From a high school dream to a thriving reality, Stephanie Harris’s journey to establish Discovery Time Learning Center in Alexandria is an inspiring tale of passion, planning, and perseverance. Opening its doors in 2014, this child daycare center not only fulfilled Harris’s long-held ambition but also quickly became a successful and sought-after institution in the community. In its very first year, Discovery Time Learning Center demonstrated its strong foundation by achieving profitability, and by 2015, revenues had already surpassed $1 million. With continued growth, the center projected revenues to reach $1.2 million in 2016, showcasing its increasing impact and value within Alexandria.
“Having my own daycare center was a dream I’ve had since I was 15 years old,” Harris shares, highlighting the deep-rooted aspiration that fueled her entrepreneurial path. Her early exposure to early childhood education through a comprehensive high school program for three years solidified this vision. Driven by her goal, Harris proactively sought guidance from the Alexandria Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in 2011. At the time, she was pursuing her Master’s degree in Special Education at George Mason University and working as a middle school teacher. This period was a strategic phase, as Harris explains, “I needed something to hold me over,” while meticulously planning her future. Her vision was clear: to establish a daycare operation capable of serving 75 to 100 children in the Del Ray area of Alexandria. This location was specifically chosen due to its large millennial population and the consistently high demand for child daycare services. Harris recognized a significant gap in the market, noting, “There continues to be a demand for child daycare facilities there; all of the centers in operation now have waiting lists.”
As Harris diligently progressed with her plans, a pivotal moment arrived when Alexandria SBDC Financial Analyst Jack Parker connected her with an experienced and successful daycare operator in the region. This connection proved invaluable, as this operator stepped into the role of a mentor, providing Harris with firsthand insights and guidance. Reflecting on this hands-on learning experience, Harris states, “Most of my research was learning on the go,” emphasizing the practical and real-world knowledge gained through mentorship and direct engagement.
The support from the SBDC extended far beyond mentorship, becoming a cornerstone of Discovery Time Learning Center’s foundation. “The SBDC was a one-stop shop for me. They helped me with everything,” Harris acknowledges, underscoring the comprehensive assistance she received. Working closely with Jack Parker, she refined her business plan, a crucial step in securing funding and outlining her operational strategy. Furthermore, the SBDC facilitated a vital connection with a real estate broker, streamlining the challenging process of finding a suitable location. Harris recounts the two-year search for a property that could accommodate both a playground and ample parking, essential elements for a thriving daycare center. Parker’s support also extended to financial aspects, as he facilitated the approach to Eagle Bank, which ultimately approved the SBA 7(a) loan that Harris needed to launch Discovery Time Learning Center.
Building on the initial triumph, Discovery Time is now poised for further expansion. A second property is currently under consideration, driven by the consistent demand and the growing waiting list of families eager to enroll their children. “We started with 20 kids, and now we’re at 85,” Harris proudly states, illustrating the remarkable growth trajectory of the center. To maintain the high standards of care and education, the staff has also expanded to 23 dedicated professionals.
Grateful for the instrumental role the SBDC played in her success, Harris wholeheartedly recommends their services to aspiring entrepreneurs. “I recommend the SBDC one hundred percent,” she concludes, emphasizing the significant impact of their support. For Harris, the personalized attention provided by the SBDC was particularly noteworthy: “The one-on-one attention the SBDC provides is remarkable,” highlighting the value of tailored guidance in navigating the complexities of starting and growing a successful business like Discovery Time Learning Center.
