Celebree School

Top Early Childhood Education Franchise Expands Commitment to Veteran Entrepreneurship with New Veteran Franchise Incentive

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, honors those who have served the United States with its Veteran Incentive Program designed to support veterans pursuing franchise ownership within the growing education sector.

As part of the program, qualified veteran franchise owners will receive $20,000 off the Initial Franchise Fee for their first Celebree School location. This incentive reflects the company’s continued commitment to supporting service members transitioning into business ownership and expanding access to franchise opportunities built around purpose-driven leadership and local impact.

“As a brand centered around leadership, service, and community, supporting veterans through franchise ownership is a natural extension of who we are,” said Mark Lubin, Chief Development Officer of Celebree School. “Veterans bring an incredible level of discipline, accountability, and operational expertise that aligns with our franchise system and our mission of positively impacting the communities we service.”

To qualify for the incentive, franchisees must meet the following requirements:

• One owner holding at least a 51% ownership interest in the franchise entity must be an honorably discharged United States military veteran
• The veteran owner must serve as the Operating Principal of the school
• Franchisees must execute a Franchise Agreement and Veteran Incentive Addendum

As a member of the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program, Celebree School continues to support veterans pursuing franchise ownership through a proven model, structured training, and ongoing operational support.

Veteran Franchisees Bringing Leadership to Local Communities 
Existing franchisees Jenny and Chris Stine, owners of Celebree School of Franklin – Cool Springs, exemplify the leadership and service-focused mindset veterans bring to entrepreneurship. Chris, a former United States Marine Corps officer who served tours in Afghanistan and the Republic of Georgia, says many of the principles that guided his military career continue to shape their approach to business ownership today.

Since opening the first Celebree School location in the Nashville market, the Stines have built strong community roots, retained key teaching staff, and quickly established a trusted reputation among local families.

“Military service teaches you that accountability starts with you,” said Chris Stine. “Whether you’re leading Marines or leading a business, people are counting on you to show up, make decisions, and create an environment where others can succeed. That mindset has been invaluable as we embarked on franchising.”

Jenny Stine, who grew up in a military family and has long been involved in education and community service, said Celebree School aligned naturally with their family’s values and long-term goals.

“We wanted to build something meaningful for families in our community while creating a positive culture for children and teachers alike,” said Jenny Stine. “Celebree gave us the opportunity to combine our leadership experience, passion for education, and commitment to service into something truly impactful.”

Franchise Growth Opportunities Rooted in Purpose and Performance
The Veteran Incentive comes on the heels of Celebree School’s new Royalty Incentive, as it continues expanding across high-demand markets nationwide, attracting franchisees seeking a mission-driven franchise opportunity in the early childhood education industry. The brand’s established model, training infrastructure, and strong unit-level performance continue to position Celebree as a quality business opportunity for both first-time and experienced operators.

Prospects are taking note of the business opportunity, as Celebree School’s Franchise Disclosure Document reports $2.26M AUV for company-operated schools open and operating throughout 2025.*

“With prime territories available across the country, we are focused on growing with franchise partners who are passionate about leadership and community impact,” added Lubin. “Veterans embody so many of the qualities that make successful franchise owners, and we are proud to support them as a VetFran member and through this incentive.”

For more information on Celebree School franchise opportunities for veterans, please visit https://franchise.celebree.com/.

For veterans looking to learn more about franchising and a potential fit with Celebree School, feel free to book an exploratory call with franchisee consultant and Air Force veteran Rich Roneree.

Local Families Invited to Grand Opening on July 10 to Explore Curriculum-Based Programs for Children Six Weeks- 12 Years

FULSHEAR, Texas — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, opened its newest school on May 18 in Cross Creek Ranch. Located at 6511 Skyline Dr., the new school will provide a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Texas’s early education standards.

To celebrate the new location, Celebree School of Cross Creek Ranch will host an on-site grand opening and ribbon-cutting event on July 10 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a summer garden party theme. For event details and updates, visit https://www.celebree.com/cross-creek-ranch-tx/ and follow the school on Facebook at and Instagram.

Celebree School of Cross Creek Ranch is owned and operated by local entrepreneurs Krishna and Parth Kikani, who follow a shared interest in building a business rooted in both community and long-term impact. Originally from India, Krishna moved to the U.S. in 2021 with a background in marketing and experience in real estate, later transitioning into early childhood education where she developed a strong interest in child development. Combined with Parth’s operational experience managing family-owned businesses, including entertainment and self-storage concepts, the couple was drawn to pursue a franchise aligned with their values. After being introduced to Celebree’s focus on emotional development and its “conscious discipline” approach, the pair saw an opportunity to bring a different kind of early education model to the growing Fulshear community.

“We wanted to build something meaningful, where children feel understood and supported from the very start,” said Krishna Kikani. “That’s what drew us to Celebree, and what we hope to bring to families here.”

Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™ and was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Each Celebree School is a village made up of parents, children, and educators while providing curriculum-based care that prepares your child for kindergarten and beyond.

With a 30-plus-year history of providing superior early childhood education, Celebree School delivers a stable, secure learning environment that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Programs are available for children six weeks to 12 years old with unique curriculums designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part time or full time and parents are allowed to drop in and visit at any time.

“We’re proud to welcome Krishna and Parth into our Celebree School family,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “They bring a deep commitment to children, families, and the community that perfectly reflects our mission to Grow People Big and Small, and we look forward to seeing Cross Creek Ranch families flourish with the support of our dedicated team and enriching programs.”

Celebree School – Cross Creek Ranch is open Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information on Celebree School in Cross Creek Ranch, please visit https://www.celebree.com/cross-creek-ranch-tx/ or call (346) 615-0102.

• Governor Wes Moore appoints longtime education and business leader to statewide higher education commission
• Confirmed by the Maryland Senate and set to begin a five-year term on July 1, 2026
• Brings more than three decades of experience in education, workforce development, and organizational leadership

BALTIMORE — Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, has been appointed by Governor Wes Moore to serve on the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), the statewide body responsible for coordinating higher education policy, planning, and oversight across Maryland.

Huffman was confirmed by the Maryland Senate Executive Nominations Committee on April 9, 2026, and will begin serving a five-year term on July 1, 2026.

“I am honored to be appointed by Governor Moore and grateful for the opportunity to serve,” said Huffman. “The common thread throughout my career has been a commitment to helping people reach their full potential through education. Few investments have a more profound and lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities. I look forward to contributing my experience, learning from my fellow commissioners, and supporting efforts that create opportunities, expand access, and empower Marylanders to achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”

Since founding Celebree School in 1994, Huffman has dedicated his career to expanding educational opportunities for children, families, and communities. What began as a single school has grown into one of the nation’s leading early childhood education franchises.

Helping Shape the Future of Higher Education in Maryland
The Maryland Higher Education Commission serves as the coordinating board for the state’s higher education system, helping align educational priorities with workforce, economic development, and student success goals. The Commission plays an important role in balancing the needs of the University System of Maryland, community colleges, independent colleges and universities, and workforce-focused education providers under a coordinated statewide vision.

“This appointment reflects what so many people who have worked with Richie already know: he is deeply passionate about the role education plays in changing lives,” said Sam Commodari, Director of Corporate Engagement and Government Affairs at Celebree School. “He has spent decades building pathways for students to learn, grow, and succeed, and he understands that strong educational systems are essential to the future of our workforce, our economy, and our communities. We are incredibly proud to see him bring that perspective to this important statewide role.”

A Career Dedicated to Educational Opportunity
Over the past three decades, Huffman has built a career at the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. In addition to growing Celebree School into a nationally recognized early childhood education organization, he has championed initiatives focused on talent development, leadership growth, and creating opportunities for individuals and families to succeed.

His leadership has guided the growth of both Celebree School and Huffman Family Brands while remaining grounded in a belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for strengthening communities and expanding opportunity.

To learn more about Huffman, please visit: https://franchise.celebree.com/meet-our-ceo/.

Nine Celebree School Locations to Expand Access to High-Quality, Affordable Pre-K Education

BALTIMORE — Celebree School is proud to announce nine of its Maryland locations have been officially authorized through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to participate in the state’s Pre-K Expansion Grant Program, making Celebree School the largest authorized provider of the Pre-K Expansion Grant program in Maryland.

Through this partnership, qualifying families may access FREE, high-quality Pre-K education in a safe, nurturing, and holistic learning environment designed to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

The initiative reflects Celebree School’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-quality childcare and early childhood education for families across Maryland while helping reduce financial barriers.

In celebration of this milestone and its continued commitment to supporting children and families, Celebree School will donate $50 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maryland for every new student registered and started between now and August 31*.

At the center of this commitment is the Celebree Promise – to Grow People Big and Small™. For more than 30 years, Celebree School has focused on supporting not only children, but also families, educators, and communities through meaningful relationships, high-quality education, and a culture centered on growth and care.

Participating Celebree School locations include:

• Celebree School of Perry Hall
• Celebree School of Bowie
• Celebree School of Tech Court
• Celebree School of Forest Hill
• Celebree School of Bel Air
• Celebree School of Severna Park
• Celebree School of Mt. Airy
• Celebree School of Ellicott City
• Celebree School of Frederick

Expanding Access to Affordable, High-Quality Early Education
Celebree School’s Pre-K Expansion Grant classrooms follow the same educational philosophy and quality standards that are designed around the whole child – academically, socially, emotionally, and developmentally.

• Highly qualified teachers with bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education or related fields
• Structured, play-based learning environments
• Social-emotional learning and kindergarten readiness support
• Individualized instruction tailored to each child’s development
• School-day schedules aligned with local public-school calendars

Families may also utilize Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) funding toward before and after-care options through Celebree School’s wrap-around care programs, further reinforcing Celebree School’s commitment to affordability and accessibility.

“At the end of the day, our mission and vision at Celebree School is to provide high-quality childcare to every child,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “Through the Pre-K Expansion Grant program, Celebree can expand access to preschool education for more families across Maryland. This partnership allows more children to have the strong educational foundation they deserve. We’re also proud that every new enrollment through August 31 will help support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maryland and the important work they do for families in our community.”

Eligibility and Enrollment Information
Children must be four years old by September 1 of the enrolling school year to qualify for the program. Additional eligibility criteria may include household income guidelines, housing instability, and other qualifying factors established by the state of Maryland. Enrollment capacity is limited to approximately 20 students per participating school location.

Families interested in learning whether they qualify are encouraged to contact their local Celebree School directly. School leadership teams will guide families through the eligibility verification and enrollment process.

For more information on Celebree School’s Pre-K Expansion Grant Program, please visit https://www.celebree.com/maryland-pre-k-expansion-grant/

For more information on Celebree School, please visit https://www.celebree.com/

*Offer valid at participating locations

Top Early Childhood Education Franchise Debuts Incentive to Support Early Growth & Drive Strong Unit-Level Economics

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, announces the launch of a new Franchise Development Incentive Program designed to reduce upfront operational pressure and support franchisees during the critical early stages of opening.

Under the new program, qualified new franchise owners will benefit from early-stage royalty incentives starting at 0%*, providing meaningful financial flexibility as owners build enrollment and stabilize operations.

Incentives of the Development Program Include*:

• Weeks 1-12: 0% Royalty on Net Revenue
• Weeks 13-24: 4% Royalty on Net Revenue
• Thereafter: Standard 7% Royalty on Net Revenue

“This incentive program is about strengthening franchisee success from day one,” said Mark Lubin, Chief Development Officer of Celebree School. “The early months of opening a school are the most critical, and we want to ensure our franchise owners are positioned to focus on what matters most – building enrollment, developing strong local relationships, and delivering exceptional early childhood education. This structure provides a meaningful runway while maintaining a long-term, sustainable model.”

The Franchise Development Incentive Program reflects Celebree School’s continued focus on responsible, franchisee-first growth as the brand expands its national footprint. By easing early-stage financial obligations, the program is designed to help new owners invest more resources into staffing, marketing, and community engagement during the foundational period of launching the school.

Franchise Growth Opportunities Rooted in Purpose and Performance

Celebree School continues to experience strong multi-unit growth across the country, with franchisees drawn to the brand’s 30-plus-year history, proven systems, comprehensive training, and mission-driven approach to early childhood education. The introduction of this incentive further enhances the brand’s value proposition for prospective owners seeking both impact and long-term business opportunities in a resilient education sector.

With prime territories available, franchisees can join a growing system built for long-term success while making a meaningful impact in their communities.

Prospects are taking note of the business opportunity, as Celebree School’s Franchise Disclosure Document reports $2.26M AUV for company-operated schools open and operating throughout 2025.**

“As we continue to expand into high-demand markets, we remain focused on building a system that supports both quality and scalability,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “This incentive is another way we are investing in our franchise partners and ensuring they have the tools and flexibility needed to grow confidently.”

For more information about Celebree School franchise opportunities, please visit https://franchise.celebree.com/.

• Two-School Development Agreement Marks Brand’s Entry into a New State, with First Location Planned for Grand Rapids
• Serving Children Through a Creative, Play-Based Learning Approach
• Expanding Access to High-Quality Childcare as Demand Continues to Outpace Supply

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, is expanding into Michigan with a two-school development agreement in the Grand Rapids area, marking its entry into the state.

The expansion builds on the brand’s recent growth in the Midwest, including its entry into Wisconsin, and reflects continued momentum across the region. As Michigan ranks among the top 10 states for franchise growth in 2026, the move also aligns with increasing demand for high-quality early education.

Development is currently underway, with the first school expected to open within the next 18 months.

Meeting Michigan’s Growing Demand for Early Childhood Education
Michigan continues to face a significant childcare shortage, with many communities across the state classified as “childcare deserts,” where available spots fall short of demand. Even in areas with licensed capacity, staffing constraints often limit actual availability, leaving families with fewer reliable options.

As a result, demand for high-quality early education continues to grow, with families seeking programs they can trust. Celebree School’s entry into the state expands access in a market where need remains high.

“Michigan is a natural next step for us as we continue to grow in the Midwest,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “We focus on markets where families are actively seeking better early education options, and where we can bring a thoughtful, high-quality approach to early learning. Grand Rapids is a strong example of that opportunity.”

The Celebree School Approach
Celebree School was founded on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, combining a strong, research-based curriculum with meaningful connection that extends beyond the classroom. Each school creates a supportive environment for children and families, helping build a foundation for success in kindergarten and beyond.

At the core of its approach is The Creative Curriculum® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized program that encourages exploration, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences.

Built for Growth: A Franchise Model Designed to Scale
Celebree School offers a proven business model with comprehensive training, ongoing operational support, and access to proprietary technology and marketing resources. As the brand expands nationally, it is seeking qualified franchisees for both single and multi-unit opportunities.

With prime territories available, franchisees can join a growing system built for long-term success while making a meaningful impact in their communities.

Prospects are taking note of the business opportunity, as Celebree School’s Franchise Disclosure Document reports $2.26M AUV for company-operated schools open and operating throughout 2025.*

For more information about Celebree School franchise opportunities, please visit https://franchise.celebree.com/.

Rebuilding Community: Top Early Childhood Education Brand Helps Overwhelmed Parents Find Real Connection

BALTIMORE — If your mornings involve mismatched shoes, a missing snack, and a last-minute scramble out the door – you’re not alone. Modern parenting is a lot louder, faster, and more isolating than ever. And while memes and group chats offer quick laughs, they rarely replace real support. This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Celebree School is launching “Where Villages Grow,” a campaign designed to help families rebuild something essential: community.

In fact, in the first quarter of 2026, 50% of American parents felt down, depressed, or hopeless multiple days a week – a powerful reminder that support for parents has never been more needed.

At Celebree, the belief is simple: If we want resilient kids, we must first support the adults who care for them.

“Where Villages Grow” reimagines childcare as more than a daily drop-off. It reflects a deeper commitment to creating communities where families feel seen, supported, and connected – because when parents thrive, children do too.

“When parents feel understood, supported, and connected, children feel safe enough to learn and grow,” said Kristen Miller, Director of Education at Celebree School. “Belonging doesn’t start with children – it starts with us. Childcare shouldn’t feel like a transaction. It should feel like a second home for children and for parents. That’s the difference intentional community makes.”

Ways Families Can Get Involved:

• Win a 1-Year Headspace Subscription: Families nationwide are encouraged to follow @celebreeschool and engage with #ParentingUnplugged posts celebrating real, unfiltered parenting moments – morning mayhem, snack time fails, sibling shenanigans, and parent wins. Comment to enter; one winner will be announced June 1.
• Village-at-Home Kits (Free Downloads): Because connection doesn’t stop at the classroom door, Celebree is offering free downloadable kits filled with:
  • Aged-Based Activities to Build Connection at Home
    • Conversation starters for family dinners
    • “Kindness missions” to do together
    • Simple mindfulness exercises for both parents and children
  • Simple Tools for Parent Mental Wellness
    • Parent reset guide
    • Our family village map
    • Making parent connections
    • “Lighten the Load” weekly sheet
• Free Webinar – Finding Your Village in the Early Years: Hosted by Elizabeth Reynolds, PhD from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty this webinar aims to support parents’ mental health and wellness. As an associate professor in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, she offers a vital perspective that connects the dots between parent and child wellness.
  • Register HERE and join us on May 27 from 6-7 p.m. ET

Bringing the Village to Life In-School & Beyond

Inside Celebree Schools nationwide, families will experience community in action. New ‘Family Community Boards’ invite parents to share their skills – from hosting playdates to offering professional advice – creating a living “Village Directory” that fosters real-world connections.

In classrooms, children, teachers, and families will co-create a ‘Belonging Promise,’ committing to kindness, inclusion, and respect – modeling the emotional safety children need to thrive.

Why Families Choose Celebree School
At Celebree School, the mission is simple: Grow People Big and Small™. That means more than preparing children for kindergarten – it means building strong, connected communities where families feel supported every step of the way. Celebree provides nurturing, engaging environments that foster cognitive, social, and emotional development. Guided by the nationally recognized The Creative Curriculum^® by Teaching Strategies, each school blends hands-on learning with meaningful connection – helping children gain confidence, independence, and a true sense of belonging. Because when children and their families are supported, entire communities grow stronger.

Parents today are overwhelmed and craving connection and socialization – but don’t have the time to build it from scratch. Celebree is helping design it for them.

To access “Where Villages Grow” resources, please visit www.celebree.com/where-villages-grow

For more information about Celebree School, visit https://www.celebree.com/

Celebree School Shares Framework to Help Parents Evaluate Learning Environments Beyond Public vs. Private Labels

BALTIMORE — Choosing the right school is one of the most important, and often overwhelming, decisions families face during their child’s early years. As parents prepare for the 2026 school year and weigh options ranging from public schools to private programs and community-based childcare, Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, is helping families cut through the noise by focusing on what matters most: how well the learning environment supports the individual child.

According to Celebree School’s education leaders, successful school decisions aren’t about labels or “types” of schools, but about quality, consistency, and alignment with a child’s academic, social, and emotional needs.

“Parents are often pressured to decide between public or private education early on, but that perspective can miss the bigger picture,” said Kristen Miller, Director of Education at Celebree School. “The key is finding a school that supports the whole child, through thoughtful instruction, personalized attention, and strong family partnerships, regardless of its label.”

Why Early Learning Environments Matter
Across the country, kindergarten readiness varies widely, with some states reporting preparedness rates of about 70% while others fall well below the national average to nearly 50%. These gaps underscore that early learning environments, including childcare and preschool settings, are more than just classrooms, but launchpads for a child’s successful transition, shaping the skills, confidence, and curiosity that determine how well they navigate school and beyond.

Looking Beyond Public vs. Private Labels          
National enrollment data shows that approximately 74% of K–12 students attend traditional public schools, while 9% attend private schools and 7.2% attend public charter schools. At the same time, participation in private school choice programs rose by roughly 25% in 2025, signaling a broader trend that more families are actively seeking environments that align with their child’s unique learning style, personality, and developmental needs.

Rather than starting with categories, Celebree encourages families to evaluate schools based on how children are supported day-to-day. Class size, teacher engagement, instructional approach, and consistency of care all influence a child’s experience, particularly during the early years when brain development and social learning are most rapid.

Research consistently shows that smaller learning environments and individualized attention can support stronger social skills and interpersonal development – both of which contribute to long-term academic success, regardless of the type of school a child ultimately attends.

Key Factors Families Should Consider When Choosing a School

• Understanding Learning Styles Early: Through play-based learning, structured routines, and ongoing observation, early childhood programs can identify how children engage, communicate, problem-solve, and interact socially, giving families early insight into their child’s strengths and growth areas.
• Developmental Readiness Beyond Academics: Kindergarten readiness includes emotional resilience, independence, curiosity, and social confidence – not just letters and numbers.
• School Culture and Values: Families should observe how educators speak about children and learning. Respect, kindness, curiosity, and growth should be evident throughout the environment.
• Communication and Family Partnership: Strong programs prioritize transparency, consistent communication, and collaboration, viewing parents as active partners in a child’s development.

For families feeling overwhelmed, trusting both the research and their instincts remains key. Programs that prioritize relationships, know children well, and adapt as children grow can provide a strong foundation – regardless of whether a child enters a public or private school setting.

With programs available for children six weeks to 12 years old, Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™. The brand was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Curriculums are designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about the world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities.

Current brand data from January 2026 shows that overall Celebree School students who will be entering Kindergarten in the Fall are 80%+ ready for kindergarten in all learning domains.

For more information about programs and enrollment, visit https://www.celebree.com/find-a-location/.

• Expanded U.S. footprint with 16 new franchise agreements and 15 openings in 2025
• Ranked No. 305 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, highlighting franchisee satisfaction and system strength
• Advancing operational excellence with a focus on unit economics and responsible franchising

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:

• Franchise Dictionary Magazine Top 100 Game Changers
• Richard Huffman’s EY Mid-Atlantic Recognition
• Richard Huffman featured as a Baltimore Business Journal’s 2025 Power 10 CEO
• FCXC Franchise Innovation Award
• 2026 Franchise Times Fast & Serious List (No. 37)
• OnCon Icon Awards Top 50 Marketing Teams
• FLDC STAR Awards: Best Online Lead Form Submission and Telephone Follow-Up
• Franchise Times Top 400
• 2025 Fran-tastic Brand from FranServe

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/.

• Bringing Innovative Early Education to the Milwaukee Area, Celebree School is Set to Open Its Doors in October 2027
• Nurturing Children Six Weeks to Five Years Old, the School Offers a Creative, Play-Based Learning Approach
• With a Commitment to “Grow People Big and Small™,” Celebree School Supports Families and Meets the Growing Demand for Quality Childcare

MILWAUKEE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, marks its debut in Wisconsin, with the first location in a multi-unit signed agreement set to open in fall of 2027. The new schools will offer a nurturing, curriculum-based environment that supports the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Wisconsin’s early education standards.

About the Owners

Owned and operated by Arpita and Snehasish Maity, the new schools aim to nurture, educate, and empower children while supporting families. Arpita brings a strong background in technology, operations, community engagement, and early learning, along with a bachelor’s degree in art. Snehasish serves as the Chief Information Officer at Fincantieri Marine Group, where he leads major digital transformation and innovation initiatives. Together, the Maity family is committed to bringing high-quality early education to their communities.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Celebree School experience to the Milwaukee area with a local school that inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and provides lasting value for families,” said Arpita. “We believe that meaningful change starts with a strong foundation in education, and our vision is to build a place where children can truly thrive, and families feel fully supported. For us, this is much more than opening a business, as it’s an opportunity to help shape the next generation.”

The Maitys plan to open multiple Celebree School locations across Wisconsin in the coming years, supporting the brand’s long-term growth in the region.

The Celebree School Approach

Celebree School was founded on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, believing that success in early childhood development stems from both exceptional curriculum and meaningful connection that extends beyond the classroom. Each Celebree School builds a village of parents, children, and educators dedicated to supporting the whole child and the whole family, while providing curriculum-based care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.

At the heart of Celebree’s approach is The Creative Curriculum^® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized, research-based program trusted by educators for decades. This curriculum encourages exploration, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences, ensuring children build a strong foundation for future academic and personal success.

Wisconsin’s Demand for Early Childhood Education

While Wisconsin was ranked seventh in education, many students are still working to regain pre-pandemic academic achievement levels. Gaps in early childhood learning, specifically foundational and social-emotional development, have contributed to these challenges and can have lasting effects as students progress in their education. With a shortage of available childcare and early learning options across the state, Celebree School is stepping in to provide accessible, high-quality programs that build strong foundations and help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our mission take root in Wisconsin,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “Knowing that children will have the support and foundation they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally makes this work deeply meaningful. I’m confident the Maity family will carry our vision forward and create a nurturing place where families feel truly supported.”

With a 30-plus-year history of providing superior early childhood education, Celebree School delivers a stable, secure learning environment that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Programs are available for children six weeks to 5 years old with unique curriculum designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part time or full time and parents are welcome to drop in and visit at any time.

For more information regarding Celebree School, please visit https://www.celebree.com/.