early-childhood education

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/