About Us
If you are looking for a preschool, kindergarten or child care center with a family feel, then look no further. The Learning Tree Child Care Centers are owned and operated by Pat and Kathy Hannell. They have been involved in child advocacy for over 37 years. The Hannells are life long residents of the Fox Valley community. One of the most reassuring facts about choosing a locally owned center is the fact that the Hannell family has a vested interest in their reputation as a quality child care facility.
Kathy received her Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Illinois. She continued her studies in Early Childhood Education from Elgin Community College. In 2002, she was named alumnus of the year. Kathy has taught at the elementary and secondary level. When the Hannells started their own family, she operated a licensed home care center for 5 years.
Pat earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Illinois Benedictine College, as well as a Masters Degree in Education and a Certificate of Advanced Studies from Northern Illinois University. He taught in District 300 for 35 years.
The Hannells have three grown children; Kimberly, Matthew and Michael. Kimberly Hannell Hopkins is the Director of the Eastside Learning Tree. She will soon head our new Huntley location.
The Learning Tree Child care centers were founded in 1978. There are three locations, Elgin East, Elgin West and Algonquin. We will be opening a fourth location in Huntley in 2006. Kathy Hannell serves as Executive Director of all the centers. Pat Hannell maintains the physical plant of the centers.
Our centers take pride in their administrative teams. The centers invest in having enough Directors to support the educational goals of the facilities. Our administrative team has an average of 15 years with The Learning Tree. The administrative staff all have educational backgrounds specific to the field of Early Childhood Education. Professionalizing the field of early childhood is one of our most important goals.
The Learning Tree teaching staff has an impressive record. Over 90% of our staff is teacher qualified, with an average of seven years with The Learning Tree. We look for nurturing, well educated and professional caregivers. With these qualities, we can follow through with our philosophy, "To Do What is Best for Each Child."
