The concept for Ivybrook Academy was developed in 2005 by a first-grade teacher who recognized the absence of multidimensional learning opportunities for her students. Jennifer McWilliams knew they deserved better and was motivated to take action. She took her passion for shaping and teaching young minds and set out to create the optimal learning environment that recognized the strengths and needs of each child.
The first Ivybrook Academy opened in Weddington, North Carolina, in August 2007 with nearly full enrollment on day one. Since then, our flagship campus has continually been voted the #1 PreSchool in the Charlotte area. Shortly thereafter, seeing the students flourishing, Jennifer’s husband, Drew, realized that this concept can and should be brought to communities throughout the country. He left his real estate career to focus on bringing Ivybrook to new communities, and under the leadership of Jennifer and Drew, Ivybrook Academy opened its second campus in Fort Mill, SC, in 2011. Once again, the PreSchool was a success and became a beloved part of the community.
Seeing how valuable the Ivybrook experience was for young children in these two communities, Jennifer and Drew knew they needed to bring their progressive PreSchool to children across greater North Carolina and throughout the country. They meticulously developed a company growth plan that allowed them to expand the Ivybrook brand and provide students throughout the country with this invaluable opportunity. Today, Ivybrook Academy has over 20 campuses and is continuing to expand into new communities throughout the United States.
Craft educational plans and opportunities based on each child's individual learning style
Utilize the physical environment as a rich resource for exploration, inquiry, and thought
Model and encourage respect and collaboration in every aspect of daily life
Value children's voices and showcase their importance through documentation
Jennifer and Drew’s hard work and dedication have helped bring our PreSchool into over 50 communities throughout the country and we are continuing to grow. Along the way, Ivybrook received some awards. Ivybrook Academy is recognized as a leader in early childhood learning.
