In a region rich with top-tier educational institutions, it’s no surprise that families in the Greater Philadelphia area have so many excellent choices for their children’s education. From preschools to academies, our Family Focus Media team is pleased to present the 2025 LOVE Award Winners for Excellence in Education, who have made an undeniable impact on both students and their families. Through their innovative programs, nurturing environments, and dedicated teachers, these schools and institutions are helping to shape the future of the community. Join us in celebrating these outstanding schools and read why parents love them.

Read the endorsements from local parents in our Philly Family Community about who they love and then pop over to our Philadelphia Family Best for Families Guide to find more trusted resources! Best for Families Celebration & LOVE Luncheon photos by AMC Photography.

 

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“Amigos Preschool in Old City is a truly exceptional place where children thrive in a loving, welcoming, and tightly knit community. From the moment you walk through their doors, you feel the warmth, creativity, and care that sets this school apart. The teachers are vibrant, passionate, and deeply committed to fostering your child’s growth and curiosity. The school’s proximity to national parks and historically significant sites is another incredible advantage, allowing the children to explore and learn in ways that few other Philly preschools can offer. Cloe, the owner/operator, is wholeheartedly dedicated to each child’s development, ensuring every child is not only nurtured but also challenged in a supportive environment. Her attention to detail and genuine interest in the families they serve creates a foundation of trust and collaboration that is rare to find. If you’re looking for a preschool where your child will be embraced, Amigos Preschool is the perfect choice.”

– Debby D.

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“What stands out the most is how the school fosters independence and a love for learning. The classroom is full of engaging, hands-on materials that encourage creativity and exploration. Our child is always excited to go to school because they have the freedom to choose their activities and work at their own pace. It’s so rewarding to see them take ownership of their learning!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Our family is forever grateful for the thoughtful and collaborative college planning, testing skills building and guidance provided to our students. Our students’ successes were recognized and strategies were provided for their challenges when preparing and planning for college success. They are Dean’s list students and campus leaders at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and I thank CollegeThoughts for their achievements. CollegeThoughts provided years of dedication and support. I will continue to refer parents and students to CollegeThoughts.”

– Gwen G.

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“Brandi understands neurodiverse children in all their spectrums. Regular/private daycares & preschools don’t know what to do when faced with kiddos who are neurodiverse. Brandi’s school: Fairmount Playschool and its staff simply understand all kiddos and help them be their best selves. Most importantly, she helps parents understand and help their kiddos. Brandi simply saved us. She is an open door, full of knowledge and willing to help literally 24/7! No one is more deserving of this!”

– Laura D.

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“Fusion Academy offers an individualized, student-centered approach to education for grades 6-12. Their school became the solution for us when public school learning failed our child. Our student was able to reset and recalibrate their relationship with school and recover from what had become a very stressful two years for them. Fusion Academy is caring, skilled, and solution-oriented in their curriculum and delivery with caring and patient teachers.

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Greene Towne Montessori School is a magical place. From the moment that you step in side, you know that there is a focused effort to help children thrive, in their own way, and on their own time. The school is through and through a Montessori environment, and then some. With musical instruments present in every room, teachers who are dedicated to seeing little ones learn themselves as well as the environment, I’ve seen my little one thrive in this environment. Imagine how surprised I was to learn my best friend from grad school also graduated from GTMS! This is a hands-on environment that educates parents as much as children, and holds space for all types of learning.”

– Sammi D.

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“I truly appreciate Ms. Yana stepping in to make the connection with the Elywn speech therapists that regularly come for other students. Because of Ms. Yana, Clark now has his weekly speech sessions. I love the free play that the children get in the morning. Clark really enjoys independence and puzzles, and I really think this is the best way for him to learn. I love how happy my son is here…he’s always hugging his teachers ..so sweet!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Mighty Writers has proven itself over 15 years to be a crucial resource for children, teens and families in the greater Philadelphia-area and beyond. Their free reading and writing programs help students learn and grow, and their free food distributions give struggling families an invaluable lifeline. I have volunteered with Mighty Writers in the past, and can vouch for their team’s unwavering dedication to this mission.”

– Dan O.

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“NC has been a huge blessing for our family. We are grateful to this school for providing a nurturing and invigorating space and staff that supplements our daughter’s unschooling/homeschooling otherwise. She’s made some good friends there (she has friends her age as well as older and younger – think French schoolhouse) and looks forward to her Natural Creativity each week.”

– The Blaus’

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“A well-designed combination of attention to children, and providing them with a great physical environment that inspires curiosity and growth. I love the staff at this school and I admire their professionality.”

– Michael J.

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“We have sent both of our children to the Children’s House of Philadelphia. Our oldest child was there for three years and our youngest child is currently in his second year. Every person who works there loves every child. They provide such a nurturing and calm environment for the children to learn and explore and try new things. It is a family-owned and run school, and they lead with intention and are committed to transparency. They work hard to meet each family where they are and provide the resources, expertise, and kindness to every person at every stage of their parenting journey. They cultivate a community through many social events, informative newsletters, and excellent communication. I am eternally grateful to this school, but especially to Mary D’Anella and her two daughters who run the school, Isabella and Mary D’Anella Mercanti. It is truly a magical spot for our children during these incredibly important years of development.”

– Adina L.

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“Amazing quality daycare center in the middle of Northern Liberties. Amazing staff, beautiful facilities and private playground. Feel confident leaving my child there knowing he will be well cared for and is learning so much!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Cupola Academy provides a truly enriching and child-centered education that nurtures both intellectual growth and creativity. With a strong foundation in academic rigor, my children have found that their CP2 and CP3 programs challenged them to think critically while fostering a love for learning. The integrated approach ensures that subjects are not taught in isolation but are woven together in meaningful ways, allowing children to make real-world connections. Curiosity is at the heart of the curriculum, encouraging students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage in hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Cupola Academy values learning outside traditional settings, incorporating nature, community engagement, and experiential opportunities to deepen understanding and inspire lifelong learning. This unique balance of structure and exploration creates an environment where my children have thrived academically and personally.”

– Brie R.

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“As a second-generation mother, I always felt a sense of embarrassment about not being fluent in Chinese. My own experience with Chinese school as a sixth grader was uninspiring and rigid, making it difficult for me to learn. So when we enrolled my daughter at Philadelphia Chinese Academy at just two years old, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but I was absolutely blown away. Now, at four years old, her Chinese skills are incredible. The school’s approach makes learning feel effortless, seamlessly integrating language immersion with engaging and dynamic lesson plans. […] At the heart of it all is Dale You, the incredible founder of Philadelphia Chinese Academy. She saw a need in our city and poured her heart and soul into creating a space where children are safe, thriving, and fully prepared for first grade. She goes above and beyond, even offering parents the opportunity to observe 20-minute sessions of the school day and ask questions, fostering a sense of transparency and trust. The school’s expansion is beyond exciting, and the sense of community among parents is just as special. Through playdates and friendships, we’ve built lasting connections, making this journey even more meaningful. Philadelphia Chinese Academy is truly a gem in our city, and I can’t think of a more deserving recipient of a LOVE Award.”

– Erica C.

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“My 9yo son attends their unschooling program Wild Seeds 3 days a week. In this year so far he has become more confident, compassionate and overall has an understanding of himself and the world around him. I attribute so much of his successes to the amazing facilitators who lead by example that you are what you DO and not just what you say.”

– Katie C.

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These schools and educational resources, our Philadelphia Family LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorite Honorees, have earned their place as trusted institutions for families in the Greater Philadelphia region. Their commitment to fostering learning, creativity, and growth is celebrated through the testimonials of parents who have witnessed the positive effects on their children firsthand. Be sure to explore the Main Line Parent Best for Families Guide and Bucks County Parent Best for Families Guide to find even more resources that can support your family’s educational journey.

Know a fantastic local resource that should be on this list? Share your experience with a Philadelphia Family Member on their Profile Page (we count new endorsements as nominations year-round)! If you would like YOUR organization to be more connected with local parents, caregivers, and family-focused business leaders in our community, we invite you to join our Philadelphia Family Membership Program.