Meet Scherriel Fenderson: A Wonderschool Provider Strengthening Her Business and Community
Meet Scherriel, a dedicated childcare provider based in Detroit, Michigan. With a master’s degree in educational leadership and over two decades of experience, she has built a 24-hour childcare program that serves a diverse range of families, including nurses, school bus drivers, and night-shift workers.
Beyond her childcare business, she is also a successful entrepreneur, running multiple rental properties and an Airbnb. Scherriel sat down with Chris Bennett, CEO of Wonderschool, to discuss her program and how our partnership in Michigan is helping her support more families.
Chris Bennett: Where are you based, Scherriel?
Scherriel Fenderson: Detroit, Michigan.
Chris Bennett: What led you to start your childcare business?
Scherriel Fenderson: There were some tragic incidents in Detroit where parents went out, leaving their children home alone, and the house caught fire, sometimes leading to devastating consequences. I had a master’s degree in educational leadership and was teaching at the time, but when a new superintendent, Kenneth Burnley, enforced stricter certification requirements, I decided to take control of my path. I knew I could create a safe, nurturing environment where kids could thrive, and parents could have peace of mind, no matter the time of day.
Chris Bennett: Your program operates 24 hours. What inspired you to provide round-the-clock care?
Scherriel Fenderson: It was those incidents of children being left home alone that motivated me. I wanted to be there for families who needed childcare at unconventional hours. Many of the families I work with are nurses, school bus drivers, fast-food workers, and even night-shift workers like exotic dancers. I aim to create a diverse, family-oriented atmosphere where everyone feels supported.
Chris Bennett: You mentioned a family atmosphere. Can you describe how you cultivate that?
Scherriel Fenderson: Absolutely. I consider the children in my care as my own and the parents as my family members. The younger parents feel like my children, while the older caregivers feel like my sisters. We’re a tight-knit community, and even as we prepare to move into a new center—hopefully by March—I’m committed to maintaining that warmth and closeness.
Chris Bennett: Congratulations on moving to a center! How does it feel to be expanding?
Scherriel Fenderson: Thank you! It’s been 23 years in the making, and I’m so excited. I just signed the paperwork, and I’ll definitely share pictures with you. It’s a big step, but I’m ready.
Chris Bennett: Besides childcare, you also manage other businesses. Can you tell us about them?
Scherriel Fenderson: Sure! I run an Airbnb and own four rental properties. Three of those properties house family members. Rent is so expensive now, so I wanted to help my family by providing affordable housing. It’s fulfilling to give back, but now that some of my relatives are becoming more independent, I might start earning a bit more from those properties.
Chris Bennett: How has running your own childcare business compared financially to being a teacher?
Scherriel Fenderson: It’s made a world of difference. As a single parent raising my two kids, I struggled when I was teaching. Running my own business gave me financial stability, allowing me to provide for my family and even pursue things I never thought possible. I’ve earned more than double what I made as a teacher, and it’s been incredibly empowering.
Chris Bennett: Did people around you support your decision to start your business?
Scherriel Fenderson: My closest friends and family knew I would succeed, but others doubted me. They’d suggest I find another job instead of taking risks. But I believed in myself. There’s a saying that stuck with me: If you’re too scared to pursue your dreams, someone will hire you to fulfill theirs. I chose to chase mine.
Chris Bennett: How did you first learn about Wonderschool, and what has your experience been like?
Scherriel Fenderson: I learned about Wonderschool through a grant from Great Start to Quality. It was a $50,000 startup grant that helped me transition from a family daycare to a group daycare. Wonderschool supported me in creating a business plan and building an online presence. Once I got started, everything took off. The resources have been invaluable.
Chris Bennett: Has Wonderschool's technology been helpful for you?
Scherriel Fenderson: Yes, absolutely! Natalie has been so patient with me as I learned. I had no prior experience using technology for my business, but now I’m getting the hang of it. We’re even adding a digital sign-in system for parents. The QR codes for flyers and sharing photos have been game-changers.
Chris Bennett: Is there anything else you’d like to share or any questions you have for us?
Scherriel Fenderson: I have a few ideas I’d love to discuss further, like helping childcare providers navigate the quality rating system and get timely payments from state subsidies. I also wanted to say a big thank you. Wonderschool blessed one of my families with coats and clothing, and it meant the world to them. It was such a heartwarming moment, and I’m so grateful.
Chris Bennett: Thank you for your time and for being such a positive force in your community.
Scherriel Fenderson: You’re very welcome! I appreciate all the support from Wonderschool. See you next time!
Watch the full story here to see how Scherriel is making a meaningful impact in her community.
Key Steps Scherriel Took:
- Identifying the Community Need:
Scherriel recognized that many families needed access to 24-hour care, particularly those working non-traditional hours, such as nurses and school bus drivers. By focusing on this niche, she effectively filled a gap in the market. - Accessing Funding and Resources:
Through Wonderschool, Scherriel secured a $50,000 startup grant that enabled her to transition from a family childcare setup (caring for six children) to a larger group care model that accommodates up to 12 children. This funding is crucial for new providers looking to establish themselves in the market. - Utilizing Technology and Support:
With the help of Wonderschool's platform, Scherriel enhanced her operational efficiency and marketing capabilities. Tools like digital sign-in for parents and resources to manage her curriculum and enrollment processes streamlined her business management. - Building Community Relations:
As she expanded her program, Scherriel maintained strong relationships with her families, fostering a sense of community that not only supported the business but also enhanced customer loyalty and trust.
The Financial Benefits of Launching Child Care Programs
Contrary to the belief that starting childcare programs is a financial burden, Scherriel's experience illustrates their profitability. She has doubled her income compared to her previous job as a teacher, showcasing the potential earnings available in child care.
Here are some compelling financial advantages:
- Revenue Potential: Scherriel now enjoys a substantial increase in revenue by accommodating more children than before.
- Lower Operating Costs: With comprehensive support from California-based Wonderschool, Scherriel is able to keep her operational costs low while maximizing her income potential.
- Sustainable Growth: The demand for child care continues to rise, providing a stable revenue stream for new providers willing to invest in their communities.
Call to Action for Economic Development Offices
Economic development offices are in a unique position to spearhead the development of childcare programs. By recognizing the importance of accessible child care, they can unlock numerous benefits for families and the workforce. Here’s how your office can get involved:
- Promote Awareness: Share data on the demand for childcare services.
- Facilitate Grants and Resources: Connect aspiring childcare providers with funding opportunities and necessary resources.
- Support Training Programs: Develop training workshops for potential providers to learn about best practices in child care management and operations.
Scherriel's success is a testament to how launching childcare programs can create lasting positive impacts in communities. To learn more about her journey and the potential for starting your own program, visit A Diamond In the Rough.
Conclusion
Starting childcare programs is not just an economic imperative but a community-enhancing initiative that benefits families and local economies alike. By collaborating with committed providers like Scherriel and organizations like Wonderschool, economic development offices can foster a thriving environment for the next generation.
For more information about Wonderschool and their support for new childcare providers, check out their website: Wonderschool.
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