In 1951, Leon and Renee Kaplan opened their first toy store in downtown Greensboro, NC. The store, Tiny Town, later moved to West Fifth Street in Winston-Salem, NC, where they continued to offer unique toys and gifts that promoted learning through play. In 1968, Leon founded Kaplan School Supply, which embodied his vision of providing developmentally appropriate resources that help foster the growth of the whole child-cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally. Kaplan School Supply eventually became Kaplan Early Learning Company, which quickly developed into a leading international provider in the field of early care and education.
Today, Kaplan Early Learning Company continues to embody Leon's vision by providing quality early childhood resources to school systems, childcare centers, and federally supported programs. The company's corporate headquarters is located in Lewisville, NC, and the site houses office space, a warehouse, a state-of-the-art distribution center, and the Kaplan Education Megastore. Thanks to the dedication, loyalty, and hard work of Kaplan employees, the company has tripled in size since 1990 and continues to be a leading international provider of products that enhance children's learning.
An international company, Kaplan has a small-town, family feel. The work environment is driven by teamwork and every member of the team matters! Led by an executive management team that invests deeply in the professional success of each individual, employees are encouraged to expand their personal skills set. Our open office environment fosters cross-functional engagement and elevates collaboration and creativity. To learn more about our culture and to join our team, visit our Careers page.
We strive to improve outcomes for all children. We do this by providing products and services that enhance early learning and help children reach their full potential.
We appreciate and serve educators with high-quality customer care in mind.
We establish clear goals, measure results and continually seek enhancement.
We embrace diversity, encourage open communication and develop win-win relationships.
We are thoughtful and act with honest intent.
We have the desire, creativity and discipline to lead change and shape the future.
We advocate for young children and families and we are socially and environmentally responsible.
We are dedicated to giving back to our community and we proudly partner with a number of local and national organizations annually. Employees are encouraged to participate in the Corporate Volunteer Program, a collaborative partnership with the Greater Winston-Salem Chamber of Commerce and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools that we sponsor, as well as special events.
We believe we are better when we work together and we are proud to support organizations that share our vision for the field of early care and education.
At Kaplan, we come to work every day knowing that we are making a positive impact in early childhood education locally, nationally, and internationally. From our warehouse employees to customer service and our sales team in the field, we are united behind our mission to deliver the best to what matters the most: children and families.
I think what brings the most joy to Kaplan team members is the fact that we are all making a difference in the lives of children and families daily. That's the pride my dad had when he first started this company, and that passion lives on through our employees.