Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, builds strong momentum in Q1 with eight new signed franchise agreements. These new agreements represent a total of 13 schools planned across key growth markets nationwide including Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Tampa, Clover, SC, and East Hanover, NJ.
With franchise output projected to exceed $936.4 billion in 2025, marking a 4.4% increase from $896.9 billion in 2024, and franchise GDP set to grow by 5% to reach $578 billion, the surge in growth highlights the entrepreneurial spirit driving the industry.
Meet the Q1 Franchisees: Diverse Backgrounds, Shared Passion for Impact, All Opening in 2027
- Poonam Thakkar, along with family partners Bhumika Sachdev and Gunjan Thakkar, is set to open two Celebree School locations in the Chicago area. With a background in finance and a strong desire to solve local childcare challenges, Poonam views this new venture as a meaningful step toward community impact.
- Abigail Okeh, an experienced IT and cybersecurity program manager, has signed a one-unit agreement in Atlanta. Drawn to Celebree’s supportive model, she is excited about making a lasting difference in children’s lives.
- An attorney and founder of a solo law practice in Boston, brings her passion for community-focused service into early education with plans to open her first Celebree School under a one-unit agreement.
- Shruti Jindal, together with her spouse Gaurav Goyal, is taking over operations of an existing Celebree School in The Woodlands Creekside, Houston. Together they both bring over 40 years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience, bringing leadership, innovation, and growth to the brand.
- Michele and Derrick Moore, with backgrounds in child welfare and cybersecurity, have signed a one-unit agreement in Tampa, where they are committed to creating safe, supportive, and inspiring spaces for children.
- Kelly and Lee Souder from Clover, SC, are bringing Celebree’s quality education to their community with plans to open a new school. As parents and community members, the Souders have signed a one-unit agreement and are dedicated to providing a strong foundation for local families.
- A successful independent pharmacy owner and community leader is bringing his business acumen to early childhood education with plans to open three Celebree Schools in East Hanover, NJ.
- Nagur Noorbhasha, a licensed mechanical engineer and energy sector leader in Houston is drawn to Celebree’s mission and curriculum. He signed a one-unit agreement and is excited about the opportunity to open a new school in his community.
Looking Ahead: Expanding in High-Growth Markets Nationwide
With a strong Q1 foundation, Celebree School is on track to reach its goal of 30 signed agreements by year-end. Expansion efforts remain focused on high-opportunity markets including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Indianapolis, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and San Antonio. These markets are experiencing growing populations, increased demand for childcare, and strong economic conditions that support multi-unit ownership and long-term brand growth.
“The level of passion and purpose we’re seeing from this new group of franchisees is truly inspiring,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “These are leaders who believe in the power of early education and are stepping up to bring lasting change to their communities. They’re not just opening schools, they’re creating spaces where children can thrive, families feel supported, and futures are shaped. This kind of momentum reflects something bigger: a nationwide commitment to giving every child the strongest possible start.”
With a foundation built on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School continues to lead with a model that combines educational excellence, community connection, and an unwavering focus on the whole child.
Celebree School is continuing its national expansion efforts, and is currently seeking qualified and engaged individuals for single and multi-unit opportunities to bring quality childhood education to their communities.
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