New Horizon Academy Expands National Footprint, Bringing Family-Owned Approach to Growing Childcare Demand
55-year-old early education provider continues multi-state growth while emphasizing quality, stability, and long-term community investment
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (May 26, 2026) — New Horizon Academy, a family-owned early education and childcare provider, today announced continued national expansion as it enters new markets and grows its presence across the Midwest and beyond.
The company, which now operates 110 schools across six states, has expanded more than 20 percent in recent years, reflecting increasing demand for high-quality, reliable childcare among working families and employers nationwide.
This summer, New Horizon Academy will enter Nebraska, opening four new schools in the fast-growing Omaha area and its first location in Wisconsin, located on the corporate campus of a large healthcare employer in one of the state’s childcare “deserts,” where families aren’t able to work due to lack of childcare. It’s also planning for its first school in North Carolina, signaling continued geographic expansion into new regions.
According to New Horizon Academy CEO Chad Dunkley, the childcare sector has faced significant scrutiny and pressure in recent years, with providers navigating rising costs, workforce shortages, and increased attention on quality and operational practices.
“As a family-owned company with 55 years of history, New Horizon Academy has taken a long-term, community-focused approach to growth—prioritizing consistency, educator support, and strong relationships with families,” he said. “Our focus has always been on delivering high-quality early education in environments where children feel safe, supported, and known. Growth only makes sense if we can maintain that standard.”
Unlike some larger operators backed by outside investors, New Horizon Academy remains privately held and family-led, allowing the company to reinvest in its schools, educators, and programs with a long-term perspective.
Across the United States, childcare availability remains a significant barrier for families and employers. Many communities face shortages of licensed care, long waitlists, and affordability challenges, which impact workforce participation and economic growth. New Horizon Academy has stepped in to preserve existing childcare centers that might otherwise close, helping maintain continuity for families and educators.
The company emphasizes early childhood development through research-based programming focused on social-emotional learning, school readiness, and strong teacher-child relationships. More than 90% of children at its schools meet or exceed kindergarten readiness benchmarks and the company invests in its workforce through training, professional development, and scholarships to help educators build sustainable careers in early childhood education.
About New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy is a family-owned provider of high-quality early education and childcare, serving children from six weeks through school age. Founded in 1971, the company operates 107 schools across five states, with continued expansion underway across the Midwest and beyond. New Horizon Academy is dedicated to nurturing children’s confidence, curiosity, and readiness for lifelong learning while supporting working families with trusted care. To learn more, visit newhorizonacademy.net.