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Janette Kirk owns Kiddie Kastle Pre-School in Tupelo. The business has been open for 31 years. (Thomas Wells | Daily Journal)
Janette Kirk has been interested in teaching since she was a kid. She comes from a family of 13 and constantly was playing “school” with them.
In 1982, she started working for Kiddie Kastle, which was at the corner of Spring and Franklin streets. Three years later, she bought the business and moved it to Franklin Street. About 10 years ago, it moved to the current location on South Madison Street.
Kirk is joined at the business by her sister, Lynette Tate, an employee of 24 years.
Kiddie Kastle is a preschool for kids ages 14 months to 12 years.
“We teach,” Kirk said. “We prepare children for school. We give them a strong foundation for school.”
The full-time child care business emphasizes learning, outdoor play, music and games. It’s on its second generation of students.
“One of the main things I enjoy is watching the kids grow up and go to college and start their careers,” Kirk said.
Owner: Janette Kirk
Est.: 1981
Address: 122 S. Madison St., Tupelo
Hours: Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: (662) 841-1709
Email: JanetteKirk2119@comcast.net
Advice: Learn as much about the business before you decide to come into it. It entails business management, curriculum and taking care of children each day.
-Carlie Kollath