Special section: Kids, Pets + Education: Montessori Kids Universe

Founding and vision

When Nancy and Tom Boehm founded Montessori Kids Universe (MKU) in 2012, they recognized a gap in traditional Montessori education. Many schools offered hours that didn’t align with working parents’ schedules, so they created a model that preserved Montessori’s core principles while better serving the needs of modern families. By Lizzy Yeserski

When Nancy and Tom Boehm founded Montessori Kids Universe (MKU) in 2012, they recognized a gap in traditional Montessori education. Many schools offered hours that didn’t align with working parents’ schedules, so they created a model that preserved Montessori’s core principles while better serving the needs of modern families.

Today, that vision continues to drive MKU forward.

> “Our company is driven by educators, parents and child development specialists dedicated to creating environments where families from all backgrounds can experience a Montessori education rooted in deep love and respect for children,” said Jenna Schoeck, franchise support specialist. “Every member of our corporate team is fully committed to upholding these values and supporting our owners in achieving this mission.”

While the brand remains committed to the principles established by Dr. Maria Montessori more than 100 years ago, it expanded its educational model with its proprietary DaVinci Kids program. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, DaVinci Kids provides creative learning opportunities that complement the traditional Montessori Method.

Business model and growth

By combining Montessori principles with extended hours, enrichment programs and franchise support, MKU created a model designed to meet the needs of modern families while providing entrepreneurs with a differentiated education business.

The model also helps ensure young learners become well-rounded, global-minded citizens. “MKU has a four-part promise to our families: A genuine Montessori work cycle, DaVinci Kids Reggio Emilia-based program, five enrichments – music, yoga, gardening, cooking and foreign language – and the Around the World program in the summer,” said Schoeck. “Competitors may offer some of these things, but not all, and not included in tuition.”

For entrepreneurs, this translates into the opportunity to build a meaningful legacy while owning a scalable business.

> “Not only is it personally fulfilling to create a space where our youngest learners thrive, MKU’s ROI is proven with an average annual revenue of $1.6 million and owners’ average annual income of $324,000,” Schoeck said.

The corporate team supports franchisee success with ongoing training and full-service support that helps maintain brand consistency. “Our franchise support team guides them through the process of opening their school from conception to opening day, and every day thereafter,” Schoeck said. “We also offer training for directors, teachers and staff with ongoing webinars, in-person training events, ‘Gather and Grow’ meetings and school site visits.” Plus, robust operational technology, including LineLeader and Procare, helps schools communicate with families to cultivate trusting relationships

Additionally, the company offers professional development through MKU Training Institute, a training program that takes teachers through the process of becoming trained Montessorians. It is an in-depth, six-month online program featuring live instruction, a video reference library and hands-on learning with experienced Montessori tutors.

The company’s investment in franchisee growth has also earned industry recognition. For two consecutive years, Newsweek named Montessori Kids Universe the No. 1 Best Child Care Brand for Customer Service based on a nationwide customer survey conducted with Statista, Schoeck said.

And the plan is to continue growing. “We have dedicated significant effort to opening 26 schools and aim to expand to 100 locations within the next five years,” said Schoeck.