Best in Class Education Center is a leading supplemental education franchise that delivers personalized learning in math, English, SAT/ACT preparation, private tutoring, after-school programs, summer camps, and college prep.

Founded in 1988 by entrepreneurs Hao and Lisa Lam with its first center in Seattle, Washington, the brand quickly gained acclaim for its customized, high-impact coursework.

The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and operates over 40 locations across the United States, providing targeted enrichment for pre-K through high school students. Leveraging more than 30 years of curriculum development, Best in Class began franchising in 2011 to expand its reach and mission.

Using a proprietary curriculum and education technology platform, Best in Class tailors instruction to each learner’s strengths, gaps, and goals. Their model emphasizes small-group and private tutoring, weekly assessments, and data-driven feedback loops to foster academic growth beyond traditional classroom limits.

Training

Best in Class Education Center provides a structured and multi-faceted training program for its franchisees, ensuring operational readiness and ongoing development. Here's a breakdown of the training offered by the franchisor:

1. Initial Training Program: Franchisees must complete a pre-opening training program, including virtual sessions (video-based training and calls) followed by 5 to 7 days of in-person training in Seattle. At least the Managing Owner and one other participant must attend and complete this training satisfactorily before opening a center.
2. On-the-Job Training: This component takes place at a designated WA Center and includes hands-on experience in management, software, customer service, daily operations, and sales procedures, among other areas.
3. Refresher and Ongoing Training: Franchisees may be required to attend up to five days of system-wide refresher courses annually. This ensures that operations remain aligned with evolving standards and practices.

Territory Protection

Best in Class Education Center does not offer exclusive territorial rights to its franchisees, but it does provide a degree of territorial protection. During the term of the franchise agreement, the franchisor agrees not to develop or allow another franchise to operate a center or satellite office using the Best in Class brand within the franchisee’s defined Center Territory or Satellite Office Territory.

However, the franchisor retains the right to compete through alternative distribution channels and may convert other acquired educational businesses into branded locations, even within the protected territory.

The Center Territory typically includes between 15,000 to 18,000 students aged 5 to 17, while a Satellite Office Territory covers around 7,500 to 9,000 students in the same age range.