Bright Beginnings

Over the years, the Bright Years Academy brand was created, developed, and implemented as a business model that easily competes with the national brands of child care. With decades of experience in the business, an excellent reputation, and detailed systems achieving the highest of standards, Bright Years Academy is one of the largest privately-owned child care center chains in Connecticut. Bright Years Academy is proud to have cared for and educated thousands of children, having set them all on a path to success. The company philosophy captures the spirit of exceptional child care: “Awakening young minds when it matters most.”

In 1996, mother and entrepreneur April Lukasik found herself searching for child care options that suited her needs and the standards she had for her own children. After envisioning the ultimate child care experience, she decided she wanted to realize this vision for herself, so she tapped into her entrepreneurial spirit and founded the first of many Bright Years Academy.

Bright Years Academy is expanding and growing in a thoughtful manner, staying true to the Core Values that make the company a wonderful place for families to choose as a solution for early care and education for their children, and a fulfilling place to be a Teacher. With new Bright Years Academy locations opening, attention is given to being steadfast to the familiar culture and excellent reputation in the field of early childhood.

Let us know if you would like more information or if you’re ready to schedule your tour!

Request More Info

Book a Tour

Bright Years Academy News

2025 – Bright Intentions Wellness Approach

We’re proud to introduce the Bright Intentions Wellness Approach, a new addition to our Bright Minds Early Education Framework. Focused on “Mind, Body, & Heart,” this structured program helps children build mindfulness, confidence, emotional awareness, and kindness during the most important years of development.

2025 – New Name, Same Heart

In 2025, our beloved child care brand evolved from Bright & Early to Bright Years Academy. Although our name has changed, our ownership, care teams, and unwavering commitment to families remain the same at the heart of all we do.This milestone reflects our growth and ongoing mission to provide exceptional early learning experiences across Connecticut. We are grateful to our teachers, directors, staff, and families who continue to support us on this journey and help us nurture the next generation of BRIGHT minds.

2022 – Bright Years Academy Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Twenty-five years ago, we opened the doors to our Middletown center, our first of many locations. Since the beginning, we have stayed true to our Core Values while being able to grow across Connecticut. On our anniversary, we thank all of our staff, Teachers, Directors, and families who have made the past 25 years so remarkable. We are incredibly grateful for our entire community and are looking forward to continuing to serve many more families as CT’s premier children’s learning center.

December 2020 – Visit from US Senator Richard Blumenthal

US Senator Richard Blumenthal visited Bright Years Academy Middletown on his way back from his steadfast and admirable work in Washington DC during the COVID-19 pandemic. He genuinely listened to all the challenges the Connecticut child care industry has been facing. He understood and truly appreciated the hard work and dedication of teachers who make child care centers safe places for families to send their children during the pandemic. He has always supported our industry, and continues to be a strong advocate understanding the need for quality child care and early education in Connecticut.

2019 – Connecticut Entrepreneurship Lifetime Achievement Award

2019 was the inaugural year for this Connecticut award. As a woman in business, our founder proudly represents women in business as a leader in this field and in the local business community.

May 2018 – US Senator Chris Murphy is our Guest Preschool Teacher

Bright Years Academy North Branford was honored to have US Senator Chris Murphy visit our early learning center. He engaged with a classroom of preschoolers, holding their attention with storytelling and interactive conversation. His command of their attention during this impromptu morning meeting was quite notable. Bright Years Academy teachers were duly impressed. We offered him a teaching position, but he said he already has a job. He would have been a great early childhood educator!