Since Taylor Kashner was five years old, she has dreamed of starting her own learning center for children. In October 2022, that dream became a reality when Taylor and her parents, Jeff and Maxine, opened Appletree Learning Center. The 15,500-square-foot, two-story building is newly renovated and features an activity room, gym, and kitchen. Appletree will function like a daycare but emphasize education and preparation for elementary school. The Kashners have faced many challenges on their road to success since they began their journey in June 2021. The Bucknell Small Business Development Center (SBDC) assisted Appletree in becoming a licensed learning Center. In addition, the SBDC has been helping them develop a website and providing them with industry research to help with financial planning. Today, the facility already has over 30 children enrolled and has a maximum capacity of 146 children ranging from infants to five years. Apple Tree Learning Center is open from 6am to 6pm, Monday through Friday, providing both before and after-school care. Taylor is very excited about the early success of her business, and she is thrilled that Appletree has been able to create a stronger sense of community in the Shamokin-Coal Township region.