Leading With Purpose, Landing With Passion: Montessori Kids Universe

Montessori Kids Universe (MKU) has built its reputation on delivering high-level support and training that not only strengthens its proven business model but also fuels franchisee success through ongoing coaching and extensive resources. By Lizzy Yeserski

Montessori Kids Universe (MKU) has built its reputation on delivering high-level support and training that not only strengthens its proven business model but also fuels franchisee success through ongoing coaching and extensive resources.

> “I really think that how we train our staff and our owners and how we continuously train everybody is really special,” said Jenna Schoeck, franchise support specialist. “It’s not just surface level. We’re here to answer anything and help solve any problem.”

The early childhood education leader’s commitment to excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. For two consecutive years, Newsweek named Montessori Kids Universe the No. 1 Best Child Care Brand for Customer Service based on a nationwide survey.

MKU’s corporate team gets a jump on training long before a school’s grand opening. New owners complete comprehensive onboarding, are supported by a four-day live training program and receive guidance at every stage of growth. That includes monthly webinars, “Gather & Grow” networking sessions, in-person school visits, personalized one-on-one coaching and regular check-ins with franchisees.

The company also invests heavily in educator development through annual teacher training workshops and the MKU Training Institute, a six-month, self-paced online Montessori certification program.

> “Everything’s done through us. It’s all in-house,” Schoeck explained. “We are also the ones who grade every assignment in MKUTI. It’s not outsourced at all, and the reason we do that is because we want to ensure consistency in the classroom.”

To maintain that consistency, the team offers a comprehensive Google Drive filled with resources and toolkits for owners, heads of school and staff. Additionally, industry-leading technology further enriches their experience. Using LineLeader and Procare, the company monitors enrollment trends, communication with families and operational performance.

If data shows room for improvement, the team works directly with franchisees to find and implement solutions. In fact, the Montessori Kids Universe corporate team ensures it’s always accessible as a constant touchpoint.

> “We’re not just saying, ‘Good luck,’” Schoeck said. “We want owners to know they have a landing pad. We’ve seen these situations before, and we’re here to help.”