Meet a Mom: Marissa Pratt of The Goddard School of Simsbury
This month’s Meet a Mom is extra special for Simsbury, because she’s opening the doors to a brand-new school in the very town she and her sister grew up in. Meet Marissa Pratt, co-owner of the brand-new Goddard School of Simsbury, mom of three, and a woman on a mission to give families the gift of trusted, community-rooted care.
Let’s Start With You!
Marissa and her husband both grew up in Simsbury, attending junior high and high school together before settling down in nearby Canton. Now raising three active kids, Wyatt (14), Quinn (12), and Stetson (9), you’ll find the family biking, cheering from the sidelines of gymnastics meets, or exploring new places together.
From One School to Two
Marissa and her sister Kristina opened The Goddard School of Farmington over a decade ago and always dreamed of expanding to their hometown. “Opening a school in Simsbury was a way to give back to the community that shaped us,” she shares. The duo began the process in 2020 but were delayed by the pandemic. They restarted their search in 2023, and now, that dream is officially a reality.
What Makes the Goddard School in Simsbury Unique?
Goddard Schools are known for requiring on-site owners, and Marissa is exactly that. “I’m deeply involved in every aspect of our school,” she says. “My days are spent greeting families, supporting teachers, leading tours, and sometimes covering an infant break so I can sneak in baby snuggles!”
This hands-on approach shapes the school’s heartbeat: a nurturing, innovative environment where kids thrive, families feel connected, and trust is foundational. Inquiry-based curriculum, community events, and parent engagement make this more than just a school, it’s a second home.
Surprising Perks?
Families don’t just drop off at Goddard, they’re invited to join in the fun. From workshops to fundraising events, family hang-outs to classroom visits, the school is committed to creating a true community.
Biggest Win So Far
Marissa shares, “Watching parents, students, and teachers step into the space for the first time, seeing their eyes light up, hearing the excitement, it reminded me exactly why we built this school.”
On Balancing Motherhood and Business
Marissa is the first to say she couldn’t do it without support. “We are incredibly lucky to have both sets of grandparents right here in Simsbury,” she says. “They help us navigate everything from forgotten lunchboxes to late-night painting at the school.” Whether it’s assembling furniture or cheering at events, family is central to the mission.
Her advice for other moms with big dreams? “Ask for help. Build your village. And don’t be afraid to go for it.”
Local Love
Marissa’s crew has a few favorite traditions: Flamig Farm (a happy place at any age), Action Wildlife in Goshen, tubing the Farmington River, and stargazing at Simsbury Meadows. For a pick-me-up, she’s loyal to the honey latte at Dom’s Coffee, introduced to her by a friend back in 2015 and still her go-to.
Quick Picks
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Snack her kids can’t get enough of: Tru Fru frozen strawberries (gone in minutes!)
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Recent mom win: Her 14-year-old cleaning the house without being asked. “It showed respect and care. That’s a win in my book.”
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Favorite way to unwind: “Still figuring that out… hahah!”
See the School in Action
Want to experience the magic for yourself? The best way is to schedule a tour and see it all firsthand.
Grand Opening Event
Join The Goddard School of Simsbury for their Grow with Goddard Open House
August 2nd, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ribbon Cutting Promotion: Get 1 month FREE tuition when you enroll by August 2nd (for start dates between July–Sept 2, 2025)
Learn more on their website or follow along on social media to see what’s happening day to day!
