http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room New and exciting things happening at COMPUTER EXPLORERS en devans@iced.net Copyright 2010 2010-08-30T17:42:11+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_month_september_2010/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_month_september_2010/#When:17:42:11Z Houston, Texas—http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com  (CE0, an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Robin Scott of High Point, NC “Business Owner of the Month.” Scott, one of nearly 100 CE business owners in the US and abroad, has been a CE owner for four years.  “Robin 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.” Scott has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community sites in the High Point area.  “I believe that computers and technology peripherals should be used as learning tools,” said Scott.  “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.” Scott has been a very active franchisee since day one! She is a Franchise Advisory Council representative and received Franchisee of the Year Award in 2009. “I cannot imagine a more outstanding representative of COMPUTER EXPLORERS within our system!” concluded Evans Press Room 2010-08-30T17:42:11+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/teacher_of_the_month_july_2010_nancy_ladd/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/teacher_of_the_month_july_2010_nancy_ladd/#When:14:46:48Z Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com  (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Nancy Ladd of Madison, MS “Employee of the Month.”  Ladd, one of 600 CE instructors in the US, has a special talent for creating specialty camps and has worked for the CE company for five years. “Nancy 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.” Ladd has been delivering instruction in preschools and community sites in Madison, MS as a member of the education team headed by Helen Pinkerton , local COMPUTER EXPLORERS business owner.  “Nancy Ladd represents the quality of our nationally acclaimed COMPUTER EXPLORERS program,” declares Pinkerton “She is a knowledgeable and caring professional with an extraordinary gift for working with today’s children.” Ladd is a former Chamber of Commerce Director. She has completed CE’s Integrated Technology Education Certification program at the corporate office in Cypress, Texas, as well as the Certiport IC3 Certification course. “I cannot imagine a more outstanding representative of COMPUTER EXPLORERS within our system!” concludes Pinkerton. Press Room 2010-08-03T14:46:48+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_mont_rebecca_parrent/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_mont_rebecca_parrent/#When:14:36:00Z Houston, Texas —http://www.COMPUTEREXPLORERS.com  (CE), an international company dedicated to children’s technology education, recently named Rebecca Parrent of Arvada, CO “Business Owner of the Month”.  Parrent, one of nearly 100 CE business owners in the US and abroad, has been a CE owner for six years. “Rebecca 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.” Parrent has been delivering instruction via uniquely trained technology teachers in preschools, elementary schools and community sites in Denver. “I believe that computers and technology peripherals should be used as learning tools,” said Parrent. 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.” Parrent owns the business with her husband, Ross. As well as providing COMPUTER EXPLORERS’ innovative technology classes around the Denver area, they are also active in the area’s First LEGO League. “Rebecca 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!” concluded Evans.  Press Room 2010-08-03T14:36:00+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_month_darlene_calhoun/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/franchisee_of_the_month_darlene_calhoun/#When:13:28:57Z 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.  Press Room 2010-05-24T13:28:57+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/teacher_of_the_month_april_2010/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/teacher_of_the_month_april_2010/#When:14:37:42Z 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. Press Room 2010-05-20T14:37:42+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/bloomfield_early_learning_center_awarded_technology_learning_scholarship/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/bloomfield_early_learning_center_awarded_technology_learning_scholarship/#When:13:50:56Z 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. Press Room 2010-04-22T13:50:56+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/nj_franchisee_receives_top_honors_at_national_technology_education_conferen/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/nj_franchisee_receives_top_honors_at_national_technology_education_conferen/#When:18:48:08Z 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. Press Room 2010-03-23T18:48:08+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/employee_of_the_year_2010/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/employee_of_the_year_2010/#When:18:40:40Z 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. Press Room 2010-03-23T18:40:40+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/certified_franchise_executive_deb_evans/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/certified_franchise_executive_deb_evans/#When:15:51:56Z 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.’ Press Room 2010-02-23T15:51:56+00:00 http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/ifa_awards/ http://www.computerexplorers.com/about/press_room_views/ifa_awards/#When:15:10:42Z 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. Press Room 2010-02-18T15:10:42+00:00