Meet Our Team
CONTACT US
Let’s launch their lifelong love of learning together. Contact us to visit Celebree School of Columbia-North!
Let’s launch their lifelong love of learning together. Contact us to visit Celebree School of Columbia-North!
Nirali, Nihir and Gopika Patel are the Owner-Operators of Celebree School of Columbia–North, and they are delighted to be bringing the Celebree difference to the Columbia community and providing a place to “Protect, Educate and Nurture” every child that walks through their doors.
Nirali spent her early years in India before moving to Columbia, MD when she was 11 years old. She has a Bachelor’s in Gerontology, a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, and has worked in numerous industries over the years such as education, and healthcare. Gopika was born and raised in Karnataka, India, where she completed her Bachelor’s in Business Administration as well as a post-Graduation diploma in International Business. In 2011, Gopika married Nihir, and they moved to United States. She is currently working at a Behavioral Healthcare.
Over the years, the power trio has worked in a number of different fields. Working in these different fields, they realized, regardless of which field you work in, the most common concern of an adult with children is the guilt of leaving their child to go to work. In today’s world, working is not just a necessity, but it is also about personal growth. No parent should feel guilty for choosing their growth. So, she wanted to provide a childcare service where parents feel like their children are learning, growing, and gaining something from the experience, as well as being taken care of like a family member would take care of them.
The three were inspired to pursue early childhood education because of Nihir’s grandfather, who always emphasized that education is the foundation of a successful society. Growing up, education was never an option for him, so he worked hard to become principle of the first ever Science University in the state of Gujarat, India. He instilled the value of a quality education in his children, who continued to teach Nihir and Nirali not only the importance of getting a quality education, but also to continue to pass the learning to future generations.
Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Nihir, along with Nirali and Gopika, are committed to instilling a lifelong love of learning in the children they serve and providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children are able to develop the skills they need to prepare them not only for kindergarten, but for life. They are so happy to have the opportunity to “Grow People Big and Small”, provide the very best early childhood education experiences for the families of Columbia, and create a true sense of family within the walls of their school and the greater Columbia community. Welcome to Celebree School of Columbia-North!
Since venturing into the Early Childhood Education field in 2000, I have embarked on a journey of growth and learning. My motivation to pursue this path initially stemmed from my younger brother, whose presence and development fascinated me. As he transitioned into daycare, I eagerly volunteered at his facility, immersing myself in the inspiring company of remarkable individuals. This experience solidified my conviction that working with children was my true calling. Consequently, I enrolled at Howard Community College, where I obtained my degree in Early Childhood Education, setting the stage for continuous growth ever since.
Witnessing the accomplishments of children and imagining the boundless possibilities awaiting them as they mature fills me with immense satisfaction. As my all time favorite singer once said, “Children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way.” I wholeheartedly embrace this sentiment, recognizing that these young individuals will not only shape our future but also have much to teach and contribute themselves.
With a wealth of experience and qualifications in the childcare field, Alisa is a dedicated and fully qualified Childcare Assistant Director. Her expertise spans across Infant, Toddler, Preschool, and School-Age Programs. She holds certifications in First Aid, CPR, Medication Administration, Breastfeeding, ADA Compliance, Health, Safety, and Nutrition, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all children.
In addition to their professional skills, her passion for community service shines through their involvement in Scouting with their two children, a girl and a boy. She cherishes outdoor adventures, including sports, and enjoy giving back to the community.
Alisa is deeply committed to fostering the development of young children, preparing them for kindergarten, and supporting their growth as they advance. Helping children reach their full potential and witnessing their milestones is what drives her every day.
