The first moments inside Celebree School of Franklin Cool Springs feel calm, intentional, and full of possibility, which is exactly what owners Jenny and Chris Stine hoped for when they began this journey.
The couple entered the early childhood education space with a clear purpose. They felt deeply connected to Williamson County and saw a growing need among families who wanted more than simple childcare. “Like many families here, we were struck by how quickly the area is growing and how many parents are balancing demanding careers with a real desire for something more than just ‘childcare." For the Stines, Franklin offered a rare combination of strong community values, high expectations, and family-centered living.
That alignment shaped every decision. “Franklin has a strong sense of family, high expectations for education, and a community that truly values character, kindness, and connection. That alignment matters." They saw Cool Springs as particularly meaningful due to its concentration of corporate campuses, busy parents, and new neighborhoods. It was a place that needed a school built with equal attention to academics, emotional development, and values-driven care.
“We’re excited not just to open a school but to become part of the fabric of this community,” a sentiment that quickly took hold as families began walking through the doors.
A journey shaped by determination and community support
Opening any new business demands resilience, and the Stines experienced that quickly. “The journey has been both incredibly exciting and humbling," says Jenny. The design and permitting process stretched longer than expected, and the full buildout brought its own set of hurdles. Despite those challenges, the rewards have already outweighed the stress.
“Since opening our doors, we couldn’t be more pleased with the outcomes, the community that’s forming within our school, the early feedback from families, and the growth trajectory we’re on." Families touring the school, meeting teachers, and choosing Celebree became a powerful affirmation. The couple works intentionally to protect the culture that drew families in from the beginning.
As business owners, they understand that reputation in a close knit county is earned slowly and sincerely. “We work tirelessly to protect the culture and values that brought us to this point, and we’re confident that this foundation will drive meaningful growth as we move into 2026 and beyond."
A school built around the whole child
Celebree’s approach stands out in a region with expanding early education options. “What makes Celebree School different is that we intentionally focus on the whole child, not just academics, and not just care." Their curriculum blends core learning foundations with character development and age-appropriate independence.
Strong educators are at the center of that mission. “We invest heavily in our teachers through training, support, and culture because we believe great schools are built by great educators." The Stines want families to sense warmth within seconds of stepping through the doors. “We want them to feel that this is a place where their child will be known, challenged, and cared for, and where parents are true partners, not just drop-offs at the door.”
Parents first, business owners second
The most influential forces shaping the school were Jenny and Chris’s own lives as parents. “Our own experiences as parents of two young children here in the community were central in shaping the culture of the school." They built the type of environment they would trust for their children, guided by kindness, respect, responsibility, and excellence.
Professional experience also played a defining role. Chris notes, “Jenny’s experience as an operations manager, along with her work in the community around early childhood education, shaped how we think about structure, consistency, and thoughtful support for teachers as well as families." Chris brought a perspective rooted in leadership and accountability. Jenny adds, “Chris’s experience as a business development executive and as an officer in the United States Marine Corps instilled a deep belief in leadership, accountability, and setting a high standard of excellence, while also taking care of the people around you.”
Their partnership blends precision, structure, and heart, creating a culture that feels both nurturing and intentional.
The most meaningful moments
One sign of early success stands above the rest. “The most rewarding moment since opening has been seeing how many of our new families come to us through referrals." For the Stines, nothing is more affirming than parents sharing their experiences with loved ones. “Watching our classrooms begin to fill because families are spreading the word, telling friends, coworkers, and neighbors about us, has meant everything.”
A vision for long-term impact
The couple is focused on thoughtful growth that prioritizes quality over speed. “Our focus isn’t on rapid expansion for the sake of growth, but on growing thoughtfully." They want Celebree to be a long-standing community cornerstone, known for continuity, stability, and generational connection.
“If, years from now, families look back and say Celebree helped shape who their child became, we’ll know we’ve built something truly meaningful here in Franklin."
A first day experience filled with care
The Stines want parents to feel confident from day one. “Every parent and child is greeted at the front door by our administrative team and personally walked to their classroom." Teachers greet each child by name, guide them into activities, and help them feel secure during the transition. Building relationships before the first day ensures families start with peace of mind.
A promise rooted in trust
Above all, the Stines want parents to know that their commitment is deeply personal. “As parents ourselves, we make decisions through the same lens we use for our own children." Their promise is simple. “We care for every child as if they were our own.”
And in a fast-growing community that values excellence and heart in equal measure, Celebree School aims to become a place where families feel connected, supported, and truly at home, creating a legacy that will shape children for years to come.
Celebree.com/franklin-cool-springs-tn