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From L-R:  Shannon Doherty, TLE center director Jennifer Higgins, and Manager Kesha Davis.

Featured Article

The Learning Experience

The Company is Expanding With A New Center in Avon

The Learning Experience (TLE), a fast-growing early education franchise, recently opened a new state-of-the-art center, marking its fifth franchise location in Connecticut under the leadership of Vid Mitta, owner of TLE centers in both Connecticut and Massachusetts.

The new 10,000-square-foot facility, located at 104 West Avon Road in Avon, will include a 5,000-square-foot playground and is expected to receive state licensure for up to 163 children. The center will employ approximately 35 to 40 team members once we are at full capacity.

"We are incredibly excited to join the vibrant Avon community! At The Learning Experience, we have so much to offer—and we can’t wait to share it with the community,"  says Shannon Doherty, Vice President of Operations for TLE's Connecticut centers. 

“There is always a need for quality child care with reliable, educated providers, and what really sets us apart is that we’re not just a daycare—we’re an educational center.”

Shannon emphasizes the franchise’s commitment to high standards. 

 "We are committed to evolving with the times to ensure we consistently provide the very best for our children, families, and educators."

The new center is owned by Vid Mitta, who also currently owns four other TLE centers in Connecticut—in Glastonbury, Cheshire, Enfield, and South Windsor—and six additional locations in Massachusetts. 

Making an Impact in Glastonbury

Since taking over operations in Glastonbury in October, Doherty and her team have focused on strengthening the culture, enhancing professional development, and deepening ties with the local community.

"We are passionate about building strong, collaborative teams and deeply committed to investing in the professional and personal growth of our educators.”

Compassion and teamwork is part of what Shannon says defines The Learning Experience’s approach.

"We are committed to cultivating a happy and inclusive culture within our centers where we strive to 'make happy happen here' every single day for the children, families, and educators.”

"Creating meaningful experiences for both children and families is a top priority. We create meaningful memories every day by offering hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity and a love of learning.”

Philanthropy, she adds, is a meaningful and integral part of the curriculum. 

"Our partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation is a big part of our philanthropy program. We are driven by compassion and purpose, our leadership team set an ambitious fundraising goal, and the entire center rallied together to achieve it. One of our most inspiring moments came when we granted two wishes, one of which was for a courageous child enrolled at our Glastonbury center who had been diagnosed with a serious illness.  

Focused on Quality and Growth

With TLE continuing to expand in the region, the franchise model under Mitta’s ownership aims to maintain consistency, quality, innovation, and exceptional care across all locations, Shannon says.

“There’s a real joy in being here in Connecticut. Each community is different, but the need for excellent early education is everywhere. We’re excited and proud to be meeting that need.”

The Learning Experience curriculum includes phonics, sign language, foreign languages, and STEM-based activities, all integrated into a nurturing environment that emphasizes safety, emotional intelligence, and school readiness.

"We’re currently welcoming tours,” Shannon says, “enrolling new little learners, and preparing for a variety of fun and engaging events and we’re truly looking forward to making a lasting, positive impact."

The Learning Experience 

Online:thelearningexperience.com

Avon: 

104 West Avon Road

Phone: 860-404-2260

Email: avon@tlechildcare.com

Glastonbury: 

86 Oak St.

Phone: 860-781-8363

Email: glastonbury@tlechildcare.com

Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our ongoing investment in training, as well as in both professional and personal development.” 

“There is always a need for quality child care with reliable, educated providers, and what really sets us apart is that we’re not just a daycare—we’re an educational center.”

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