From Teacher’s Assistant to VP of Operations: Jackie Falzarano’s Ongoing Journey with Lightbridge Academy

At the age of 18, Jackie Falzarano joined Lightbridge Academy--a new franchise concept that had been launched by her then-family-friend turned father-in-law, Guy Falzarano. At the time, her only perceptions of the franchise industry existed because of fast food big wigs like McDonald’s and Dunkin Donuts. Through exposure from the Falzarano’s, she quickly learned that franchising was about more than just hamburgers and hotdogs.

“I had no idea that joining the franchise industry as a leader in early childhood education could allow us to make such a positive impact in local communities and make a difference in the lives of so many families,” said Falzarano. “I had just entered college when Guy approached me to see if I was interested in working for him. I knew my career path was focused on working with children, but I just wasn’t sure in what capacity. It was a perfect opportunity.”

Starting as a teacher’s assistant in preschool and working her way through the entire system, Falzarano embraced and learned the business from all aspects. She believes that this extensive understanding of all areas has played a vital role in her development in leadership as the current Vice President of Operations.

“There is no such thing as a typical day for me, which makes my job challenging, exciting and extremely rewarding,” she said. “I have the benefit of collaborating with the different departments in the Lightbridge Franchise Company to help support our franchisees. I network with other leaders in the franchise industry, train and work with franchise owners and their administrative teams, visit operating centers where I meet staff, children and families, and build my team of business coaches to help franchisees succeed.”

This unique collaboration and her exposure as a caregiver, teacher, camp counselor, director, owner, and business coach have provided a depth of knowledge and understanding that she shares with Lightbridge franchisees on a daily basis.

“We are fully committed to our franchisees being successful within the Lightbridge Academy system,” she said. “Being able to share my personal experiences, both successes and failures, gives me a unique perspective and a powerful testimonial on the ‘why’ behind the systems that have been created to help others replicate our achievements.”

Throughout her tenure with the brand, Lightbridge Academy transitioned from a locally owned business in New Jersey to a regional franchise concept with tremendous growth potential. She was also able to celebrate their rebranding in 2014, further establishing Lightbridge Academy as a leader in the segment and allowing the concept to expand its renowned Circle of Care philosophy into markets outside of New Jersey.

“I have been fortunate to celebrate many wonderful milestones with Lightbridge Academy. It’s thrilling to watch us expand out of New Jersey and into other states,” said Falzarano. “And on a personal level, having my three daughters educated, nurtured and cared for in the program that I helped build throughout the years is surreal.”

While her passion for her current role is evident, it’s the collaboration with her family that makes Falzarano’s career memorable. 

“As the old saying goes, ‘Do what you love and you will never work another day in your life.’  It’s a bonus for me to do what I love…with the people that I love,” said Falzarano. “As with any business, we may not always agree, but it’s a guarantee that we put our heart and soul into every single moment of every single day, and the solid foundation of family values definitely gives us the edge on all others in this industry.”