About Us
In 1977, Katherine Papa, a 19-year-old dissatisfied with her daycare job, took the entrepreneurial leap and founded A Magic Kingdom in Schenectady with Sue Ellen DeWeese. Operating out of the United Methodist Church, they started by promoting their services door-to-door and creatively advertising without a budget. As their reputation for flexible and family-oriented care grew, so did their clientele, necessitating expansion and more staff. Their commitment to competitive pricing and accommodating family needs fostered loyalty among families and staff alike, creating a familial atmosphere that ensured low turnover.
Now serving 80 to 90 children and emphasizing educational preparation, they remain a cornerstone of their community, adapting to industry changes while maintaining their foundational community spirit.
Their dedication led to the care of many children and growth in clientele. By 1989, the daycare had expanded significantly, necessitating the acquisition of a small church to accommodate the business's growth.
Key to the successes of A Magic Kingdom has been holding competitive prices and prioritizing a family-like environment, which encourages staff retention and builds strong community ties. Many staff members have long standing tenures, and former children often return as employees, reinforcing the daycare's nurturing reputation.
Today, A Magic Kingdom is a well-established community institution, serving 80 to 90 children, while adapting to changing industry standards. Their structured preschool program, licensed by state requirements, prepares children for kindergarten through thoughtful, engaging education. At its heart, A Magic Kingdom remains a family-oriented daycare committed to serving its neighborhood and community.
Contact Us to Learn More
We would love to speak with you and help you understand if A Magic Kingdom is right for your child. Call us or inquire through our Facebook page today to get started.