CONTACT: Letitia Clark - 949.582.4920 - lclark31@socccd.edu
January 30, 2025
TUSTIN, CA – The South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) proudly celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of The Goddard School at the Advanced Technology & Education Park (ATEP) campus on January 28, 2025. This milestone marks a significant step in expanding early childhood education opportunities in Orange County while fostering partnerships between higher education and the community.
Chancellor Dr. Julianna M. Asperin Barnes, along with members of the SOCCCD Board of Trustees, local elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders, gathered to commemorate this achievement. The Goddard School, a premier early childhood education provider, will offer a nurturing learning environment that supports cognitive, social, and emotional development for young children.
“The opening of The Goddard School at ATEP aligns with our district’s vision of creating a comprehensive educational ecosystem that serves learners of all ages,” said SOCCCD Board President Carolyn Inmon. “By integrating an early childhood education center on our campus, we are investing in the future of our community and reinforcing our commitment to lifelong learning.”
Located in the heart of Tustin, the ATEP campus is a hub for workforce development and innovation, offering specialized programs in emerging technologies. The addition of The Goddard School enhances ATEP’s role as a dynamic educational environment where students, educators, and industry leaders collaborate to shape the future.
“The presence of The Goddard School at ATEP strengthens our mission to support working families and provides valuable learning experiences for future educators enrolled in early childhood education programs at Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College,” said Chancellor Barnes. “This partnership underscores our district’s dedication to education at all levels.”
The ribbon-cutting event featured remarks from owners of the school, Mr. and Mrs. Patel, district leaders including Chancellor Barnes and President Inmon, as well as Council Member Gallagher of the Tustin City Council. The cutting of the ribbon was followed by tours of the new facility, and a celebration of the collaborative efforts that brought this project to fruition.
For more information about SOCCCD and ATEP, please visit www.socccd.edu.
About the South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD)
The South Orange County Community College District is dedicated to providing high-quality education and workforce training. With a focus on innovation and community engagement, SOCCCD is committed to preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving global economy. SOCCCD serves nearly 60,000 students per year through its two colleges, Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College. The district serves nearly one million residents and employs more than 3,000 faculty and staff.