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.
The purpose of The Learning Tree Child Care Centers is to provide quality, developmentally appropriate, licensed preschool, preschool with extended child care, and school age care to children between the ages of six weeks and eleven years.
Upon enrollment each child is assigned a Primary Caregiver. The Primary Caregiver takes care of the individual needs of each child on a daily basis.
Primary Caregivers are responsible for the daily and academic needs of your child, communicating with parents and any medications your child may have to receive.
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.".
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 200 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Student Body
Total Students
200 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
50%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
2 teachers
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- 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. The purpose of The Learning Tree Child Care Centers is to provide quality, developmentally appropriate, licensed preschool, preschool with extended child care, and school age care to children between the ages of six weeks and eleven years. Upon enrollment each child is assigned a Primary Caregiver. The Primary Caregiver takes care of the individual needs of each child on a daily basis. Primary Caregivers are responsible for the daily and academic needs of your child, communicating with parents and any medications your child may have to receive. 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."
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for The Learning Tree?
The application deadline for The Learning Tree is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse The Learning Tree. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Dealing with Bad Press
This article provides guidance on how private schools can effectively manage crises and negative publicity. It emphasizes the importance of having robust protocols, transparent communication, and a proactive approach to addressing issues. The article highlights the challenges posed by social media and the media's tendency to view private schools negatively, offering strategies for heads of schools, parents, and staff to navigate these situations.

A Parent's Guide To Understanding High School Teaching Methods
This comprehensive guide helps parents navigate the various teaching methods used in today's high school classrooms. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to support your teen's learning journey, communicate effectively with teachers, and create a complementary learning environment at home.

February 08, 2025
Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden SymphonyA musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.