toddler care

New Program Raises the Standard for Teacher Readiness in Early Childhood Education

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, proudly announces the launch of Celebree Certified, a new teacher certification initiative designed to ensure every classroom is led by an educator who has been trained, coached, observed, and verified to deliver the high-quality experience families expect.

Already implemented across Celebree’s corporate schools and expanding systemwide to franchise locations early 2027, Celebree Certified establishes a new benchmark in early childhood education, moving beyond traditional onboarding to create a measurable standard for teacher preparedness, classroom excellence, and consistent childcare quality.

While teachers may meet state requirements, classroom success requires more than qualifications alone. Celebree Certified was created to close that gap by transforming onboarding into a structured certification process that confirms teachers are ready to lead with confidence.

“Choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and parents should feel confident in who is leading their child’s classroom,” said Lisa Bricker, Chief Talent Officer at Celebree School. “Celebree Certified was built to make sure our teachers are not only qualified, but truly prepared with training, coaching, and real classroom experience before they lead independently. When we invest in our educators, children and families benefit too.”

Strengthening Quality Across Every Celebree School
Through what has been coined as The First 30, Celebree’s certification journey combines orientation, classroom immersion, mentorship, leadership coaching, and real-time observation to evaluate readiness in authentic classroom environments.

The process includes:

• Celebree Training Institute to build foundational classroom and culture alignment
• Shadow Week for guided observation and hands-on learning
• 20 days of in-class coaching and mentorship
• Five hours per week of leadership support and feedback
• Performance evaluation through real classroom experiences
• A clear certification decision on Day 30

To become Celebree Certified, Teachers in Development must demonstrate proficiency in Celebree’s Core Competencies before independently leading a classroom.

For families, the result is greater confidence that their child is learning in a classroom led by a teacher who has demonstrated readiness, not simply completed onboarding and state-mandated coursework.

For prospective franchisees, Celebree Certified represents a powerful competitive advantage: a scalable talent model designed to protect classroom quality, drive operational consistency, strengthen retention, and support long-term growth.

The launch of Celebree Certified reinforces 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.

As demand continues to grow for trusted, high-quality childcare and early education options, Celebree Certified reinforces the brand’s position as a leader in early childhood education franchising and a destination for families seeking excellence in childcare.

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

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

• Top early childhood education brand turns screen-free play, storytelling, and imagination into a nationwide movement for families
• 75% of parents believe boredom helps children become more creative
• 67% of parents believe screens make it harder for children to use their imagination

BALTIMORE — Remember putting on living room plays for your parents? Building blanket forts out of couch cushions? Riding bikes with neighborhood friends until the streetlights came on? A new study reveals nearly 9 in 10 parents wish their kids had more of the childhood they remember and Celebree School wants to help families bring a little of that childhood magic back.

This September, in celebration of National Literacy Month, Celebree School is launching “Boredom Is Where Imagination Begins,” a nationwide campaign encouraging families to embrace storytelling, early literacy, creativity, and screen-free play – while rethinking the role boredom can have in a child’s development.

At a time when many parents are navigating screen fatigue and overscheduled routines, the campaign aims to spark a larger conversation around imagination, independent play, and the simple moments that often become childhood’s most lasting memories.

“At Celebree, we believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, creativity, and connection,” said Kristen Miller, Vice President of Education at Celebree School. “Some of the most meaningful learning moments happen when children are given the space to imagine, create, tell stories, and entertain themselves. Boredom isn’t a bad thing – it’s often the beginning of something brilliant.”

Inspired by the analog childhoods many millennial parents grew up loving, the campaign celebrates the simple, imaginative moments that once defined growing up. At its core, the campaign reinforces Celebree School’s belief that literacy is joyful, play has purpose, and imagination matters.

As part of the initiative, Celebree Schools nationwide will host a series of literacy-focused family experiences and activations include in-school bulletin boards capturing screen-free family activities, “Fill the Shelf” school book drives, and in-school story time readings with special guests.

Families nationwide are encouraged to join in on the fun and download a free Childhood Unplugged Family Activity Kit that includes:

• ‘Unplugged Childhood’ Pledge: Start your family’s screen-free play journey with a pledge to read, build, pretend, explore, and make time for imagination.
• 30 Days of Childhood Unplugged Calendar: Try one simple screen-free family activity each day to spark creativity, literacy, storytelling, and playful connection.
• DIY Boredom Basket: Create a simple screen-free play basket that helps kids build, sort, imagine, problem-solve, and play independently at home.
• “I’m Bored” Survival Guide: Turn boredom into imaginative play with simple screen-free prompts that help kids invent, build, draw, move, and tell stories.
• Storytelling Starter Guide: Help your child build early literacy and imagination by creating their own story with characters, settings, and drawings.

Throughout the campaign, Celebree child development expert, Kristen Miller, will be available for interviews and media opportunities surrounding topics including:

• The connection between boredom and creativity
• How independent play supports literacy development
• Creating low-cost imagination spaces at home
• Practical ways parents can reduce screen dependency without guilt
• The growing return to “analog childhood” experiences

“There’s a reason so many parents feel nostalgic for the childhoods they had growing up,” added Miller. “Kids don’t always need constant entertainment. Sometimes they just need time, space, and imagination. That’s where storytelling begins, confidence grows, and creativity comes to life.”

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

To find a school near you, please visit https://www.celebree.com/find-a-location/

After Years Supporting Schools Across the Franchise System, the Ownership Team Brings its Expertise Directly to the Thorndale Community

THORNDALE, Pa. — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, is excited to announce new ownership of Celebree School of Thorndale. The school will now be owned and operated by Wayne Viener, Mason Viener, and Kelly Washington – an ownership group whose combined history with Celebree spans nearly four decades.

While new to franchise ownership, the team is deeply rooted in the Celebree organization. Washington has dedicated 19 years to Celebree, serving as a teacher, school director, licensing specialist, franchise business consultant, and now franchise owner – making her involvement a unique reflection of Celebree’s mission to Grow People Big and Small ^®. Wayne Viener and his son, Mason, have supported Celebree for more than 10 years, providing technology and business solutions to every school across the franchise system. As Chief Information Officer in his role, Wayne has dedicated support across Huffman Family Brands. Mason, has grown up professionally alongside the brand, specializing in technology rollout, adoption, and business intelligence across the Celebree system.

The ownership team’s connection to the Philadelphia region makes this transition especially meaningful. Personally, they have deep family roots in the area, including several family businesses across the region. Professionally, they have firsthand experience supporting schools throughout the market, including helping open locations across the area and working alongside educators, franchisees, and families before the Thorndale school first welcomed students.

“As someone who has spent nearly my entire career with Celebree, becoming a franchise owner feels like a natural next step,” said Washington, co-owner of Celebree School of Thorndale. “I’ve had the privilege of supporting schools from so many different perspectives, and now I’m excited to work directly with the children, families, and educators in Thorndale as a business owner to continue delivering the exceptional experience that defines the Celebree Promise.”

The new ownership group plans to maintain the current management team during the transition, providing continuity for families while building upon the school’s strong foundation. As parents themselves, the owners share a commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to learn.

“For more than a decade, our family has helped support every Celebree School behind the scenes through technology,” said Mason Viener, co-owner. “Now, we’re excited to be even more connected to the mission by serving families directly. We know this community, we know this school, and we’re committed to helping it continue to thrive.”

The transition also represents a unique milestone for the brand, highlighting the strength of Celebree’s culture and the opportunities it creates for people who have helped build the organization to become franchise owners themselves.

“Our owners embody what makes Celebree special,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “Their longstanding commitment to our schools, their deep understanding of our mission, and their passion for serving families make them exceptional franchise owners. They have helped shape the Celebree experience for years, and I’m excited to see them continue that work as owners of Celebree School of Thorndale.”

Celebree School believes success in early childhood education is built on a combination of a strong curriculum and meaningful relationships with children, families, and educators. Every Celebree School is dedicated to preparing children for kindergarten and beyond while fostering confidence, compassion, and lifelong learning.

Celebree School of Thorndale is open Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. For more information on Celebree School of Thorndale, please visit https://www.celebree.com/thorndale-pa/ or call (610)-314-7012.

• Celebree School Study Reveals 88% of Americans Wish Their Children Played More Like They Did Growing Up
• Parents Reflect Growing Concerns Over Screens, Creativity, and Child Development
• A Growing Wave of Nostalgia is Reshaping Modern Parenting

BALTIMORE — According to a new national survey commissioned by Celebree School, one of the nation’s leading early childhood education franchises, 88% of American wish their children played more like they did growing up, underscoring a growing desire to reclaim the simple, imagination-driven experiences many feel are disappearing from childhood.

The research, conducted by Talker Research, surveyed 2,000 American parents with young children, 11 and under, and paints a picture of parents navigating an increasingly screen-saturated world while yearning for more creativity, independent play, and meaningful family connection.

The findings arrive as families head into National Family Fun Month, when many are looking for affordable, meaningful ways to spend time together before the school year begins.

“The best childhood memories are often created in the moments when nothing was planned,” said Kristen Miller, Vice President of Education at Celebree School. “The moments children often say they’re bored can actually become the moments when they imagine, create, tell stories, solve problems, and develop skills they’ll carry for life. That’s where some of childhood’s greatest learnings begin.”

Childhood Memories Parents Miss Most

When asked which childhood activities they miss most, respondents overwhelmingly pointed to the simple experiences that defined growing up:

• Hide-and-seek (41%)
• Riding bikes (39%)
• Sleepovers (39%)
• Playing with neighborhood friends (38%)

Parents also shared what they wish their own children did more often today. The top responses included:

• Riding bikes (35%)
• Reading books (35%)
• Family dinners (34%)
• Nature walks (31%)

Parents Believe Boredom has Value

Nearly two-thirds (62%) of parents say they feel pressure to constantly entertain their children, while 30% experience guilt or anxiety about screen time multiple times every day.

At the same time, parents recognize the importance of allowing children space to entertain themselves.

• 75% believe experiencing boredom helps children become more creative
• 66% say cultivating imagination is very important for early childhood development
• 67% believe screens make it harder for children to use their imagination

Screens are Reshaping Childhood

Respondents overwhelmingly agreed that childhood today looks dramatically different than it did one generation ago.

The biggest differences parents identified include:

• More time on screens and devices (67%)
• More time indoors (56%)
• Less outdoor play (34%)

Imagination Still Matters

When asked which activities best encourage storytelling and imagination, respondents ranked outdoor exploration first (49%), followed by reading books (44%), building forts or structures (36%), and imaginative toy play (33%).

Those responses closely mirror what early childhood educators have observed for decades: children build literacy, communication, and critical thinking skills through play.

“Some of the most important learning happens during unstructured play,” added Miller. “Whether children are building forts, inventing games, or reading to stuffed animals, they’re developing language, confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.”

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

Enhanced Support Model Helps Franchise Owners Navigate Development Process with Greater Confidence and Efficiency

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a franchise leader in early childhood education with roots dating back to 1994, announces a significant expansion of its franchise development infrastructure designed to support continued growth across key markets nationwide.

As demand for high-quality early childhood education continues to outpace supply in many communities, Celebree School is strengthening the systems, resources, and expertise available to franchise owners throughout the development journey – from market selection and site evaluation to construction, opening, and ongoing operations.

Building a More Efficient Path to School Openings – Expanded Development Platform Includes:

• Dedicated leadership focused exclusively on real estate and construction.
• Internal site underwriting and evaluation before opportunities are presented to franchise candidates.
• A growing network of pre-approved architects, contractors, and specialized vendors.
• Enhanced relationships with lenders and development partners.
• Structured milestone-based support throughout site selection, construction, and school opening.

“Opening a childcare center is one of the most complex projects in franchising,” said Mark Lubin, Chief Development Officer of Celebree School. “Success requires the right real estate strategy, construction expertise, and development support. That’s why we’ve invested in scalable infrastructure that helps franchisees navigate the process with greater confidence and helps position them for long-term success.”

The initiative comes as childcare operators across the industry face rising construction costs, longer development timelines, and increasing competition for high-quality real estate. In response, Celebree School has focused on creating more efficient and scalable development processes that help franchisees navigate today’s evolving market conditions.

Adaptive Reuse Creates New Growth Opportunities

As commercial real estate continues to evolve, more second-generation spaces are becoming viable opportunities for childcare centers.

“Brands that can effectively evaluate and retrofit existing properties will have a meaningful advantage when it comes to speed to market,” added Lubin. “We’re building systems that allow franchisees to assess opportunities quickly and make informed development decisions.”

Unlike many emerging franchisors, Celebree School continues to operate company-owned locations, providing real-time operational insights – such as adaptive reuse opportunities – that help inform site selection, facility design, and development best practices.

Supporting Growth in High-Demand Markets

The company’s growth strategy focuses on expanding within both major metropolitan areas and high-potential emerging markets where demand for early childhood education remains strong. Current target growth markets include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Denver, Indianapolis, and Phoenix.

“Childcare is becoming recognized as essential community infrastructure,” added Lubin. “Developers, municipalities, and landlords increasingly understand the value that quality early childhood education brings to families and neighborhoods. We’re committed to providing franchisees with the tools and support they need to capitalize on that opportunity.”

Strong Economics Continue to Drive Interest

For entrepreneurs seeking a purpose-driven franchise opportunity in the growing early childhood education sector, Celebree School’s enhanced development support platform represents another step in the company’s commitment to franchisee performance and sustainable long-term growth.

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**. Recently, Celebree introduced a 0% royalty incentive for new franchise owners*.

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

With a Commitment to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School Expands Access to High-Quality Education

PHOENIX — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, is entering Arizona with a new franchise agreement in Phoenix. The new school will offer a nurturing, curriculum-based environment that supports the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Arizona’s early education standards.

Arizona’s Demand for Early Childhood Education
Arizona’s growing communities and evolving business landscape present a strong opportunity for Celebree School to continue to expand its footprint and serve more families seeking quality early childhood education options.

The monumental Phoenix agreement follows Celebree School’s recent signings in Grand Rapids, MI, and Philadelphia, PA, further reflecting the brand’s commitment to nationwide development in key growth markets.

“Arizona is exactly the kind of market where Celebree School is looking to grow,” said Mark Lubin, Chief Development Officer of Celebree School. “With more families moving into the state, we see great opportunity to continue our expansion with more locations across Arizona and bring our proven model to franchisees looking to make a difference in their community.”

The Celebree School Approach to Education
Celebree School was founded on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, believing that success in early childhood development stems from both a strong, research-based curriculum and meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom. Each school provides an engaging environment where children are encouraged to explore, socialize, and build independence, while bringing together a village of parents, children, and educators dedicated to supporting the whole child and the whole family.

At the core of Celebree School’s approach is The Creative Curriculum® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized, research-based program built to encourage exploration, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences. The curriculum has been trusted by early childhood educators for decades.

Scalable Franchise Opportunity Built for Long-Term Growth
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.

Recently, Celebree introduced a 0% royalty incentive for new franchise owners* and veteran incentive, further enhancing the brand’s value proposition for prospective owners seeking both impact and long-term business opportunities in a resilient education sector.

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/.

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