With the goal of establishing productive franchise partnerships, Mike DeBoer, franchise development advisor at Schooley Mitchell, is passionate about the role he plays in franchisee success. By Erika Ortega
According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, 71% of U.S. adults are concerned that AI will be “putting too many people out of work permanently,” highlighting the importance of long-term, proven franchise models. By Brianna Bohn
For anyone looking for a lucrative business opportunity that offers a flexible schedule and desirable work-life balance, the mobile-focused Global Financial Training Program might be a good fit. By Jessica Petrucelli
Impressed with the model created by LIME Painting® Founder Nick Lopez, Cory Griggs decided to pursue franchising after more than 20 years in corporate sales. He traveled a lot and made decent money but wanted more flexibility as well as the opportunity to expand his earnings beyond what corporate America offered. By Erika Ortega
People in the franchising industry, know that franchises are locally owned and independently operated businesses. It is natural that franchise owners are really good about showing communities that they care. They wholeheartedly support their community by setting out to be successful. By Dawn Abbamondi
Garrett Vargas didn’t start his career in the beauty and wellness industry. In fact, he has a successful background working for big tech companies and co-founded a childcare startup. After selling his startup company, he began looking for his next venture in the booming wellness industry. He knew he wanted a concept that offered operational guidance in an area new to him and was suited to a semi-absentee role. By Kelsi Trinidad
For Jenna and Derrick Ware, their WorldKids® School franchise in Raleigh, North Carolina, is more than just a business venture. It’s the culmination of years spent raising four children, navigating multiple childcare programs and searching for a place that felt warm and globally minded. By Jessica Petrucelli
In 2020, in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Justin Sapp and his wife were sitting at home facing an uncertain future. The couple had recently moved to Mississippi, and Sapp was working in computer software for a bank, but he felt isolated at home and was missing the days of working in an office. By Kelsi Trinidad
According to Josh DuBois, there’s a running joke in franchising that you either grow up in the industry or fall into it. With more than 20 years living franchising from both the franchisee and franchisor side, he proudly reports the former. By Jessica Petrucelli
BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, enters 2026 with strong momentum following a year of meaningful growth, national recognition, and key operational milestones. The brand’s continued progress reflects a disciplined approach to expansion and a strong commitment to franchisee success.
“Our goal for this year is to continue to grow in ways that matter; thoughtfully, strategically, and with purpose,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “In 2026, we’re strengthening our franchise system, improving operational standards, and ensuring that every school reflects the quality, consistency, and attention to detail that families expect. By supporting our franchisees with best-in-class tools, training, and resources, we’re building a foundation for sustainable growth that benefits children, families, and communities alike.”
Spreading Early Education Excellence: Franchise System Expands Across the U.S.
In 2025, Celebree School awarded 16 new franchise agreements and opened 15 new locations across key markets, including Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and New Jersey. The brand also celebrated its first locations in Wisconsin and Washington, D.C., reflecting a targeted, strategic approach to expansion.
Franchise Leadership Validated: National Recognition Across the Industry
Celebree School’s performance and leadership were recognized through a combination of 2025 honors and early 2026 industry rankings, reflecting the brand’s continued momentum and growing national profile. Notably, the brand earned a No. 305 ranking on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® in 2026, jumping from No. 418 the previous year.
Additional recognitions include:
Internal operational improvements, including technology enhancements and leadership appointments, also positioned the brand for continued success and prepared the system for accelerated growth.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Growth and Innovation in 2026
As Celebree School looks forward, the brand is taking a disciplined, forward-focused approach to growth. The year ahead will prioritize strategic unit expansion rooted in responsible franchising, alongside a continued emphasis on strengthening unit economics to support long-term franchisee profitability.
Targeted growth in both new and existing markets will be balanced with an unwavering commitment to operational excellence and high-quality care.
“Our focus is on growing responsibly, strengthening our franchisees’ capabilities, and ensuring every school delivers the highest-quality education and care, building a foundation for children, families, and communities to thrive,” added Huffman.
Franchise Opportunities Open Across Key Markets
Celebree School offers franchisees a proven business model, comprehensive training, ongoing operational support, and access to proprietary technology and marketing resources. As the brand continues its national expansion, Celebree School is seeking qualified, engaged individuals for both single- and multi-unit ownership opportunities.
Current target markets include: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Austin, and Philadelphia.
With prime territories available, franchisees can join a growing system built for long-term success while making a meaningful impact by bringing high-quality early childhood education to their communities.
For more information about Celebree School franchise opportunities, please visit https://franchise.celebree.com/.
About Celebree School
Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School’s founder, Richard Huffman, launched a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree affiliated concepts under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.