first

Core safety Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Supervision

Pertinent Laws & Regulations/General Health and Safety 55 Pa. Code §3270.14/3270.21

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, staff #4 and #5 were observed to be caring for children unsupervised. Staff #4 and #5 has not completed the following the preservice training required prior to be caring for children unsupervised. Staff #4 Pediatric First Aid and CPR or the required Health and Safety topic. Staff #5 has not completed the required Health and Safety topic.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 9, 2026): “Until such time as the required pre-service training are completed, staff person #4 and #5 must be supervised when interacting with children at a minimum by an assistant group supervisor who has all the qualifications to care for children unsupervised. If there are no staff persons available to…”

Core safety Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Background checks

Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the file of facility persons #1 and #5 did not contain a completed DHS required FBI clearance. The file of facility person #3 contains a DHS required FBI clearance dated 6/19/20 which is more than 60months old. (See code sheets for hire dates) facility person #3 also has not completed mandated reporter training within the last 60months. This is evidenced by the previously documented mandated reporter training on file dated 6/18/20.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “The operator shall comply with the CPSL and with Chapter 3490 (relating to protective services). Facility persons #1, #3 and #5 must be removed from a childcare position by the close of business effective 4/14/26.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Emergency preparedness

Training regarding plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(c)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, there was no verification available for review to verify staff #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5 completed initial emergency plan training. The emergency plan training reviewed for staff #8 was not annually updated, last dated 6/3/22. The emergency plan training reviewed for staff #9 was not annually updated, last dated 8/28/24.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Conduct emergency plan training immediately for Staff #1, Staff #2, Staff #3, Staff #4, and Staff #5. Document the date and names of all attendees. Provide updated training for Staff #8 and Staff #9 and retain signed documentation on file.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety

Locked or inaccessible 55 Pa. Code §3270.66(a)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, disinfect spray and sanitizer spray were observed on a low shelf underneath an unlocked diaper changing table in room 105.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 10, 2026): “Immediately relocate all cleaning materials and toxic substances from room 105 to a locked cabinet or secured area inaccessible to children. Inspect all rooms for similar hazards and remediate the same day.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety

No peeling paint or plaster 55 Pa. Code §3270.77(a)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, chip paint was observed on the orange wall in room 104.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 10, 2026): “Repaired and repaint the chipped paint area in room 104.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety

Clean and good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(g)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the toilet in room 102 was not in service and was not useable. In room 104 bathroom, one of the toilets did not flush. In room 106 bathroom the toilet handle was observed broken.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 10, 2026): “Repaired all non-functioning toilets in rooms 102, 104, and 106.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety

Handwashing signs 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(h)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the bathroom in room 100, 104 and 106 did not include handwashing signs that read an able child shall wash his hands after toileting and before eating.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Posted required handwashing signs immediately at each toilet, training chair, diapering area, and sink in rooms 100, 104, and 106, and verify all other rooms are compliant”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Building & playground safety

Stairs, exits, etc. unobstructed 55 Pa. Code §3270.91(a)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the exit to enter onto the facilities outdoor playground was obstructed with a large stroller.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 10, 2026): “Removed the stroller from the exit immediately and designated an approved storage location for strollers away from all exits, hallways, and egress routes.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Health & medication

Clean, age appropriate 55 Pa. Code §3270.106(a)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the rest equipment (cots) in room 102 were observed not labeled for the use of a specific child. No cot list was available for review.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Labeled all cots in room 102 with the assigned child's name and created a written cot list kept on file at the facility.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Health & medication

2 feet apart 55 Pa. Code §3270.106(f)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, 3 infants were observed sleeping in cribs that were not spaced at least 2 feet apart on three sides in the infant room. (Room 108)

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 10, 2026): “Immediately rearranged the cribs in room 108 to provide at least 2 feet of clearance on three sides of each crib while in use.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Health & medication

Infant: updated health report every 6 months/Initial and subsequent health reports 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(b)(1)/3270.182(1)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the health assessment reviewed for child #5 was not updated within a 6-month period. Last dated 8/5/25.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 26, 2026): “Contact Child #5's parent/guardian immediately to obtain an updated health report. File the updated report in the child's record as soon as received.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Health & medication

Toddler/preschool: updated health report every 12 months/Initial and subsequent health reports 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(b)(2)/3270.182(1)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the health assessment reviewed for child #1 was not updated within a 12-month period. Last dated 9/6/24. The health assessment reviewed for child #3 was not updated within a 12-month period. Last dated 6/2/22. The health assessment reviewed for child #6 was not updated within a 12-month period. Last dated 3/1/24. The health assessment reviewed for child #7 was not updated within a 12-month period. Last dated 11/19/24. The health assessment reviewed for child #9 was not updated within a 12-month period. Last dated 4/27/23.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 26, 2026): “Immediately contact parents/guardians of Child #1, Child #3, Child #6, Child #7, and Child #9 to request updated health reports. File updated reports in each child's record upon receipt.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Health & medication

12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter/Health assessment, TB test 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)/3270.192(3)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, upon request there was no initial health assessment available for review for staff #4. The health assessment reviewed for staff #3 was not updated within a 24month period. Last dated 1/8/24. The health assessment reviewed for staff #8 was not updated within a 24month period. Last dated 8/27/23.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 26, 2026): “Staff #4, Staff #3, and Staff #8 are in the process of obtaining updated health assessments.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Food & feeding

Written statement 55 Pa. Code §3270.166(1)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, upon request there was no written statements obtained from the parents in the infant room, for the children's formula and feeding schedules. (Room 108)

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “In the process of obtaining written formula and feeding schedule statements from all parents of infants currently enrolled in room 108 immediately. File signed statements in each infant's record.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Transportation

Pick-up and drop-off points 55 Pa. Code §3270.171(a)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, upon request there was no verification available for review to verify the facility notified local traffic safety authorities annually in writing of the location of the facility and the program's use of pedestrian and vehicular routes around the childcare facility.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 8, 2026): “Sent a written notification to local traffic safety authorities in West Chester, PA with the facility's location and description of pedestrian and vehicular routes used. Retained a copy of the notification on file.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications

Fire safety - 1 yr. 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(e)(4)(ii)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, upon request there was no verification available for review to verify staff #3 and #9 completed annual fire safety training. The fire safety training reviewed for staff #2 was not annually updated. Last dated 2/25/24. The fire safety training reviewed for staff #4 was not annually updated. Last dated 2/24/25.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Schedule fire safety training by a fire protection professional immediately for Staff #3, Staff #9, Staff #2, and Staff #4. Document attendance and retain signed records in each staff file.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications

Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, staff 3, #4 and #6 has not completed the following required preservice training within 90 days of their date of hire. (Pediatric First Aid and CPR) (See code sheet for hire date).

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 9, 2026): “Until such time as the required pre-service training are completed, staff person #3, #4 and #6 must be supervised when interacting with children at a minimum by an assistant group supervisor who has all the qualifications to care for children unsupervised. If there are no staff persons available to…”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications

Staff evaluations 55 Pa. Code §3270.34(a)(6)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, there was not verification available for review to verify that staff #4 received a minimum of one evaluation every 12 months.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Complete a written performance evaluation for Staff #4 immediately and place it in their personnel file. Document the date of evaluation and the evaluator's signature.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications

HS/GED + 2 yrs/Transcript, diploma and letters 55 Pa. Code §3270.36(b)(5)/3270.192(2)(iv)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the record reviewed for staff #5 did not include verification of childcare experience for the position performing (Assistant Group Supervisor) The record reviewed for staff #7 did not include verification of childcare experience or verification of education for the position performing (Assistant Group Supervisor) The record reviewed for staff #9 did not include verification of education for the position performing (Assistant Group Supervisor)

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2026): “Obtain and file acceptable documentation (transcripts, diplomas, or signed letters from experiential/educational entities) for Staff #5 (experience), Staff #7 (education and experience), and Staff #9 (education).”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Records & paperwork

Updated every 6 months/Emergency info/agreement updated 6 mos 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(f)/3270.181(c)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, the emergency contacts and agreements reviewed for child #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9 and #10 were not updated within a 6-month period. Last dated 9/8/25

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 26, 2026): “Contact parents/guardians of Child #1, Child #2, Child #3, Child #4, Child #5, Child #6, Child #7, Child #8, Child #9, and Child #10 immediately to review and update emergency contact information and financial agreements in writing. File updated forms in each child's record.”

Citation Apr 14, 2026 Inspection Training & qualifications

Age and Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(e)

During the renewal inspection conducted 4/14/26, there was no verification available for review to verify staff #3, #4, #8, and #9 completed an annual minimum of 12 clock hours of childcare training.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 1, 2026): “Obtain documentation of completed training hours for Staff #3, Staff #4, Staff #8, and Staff #9. Enroll staff in upcoming trainings to meet the 12-hour requirement and retain certificates in each staff file.”

Show 40 older citations

Core safety May 22, 2025 Inspection Background checks

Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)

During a complaint investigation the certification representative conducted an allocated unannounced inspection and observed staff #1 missing an FBI in the file, staff #2 was missing an up-to-date FBI in the file, staff #5 was missing an up-to-date FBI in the file, staff #6 was also missing an FBI in the file. Staff # 1, #4, #7 were missing a child abuse clearance in the file. staff #1 needs a criminal in the file and staff #4 and #14 criminal still says pending.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 26, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for the staff to obtain their needed clearance to be included in the file.”

Citation May 22, 2025 Inspection Training & qualifications

Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)

During the complaint investigation the certification representative conducted an allocated unannounced inspection and viewed the staff files staff #2, #5 #6 #7 and #12 were missing a health and safety training in the file. #6 was missing a 1-hour update as well in the file at the time of the inspection.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 23, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to submit their missing health and safety documents and include them in the file.”

Core safety Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Background checks

CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(4)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files, staff #1, was missing the results to their criminal clearance in the file and a child abuse clearance in the file. Staff # 2 is missing an FBI clearance and a child abuse clearance in the file. Staff # 3 was missing an FBI clearance in the file. Staff #5 was missing their criminal results in the file what's in file still say pending. Staff #7 is missing criminal results what's in the file still says pending, and FBI results in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide their missing clearance and or the provider will obtain the already submitted documents and include it the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

Toddler/preschool: updated health report every 12 months 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(b)(2)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children files, child #1 was missing an updated physical in the file. last physical is from 2/26/24.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the parent of the child and request for an updated health assessment to be included in the child's file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

Immunization record/Exemption documentation from parent/guardian 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(d)(5)/3270.131(e)(2)(i)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children files, children #7 and #8 were both missing shots and or an exemption letter included in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the parents and request for updated shot records or a written exemption letter to be included in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

Free from contagious/communicable disease 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(d)(7)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children's files, child # 1 health assessment in the file did not contain the statement that the child is able to participate in childcare and appears to be free from contagious or communicable disease.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the parent and request for them to provide an updated health assessment that includes the statement that the child is free from communicable disease.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #7 health assessment expired last physical in the file 3-27-23

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them submit a current physical that can be included in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

Conducted by physician, PA or CRNP 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(b)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #2 was missing a health assessment in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to submit current physical to be included in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Health & medication

Mantoux TB 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(c)(2)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #7 was missing a TB shot record in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 19, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for the staff to provide their TB shot record to be included in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Records & paperwork

Pertinent Laws & Regulations/General Health and Safety 55 Pa. Code §3270.14/3270.21

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #4 was missing a 1-hour update in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide a copy of the 1-hour update to be included in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Training & qualifications

Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files, staff #1 and #6 were missing the health and safety 10 hour or 6 hours in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide a copy of their health and safety training and include it in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Records & paperwork

Services proceeded 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(3)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children files child #2, #3, #7 and #8 all needed current and up to date child service reports in their files.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will request for the teachers to complete child service reports on each child that requires a updated CRS in their file and submit a copy to the certification representative.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Records & paperwork

Insurance coverage information 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(6)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children's files, child #6 was missing the policy number for their insurance.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the parent of the child and request for them to complete the emergency contact form it its entirety leaving no areas blank.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Records & paperwork

Transcript, diploma and letters 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(2)(iv)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #2, #6 and #7 were missing experience in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2025): “The provider will have staff complete an employment verification form and include it in the file.”

Citation Apr 10, 2025 Inspection Records & paperwork

Two written references 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(5)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files staff #7 has a written reference from their aunt. A facility person's record shall include two written, nonfamily references.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 7, 2025): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide a non-family member reference to be included in the file.”

Core safety Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Background checks

Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files, staff #3 was missing out of state clearances to be included in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 28, 2024): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide out of state clearances for the previous state they lived in the past 60 months”

Core safety Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Staff ratios

Similar Age Level 55 Pa. Code §3270.51

During the renewal inspection the certification representative conducted a facility walkthrough and observed the Hippos class out of ration while outside in the play space. There were two teachers outside with you 13 young toddlers.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 28, 2024): “The provider will have all staff take a supervision training course”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Emergency preparedness

Pertinent Laws & Regulations/General Health and Safety 55 Pa. Code §3270.14/3270.21

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the emergency plan, the plan did not include the plans for continuity of care.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 5, 2024): “The provider will include the plans for continuity of care to the plan.”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Emergency preparedness

Contact when arises/Contact when ended 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(3)/3270.27(a)(4)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the emergency plan and did not see the method for facility persons to contact parents as soon as reasonably possible when an emergency situation arises. The plan did not have a method for facility persons to inform parents that the emergency has ended and to provide instruction as to how parents can safely be reunited with their children.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 28, 2024): “The provider will include the method to contact parents to the emergency plan.”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Building & playground safety

No peeling paint or plaster 55 Pa. Code §3270.77(a)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative conducted a facility walk through and observed peeling paint in the infant room on the wall near what you did sign.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 5, 2024): “The provider will notify maintenance and request for all areas of peeling paint to be corrected.”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Health & medication

Clean, age appropriate 55 Pa. Code §3270.106(a)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative conducted a facility walk through and observed several rooms resting equipment without a labeling system.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 25, 2024): “The provider added labels to each rooms resting equipment that was missing a label.”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Health & medication

Free from contagious/communicable disease 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(d)(7)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the children's file child# 3 was missing the statement on the health assessment that states the child is able to participate in childcare and appears to be free from contagious or communicable disease.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2024): “The provider will notify the parent and request for parent to provide a statement from the physician stating the child is free from communicable disease.”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Health & medication

Child's hands washed 55 Pa. Code §3270.134(a)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative observed the hippos class coming from outside straight to the tables to eat lunch without washing their hands.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 28, 2024): “The provider will have the staff in the hippo's class take training on handwashing”

Citation Apr 25, 2024 Inspection Training & qualifications

Age and Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(e)(4)(i)

During the renewal inspection the certification representative viewed the staff files, staff # 2 did not have a up to date CPR/First Aid certificate in the file.

Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 5, 2024): “The provider will notify the staff and request for them to provide a up to date CPR/First Aid certificate.”