Sherrie Johnson always wanted to take care of children. When Discovery Point opened up an opportunity for her to as a franchise, she ran with it.

Even though her resume consisted mostly of retail and business, it was having children of her own that gave her the push she needed to own her own child development center.

"As a parent, I understand the importance of having quality education and dependable care for the children," said Johnson. "This has been a great experience for me, being able to combine all of my passions into one."

The center provides state-approved curriculum specifically tailored for children between six weeks to five years old, aimed at building a foundation in early literacy, mathematics and developmental skills.

The programs are divided into three categories: the infant, beginner and toddler program for children six weeks to 24 months old; preschool one through three for children between two to five year olds; and Georgia and Florida Pre-K program for four to five years old.

In addition, Discovery Point offers before and after school care and summer camp for children between five and 12 years old. The summer camp offers numerous activities like Summer Olympics, water play, arts and crafts and weekly off-site field trips.

Upon Johnson's arrival to Discovery Point last October, parents and teachers initially voiced concern about possible changes with her transition.

"There wasn't anything that really needed changed," said Johnson. "All of our teachers are certified and the parents are highly involved... It's been running really well on that front."

But with the franchise still in its early stages (it opened over four years ago), Johnson is focusing her efforts on promoting the center throughout the community.

"We're in kind of an isolated area," said Johnson. "If you didn't live in the subdivision next to us, you wouldn't know we existed. So I want to spend a lot of time getting to know the community and getting the word out about us."

Johnson plans to offer karate and dance classes in the next few months to provide more activities for children of all ages. With a new partnership with the Home Owner's Association, Johnson hopes to broaden the center reach throughout the community.

Once a month, Discovery Point hosts parents' night, allowing parents to enjoy a night out with each other. Students remain after hours with additional costs applied. The center's next parents' night will be held this Friday.

"We have a lot of parents who really look forward to this every month," said Johnson. "It gives them a chance to relax for one night a month, especially this month because of Valentine's Day."