Born From Love And Legacy

K.E.N.T. Academy of Young Scholars began in 2022, born from love, loss, and a desire to create something meaningful in honor of our brother, Kent, who passed away from COVID-19. The values behind our name, Kindness, Empathy, Nurturing, and Teamwork, were not chosen to fit an acronym. They describe exactly who Kent was. We created this academy so that his legacy continues to live and grow through every child who walks through our doors.

How Children Learn Best

We believe children learn best through meaningful play. Our play-based, child-centered program blends physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and language growth, so the whole child develops together. We operate on a philosophy of full inclusion, where every child learns as a unique individual right alongside their peers. And because parents are a child's first teachers, we see family involvement as the bridge between home and school.

Care You Can Trust

K.E.N.T. Academy is a family-owned, licensed childcare and early learning center serving Akron since 2022. We are licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, our staff are CPR and First Aid certified, and every team member meets background-check requirements. We keep our ratios low, serve nutritious meals, and accept PFCC/Title XX assistance, so dependable, quality care stays within reach for more families.

✦ Small By Design

Low teacher-to-child ratios mean more attention, stronger bonds, and a child who is genuinely known.

✦ Real Curriculum

Our state-approved curriculum builds school readiness and social-emotional skills through play, not worksheets.

✦ Family-Centered

We treat your child like our own and your family like part of ours, from the very first tour.

✦ Care Within Reach

We accept PFCC/Title XX and private pay, making quality early learning accessible to more Akron families.

Jacqueline Ferguson — Owner

Miss Jackie is one of the proud owners of K.E.N.T. Academy of Young Scholars. A nurse and a mother, caring for others comes naturally to her. She has a genuine love for children and truly enjoys watching them learn, grow, and become their own little people. Her nurturing heart is a big part of what makes K.E.N.T. Academy feel like family.

Nichole Jones — Owner

Miss Nichole, affectionately known to the kids as "Nini," is one of the proud owners of K.E.N.T. Academy of Young Scholars. A social worker, mother, and foster mother, caring for and advocating for children has always been close to her heart. She loves creating a place where every child feels loved, supported, and part of the family.

Kimberly Jones — Administrator

Mrs. Kim has been a valued part of the K.E.N.T. Academy family for four years. As our administrator, she keeps our center running smoothly while supporting our children, families, and staff. When an extra set of hands is needed, she is always ready to jump in and help wherever she can. Her dedication and team-first spirit make her an important part of the K.E.N.T. family.

Carlie Hilton — Lead Infant Teacher

Mrs. Carlie is passionate about creating a warm, nurturing, and safe space where our littlest scholars can grow and thrive. She knows every baby develops at their own pace, so she focuses on building strong, trusting relationships while supporting each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. She believes the smallest moments, cuddles, tummy time, songs, and sensory play, are all opportunities for learning, and she is committed to making every infant feel safe, loved, and at home.