#United States #Nashville #Education #franchise #Kiddie Academy

Kiddie Academy® Celebrates Educational Excellence

Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care showcased the dedication of its franchise owners and educators during its annual conference held from July 17-19, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. The event recognized outstanding contributions across its nationwide franchise network, with awards presented to numerous exceptional individuals and locations.

Awards and Achievements

As the heart of Kiddie Academy’s commitment to quality early childhood education, the annual awards program celebrates those who not only excel in their roles but also signify the core values of the Academy. Among the notable award winners was Preeti and Vic Gulati, who were named Franchisee of the Year for their locations in Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, and Vernon Hills, Illinois. Their hard work and vision have set an inspiring example within the community.

Another highlight of the awards was the New Academy of the Year, which honored Kiddie Academy of Windsor, Colorado, for its achievements after just opening its doors. This is a testament to the innovative practices being implemented across the board.

The conference also spotlighted the Director of the Year, Christy Kastl, representing Kiddie Academy of Edmond, Oklahoma, as well as the New Director of the Year, Stephanie Kanagaratnam, from Kiddie Academy of Herriman, Utah. Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for child development.

Educators play a pivotal role in the Kiddie Academy philosophy, and this year’s Regional Educator of the Year awards recognized six outstanding individuals driving educational excellence. Award winners included Rebecca Atterberry from Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Kathleen Brosnan from Whitestone, New York, among others, each recognized for their contributions to enhancing student experiences.

Additionally, the Community Essentials Award was presented to Kiddie Academy of Prosper, Texas, for its engagement in community-driven initiatives, and Life Essentials Awards were given to multiple locations for upholding the Academy's engaging curriculum that prepares children for life.

Inspiring Talks and Networking

The conference featured Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Inc., as the keynote speaker. Wozniak shared his entrepreneurial journey and emphasized the importance of STEM education, sparking discussions on integrating technology into early childhood education. Participants were inspired to reflect on how they can enrich the learning atmosphere for children through innovative approaches.

With over 300 attendees, including franchise owners, corporate staff, educators, and vendors, the conference served as an excellent networking platform for sharing best practices and experiences. Attendees participated in workshops focused on curriculum improvement, effective leadership skills, and forays into community engagement.

Kiddie Academy continues to position itself as a leader in educational child care, with over 350 locations across the United States. The brand reinforces its commitment to quality by recognizing and rewarding those who exemplify its mission: nurturing, educating, and inspiring future generations.

As the Kiddie Academy franchise grows, the importance of strong, community-oriented education remains at the forefront of its mission, encouraging franchisees to commit to the tenets of its foundational principles.

Looking Ahead

In an ever-evolving education landscape, Kiddie Academy remains dedicated to supporting its franchise owners and educators through training and recognition, ensuring that children are provided with a solid foundation for their futures. With the continued growth of the brand, the success stories from the Nashville conference serve as a reminder of the impact that dedicated educators can have on young lives.

For more information about Kiddie Academy or to learn how to become part of a franchise that values early childhood education, please visit kiddieacademy.com.