At Jelly Bean Junction, we believe in providing high-quality childcare in Melbourne that nurtures not only children—but also the teachers and families who care for them. My name is Eric Kuang, and I want to share with you who I am, why I’m here, and what I believe we can build together.

I came to the United States in 1989, fresh out of college in China. I was fortunate to receive a highly competitive scholarship and later earned my Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University at the age of 26. From there, I spent over a decade in the telecom industry—first with Motorola, then Verizon—working on systems that connected people around the world.

But in 2007, I left that life behind. I started my own companies in financial services and internet marketing. I made money. I put my kids through college. But in 2017, something shifted. As two of my children graduated and my youngest prepared to leave home, I found myself asking: What have I really built for the world beyond my family? What difference am I making to the country and community that has given me so much?

That question became a calling. I invested everything—including my retirement savings—into Sunset Academy, a preschool in Colorado. I’ve now operated Sunset for eight years with the same mission I’ve brought to Jelly Bean Junction:

To create high-quality childcare in Melbourne that truly makes a difference.

And it works. Sunset is fully enrolled. Our teachers are thriving. Many have built long-term careers at the school. We created a space where children flourish and educators are deeply respected.

In 2021, I purchased Jelly Bean Junction—not simply to run a business, but to extend the same values, principles, and vision of high-quality childcare in Melbourne that transforms lives. Because early childhood is not just preparation for life. It is life. And how we show up in this season matters—deeply.

I know I’m not a classroom teacher. Many of you have seen me learning as I go. But I’ve built teams, led change, and most importantly, I know how to listen and respect. That’s what brings me to my vision for Jelly Bean Junction.

It’s a place where children grow in confidence, curiosity, and kindness.
A place where educators are mentors, nurturers, and lifelong learners.
And a place where families find a true partner in raising the next generation.

This kind of high-quality childcare in Melbourne isn’t created by accident. It’s built—day by day—by people who show up with heart, professionalism, and purpose.

To support this vision, we’ve built a strong management team:

  • Lauren, our Director, brings calm leadership, high standards, and deep care for everyone.

  • Shannon, our Trainer, helps you grow in your role with coaching and resources.

  • Jamison, our Operations Specialist, keeps systems running smoothly behind the scenes.

  • Luisa, our Administrative Assistant, welcomes families with heart and humor.

And yes—I made a promise to pay the highest teacher wages in the city. I’m proud to say I’m keeping that promise. Because respect isn’t a slogan—it’s how we treat people and how we invest in them.

That’s why we’ve also launched our Professional Development Program. Every staff member receives up to $200 annually for training, certifications, or classes that help them grow. We want Jelly Bean Junction to be a home for educators who believe in themselves as much as we believe in them.

To guide my leadership, I often revisit The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. This book taught me how to lead with purpose, integrity, and balance—qualities that shape every aspect of high-quality childcare in Melbourne.

Yes, this past year brought changes. But with change comes opportunity. We’re not just “watching kids.” We are shaping lives—with love, structure, and imagination.

Let’s keep building Jelly Bean Junction—not just as a school with history, but a school with a future. A place known for truly high-quality childcare in Melbourne, where children, families, and teachers all thrive.

Let’s build it—together.

– Eric Kuang, PhD

Owner