A YEAR AGO, GITI TINA ZAMANI WAS LEADING A TEAM OF ENGINEERS AS A PROJECT MANAGER FOR SUN MICROSYSTEMS, TODAY SHE'S HELPING CHILDREN BUILD STRONG MATH AND READING SKILLS.

"The most rewarding aspect of my career is that I am helping children discover that they have the potential to excel and reach their full potential," says Zamani, who recently opened a Kumon Center in Tracy, California. After 23-years in engineering, Zamani was looking for a career change that would positively impact her community.

Students visit her Kumon Center twice weekly after school, for about 30 minutes per subject and complete daily assignments during the week. The result of this extra study is stronger concentration, greater confidence and an improvement in math and reading skills.Parents are driving the education sector," says Mark Mele, vice president of franchising for Kumon. "Our franchise inquiries have been on the rise because parents want to make sure their children are prepared for college and the higher demands of today's work force. Our low-cost franchise also makes it more affordable for educators and professionals seeking ah entrepreneurial opportunity in education.