About ALG

Acorn Learning Group is on a mission to provide unparalleled early childhood education experiences. By acquiring exceptional child care centers, we aim to create an educational ecosystem that reflects our values of community, continuous improvement, and innovative learning.

Meet the Team

  • Emlynn Smith

    FOUNDER

    Emlynn graduated with a BS in finance from Trinity University. She started her career at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in the investment banking natural resources group in New York City. After two years, she decided to pivot towards her entrepreneurial aspirations. Emlynn joined a series C startup, leveraging her financial expertise to optimize business operations before co-founding Acorn Learning Group. She now channels her passion for education into growing ALG full-time, blending her finance background with her commitment to making a positive impact in early childhood education.

  • Jackson Baur

    FOUNDER

    Jackson earned his BA in economics from Dartmouth College. He joined Goldman Sachs financial institutions group within the investment banking division. After two years, Jackson transitioned to private equity at Hellman and Friedman in San Francisco, focusing on multi-site consumer and vertical markets software investments. With a strategic investing mindset, Jackson plays a pivotal role in guiding our investment decisions, ensuring that our endeavors in the child care sector are both impactful and financially sound.

  • Lucas Mason

    FOUNDER

    Lucas Mason, a native of Houston, Texas, graduated with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Georgia. Throughout college, he dedicated his time to mentoring elementary school students in charter schools, instilling in him a deep passion for education. His career path led him to Berkadia and BHW Real Estate, where he specialized in buy-side multi-site development. At Acorn Learning Group, Lucas brings his real estate expertise to the forefront, driving initiatives that redefine early childhood education.

  • Andrew Smith

    HOUSTON-AREA MANAGER

    Andrew graduated from St. John's School in Houston in 2020. He managed horse farms around Houston, including one specializing in Therapeutic Horsemanship, supporting individuals with physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs. In 2023, he began serving as a wildland firefighter and forester in East Texas, while also supporting Acorn Learning's on-the-ground operations. He is also transitioning to structural firefighting and starting a part-time fire academy in North Houston. Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their one-year-old daughter.

Our mission is to acquire and elevate early childhood education centers, fostering a foundation for lifelong learning and ensuring each child thrives.

“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child's own natural desire to learn.”

— Maria Montessori