TEANECK, NJ (Wednesday, February 15, 2006) - Kumon North America, the world's largest supplemental education provider, has been ranked No. 1 in the tutoring category by Entrepreneur magazine for the fifth consecutive year.
"Tutoring programs are gaining momentum across the country and not just with parents seeking after-school assistance for their children," said Deven Klein, vice president of franchising with Kumon. "Women seeking an alternative career path that is flexible and profitable are also fueling the tutoring industry."
Results from a recent survey of Kumon North America Inc. revealed 87 percent of its franchises in the United States and Canada are owned and operated by women, many of whom have a strong background in mathematics, technology, science or engineering.
Nearly half of all women entrepreneurs say their primary motivation for becoming business owners is a desire to set their own hours. Other factors include frustration with trying to break through the "glass ceiling" and the satisfaction in finding a new career path that allowed them to give back to society.
Kumon has 1,784 centers and 199,166 students enrolled in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The company opened its first North American office in 1983 with 16 centers and 1,051 students.
About Kumon Math and Reading Centers
Kumon [k -mon] is an after-school math and reading program. Founded in Japan in 1958, the learning method uses a systematic approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop better study skills. Worldwide, there are 3.6 million students studying at more than 22,000 Kumon Centers in 43 countries. For more information: 1-800-ABC-MATH or visit www.kumon.com. Kumon North America is headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey.
Kumon Math & Reading Centers aim to help all children in North America learn how to learn by helping them acquire basic academic skills and become independent learners.