Project Nickel (2 Schools)
Transaction Summary
SchoolWise Partners is pleased to announce the successful closing of Project Nickel, a portfolio of two private schools located in and around the south side of Chicago, Illinois. The transaction was completed on March 9, 2026, with the business assets acquired by a regional education operator and real estate assets acquired by a real estate investment trust.
Competitive & Strategic Process
Project Nickel concluded with a successful closing on March 9, 2026 following a focused, competitive sale process led by SchoolWise Partners. The engagement generated strong interest from a broad buyer universe, resulting in multiple compelling offers and meaningful competitive tension across both the operating company and the real estate.
After executing the Letter of Intent in October 2025, the transaction moved steadily through diligence and documentation, reaching a full closing in approximately five months—a timeline that reflects SchoolWise’s disciplined execution, proactive process management, and ability to maintain momentum while preserving leverage.
“Running a controlled process and maintaining optionality were critical to the outcome,” said Jefferson Betancourt. “By keeping competitive pressure in the deal and staying ahead throughout diligence, we were able to deliver a strong result with both attractive economics and certainty of close.”
Transaction Highlights
Closed: March 9, 2026
Transaction Type: Business & Real Estate Asset Sale
Business Buyer: Regional Education Operator
Real Estate Buyer: Real Estate Investment Trust
Advisor: SchoolWise Partners (Sell-Side)
About the Schools
Established in 1988, the Schools offer high quality early childhood education for infants through Kindergarten along with school age programs at two (2) locations in the suburbs south of Chicago, Illinois.
The Schools is accredited by NAEYC while also boosting a GOLD Circle of Excellence rating from ExceleRate in Illinois – placing the Schools among the top childcare centers in the surrounding areas, meeting rigorous standards for learning environments, teacher qualifications, and child-to-teacher ratios.
The Schools focus on developmentally appropriate learning, social, emotional and physical development prepares children for future academic achievement. The Schools utilizes the Teaching Strategies curriculum to ensure that learning objectives are met while promoting holistic development for all age groups.
Beyond their educational offerings, Penny Lane fosters a family-oriented culture among its staff and families. Many employees have decades-long tenures, while others have experienced the school as students, parents, and now grandparents. This multigenerational connection speaks to the school's focus on nurturing relationships and delivering exceptional early childhood education in a secure and inspiring environment.
If you are interested in learning more about selling or acquiring a school, please contact our team confidentially at info@schoolwisepartners.com.