Meet the Founders Behind Rainbow Academy

Mario & Linda LaGrotte, Founders –What could be better than to come to work and play? Rainbow Academy was built on a dream to own a business that involved education— where we could make a difference in the lives of children and their families. We started our summer camp program in 1980 and began the preschool program in 1987, with a small group— Mr. Mario’s Terrific Twos and Ms. Linda’s Perfect Preschoolers. Our passion to create a caring community of families who valued a program that honored social and emotional growth, as well as physical and educational growth grew exponentially. We have “children “ of “children “ who attended the program. Our path has been filled with giggles and fun. Our children grew up in this environment of love, and as adults, they chose careers involving children. Our grandchildren now attend and/work at Rainbow Academy. We couldn’t be prouder, and wouldn’t change a second.

Dan LaGrotte, Executive Director – has led Rainbow Academy since 2010, including its 2024 classroom expansion; oversees all franchisee training. Dan worked as a classroom teacher in the Philadelphia School District prior to coming to Rainbow Academy full-time. He was always involved in Rainbow Academy as he attended the preschool and summer camp program and began working as soon as he could. Dan has overseen the summer camp program and has been at Rainbow Academy full time since 2010. He uses his background in education with children and with training of staff. Rainbow Academy prides itself on being a family business. Dan’s children attended Rainbow Academy for preschool and still do for summer camp. The family dog, a bloodhound name Hubert is always greeting people onto the property. 

The greatest part of owning Rainbow Academy is the fun involvement you get to have with the staff, families, and children that attend the school and day camp. The happiness that Rainbow Academy is able to provide to children is truly something to be proud of.