Lightbridge Academy Reports 99% Kindergarten Readiness

Lightbridge Academy reported that 99% of four- and five-year-olds in its pre-K programs demonstrated proficiency in kindergarten readiness during the 2025-2026 Vine Assessment. The result is the first 99% readiness rate in the child care franchise’s history. Fall-to-spring results also rose 8% in science cognition, 9% in mathematics cognition, and 10% in literacy knowledge and skills. The company has more than 200 centers open or in development.

Readiness Results Across Learning Areas

The assessment covered mathematics, science, literacy knowledge and skills, language and communication, social and emotional development, perception, motor and physical development, creative and cultural arts, social studies, and approaches to learning.

Lightbridge Academy attributed the results to individualized instruction based on each child’s earlier assessment, along with more thematic unit activities during the school year.

Gigi Schweikert, CEO at Lightbridge Academy, said:

“Reaching a 99% proficiency rate in kindergarten readiness, a first in our franchise's history, is an incredible testament to our teachers' dedication and our students' natural curiosity and drive to learn. This milestone reflects the difference an advanced, research-based curriculum can make when paired with educators who are truly invested in every child's growth.”

Curriculum And Assessment Process

The company’s Seedlings Early Childhood Education Curriculum uses theme-based lessons covering emerging reading, writing, science, technology, and math skills. Lightbridge Academy partnered with Procare’s Vine Assessment so teachers could observe developmental milestones throughout the year.

The Vine Assessment is described by the company as a developmentally appropriate early childhood assessment aligned with Common Core standards across all 50 states.

A Milestone For The Franchise

Founded in 1997, Lightbridge Academy offers early education and child care for children from six weeks through kindergarten. Its centers operate or are in development across 20 states, including Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Families can learn about the company’s early childhood education programs and schedule a center tour through LightbridgeAcademy.com.