COMPUTER EXPLORERS Press Room

Franchisee of the Month Darlene Calhoun

2010-05-24T13:28:57Z

Houston, Texas http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Darlene Calhoun of Parkville, MO “Business Owner of the Month.” Calhoun, one of nearly 100 CE business owners in the US and abroad, has been a CE owner for almost ten years.
“Darlene is an integral part of our educational technology program,” said Deb Evans, President and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS. “She makes a difference every week in her community by facilitating developmentally-appropriate children’s computer technology learning experiences and by helping schools to integrate technology effectively.”
Calhoun has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community sites in the Kansas City. “I believe that computers and technology peripherals should be used as learning tools,” said Calhoun. “Technology skills are fundamental in ensuring children’s future success; the employment of active discovery learning in the COMPUTER EXPLORERS program is an exciting way to build enthusiasm for using technology in creative ways.”
Calhoun holds a master’s degree in education and joined the CE family in 2001, offering classes in Clay, Platte and Jackson counties Missouri. “Darlene is passionate about education in general and CE in particular. She implements fresh ideas and innovative practices sharing her expertise generously with fellow franchisees.
“I cannot imagine a more outstanding representative of COMPUTER EXPLORERS within our system!” concludes Evans.

Teacher of the Month April 2010

2010-05-20T14:37:42Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Michelle Coldren of Center Valley, PA “Employee of the Month.” Coldren, one of 600 CE instructors in the US, has been a teacher for the CE company for seven years.
“Michelle is an integral part of our educational technology program,” said Deb Evans, President and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS. “She makes a difference every week in her community by facilitating developmentally-appropriate children’s computer technology learning experiences and by helping schools to integrate technology effectively.”
Coldren has been delivering instruction in preschools and community sites in Center Valley, PA., as a member of the education team headed by Hans Wagner, local COMPUTER EXPLORERS business owner. “Michelle Coldren represents the quality of our nationally acclaimed COMPUTER EXPLORERS program,” declared Wagner. “She is a knowledgeable and caring professional with an extraordinary gift for working with today’s children.”
“Michelle is always asking ‘what more can we do?’. Recently, she took digital microscopes to all the classrooms in the Reading Hospital Child Development Center so the children could have hands on science classes. I cannot imagine a more outstanding representative of COMPUTER EXPLORERS within our system!” concluded Wagner.

Bloomfield Early Learning Center Awarded Technology Learning Scholarship

2010-04-22T13:50:56Z

COMPUTER EXPLORERS (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, presented Dawn Whalen with its Edward Seeberg Memorial Scholarship to benefit families of the Bloomfield Connecticut community.

The Edward Seeberg Memorial Scholarship was initiated in 1994 in honor of Founder Karen Marshall’s father, a successful entrepreneur and early COMPUTER EXPLORERS supporter. Each year franchisees present proposals to help underwrite worthy causes that relate to providing technology education services. Bloomfield Early Learning Center (BELC) was selected for funding this year.
BELC has provided quality childcare and early childhood education programming to Bloomfield families for over 36 years. Grants from the State of Connecticut allow BELC to base fees for income eligible families on family-size and gross income making the program affordable to low and moderate income families. BELC operates year-round from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Whalen has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community sites in Hartford County since 2005. “I believe that computers and technology peripherals should be used as learning tools. Technology skills are fundamental in ensuring children’s future success; the employment of active discovery learning in the COMPUTER EXPLORERS program is an exciting way to build enthusiasm for using technology in creative ways” said Whalen.

A former computer training professional with over 10 years experience in technology training, human resources, curriculum design and business management. Whalen has a B.S. degree in Health Care Administration from Quinnipiac University and a M.A. degree in Education and Human Development from The George Washington University. In addition, having two young children of her own as well as her desire to build a future for her family in Connecticut, Whalen’s passion for education and love of technology prompted her to purchase the COMPUTER EXPLORERS business. “It is important to me and the director of BELC and is in line with the continued NAYEC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accreditation that this program is available to all children regardless of income status” concludes Whalen.

Whalen will present the Scholarship Award to BELC on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 @ 10:00am at the Bloomfield Early Learning Center, 73 Rockwell Ave, Bloomfield, CT. Among the invitees will be the BELC Board of Directors, Bloomfield First Selectman, Bloomfield Public Schools Superintendent, Board of Education Members, as well as the teachers and students of BELC.

NJ Franchisee Receives Top Honors at National Technology Education Conference

2010-03-23T18:48:08Z

Houston, Texas - http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Jenifer Morack both Mentor of the Year as well as Franchisee of the Year during the company’s Annual National Conference.
The COMPUTER EXPLORERS Mentor of the Year award is given each year at the annual conference to the franchisee that exemplifies the ideal image of a mentor. Morack was nominated by a local franchisee and, by popular vote of her peers, took home the award of Mentor of the Year. “Jen has helped me so much in my two years as an owner. She has provided valuable advice, assistance and support on an ongoing basis” said Laura Graham-Leonard.
Another prestigious award given at the annual conference is Franchisee of the Year recognizing a franchisee who demonstrates personal commitment in his or her territory and to the COMPUTER EXPLORERS system as a whole. “Franchisee of the Year is the highest honor. Together the COMPUTER EXPLORERS corporate team selects a franchisee with attributes of positive growth, support of corporate initiatives and leadership. Jen recently celebrated her 20th anniversary with COMPUTER EXPLORERS and continues to display enthusiasm and passion of a new franchisee. We selected Jen prior to our knowledge that she would also win Mentor of the Year,” said Deb Evans, COMPUTER EXPLORERS President & CEO. Morack is the first franchisee in COMPUTER EXPLORERS 26 year history to receive both Mentor and Franchisee of the Year.
“It has been a privilege to work with all the talented COMPUTER EXPLORERS franchisees over these past 20 years. Winning the Franchisee of the Year Award is an honor and has certainly been a team effort of my administrative and teaching staff, but most of all a testament to the strength and endurance of our curriculum and courses.” said Jenifer Morack upon winning the awards.
With 20 years of experience and continued education, Morack has fully established herself as an expert in education technology. Morack earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Rider University and a Masters in Corporate Training and Development from The College of New Jersey. Morack maintains a staff of 12 teachers, a program manager and an administrative assistant. Today she continues to offer education opportunities for preschools and elementary schools throughout the Mercer/Hunterdon County area New Jersey. Her memberships include ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) and NJAWBO (New Jersey Association of Women Business Owners). She has received several previous COMPUTER EXPLORERS awards including Newcomer’s Award, Marketing Award and Top Producers.

Employee of the Year 2010

2010-03-23T18:40:40Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Patty Titen of New Jersey as Employee of the Year during the company’s Annual National Conference.
The COMPUTER EXPLORERS Employee of the Year award is given each year at the annual conference to a COMPUTER EXPLORERS employee that is a dedicated individual that makes the job of a franchisee easier. Titen has been employed with COMPUTER EXPLORERS since January 2002. In August 2009 she received Employee of the Month. Titen was recognized for her positive attitude and contribution to new owner training.
“Patty is a very self directive individual. She takes initiative and is a leader. Patty quickly volunteers to assist other managers and/or teachers in the system when needed. She is not afraid to step outside of the traditional management role and is willing to experiment and implement new programs when presented to her.” said Deb Evans, President & CEO COMPUTER EXPLORERS.
Titen is employed by Sharon Heuer in Monmouth, New Jersey. Heuer recently semi-retired to the state of Virginia and could not personally attend the annual conference but was able to virtually attend via video Skype. Heuer congratulated Titen and informed attendees that “Patty is not only my right hand but my whole body! Since my move Patty is successfully managing my franchise territory conducting marketing, hiring and training.”

Titen has a B.S. in Accounting from City University of New York - Brooklyn College. She worked for Title Insurance Companies before joining COMPUTER EXPLORERS as a teacher with franchisee Jenifer Morack in 2002. After a few years Titen accepted the role as Manager for Sharon Heuer. “I am incredibly honored to be recognized as Employee of the Year. This was my first attendance to COMPUTER EXPLORERS annual conference and it was a pleasure meeting the franchisees in the system that I communicate with on a regular basis” said Titen.

Certified Franchise Executive Deb Evans

2010-02-23T15:51:56Z

Washington, DC (February 2010) - Houston, TX resident Deb Evans was recognized as a Certified Franchise Executive by the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives. Evans completed a comprehensive course of study in franchise management offered by the institute, which is the academic branch of the International Franchise Association’s Educational Foundation. IFA, the world’s largest and oldest trade group representing the franchising industry, includes nearly 1,100 franchise companies, 10,000 franchisees and more than 500 firms that provide goods and services to the industry. The presentation was held during its annual convention in San Antonio.

In the United States, more than 1,400 franchise executives from 42 countries are currently participating in the CFE program, including 782 executives who have completed the program and received the Certified Franchise Executive designation. More than 300 IFA-member companies currently have one or more executives enrolled in the program that provides benefits such as specialized knowledge, industry recognition, peer-level networking and professional standing.

Candidates must complete a rigorous course of study to earn the CFE designation, which includes attending institute-sponsored educational seminars and workshops. The program is designed to enhance franchising professionals ‘understanding of both the industry’s fundamental and complex aspects.’

IFA Awards

2010-02-18T15:10:42Z

Houston, Texas - COMPUTER EXPLORERS (CE) a worldwide company which specializes in children’s educational technology participated in the International Franchise Association (IFA) 50th Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas.
IFA conducted its second special video contest. Every franchise has an interesting story to tell about its founding, the early years, the changes it has seen and the company it has become. Forty video submissions were judged on relevance to the theme, creativity, entertainment value, and overall video quality. The top three videos were featured in a Super Session at the convention. Using new technology IFA attendees used their “Belinker” to vote live. Competing against the best -Kentucky Fried Chicken and Jiffy Lube - COMPUTER EXPLORERS went home with the win!
Franchise Business Review, a national market research firm, announced the 2010 Franchise Award winners based exclusively in satisfaction ratings by franchise owners. For the third consecutive year COMPUTER EXPLORERS was identified as one of the top franchise opportunities. According to Franchise Business Review, “Though the economy is still at a low, 133 franchise companies inspired strong franchisee satisfaction. The performances of these leading brands are demonstrating a slow but steady approach toward economic recovery because they are doing things right and putting their franchisees first.” Eric Stites, President of Franchise Business Review said, “Franchisee satisfaction is the most critical factor for any prospective franchisee to consider before investing in any franchise opportunity. This year’s award-winning franchises are in that elite group and represent the very best franchise opportunity investments in the marketplace today.”
“Attending the IFA annual convention offers a tremendous opportunity to connect with other franchise executives. It is the most comprehensive franchising event with interactive roundtable sessions, educational sessions and influential franchise leader panel presentations. To win the video contest and to be recognized by Franchise Business Review at this memorable anniversary convention, was an honor.” said Deb Evans, President & CEO COMPUTER EXPLORERS.

Jen Morack

2010-01-27T14:54:29Z

http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE) a worldwide company which specializes in children’s educational technology is proud to announce that Jen Morack, Belle Mead, NJ will celebrate her 20th anniversary with COMPUTER EXPLORERS. Morack is the first franchisee to reach the 20 year milestone.
COMPUTER EXPLORERS is excited to have their first franchisee celebrate 20 years in the system! Jen is an expert in education technology, has her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Rider University and a Masters in Corporate Training and Development from The College of New Jersey. Morack maintains a staff of 12 teachers, a program manager and an administrative assistant. Today she continues to offer education opportunities for preschools and elementary schools throughout the Mercer/Hunterdon County area. Morack also provides preschool and elementary staff training in developmentally appropriate practices when using technology with young children. Her memberships include ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) and NJAWBO (New Jersey Association of Women Business Owners). She has received several COMPUTER EXPLORERS awards including Newcomer’s Award, Marketing Award and Top Producers. Morack was featured in the national magazine “First” in March 1994 with regarding to the top franchises for women and more recently in the Princeton Business Journal.
“Jen has the enthusiasm and passion of a new franchisee! She is a leader regionally and system wide. She is well respected by everyone at the COMPUTER EXPLORERS corporate office and her peers. We wish her another 20 years of success”, said Deb Evans, President & CEO.
Helen Pinkerton of Madison Mississippi commented “Jen has kept me grounded in some of my business decisions. I respect her management skills and I know I can contact her with any question. She truly is a veteran and has embraced changes as a positive outlet to grow her business. Through the years Jen has been a peer, friend and a mentor. COMPUTER EXPLORERS is fortunate to have her as an owner. Her professionalism represents what all owners should strive for - she’s the total package!”

Nigel Toplis

2009-11-16T18:25:55Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, hosted a visit from Nigel Toplis, the Master Licensor of the United Kingdom. Franchisees Roni Deely (Delaware) and Alan Oppenheimer (Pennsylvania) invited Toplis to visit several of their pre-school, school age and afterschool programs. Students at St Paul’s Academy, Wilmington DE were very excited to demonstrate their interactive stories they created using Scratch. “Roni and Alan are exceptional franchisees. I enjoyed visiting their programs and learning more about the programs that are offered in the US and how we can incorporate similar programs in the UK” said Toplis.
Toplis is also Managing Director of a second franchise system, Recognition Express. Recognition Express is a successful franchise organization of 29 years standing Europe’s largest supplier of corporate recognition products, from signs and name badges to promotional products, employee awards and business gifts. Recognition Express was also voted the British Franchise Associations Franchisor of the Year in 2003. “It is obvious that Nigel is a dedicated franchisor and has a driving ambition to establish to successful franchise system in the UK” said Deb Evans, President COMPUTER EXPLORERS. To meet Nigel Toplis virtually: click here
COMPUTER EXPLORERS has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community location for 25+ years. “Technology skills are fundamental in ensuring children’s future success; the employment of active discovery learning in the COMPUTER EXPLORERS program is an exciting way to build enthusiasm for using technology in creative ways” said Evans. Social media allows us the opportunity to expand that creativity and enthusiasm in our communication with the parents through our YouTube channel and Facebook pages.
About COMPUTER EXPLORERS:
COMPUTER EXPLORERS provides educational technology classes to benefit children and staff at childcare centers, preschools, private and public elementary schools and community sites worldwide. Founded and managed by educators, the company has created hundreds of technology lesson plans and instructional tools since 1983. The company is an active member of the ISTE 100, the International Society of Technology in Education http://www.iste.org., and sponsor of Little Clickers, a publication of Children’s Technology Review http://www.childrenssoftware.com.
The COMPUTER EXPLORERS early childhood program provides computer classes for children ages 3-5, foreign language and cultural exploration, and reinforcement of reading, math, science and social studies beginning skills.
The COMPUTER EXPLORERS schoolage program offers a turn-key technology program for public and private schools, as well as after school and summer camp programs teaching robotics, engineering, digital movie-making and video game design.
In addition to domestic classes, the company offers courses through its business owners in the United Kingdom, Malaysia and Australia.

Deb Evans appointed to ICED Board

2009-09-01T14:21:17Z

CYPRESS, Texas (September 1, 2009) - Today the International Center for Entrepreneurial Development (ICED) announces the appointment of Deb Evans, president and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS (CE), to the ICED board of directors. ICED is the parent company of COMPUTER EXPLORERS, and Evans is the fifteenth member of the corporate governing board.

“I have a passion for introducing entrepreneurs-to-be to COMPUTER EXPLORERS,” said Evans. “It isn’t difficult to tell others not only what a wonderful business opportunity CE is, but what a difference they will be making in our world. Bringing technology education to children will have a positive impact on the future. The work I will do on the ICED board of directors is an extension of my passion for bringing these opportunities to others. ‘

Evans began a relationship with COMPUTER EXPLORERS, formerly COMPUTERTOTS/COMPUTER EXPLORERS (CT/CE), as a teacher in 1996 and purchased a CT/CE territory the following year and a second one in Philadelphia in 1999. As a franchisee, Evans was a top producer and earned numerous awards including Mentor of the Year and Franchisee of the Year. She joined the COMPUTER EXPLORERS Franchise Operations team at ICED headquarters in 2004. Evans was promoted to president of the franchise system in 2005 and was named CEO in 2006.

The ICED board of directors include: Bud Hadfield, founder & chairman; Mary Hadfield, VP special projects; Jim Hadfield, vice chairman; Steve Hammerstein, CEO & president; Perry Hillegeist, COO; Scott Krueger, CFO; Bob Metzger, vice chairman, CEO of print brands and pack & ship; Chuck Norris, actor; Jack Fields, retired officer of Sterling Bank; Ed Fay, retired officer of ICED; Calvin Fenley, retired, City of Houston; Lawrence “Doc” Cohen - franchisee of Great American Cookie Co.; James Mills, retired; Debbie Clifford, ICED vice president; and Deb Evans, president & CEO, COMPUTER EXPLORERS.

International Center for Entrepreneurial Development, Inc. (ICED), located in Cypress, Texas, is the parent company for Kwik Kopy Printing, American Wholesale Thermographers, The Ink Well, Franklin’s Printing, Parcel Plus, Kwik Kopy Business Centers and COMPUTER EXPLORERS. This group represents one of the world’s largest international alliances of printing, communications and education franchises with business relationships in the United States and 10 other countries. These company names are all registered trademarks or service marks of I.C.E.D. Management, Inc

The Franchise Show

2009-07-30T15:18:04Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently appeared as guests on The Franchise Show. Host Jeff D’Arcy interviewed Deb Evans, President and CEO live at the International Franchise Association’s annual convention and said “there is no better way to perceive an organization’s vision and culture than to hear it from the top - and that’s what Deb provides in one of our most informative and entertaining interviews at IFA.”
D’Arcy introduced COMPUTER EXPLORERS on the AllBusiness.com blog (AB blog) and invited three award winning franchisees to appear with Evans on weekly The Franchise Show. Franchisee Joan Kusnierz, winner of Rookie of the Year, David Rhodes, Mentor of the Year winner and Robin Scott COMPUTER EXPLORERS Franchisee of the Year easily engaged the audience turning The Franchise Show into the COMPUTER EXPLORERS Hour.
“Joan, David and Robin openly and honestly talked with Jeff about how the focus of business has changed over the years, the competitive industry and the level of support they receive. Jeff mentions the excitement, passion and enthusiasm that I have for COMPUTER EXPLORERS. That passion lives within the entire corporate team and each individual franchisee” says Deb.
COMPUTER EXPLORERS has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community location for 25+ years. “Technology skills are fundamental in ensuring children’s future success; the employment of active discovery learning in the COMPUTER EXPLORERS program is an exciting way to build enthusiasm for using technology in creative ways” said Evans. Social media allows us the opportunity to expand that creativity and enthusiasm in our communication with the parents through our YouTube channel and Facebook pages.

Trailblazer 2008

2009-07-06T14:39:51Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international franchise dedicated to technology learning, presented Daryl Paine of California with its Trail Blazer Award during its Annual National Conference June 18 - 20, 2009 in Houston, TX.
The Trailblazer Award was created to recognize a franchisee that literally blazes the trail for other franchisees with innovative ideas and programs. “Daryl has so many ideas, that we in the corporate office call him “light bulb.” In the past few weeks Daryl has created a “media marketing plan” for current schools he services and a means to approach future clients. He gave an exceptional presentation to the entire system which was very well received.” said Deb Evans, President and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS.
“I spend many days thinking of unique ways to market our COMPUTER EXPLORERS offering to our schools, I very much enjoy teaming up with our corporate office making plans to assist other franchisees also. I have been a COMPUTER EXPLORERS owner for over five years now, and the rewards of thinking of ideas is very much a passion of mine, in business and my personal life” said Daryl.

Joan Kusnierz Given Rookie of the Year Award at National Technology Education Franchise Conference

2009-06-24T21:40:38Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international franchise dedicated to technology learning, presented Joan Kusnierz of Illinois with its Rookie of the Year Award during its Annual National Conference June 18 - 20, 2009 in Houston, TX.
The Rookie of the Year is presented to a franchisee that demonstrates a positive attitude and enthusiasm with their colleagues throughout the nation and in their community. “Joan trained in January 2008 and immediately bonded with the CE Corporate Team and franchisees. Joan’s outgoing personality and willingness to help is evident. She organized the first Chicago regional meeting working with the Corporate Team developing sessions to meet the needs of the franchisees in the region. Recently Joan assisted Deb with a Chicago media event with Microsoft and Itza Bitza (http://www.itzabitza.com) eagerly handling the details of the event.” said Deb Evans, President and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS.
“This was my first COMPUTER EXPLORERS conference and what is so great about being a CE franchise owner is that I never felt like a rookie! The support that comes from corporate is what makes us all successful, whether you’re the new kid on the block or The Mentor of the Year. I have been extremely fortunate to partner with the right business, thanks to all that have made it possible to succeed.” said Joan.

David Rhodes Receives Mentor of the Year Award at National Technology Education Franchise Conference

2009-06-24T21:12:03Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international franchise dedicated to technology learning, presented David Rhodes of Leonia New Jersey with its Mentor of the Year Award during its Annual National Conference June 18 - 20, 2009 in Houston, TX.
The Mentor of the Year Award is elected by fellow business owners. The award is given each year to the one Franchisee who best exemplifies the ideal image of a mentor. This year David Rhodes received several nominations.
David Rhodes is truly deserving of this award. He is a true believer in children’ technology learning, and he willingly shares his enthusiasm and knowledge with all of his peers throughout the national and at the corporate office. It is with great pleasure to award Mentor of the Year for the 2nd consecutive year to David!” said Deb Evans, President and CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS.
“Being part of a franchise system is all about sharing ideas and information. Our common goal is to provide the best possible product while helping one another grow our businesses.” said David Rhodes.

Robin Scott Takes Top Honors at National Technology Education Franchise Conference

2009-06-24T19:33:44Z

Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com (CE), an international franchise dedicated to technology learning, presented Robin Scott of North Carolina with its Franchisee of the Year Award, the franchise’s highest honor, during its Annual National Conference June 18 - 20, 2009 in Houston, TX.
“Franchisees selected for Franchisee of the Year have attributes of positive growth, support of corporate initiatives and leadership through effective communication. The “Franny” nomination as we affectionally refer to the award is taken very serious with the CE Corporate Team. They review the list of Franchisees and carefully make a nomination list and discuss as a Team.” The CE Corporate Team agreed that not only did this year’s nominee show positive growth, support of initiatives and leadership but Robin is a strong mentor to the entire system. Her support of new programs and willingness to work with her fellow franchisees to implement is admirable” declared Deb Evans, President & CEO during the award ceremony.
During the national conference the entire CE Corporate Team gathered on the stage to present the award to Robin. ‘This was one of the best conferences I have attended. The content and the opportunity to network with all the franchisees were invaluable. Receiving Franchisee of the Year is an honor to be recognized by COMPUTER EXPLORERS and IFA (International Franchise Association).