From Classroom to Ownership: Reno Educator Secures Future of Local Preschool with $2.33 Million Facility Purchase

RENO, NV — After more than 20 years in education, educator Elizabeth Rayburn has taken the next step in her commitment to early childhood education by securing ownership of Creative World Children’s Academy’s facility in Reno.

“Providing a strong educational foundation at an early age is one of the most important investments we can make in a child’s future,” said Rayburn, director and co-owner of Creative World Children’s Academy. “Transitioning from the classroom to ownership allows me to shape that experience on a deeper level and ensure our students continue to learn and grow in a consistent, nurturing environment.”

The $2.33 million project includes the purchase of the preschool facility located at 3670 Warren Way, which serves children ages 2 to 5. Financing was facilitated by Western Alliance Bank in partnership with Nevada State Development Corporation (NSDC), supporting the academy’s long-term stability and continued service to families across Reno.

“It was an honor to help Elizabeth and Jeremy purchase the building and take this important step toward long-term ownership,” said Jessica Natali of Western Alliance Bank. “Thoughtful lending can do more than finance a building—it can help business owners invest in their future, build stability and put down roots. When businesses have that opportunity, they strengthen neighborhoods, support local families and help communities to thrive.”

Western Alliance worked closely with clients Elizabeth Rayburn and her husband Jeremy Rayburn, who co-owns the business, throughout the entire process as their primary contact. “We are focused on asking the right questions to fully understand our clients’ financial goals, and in this case, we helped them determine that an SBA 504 would be the right loan for them,” added Natali. “Next, we brought in NSDC to partner in the loan process, always making sure that the experience for our clients was smooth and efficient.”

Sandy Gordon, vice president and business development officer at Nevada State Development Corporation, agrees with Natali’s thinking on how business ownership can have a positive impact that extends far beyond the owners themselves. “When experienced educators take ownership of the environments, they’ve dedicated their careers to, it creates a powerful ripple effect for students, families, and the broader community. Elizabeth’s transition from the classroom to ownership ensures that her vision for early learning will continue to shape young lives in Reno for years to come.” 

Creative World Children’s Academy offers a hands-on curriculum aligned with Nevada State Pre-K standards, focusing on cognitive development, language skills, creativity, and physical health. By integrating science, math, literature, and art into daily learning, the academy fosters curiosity and prepares students for long-term academic success.

The academy serves families throughout central Reno and is strategically located near both residential neighborhoods and local businesses. Its approach emphasizes not only academic readiness, but also a safe and healthy environment, including organic snacks, eco-friendly sanitation practices, and structured daily programming.

Creative Pre-K LLC is owned and operated by Elizabeth and Jeremy Rayburn. While Elizabeth leads day-to-day operations, staff development, and curriculum design, Jeremy oversees financial strategy and business operations, bringing extensive experience in accounting and executive leadership. 

Originally established in 2012, Creative World Children’s Academy has built a strong reputation for preparing students to successfully transition into elementary school through a student-centered approach. The recent acquisition of the property ensures the academy can continue serving Reno families for years to come.

For more information about Creative World Children’s Academy, visit https://renopreschool.com.

Interested in learning more about SBA loans and how a relationship with a trusted banker can make a difference for your business and for your community? Connect with an SBA specialist at Western Alliance today.