Celebree School’s New Chief Development Officer Jim DiRugeris Helps Franchisees Make a Positive Impact

Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education with 26 company-owned locations in Maryland and Delaware, recently appointed Jim DiRugeris as chief development officer. In this role, DiRugeris will work closely with prospective and new franchisees as they start their journey with Celebree School.

“I started my franchise career back in 2007 as the director of real estate and construction at Maaco Franchising, before transitioning into the early childhood education segment as the VP of franchise development at The Goddard School. With a strong background in sales, real estate, construction and digital marketing, I am well-versed in the pre- and post-sales process and recognize the various challenges associated with opening a new location.”

Now, DiRugeris brings this wealth of franchising experience to The Celebree School. As a seasoned professional who understands the various facets of franchise development, DiRugeris strives to recruit franchisees who are enthusiastic about the early childhood education brand.

“What really drew me to Celebree School was meeting the incredible leadership team,” said DiRugeris. “As an emerging company, Celebree School offers the opportunity to reasonably build out a strategic growth plan. Everything is controlled internally, and we can have honest conversations with franchisees about where to take the brand.”

As chief development officer, DiRugeris will manage the entire franchise development process from new lead inquiries to a center’s grand opening. As part of the brand’s strong support infrastructure, DiRugeris assists franchisees in real estate selection, development and construction process until they are in a position where they are ready to open.

“I understand that choosing to open a franchise is a significant, life-changing decision, and I work to ensure that the franchisee is supported throughout the processes of both exploration and on-boarding,” said DiRugeris. “On a larger scale, we have many long-term growth plans for the brand and franchise network.”

According to DiRugeris, Celebree School’s goal is to have 100 schools open by the end of 2025. The aggressive but achievable growth plan will help develop a healthy franchise network. In order to reach more communities, Celebree School is looking to expand throughout the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.****, spreading organically from its Maryland and Delaware roots.

“As our network of franchisees continues to grow, it’s critical to have someone like Jim leading franchise development,” said Richard Huffman, founder and CEO of Celebree School. “He will serve as one of the first touchpoints someone has with Celebree and help guide them to establish and run a quality school.”

With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™****, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines through its core values of “Educate, Nurture and Protect”.

“I’m excited to join the Celebree team and assist with bringing the company’s proven model to more markets and families,” said DiRugeris. “I am proud to say I am involved in helping educate young children and understand why this franchise opportunity is appealing to those wanting to make a positive impact in their community.”