SchoolWise Partners Facilitates Strategic Acquisition of Birch Tree Academy by Busy Bees North America

Strategic Acquisition in Early Childhood Education

In a significant development in the landscape of early childhood education, SchoolWise Partners has successfully facilitated the sale of Birch Tree Academy to Busy Bees North America. This transaction not only marks the growth of Busy Bees, one of North America's leading early education providers, but also highlights the increasing demand for high-quality educational institutions that cater to young learners.

SchoolWise Partners served as the exclusive sell-side financial advisor for the previous owners of Birch Tree Academy. The deal was officially announced on February 9, 2026, and comes at a time when the importance of early childhood education is recognized more than ever. Busy Bees North America’s CEO, Darla Kestle, expressed her enthusiasm for the acquisition, emphasizing the shared commitment to providing children with the best foundations for lifelong learning.

A Look at Birch Tree Academy

Birch Tree Academy has built a solid reputation as an esteemed provider of early childhood education, focusing on a STEM-based curriculum for infants through pre-kindergarten. The academy operates six locations across Washington and is known for its nurturing and supportive environments that foster both individual and social development among children. This commitment aligns perfectly with Busy Bees’ vision of creating engaging learning environments wherever they establish a presence.

The founder of Birch Tree Academy, Natalie Levy, shared her excitement regarding the new partnership with Busy Bees. She noted that this collaboration would enable the academy to reach more families and expand its innovative learning offerings. As the organization transitions under the Busy Bees umbrella, the emphasis remains on maintaining the high educational standards that parents have come to expect.

Busy Bees North America's Expanding Vision

Currently, Busy Bees operates over 270 centers throughout the United States and Canada, reinforcing its position as a key player in the early childhood education sector. With the recent acquisition of Birch Tree Academy, they are now strategically positioned in 13 states, further enhancing their reach and influence.

Ben Mayer from SchoolWise Partners remarked on the significance of this acquisition in the current market climate. He noted that the transaction underscores the high value placed on strong educational operators and their ability to cultivate enduring demand for quality early education. The expertise offered by SchoolWise Partners ensured a smooth transition throughout the transaction process, which included buyer outreach, coordinating due diligence, and executing the closing of the sale.

This partnership symbolizes an exciting future not only for the schools involved but also for the families they serve. The merger aims to incorporate Busy Bees’ proprietary curriculum, designed to spark curiosity and nurture a lifelong love of learning in children.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Birch Tree Academy by Busy Bees North America reflects a growing trend towards consolidation in the early childhood education sector. As more families recognize the importance of quality early educational experiences, such developments are likely to continue shaping the future of childhood education. The collaboration between Birch Tree Academy and Busy Bees stands to benefit countless families and provide enduring support for children's education during their formative years.

In a world that is constantly evolving, securing a reliable foundation for children through innovative and high-quality education becomes increasingly crucial. As we observe this merger unfold, it raises hopes for new opportunities in early learning environments that will pave the way for brighter futures.