Kiddie Academy Franchise Owners Recognized with Top IFA Award for Excellence

Celebrating Excellence: Kiddie Academy Franchise Owners Recognized

In a remarkable achievement for the Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care® network, franchise owners Preeti and Vic Gulati have been honored as the International Franchise Association (IFA) 2026 Franchisees of the Year. This accolade highlights their exceptional contributions to entrepreneurship, community service, and workforce development within the early childhood education sector.

Located around the Chicago area, the Gulatis manage multiple Kiddie Academy locations, including those in Arlington Heights, Vernon Hills, and Mount Prospect. Their dedication to fostering high-quality educational environments has not only enhanced their franchise operations but has also significantly enriched community engagement and family support.

A Night to Remember

The recognition took place during the IFA26 Advocacy Summit Luncheon held in Washington, D.C., on September 15. Among 89 other award recipients, the Gulatis stood out for their commitment to operational excellence. IFA President, Josh Frick, commended their outstanding achievements and expressed pride in seeing franchisees from the Kiddie Academy brand receive national accolades.

Casey Miller, the CEO of Kiddie Academy, stated, "We are always excited to see our franchisees go above and beyond. Preeti and Vic have set a standard for excellence in both operations and community impact. Their hard work and commitment are what make Kiddie Academy a trusted partner for families across the Chicago area."

A Legacy of Educational Commitment

Since opening their first location in Arlington Heights in 2015, the Gulatis have been instrumental in expanding the Kiddie Academy brand in the Chicago area. They have built a reputation for delivering quality early childhood education and care, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children aged 6 weeks to 12 years. The Kiddie Academy system emphasizes an educational approach through its proprietary Life Essentials® Curriculum, designed to prepare children for future success.

Reflecting on their journey, Preeti Gulati said, "We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition. The support within the Kiddie Academy system enables us to provide a loving space where children can learn and grow alongside dedicated educators."

The Role of IFA

The IFA plays a crucial role in championing franchise businesses globally. Established over 60 years ago, the organization consists of advocates for franchisees and suppliers, and it continually works to promote the growth of the franchise industry. The Franchisee of the Year award serves as a testament to the hard work and commitment that franchisees demonstrate across various sectors.

With over 375 Kiddie Academies operating in 40 states, the brand serves more than 40,000 children and their families, making a significant impact in the realm of child education and care.

As a part of its philanthropic efforts, Kiddie Academy supports national initiatives like Family Promise, further extending its mission to empower children and families beyond the classroom. This dedication to community service has helped solidify Kiddie Academy as a trusted name in educational childcare.

In conclusion, the recognition of Preeti and Vic Gulati as Franchisees of the Year is a well-deserved honor reflecting their passionate commitment to excellence in early childhood education. Their efforts not only benefit their local communities but also exemplify the values that the Kiddie Academy brand seeks to uphold. For those interested in learning more about Kidde Academy and its mission, visit kiddieacademy.com.