Nobel Learning Communities' Laurel Springs School Introduces Online and Distance Learning College Prep Dual Diploma Programs to China

WEST CHESTER, Pa., May 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Nobel Learning Communities, Inc. (Nasdaq: NLCI), a leading operator of private Pre-K through 8th grade schools, and Laurel Springs School, a global online K-12 college prep distance learning school, today announced it is entering the Chinese market through an agreement with Aston Educational Group to offer its online and distance learning programs to high school students in China.  The program consists of a combination of Laurel Springs accredited U.S. high school courses with Aston's English programs, enabling Chinese students an opportunity to earn an accredited U.S. high school diploma and enhance their English skills, while also earning a high school diploma from their local Chinese high school.

George Bernstein, President and Chief Executive Officer of Nobel Learning Communities, Inc., said, "Our Laurel Springs School is partnering with Aston Educational Group to introduce its distance learning college preparatory curriculum to students in China, providing them with the opportunity to earn an accredited U.S. high school diploma to position them for admission to high quality U.S. universities. For the past 20 years, Laurel Springs School has been pioneering distance learning programs in order to prepare students to meet the demanding admission standards of America's most selective colleges and universities. Through innovative partnerships such as this agreement with Aston Educational Group, we can leverage Laurel Springs proven educational programs in countries where the demand for admission to high quality U.S. colleges and universities continues to increase. Laurel Springs distance learning techniques have a proven record of success with a high rate of its graduates accepted to the college of their choice."

The Laurel Springs/Aston school program will be offered to existing Chinese high schools. Aston has experience in working with Chinese high schools to enhance the English proficiency of Chinese students.  Past programs that Aston has delivered include ESL, IELTS, and TOEFL preparation, and programs focused on improving teaching methodology at various high schools.  This new program combines Aston's English courses with Laurel Springs accredited high school courses.  With the combination of enhanced English skills and dual U.S. and Chinese diplomas, the students are in strong position for possible entry into either high quality U.S. universities or select Chinese universities.

Laurel Springs School's Founder and Director, Marilyn Mosley Gordanier, said, "Laurel Springs is very excited to partner with Aston Educational Group.  This is the first time a distance learning program will be delivered in a classroom environment in China with on-site English and Chinese speaking homeroom teachers working closely with Laurel Springs teachers to ensure coursework will be completed during the student's typical class day. Those who enroll in this innovative educational program will receive comprehensive support from Laurel Springs teachers, college advisors and staff.  The combination of the Laurel Springs program with English training from Aston will enhance the education experience for the students, while preparing them for the next step to university."

David Wisner, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Educational Group, commented, "We are pleased to partner with Laurel Springs School to offer Chinese high schools the ability to provide their students with additional alternatives to enhance their education and possibly seek global opportunities.  This agreement aligns with our Company's goal of serving the Asian and U.S. education markets by providing innovative education programs to enhance opportunities for our students."

About Nobel Learning Communities

Nobel Learning Communities operates a national network of over 180 nonsectarian private Pre-K and K+ schools, as well as Laurel Springs School, a global K-12 online distance learning school. All Nobel Learning schools are dedicated to providing a high-quality private education, through small class sizes, caring and skilled teachers, and attention to individual learning styles. Nobel Learning also offers an array of supplemental educational services, including before- and after-school programs, the Camp Zone(R) summer program, learning support programs, and specialty schools. For more information, please visit www.NobelLearning.com.

About Aston Educational Group

The Aston Educational Group is a leading English language training organization focused on providing premium quality training through its Aston English Schools and its Aston International Academy.   The first Aston English School was established in China in 1996, while The Aston International Academy in Austin, Texas was established in 1992.  Aston Education established its first school in Vietnam in 2008 and the Group now includes more than 70 schools in 3 countries through 50 cities. Aston's customized curriculum for the Chinese market ensures our students achieve strong English communication skills that serve them well in their future.  

Safe Harbor Statement

Except for historical information contained in this press release, the information in this press release consists of forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward- looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include among others, the implementation and results of the Company's ongoing strategic initiatives; the Company's ability to compete with new or existing competitors; dependence on senior management and other key personnel; and changes in general economic conditions. Other risks and uncertainties are discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC. These statements are based only on management's knowledge and expectations on the date of this press release. The Company will not necessarily update these statements or other information in this press release based on future events or circumstances.

NLCI:G

SOURCE Nobel Learning Communities, Inc.