Daycare & Preschool in Steele Creek, NC

Hi Charlotte families! We’re so excited to welcome you to our Circle of Care!

I’m Alison Friedman, Managing Owner, and alongside my husband Joe, we’ve had the incredible honor of bringing the first two Lightbridge Academy schools to Charlotte, NC. Our Huntersville location opened in January 2023, and Steele Creek followed in October 2024.

With our background in the packaging industry, we knew we wanted to do more — something meaningful for the families right here in our own community. Lightbridge Academy’s core values of care, excellence, happiness, and integrity align perfectly with who we are both personally and professionally.

As working parents ourselves, we understand the daily juggle. That’s why we’re proud to offer The Solution for Working Families® — with our enriched curriculum, fun enhancement activities, extended hours, e-communication tools, WatchMeGrow cameras, and strong local partnerships to make life just a little easier. Thank you for trusting us — it’s truly an honor to support your family.

Hi, I’m Nikki Friedman, Center Director at Steele Creek! I’ve had the privilege of launching another Lightbridge Academy in New Jersey as an Assistant Director and later served as a Customer Service Specialist. Now, I couldn’t be more excited to be part of the Lightbridge Charlotte family — and I truly mean family! My dad, Joe, and his wife, Alison, turned a dream into reality by bringing Lightbridge Academy to Charlotte, and I’m beyond proud to help continue that journey.

Hi, I’m Amelia Fancher! I’m thrilled to be part of the Steele Creek Administration team. I started my Lightbridge journey in 2024 as an infant teacher at our Huntersville location, and I’m so excited to now support families from the front office!

I have worked in early childhood education for five years. I hold a bachelor's degree in religion, am a certified Lead Teacher, and recently completed my certification in Early Childhood Education Administration. I’ve been married to my husband, Matt, for three years. In my free time, I enjoy reading and traveling.

Hi, my name is Tina, and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I have a beautiful little princess, Kaylani, who I love with all my heart. She brings happiness, love, and light into my life every single day. From a young age, I discovered a deep passion for helping others grow—whether through education, emotional support, or simply being present. This calling led me to a career in education, where I spent over ten years teaching kindergarten, third, and fifth grade at a charter school.

As my journey evolved, so did my roles. I started my own babysitting business, continuing to provide care, guidance, and support to children and their families. I’m currently furthering my education, encouraged and uplifted by the unwavering support of my family. Through every challenge and change, one thing has remained constant: my love for learning, for teaching, and for building a brighter future for myself, my family, and every student I have the privilege to teach. The best part of my career is knowing that I have the chance to make a lasting impact on a child’s life.

We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you to our Lightbridge family!