Celebrating a Milestone: Kiddie Academy's 350th Franchise Opening
Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care, a family-owned provider of national child care services, has proudly announced the inauguration of its 350th franchised location in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The grand unveiling took place on June 7, 2025, and was spearheaded by local entrepreneurs Cassie and Austin Fenerty, marking an exciting chapter in their careers and the community at large.
Casey Miller, the third-generation CEO of Kiddie Academy, expressed immense pride in this achievement, stating, "It's an honor to celebrate the 350th Academy opening in Lancaster. With every new Academy that’s established, we’re building on the mission my grandparents envisioned when they founded Kiddie Academy in 1981." Over nearly five decades, Kiddie Academy has made substantial strides, expanding across 40 states plus Washington, D.C., with a commitment to enriching the lives of children and families through quality child care.
The journey to opening the Lancaster franchise was personal for owner Cassie Fenerty. As a resident of the area and mother of two young children, she understood firsthand the challenges many families face in securing high-quality child care. Cassie recalled the lengthy wait lists she encountered for her own children, which fueled her passion for creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive both academically and emotionally.
“It was essential for us to establish Kiddie Academy in Lancaster because there was a clear need for a child care center that focuses on developing the whole child,” Cassie shared. “We are not merely a safe place for children to spend their days. Instead, we aim to know, challenge, and celebrate every child who walks through our doors.”
The Kiddie Academy of Lancaster is thoughtfully designed, featuring 11 classrooms and an expansive playground that incorporates elements reminiscent of the local agricultural landscape, including play structures shaped like barns and farmer's markets. This innovative design reflects the community's rich farming heritage while providing a stimulating environment for children. The facility is licensed to accommodate 160 children and is supported by a dedicated team of 25 educators committed to fostering an enriching educational experience.
Kiddie Academy is revered for its proprietary Life Essentials® Curriculum, which intertwines education with life skills to prepare children for future success. The franchise also emphasizes social responsibility through philanthropic efforts, including partnerships with organizations like Family Promise, which extend character education beyond school walls.
With its strong commitment to quality education, Kiddie Academy has received corporate accreditation from Cognia, a globally recognized entity that assesses educational institutions against rigorous quality benchmarks. This accolade reaffirms the franchise's dedication to maintaining high standards in child care.
As Kiddie Academy continues its journey of expansion and impact, the Lancaster franchise stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for local families, reinforcing the notion that premium early childhood education is not just a luxury but a right for every child.
For more details on Kiddie Academy's curriculum and the services offered, visit
kiddieacademy.com. Join the community in celebrating this landmark achievement and supporting local educational initiatives that nurture our future generation.
About Kiddie Academy®
Founded in 1981, Kiddie Academy has emerged as a trusted name in educational child care, serving children from six weeks to twelve years of age. The company provides a range of programs, including full-time, part-time, before- and after-school care, and summer camps, helping to foster a love for learning from a young age. Each Kiddie Academy location operates independently, allowing for personalized services tailored to their specific communities. Learn more about franchising opportunities at
franchising.kiddieacademy.com.