Cadence Education announced the acquisition of Especially for Children, a nine-school early childhood education provider serving families across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. The transaction expands Cadence Education’s national network to 350 schools across the United States, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy and commitment to increasing access to early childhood education.
Founded in 1976, Especially for Children has served Twin Cities families for nearly 50 years, providing programs for children from infancy through school age. The organization has built a strong reputation in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region through its focus on early learning and family-centered care.
The acquisition further strengthens Cadence Education’s presence in Minnesota following its recent addition of Ladybug Childcare Centers’ three schools. With the integration of Especially for Children’s nine locations, Cadence will deepen its footprint across the Twin Cities market while maintaining continuity for enrolled families and staff. Current students and families will continue to be supported by the same educators and school communities, while gaining access to Cadence’s curriculum resources, operational support, and broader educational infrastructure.
Cadence Education said preserving the culture and legacy of acquired schools remains a central part of its growth strategy. The company noted that many school owners seek partners that can continue their educational mission while supporting employees, students, and families through ownership transitions.
The company currently operates across 30 states and has more than three decades of experience integrating schools ranging from single-site providers to larger regional networks. Cadence Education said it remains open to future acquisition opportunities that align with its long-term growth objectives and educational values.
Founded more than 30 years ago, Cadence Education is one of the largest private preschool operators in the United States, now overseeing a network of 350 schools nationwide.
KEY QUOTES:
“Especially for Children has earned the trust of Twin Cities families for five decades. Their commitment to nurturing, high-quality early education aligns directly with how we approach every school in the Cadence family.”
Leigh-Ellen Louie, CEO, Cadence Education
“After 50 years of providing quality early childhood education to our communities, it was time for our family to pass along our nine schools. Given our history and the legacy we hoped would continue, it was very important to us to find an organization that shared our values, one that invested in employees, children, and families, and one that upheld high quality standards. Cadence Education was the right partner for us to achieve these goals, and we are excited for the future of Especially for Children to unfold under their thoughtful stewardship.”
Angie Williams, Former Owner, Especially for Children
“We are proud to support the educators and families who have built something truly special in this community, and equally proud that this acquisition marks a milestone moment for Cadence as we reach 350 schools nationwide. Because we prioritize the transition of teachers and the preservation of the school’s local ‘heart,’ we have become the preferred exit strategy for owners who care deeply about their staff and students.”
Zach Abdorrahimzadeh, Chief Development Officer, Cadence Education
