1 FORM 10-K SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 [X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 30, 1997 OR [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 Commission File No. 33-61232 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. Formerly known as LaPetite Holdings Corp. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 43-1243221 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) incorporation or organization) 8717 WEST 110TH STREET, SUITE 300 OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS 66210 (Address of principal executive office and zip code) (913) 345-1250 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. (1) Yes X No (2) Yes X No There are no shares of voting stock of La Petite Academy, Inc. held by non-affiliates. As of November 25, 1997, La Petite Academy, Inc. had 100 shares of common stock outstanding. 2 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. INDEX - - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE PART I. Item 1. Business 2 Item 2. Properties 4 Item 3. Legal Proceedings 5 Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 5 PART II. Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 5 Item 6. Selected Financial Data 6 Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 8 Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 14 Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 14 Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 29 PART III. Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 30 Item 11. Executive Compensation 35 Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 37 Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 37 PART IV. Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K 38 SIGNATURES 45 -1- 3 PART I. ITEM 1. BUSINESS MERGER TRANSACTION LaPetite Holdings Corp. ("Holdings") was formed in 1993 as a Delaware corporation for the purpose of holding the capital stock of LaPetite Acquisition Corp. On July 23, 1993, Holdings acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock, par value $.01 (the "Common Stock"), of LaPetite Academy, Inc. ("Academy") for a total price of $104 million, net of transaction costs, the intercompany note and assumed liabilities of $59 million. The transaction was accounted for as a purchase and the excess of purchase price over the net assets acquired of $67 million is being amortized over 30 years. On June 1, 1997, Holdings was merged with and into its wholly-owned subsidiary Academy, a Delaware corporation, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of May 22, 1997 by and between Holdings and Academy, with Academy as the surviving corporation. Academy is referred to herein as "the Company" or "La Petite". BUSINESS DESCRIPTION The following discussion refers to La Petite, and includes a discussion of La Petite prior to the 1993 acquisition. La Petite is the second largest provider of for-profit preschool education and child care in the United States based on the number of Academies it operates. The first La Petite Academy was opened in Illinois in 1969, and, since the latter half of the 1970's, La Petite has significantly expanded the number of Academies it operates and the diversity of the markets it serves. During 1997, the Company estimates that an average of 86,700 children attended 745 La Petite Academy schools located in 35 states and the District of Columbia, primarily in the southern, Atlantic coast, midwestern and western regions of the United States. The Academies offer educational, developmental and child care programs, which are available on a full-time or part-time basis, for children between six weeks and 12 years old. The Academies operate year round, five days per week, generally opening at 6:30 A.M. and remaining open until 6:30 P.M. A child may be enrolled in any of a variety of program schedules from a full-time, five-day-per-week plan, to as little as two or three half-days a week. A child attending full-time typically spends approximately nine hours a day, five days per week, at an Academy. Tuition for the programs varies depending upon the location of an Academy and is proportionally higher for children attending part-time. In addition, parents currently pay an annual registration fee of $40 per child, which is reduced for families with more than one child attending an Academy. Historically, the Company's operating revenue has followed the seasonality of a school year, declining during the summer months and the year-end holiday period. The number of new children enrolling at the Academies is generally highest in September-October and January-February and, therefore, the Company attempts to concentrate its marketing efforts and new Academy openings immediately preceding these high enrollment periods. Several Academies in certain geographic markets have a backlog of children waiting to attend; however, this backlog is not material to the overall attendance throughout the system. -2- 4 EMPLOYEES As of August 30, 1997, the Company employed approximately 14,200 persons. The Company's employees are not represented by any organized labor unions or employee organizations and management believes relations with employees are good. COMPETITION Each Academy competes with other child care alternatives in a very localized market. The preschool education and child care industry is highly fragmented and has historically been dominated by small, local nursery and day care centers. The Company is the second largest provider of for-profit preschool education and child care in the United States based on the number of centers operated and competes principally with local nursery and day care centers, some of which are church-affiliated or non-profit, and individuals caring for a few children in their homes. In addition, in recent years certain public school districts have begun to offer after school programs which compete with the Company's SuperStar Program. The Company competes principally by offering trained and qualified personnel, professionally planned educational and recreational programs, well-equipped facilities and additional services such as transportation. In addition, the Company offers a challenging and sophisticated program that emphasizes the individual development of the child. Management believes that the quality of the staff and facilities and the unique programs offered are the principal factors in parents' choice of the Company, although price and location of the facility are also important. For some of the Company's potential customers, the non-profit status of certain of the Company's competitors may be a significant factor in choosing a child care provider. INSURANCE AND CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION Since July 1989, the Company has maintained excess liability insurance covering general liability and automotive liability, in addition to primary general liability, automotive liability, workers' compensation, property and casualty, crime and directors' and officers' insurance. Management believes that the coverages provided by these policies are adequate to meet the Company's needs. REGULATION AND GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT Each Academy must be licensed under applicable state and local licensing laws and is subject to a variety of state and local regulations. Although these state and local regulations vary greatly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, governmental agencies generally review the safety, fitness and adequacy of the buildings and equipment, the ratio of staff to children, the dietary program, the daily curriculum and compliance with health standards. In a few jurisdictions, new legislation or regulations have been enacted or are being considered which establish requirements for employee background checks or other clearance procedures for new employees of child care centers. For example, all states in which the Company operates require criminal record checks for all child care staff as part of licensing regulations and some require fingerprint verification. Repeated failures by an Academy to comply with applicable regulations can subject it to state sanctions, which might include being placed on probation or, in more serious cases, suspension or revocation of the Academy's license to operate. Management believes the Company is in substantial compliance with all material regulations and licensing requirements applicable to its businesses. Although no Federal license is required at this time, there are minimum standards which must be met to qualify for participation in certain Federal subsidy programs. -3- 5 Government, at both the Federal and state levels, is actively involved in expanding the availability of child care services. Federal support is delivered at the state level through government-operated educational and financial assistance programs. Child care services offered directly by states include training for child care providers and resource and referral systems for parents seeking child care. In addition, the State of Georgia has an extensive government-paid private sector preschool program in which the Company participates. On September 1, 1997, the Federal minimum wage increased from $4.75 to $5.15 per hour. Management does not expect this increase to materially impact the Company's operations. COMPLIANCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROVISIONS Compliance with Federal, state and local laws and regulations governing pollution and protection of the environment is not expected to have any material effect upon the financial condition or results of operations of the Company. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES Approximately 500 Academies were constructed from 1978 through early 1987 and are of a standard design and generally have a uniform exterior appearance. In 1987, the Company introduced a new design which emphasizes efficiency, lower maintenance costs and enhanced appearance. Due to different licensing requirements and design features, Academies typically contain 5,400, 6,700 or 7,800 square feet in a one-story, air-conditioned building typically located on three-quarters of an acre to one acre of land. Each Academy has an adjacent playground designed to accommodate the full age range of children attending the Academy. Licensed capacity for the same size building varies from state to state because of different licensing requirements. A 5,400 square foot Academy is typically licensed for 100 to 150 children, a 6,700 square foot Academy is typically licensed for 130 to 170 children and a 7,800 square foot Academy is typically licensed for 175 to 225 children. The following table shows the locations of the Company's open Academies as of August 30, 1997: Alabama (18) Indiana (17) Nebraska (10) South Carolina (25) Arizona (24) Iowa (9) Nevada (9) Tennessee (27) Arkansas (8) Kansas (22) New Jersey (2) Texas (119) California (59) Kentucky (4) New Mexico (4) Utah (5) Colorado (25) Louisiana (1) North Carolina (30) Virginia (36) Delaware (1) Maryland (14) Ohio (17) Washington, D.C. (2) Florida (99) Minnesota (1) Oklahoma (25) Washington (16) Georgia (54) Mississippi (3) Oregon (4) Wisconsin (2) Illinois (16) Missouri (30) Pennsylvania (6) Wyoming (1) As of August 30, 1997, the Company operated 745 Academies, 676 of which were leased under operating leases, 55 of which were owned and 14 of which were operated in employer owned centers. Most of these Academy leases have 15-year terms, some have 20-year terms, many have renewal options, and most require the Company to pay utilities, maintenance, insurance and property taxes. In addition, some of the leases provide for contingent rentals if the Academy's operating revenue exceeds certain base levels. -4- 6 In opening a new Academy, the Company historically acquires the land, constructs the facility and then seeks long-term financing through a sale (at cost) and operating leaseback transaction. The Company currently leases 676 Academies from approximately 400 investors. The leases have initial terms expiring as follows: YEARS INITIAL LEASE TERMS EXPIRE NUMBER OF ACADEMIES 1998 54 1999 64 2000-2005 428 2006 and later 130 --------- 676 ========= The Company has generally been successful when it has sought to renew expiring Academy leases. In fiscal year 1997, the Company opened 3 new Academies, two of which were employer-based. Employer-based Academies are typically located on the property of the employer/client, with the employer/client providing both the land and building for the Academy. ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS There are no material pending legal proceedings. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS None. PART II. ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS The common stock of the Company is not publicly traded. The Company is wholly owned by Investment. No cash dividends were declared or paid on the Common Stock during fiscal year 1997 and 1996. The Company's Senior Notes and Preferred Stock (see Note 3 and Note 7, respectively, to the Consolidated Financial Statements) contain certain covenants that, among other things, do not permit La Petite to pay cash dividends on its Common or Preferred Stock now or in the immediate future. -5- 7 ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. (a) (SUCCESSOR) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52 WEEKS 53 WEEKS 52 WEEKS 52 WEEKS FOR THE ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED PERIOD JULY 24 AUGUST 30, AUGUST 31, AUGUST 26, AUGUST 27, TO AUGUST 28, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 INCOME STATEMENT DATA Operating revenue $ 302,766 $ 300,277 $ 279,806 $ 274,195 $ 24,763 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and 159,236 155,046 142,757 135,765 12,350 benefits Facility lease payments 39,332 39,587 39,901 38,906 3,739 Depreciation 13,825 13,680 13,501 12,535 1,099 Restructuring charge (b) 11,700 Amortization of goodwill 2,236 2,774 3,712 3,492 431 and other intangibles Other 74,111 78,310 75,981 72,190 6,018 Total operating expenses 288,740 289,397 287,552 262,888 23,637 Operating income (loss) 14,026 10,880 (7,746) 11,307 1,126 Interest expense (c) 9,245 10,256 11,110 12,665 1,119 Interest income (959) (903) (1,063) (825) (29) Income (loss) before 2,476 9 (11,638) (1,175) (61) extraordinary item Extraordinary item - (819) (1,610) gain (loss) on early retirement of debt Net income (loss) 2,476 (810) (11,638) (2,785) (61) BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF PERIOD) Total assets $ 171,252 $ 177,133 $ 195,604 $ 204,885 $216,000 Real estate mortgages and related debt Subordinated debt 659 1,590 1,555 1,521 23,787 Total debt 85,903 86,590 99,186 102,352 108,787 Redeemable preferred 32,521 28,827 25,266 22,442 19,990 stock Common stockholders 3,466 4,683 9,054 23,516 28,753 equity OTHER DATA EBITDA (D) $ 30,087 $ 27,334 $ 21,167 $ 27,334 $ 2,656 Depreciation and 16,911 17,704 18,638 18,118 1,530 amortization (e) Capital expenditures 7,691 8,570 9,101 8,496 1,755 Proceeds from sale of 452 2,525 6,145 3,399 370 assets Academies at end of 745 751 786 787 788 period Estimated revenue 69% 70% 64% 69% 67% capacity utilization during the period (f) LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. (PREDECESSOR) ------------------------------------- FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1 TO JULY 23, DECEMBER 1993 31, 1992 INCOME STATEMENT DATA Operating revenue $ 150,254 $ 245,610 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and 74,173 120,803 benefits Facility lease payments 21,573 35,538 Depreciation 5,484 9,177 Restructuring charge (b) Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles 81 88 Other 40,219 65,179 Total operating expenses 141,530 230,785 Operating income (loss) 8,724 14,825 Interest expense (c) 1,251 2,020 Interest income (551) (979) Income (loss) before extraordinary item 4,694 8,408 Extraordinary item - gain (loss) on early retirement of debt 705 Net income (loss) 4,694 9,113 BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF PERIOD) Total assets N/A $ 143,616 Real estate mortgages and related debt N/A 206 Subordinated debt N/A 33,900 Total debt N/A 34,106 Redeemable preferred stock Common stockholders equity N/A 85,921 OTHER DATA EBITDA (D) $ 14,289 $ 24,090 Depreciation and amortization (e) 5,565 9,334 Capital expenditures 6,575 14,328 Proceeds from sale of assets 10,929 15,439 Academies at end of period 784 785 Estimated revenue capacity utilization during the period (f) 67% 65% -6- 8 N/A - Not applicable. a) See Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of La Petite. b) During fiscal year 1995, the Company approved a plan to close 39 Academies located in areas where the demographic conditions no longer support an economically viable operation and to restructure its operating management to better serve the remaining Academies. Accordingly, the Company recorded an $11,700 restructuring charge ($7,000 after tax) to provide for costs associated with the Academy closures and restructuring. The charge included approximately $10,000 for the present value of rent and real estate taxes for the remaining lease terms. The charge also included restructuring and other costs related to the closures. c) Interest expense includes $850, $1,250 and $1,424 of amortization of deferred financing costs and accretion of the discount on the Convertible Debentures for fiscal years 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. d) EBITDA is defined herein as net income before non-cash restructuring charges, extraordinary items, net interest cost, taxes, depreciation and amortization and is presented because it is generally accepted as providing useful information regarding a company's ability to service and/or incur debt. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income, cash flows from operating activities and other consolidated income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or as a measure of the Company's profitability or liquidity. e) Depreciation and amortization includes amortization of deferred financing costs and the accretion of the discount on the Convertible Debentures, which are presented in interest expense on the statements of income. f) The Company calculates estimated revenue capacity utilization based on the Company's utilization of total revenue capacity. Total revenue capacity is defined as the aggregate of licensed capacity based on square feet of space per child requirements for each Academy open during each week of the applicable year multiplied by each Academy's respective preschool tuition rate for a child attending the preschool program full-time. -7- 9 ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Historically, the Company's operating revenue has followed the seasonality of the school year. The number of new children attending the Academies is highest in September-October and January-February, generally referred to as the fall and winter enrollment periods. Enrollment and, therefore, revenues tend to decline during the calendar year-end holiday period and during the Summer. As a result of this seasonality, the Company concentrates it marketing efforts and new Academy openings immediately preceding these highest enrollment periods. The Company is continuing its expansion into new and existing markets on a selective basis. The Company opened 3 new Academies during the 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995, 11 new Academies during the 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 3 new Academies during the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997. While most geographic regions of the Company's operation are profitable, there are some individual Academy locations which are only marginally profitable or are operating at a loss. These marginal locations are being monitored closely, and certain facilities may be closed if improvements in profitability are not made. During fiscal year 1997, nine under-performing Academies were closed. -8- 10 1997 COMPARED TO 1996 RESULTS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) 52 WEEKS ENDED 52 WEEKS ENDED CHANGE -------------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------- PERCENT PERCENT PERCENT AUGUST 30, OF AUGUST 31, OF OF 1997 REVENUE 1996 REVENUE AMOUNT REVENUE Operating revenue $ 302,766 100.0% $ 294,836 100.0% $ 7,930 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 159,236 52.6 152,234 51.6 7,002 1.0% Facility lease payments 39,332 13.0 38,858 13.2 474 (0.2) Depreciation 13,825 4.6 13,680 4.7 145 (0.1) Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles 2,236 0.7 2,773 0.9 (537) (0.2) Other 74,111 24.5 77,139 26.2 (3,028) (1.7) --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Total operating expenses 288,740 95.4 284,684 96.6 4,056 (1.2) Operating income 14,026 4.6 10,152 3.4 3,874 1.2 Interest expense (including $850 and $1,250 of amortization and accretion for 1997 and 1996, respectively) 9,245 3.0 10,126 3.4 (881) (0.4) Interest income (959) (0.3) (884) (0.3) 75 0.0 --------- ------- --------- ------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes and extraordinary item 5,740 1.9 910 0.3 4,830 1.6 Provision for income taxes 3,264 1.1 1,267 0.4 1,997 0.7 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net income (loss) before extraordinary item 2,476 0.8 (357) (0.1) 2,833 0.9 Extraordinary loss on retirement of debt, net of applicable income taxes of $546 (819) (0.3) 819 0.3 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net income (loss) $ 2,476 0.8% $ (1,176) (0.4)% $ 3,652 1.2% ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= EBITDA $ 30,087 9.9% $26,605 9.0% $ 3,482 0.9% ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The Company's fiscal year ends on the last Saturday in August. Operating results for fiscal year 1996, as shown in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Income, contained a "leap week" or 53 weeks in the year to catch up with the calendar. The extra week in 1996 added $5.4 million to revenue and $0.7 million to EBITDA and operating income. For comparative purposes the above table presents the results of the first 52 weeks of fiscal year 1996. The following discussion of results is based on the 52 week comparison. -9- 11 Operating revenue increased 2.7% during the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997. Excluding closed Academies from both years, revenue increased 4.6%, attendance grew 3.2% and average revenue per child increased 1.4%. The increase in attendance during fiscal year 1997 over fiscal year 1996 was attributable to a successful Fall enrollment period and retention of the children throughout the year. The increase in the year-to-date average revenue per child was principally due to selective increases in tuition rates which took place in the second quarter offset somewhat by improvements in our Parent's Partner Plan discount program. The Company opened 3 new Academies and closed nine Academies during fiscal year 1997. As a result, the Company operated six fewer Academies at the end of fiscal year 1997 than at the end of fiscal year 1996. Two of the closures were under performing employer-based centers, one closure was an under-performing residential Academy, and the remaining six closures were due to management decisions not to renew the leases of certain under-performing Academies at lease expiration. Salaries, wages, and benefits increased 1.0% as a percent of revenue during the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997 to 52.6%. The increase in labor cost as a percent of revenue was principally due to staff merit increases effective January 1, 1996, and increased health care benefit costs, which together exceeded the percentage increase in tuition revenue. Facility lease payments declined as a percent of revenue by 0.2% during the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997. This decrease was primarily due to the 1996 fiscal year closing of 46 Academies which took place at various times during the year. Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles decreased 19.4% during the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, as the intangible asset for an in-place workforce became fully amortized during fiscal year 1996. Other operating expenses declined as a percent of revenue by 1.7% to 24.5% for fiscal year 1997. The reduction was primarily due to decreases in insurance, auto, food, and Academy supply costs. Interest expense for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997 was down $0.9 million or 8.7% from the prior year, due to prepayment of the term loan in May 1996. A new $15 million credit facility (see Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements) was established in July 1996. No draws were made on the new credit facility during the 1996 or 1997 fiscal years. During fiscal year 1997, the Company issued $5.7 million in letters of credit (see Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements) as security for the self-insurance portion of workers' compensation and auto liability insurance coverages. The effective income tax rate, after adjusting for nondeductible goodwill amortization, was 40% for both years. State income taxes accounted for the other difference between the effective and statutory Federal rate. As a result of the foregoing, operating income was $14.0 million for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, up $3.9 million or 38.2% from the prior year. Earnings before extraordinary items, interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) were $30.1 million for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997 as compared to $26.6 million for the prior year. -10- 12 1996 COMPARED TO 1995 ACTUAL RESULTS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) 52 WEEKS ENDED 52 WEEKS ENDED CHANGE -------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------ PERCENT PERCENT PERCENT AUGUST 31, OF AUGUST 26, OF OF 1996 REVENUE 1995 REVENUE AMOUNT REVENUE Operating revenue $ 294,836 100% $ 279,806 100.0% $ 15,030 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 152,234 51.6 142,757 51.0 9,477 0.6% Facility lease payments 38,858 13.2 39,901 14.3 (1,043) (1.1) Depreciation 13,680 4.7 13,501 4.8 179 (0.1) Restructuring charge 11,700 4.2 (11,700) (4.2) Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles 2,773 0.9 3,712 1.3 (939) (0.4) Other 77,139 26.2 75,981 27.2 1,158 (1.0) --------- ----- --------- ----- ------- ----- Total operating expenses 284,684 96.6 287,552 102.8 (2,868) (6.2) Operating income (loss) 10,152 3.4 (7,746) (2.8) 17,898 6.2 Interest expense (including $1,250 and $1,424 of amortization and accretion for 1996 and 1995, respectively) 10,126 3.4 11,110 4.0 (984) (0.6) Interest income (884) (0.3) (1,063) (0.4) (179) 0.1 --------- ----- --------- ----- ------- ----- Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item 910 0.3 (17,793) (6.4) 18,703 6.7 Provision (benefit) for income taxes 1,267 0.4 (6,155) (2.2) 7,422 2.6 --------- ----- --------- ----- ------- ----- Net income (loss) before extraordinary item (357) (0.1) (11,638) (4.2) 11,281 4.1 Extraordinary loss on retirement of debt, net of applicable income taxes of $546 (819) (0.3) (819) (0.3) --------- ----- --------- ----- ------- ----- Net loss $ (1,176) (0.4)% $ (11,638) (4.2)% $ 10,462 3.8% ========= ==== ========== ===== ======== ==== EBITDA $ 26,605 9.0% $ 21,167 7.6% $ 5,438 1.4% ========= ==== ========== ===== ======== ==== The Company's fiscal year ends on the last Saturday in August. Operating results for fiscal year 1996, as shown in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income, contained a "leap week" or 53 weeks in the year to catch up with the calendar. The extra week in 1996 added $5.4 million to revenue and $0.7 million to EBITDA and operating income. For comparative purposes, the above table presents the results of the first 52 weeks of fiscal year 1996. The following discussion of results is based on the 52 week comparison. -11- 13 Operating revenue increased 5.4% during the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996. Excluding closed Academies from both years, revenue increased 6.6%, attendance grew 5.4% over the prior year, while average revenue per child grew by 1.2%. The increase in attendance during fiscal year 1996 over fiscal year 1995 was attributable to: (i) a successful Fall enrollment period and retention of the children throughout the year, (ii) receipt of a grant in the State of Georgia to provide pre-kindergarten education to approximately 2,000 children, and (iii) increased management focus on enrollment and attendance. The increase in the year-to-date average revenue per child was due to selective and limited price increases in February 1995 offset somewhat by increased promotional discounts. The Company opened 11 new Academies and closed 46 Academies during fiscal year 1996. As a result, the Company operated 35 fewer Academies at the end of fiscal year 1996 than at the end of fiscal year 1995. Thirty-three of the Academy closures were part of a plan announced by the Company at the end of fiscal year 1995 to close 39 under-performing Academies located in areas where the demographics no longer supported an economically viable operation. The remaining 13 closures were principally due to management decisions not to renew the leases of certain Academies at lease expiration. Salaries, wages, and benefits increased 0.6% as a percent of revenue during the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996 to 51.6%. The increase in labor cost as a percent of revenue was principally due to staff merit increases effective January 1, 1996, higher field level bonuses due to increased operating income performance at many Academies and additional support staff. Facility lease payments and depreciation expense declined as a percent of revenue by 1.1% and 0.2%, respectively, during the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996. Both decreases were primarily attributable to the closing of 46 Academies. Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles decreased 25.3% during the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996, as the intangible asset for an in-place workforce became fully amortized in January 1996. Other operating expenses declined as a percent of revenue by 1.0% to 26.2% for fiscal year 1996. The reduction was primarily due to decreases in insurance and repairs and maintenance costs. Interest expense for the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996 was down $1.0 million or 8.9% from the prior year, due to prepayment of the term loan in May 1996. A new $15 million credit facility was established in July 1996. No draws were made on the new credit facility during the fiscal year. The effective income tax rate, after adjusting for nondeductible goodwill amortization, was 40% for both the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and August 26, 1995. State income taxes accounted for the other difference between the effective and statutory Federal rate. On May 24, 1996, the Company retired the remaining balance under the term loan facility of the Credit Agreement in the amount of $5.5 million. The Company also terminated any remaining obligations on the term loan and closed the facility. The transaction resulted in a $0.8 million extraordinary loss on retirement of debt. The loss reflects the write off of related deferred financing costs, net of applicable income tax benefit. The prepayment was financed by available operating funds. -12- 14 As a result of the foregoing, operating income was $10.2 million for the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996, up $6.2 million from the prior year, excluding the $11.7 million restructuring charge in 1995. Earnings before non-cash restructuring charges, extraordinary items, interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) were $26.6 million for the 52 weeks ended August 31, 1996 as compared to $21.2 million for the prior year. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES The Company's ability to meet its debt and redeemable preferred stock obligations is dependent on its earnings and cash flows. The Senior Notes and Preferred Stock contain certain covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company to incur additional indebtedness or pay cash dividends and certain other restricted payments. As of August 30, 1997, the Company is not permitted to pay cash dividends on its common or preferred stock. In opening a new Academy, the Company has historically acquired the land, constructed the facility, and then sought long-term financing for the Academy through a sale (at cost) and operating leaseback transaction. The Company currently leases 676 Academies from approximately 400 investors. The Company continues to be able to obtain financing through this technique and properties of the Company continue to be in demand by investors. Management may utilize sale and leaseback transactions, cash flow from operations and/or conventional mortgage financing as the sources of financing capital expenditures. On July 10, 1996, the Company entered into a Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility") (see Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements) providing for a $15 million revolving credit facility for working capital and other general corporate purposes through July 2000. Borrowings under the Credit Facility will be secured by a pledge of substantially all the assets of the Company. Loans under the Credit Facility will bear interest at 1% above prime rate or 2.25% above the Eurodollar rate, at the Company's option. The Company is required to pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.5% per annum on the unused revolving credit facility. No borrowings have been made under the Credit Facility. INFLATION AND GENERAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS The Company has historically been able to increase tuition to offset increases in its costs. During the past two years, a period of low to moderate inflation, the Company implemented selective increases in tuition rates, based on geographic market conditions and class capacity utilization. The Company did not experience a material decline in attendance as a result of these increases. On September 1, 1997, the Federal minimum wage increased from $4.75 to $5.15 per hour. Management does not expect this increase to materially impact the Company's operations. A sustained recession with high unemployment may have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations. The recession during 1990 and 1991 adversely affected attendance. OTHER INFORMATION None. -13- 15 ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK Not applicable. ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA Index to Financial Statements: Independent Auditors' Report Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 Consolidated Statements of Income for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. Consolidated Statements of Stockholder's Equity for the 52 week ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements -14- 16 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT The Stockholders and Board of Directors of La Petite Academy, Inc.: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of La Petite Academy, Inc. and its subsidiary as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholder's equity and cash flows for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of La Petite Academy, Inc. and its subsidiary as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Kansas City, Missouri October 3, 1997 -15- 17 This page intentionally blank. -16- 18 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) ==================================================================================================== AUGUST 30, 1997 AUGUST 31, 1996 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 23,971 $ 12,791 Restricted cash investments (Note 1) 2,312 9,227 Accounts and notes receivable, net 5,068 3,615 Prepaid food and supplies 5,954 6,409 Other prepaid expenses 3,645 2,210 Refundable income taxes (Note 5) 559 1,405 Current deferred income taxes (Note 5) 1,024 1,719 ----------- ---------- Total current assets 42,533 37,376 Property and equipment, at cost: Land 6,927 6,867 Buildings and leasehold improvements 64,811 60,995 Equipment 22,529 24,078 Facilities under construction 317 377 ----------- ---------- 94,584 92,317 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 33,460 24,497 ----------- ---------- Net property and equipment 61,124 67,820 Other assets (Note 2) 64,187 69,001 Deferred income taxes (Note 5) 3,408 2,936 ----------- ----------- $ 171,252 $ 177,133 =========== =========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY Current liabilities: Amounts due to banks, including overdrafts $ 2,356 $ 5,229 Accounts payable 6,224 3,109 Current reserve for closed academies (Note 11) 1,860 2,700 Accrued salaries, wages and other payroll costs 10,717 10,317 Accrued insurance liabilities 4,156 4,361 Accrued property and sales taxes 4,128 4,254 Accrued interest payable 719 739 Other accrued liabilities 4,883 6,575 ----------- ---------- Total current liabilities 35,043 37,284 Long-term debt (Note 3) 85,903 86,590 Other long-term liabilities (Notes 4 and 11) 14,319 19,749 Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share; 2,000,000 shares authorized; 800,000 issued and outstanding at aggregate iquidation preference) (note 7) 32,521 28,827 Stockholder's equity: Common stock ($.01 par value per share; 1,000 shares authorized; 100 shares issued and outstanding) Additional paid-in capital 16,284 19,977 Accumulated deficit (12,818) (15,294) ----------- ---------- 3,466 4,683 ----------- ---------- $ 171,252 $ 177,133 =========== ========== See notes to consolidated financial statements. -17- 19 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) =============================================================================================================== 52 WEEKS ENDED 53 WEEKS ENDED 52 WEEKS ENDED AUGUST 30, 1997 AUGUST 31, 1996 AUGUST 26, 1995 Operating revenue $ 302,766 $ 300,277 $ 279,806 Operating expenses: Salaries, wages and benefits 159,236 155,046 142,757 Facility lease payments 39,332 39,587 39,901 Depreciation 13,825 13,680 13,501 Restructuring charge (Note 11) 11,700 Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles 2,236 2,774 3,712 Other 74,111 78,310 75,981 ------------ ----------- ---------- 288,740 289,397 287,552 ------------ ----------- ---------- Operating income (loss) 14,026 10,880 (7,746) ------------ ----------- ---------- Interest expense 9,245 10,256 11,110 Interest income (959) (903) (1,063) ------------ ----------- ---------- Net interest costs 8,286 9,353 10,047 ------------ ----------- ---------- Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item 5,740 1,527 (17,793) Provision (benefit) for income taxes (Note 5) 3,264 1,518 (6,155) ------------ ----------- ---------- Income (loss) before extraordinary item 2,476 9 (11,638) Extraordinary loss on retirement of debt, net of applicable income taxes of $546 (819) ------------ ----------- ---------- Net income (loss) $ 2,476 $ (810) $ (11,638) ============ =========== ========== See notes to consolidated financial statements. -18- 20 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) ============================================================================================= COMMON STOCK -------------------- NUMBER AMOUNT PAID-IN ACCUMULATED OF SHARES CAPITAL DEFICIT Balance, August 27, 1994 100 $ 26,362 $ (2,846) Net loss (11,638) Dividends on preferred stock (2,824) ------ -------- -------- ---------- Balance, August 26, 1995 100 23,538 (14,484) Net loss (810) Dividends on preferred stock (3,561) ------ -------- -------- ---------- Balance, August 31, 1996 100 19,977 (15,294) Net income 2,476 Dividends on preferred stock (3,693) ------ -------- -------- ---------- Balance, August 30, 1997 100 $ 16,284 $ (12,818) ====== ======== ======== ========== See notes to consolidated financial statements -19- 21 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) ==================================================================================================================================== 52 WEEKS ENDED 53 WEEKS ENDED 52 WEEKS ENDED AUGUST 30, AUGUST 31, AUGUST 26, 1997 1996 1995 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income (loss) $ 2,476 $ (810) $ (11,638) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash from operating activities: Noncash portion of extraordinary loss on retirement of debt 1,365 Restructuring charge 11,700 Depreciation and amortization 16,911 17,704 18,638 Deferred income taxes 223 225 (7,225) Changes in assets and liabilities: Accounts and notes receivable (1,402) (72) (951) Prepaid expenses and supplies (980) 253 2,955 Accrued property and sales taxes (125) (699) (94) Accrued interest payable (20) 81 (261) Other changes in assets and liabilities, net (2,197) (2,839) 4,016 --------- --------- --------- Net cash from operating activities 14,886 15,208 17,140 --------- --------- --------- CASH FLOWS USED FOR INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Capital expenditures (7,691) (8,570) (9,101) Proceeds from sale of assets 452 2,525 6,145 --------- --------- --------- Net cash used for investing activities (7,239) (6,045) (2,956) --------- --------- --------- CASH FLOWS FROM (USED FOR) FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Repayment of long-term debt (900) (12,631) (3,200) Deferred financing costs (225) (Decrease) increase in amounts due to banks, including overdrafts (2,873) 1,126 (5,510) Decrease (increase) in restricted cash investments 6,915 (941) (638) Proceeds from capital lease 391 --------- --------- --------- Net cash from (used for) financing activities 3,533 (12,671) (9,348) --------- --------- --------- NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 11,180 (3,508) 4,836 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD 12,791 16,299 11,463 --------- --------- --------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $ 23,971 $ 12,791 $ 16,299 ========= ========= ========= SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid during the period for: Interest (net of amounts capitalized) $ 8,415 $ 8,926 $ 9,948 Income taxes 5,470 1,031 1,636 Cash received during the period for: Interest 848 903 1,031 Income taxes 1,154 650 805 See notes to consolidated financial statements. -20- 22 LA PETITE ACADEMY, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ================================================================================ 1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES La Petite Holdings Corp. ("Holdings"), a privately-held Delaware corporation, was formed in 1993 for the purpose of holding the capital stock of La Petite Acquisition Corp. ("Acquisition"). On July 23, 1993, as a result of a series of transactions, Holdings acquired all the outstanding shares of common stock, par value $.01 (the "Common Stock"), of La Petite Academy, Inc. ("La Petite"). In order to finance the transactions, Holdings (a) sold (i) common stock of Holdings to Vestar/LPA Investment Corp. ("Investment"), a Delaware corporation, for approximately $30,000,000 (ii) sold to unaffiliated investment firms $85,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 9 5/8% Senior Secured Notes due August 1, 2001 (the "Senior Notes") and (iii) sold to unaffiliated investment firms $19,750,000, net of discount, Series A Cumulative Redeemable Exchangeable Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Preferred Stock"), (b) used $7,000,000 of cash and cash equivalents of La Petite and (c) contributed to the capital of, or loaned to, Acquisition the portion of the aggregate proceeds of such sales necessary to fund the payments made by Acquisition in connection with the acquisition of La Petite. On May 31, 1997, Holdings was merged into La Petite in a tax-free transaction with La Petite as the surviving entity. As a result of the transaction all of the shares of La Petite were retired, with Holdings shares being reissued in the name of La Petite Academy, Inc. On August 28, 1997, LPA Services, Inc. ("Services"), a wholly owned subsidiary of La Petite, was incorporated. Services will provide third party administrative services on insurance claims to La Petite beginning in fiscal year 1998. La Petite, consolidated with Services, is referred to in these notes as the "Company". The Company offers educational, developmental and child care programs, which are available on a full-time or part-time basis, for children between six weeks and twelve years old. The La Petite Academy schools are located in 35 states and the District of Columbia, primarily in the southern, Atlantic coast, midwestern and western regions of the United States. PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of La Petite and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Services, after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts and transactions. FISCAL YEAR END - The Company has a 52 - 53 week fiscal year which ends on the last Saturday in August. USE OF ESTIMATES - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. -21- 23 RECOGNITION OF REVENUES AND PREOPENING EXPENSES - The Company operates preschool education and child care Academies. Revenue is recognized as the services are performed. Expenses associated with opening new Academies are charged to expense as incurred. DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION - Buildings, furniture and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets using the straight-line method. For financial reporting purposes, buildings are depreciated over 29 to 40 years, furniture and equipment over five to 10 years and leasehold improvements over the term of the related lease or five to 10 years, whichever is less. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The cost of additions and improvements is capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful lives of the assets. The cost and accumulated depreciation of assets sold or retired are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is recognized in the year of disposal, except gains and losses on property and equipment which have been sold and leased back which are recognized over the terms of the related lease agreements. RESTRICTED CASH INVESTMENTS - The restricted cash investment balance represents cash deposited in an escrow account as security for the self-insured portion of the Company's workers' compensation and automobile insurance coverage. EXCESS OF PURCHASE PRICE OVER THE NET ASSETS ACQUIRED - The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of tangible and identifiable intangible assets and liabilities acquired related to the acquisition of La Petite is being amortized over a period of 30 years on the straight-line method. DEFERRED FINANCING COSTS - The costs of obtaining financing are included in other assets and are being amortized over the life of the related debt. OTHER ASSETS - Other assets include the fair value of identifiable intangible assets acquired in connection with the acquisition of La Petite and are being amortized over periods ranging from two to 10 years on the straight-line method. CASH EQUIVALENTS - The Company's cash equivalents consist of commercial paper and money market funds with original maturities of three months or less. INCOME TAXES - The Company accounts for income taxes pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 109, which requires the Company to establish deferred tax assets and liabilities, as appropriate, for all temporary differences, and to adjust deferred tax balances to reflect changes in tax rates expected to be in effect during the periods the temporary differences reverse. Management has evaluated the recoverability of the deferred income tax asset balances and has determined that the deferred balances will be realized based on future taxable income. DISCLOSURES REGARDING FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - The carrying values of the Company's financial instruments, with the exception of the Company's Senior Notes, Convertible Debentures and Preferred Stock, approximate fair value. The estimated fair values of Senior Notes, Convertible Debentures and Preferred Stock at August 30, 1997 were $86.9 million, $0.9 million and $33.3 million, respectively. The estimated fair values of Senior Notes, Convertible Debentures and Preferred Stock at August 31, 1996 were $80.0 million, $1.6 million and $27.1 million, respectively. -22- 24 IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS - The Company adopted SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of," as of the beginning of its 1997 fiscal year. SFAS No. 121, establishes accounting standards for the impairment of long-lived assets, certain intangibles, and goodwill related to those assets. The adoption of this Statement did not have an effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION - The Company has adopted the disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation". The Statement encourages rather than requires companies to adopt a new method that accounts for stock compensation awards based on their estimated fair value at the date they are granted. Companies are permitted, however, to continue accounting for stock compensation awards under Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25, which requires compensation cost to be recognized based on the excess, if any, between the quoted market price of the stock at the date of grant and the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. The Company has elected to continue to apply APB Opinion No. 25 and has disclosed the pro forma net income (loss), determined as if the method under SFAS No. 123 had been applied, in Note 12. RECLASSIFICATIONS - Certain reclassifications to prior year amounts have been made in order to conform to the current year presentation. 2. OTHER ASSETS (in thousands of dollars) AUGUST 30, 1997 AUGUST 31, 1996 Intangible assets: Excess purchase price over net assets acquired $ 64,277 $ 64,277 Curriculum 1,497 1,497 Workforce 3,248 3,248 Accumulated amortization (12,714) (10,395) ----------- ----------- 56,308 58,627 Deferred financing costs 12,752 12,854 Accumulated amortization (8,176) (6,271) Other assets 3,303 3,791 ----------- ----------- $ 64,187 $ 69,001 =========== =========== -23- 25 3. LONG-TERM DEBT (in thousands of dollars) AUGUST 30, AUGUST 31, 1997 1996 Convertible Debentures, 6.5% payable through June 1, 2011 $ 850 $ 2,100 Senior Notes, 9.625% payable through August 1, 2001 85,000 85,000 Capital Lease Obligations 244 ---------- ---------- Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations 86,094 87,100 Less unamortized discount (191) (510) ---------- ---------- $ 85,903 $ 86,590 ========== ========== The Convertible Debentures, as a result of purchase accounting adjustments, are shown net of a discount. The discount is being accreted on a level-yield basis over the remaining life of the Convertible Debentures and is reflected in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income. The holders of the Convertible Debentures have the right to receive, upon conversion thereof, $10.00 in cash for each $19.50 of principal amount converted. The Senior Notes have a required redemption of $42.5 million in August 2000. Interest is payable semi-annually in February and August. Commencing August 1997, the Senior Notes are redeemable, at various redemption prices, at the Company's option. The Senior Notes contain certain covenants that, among other things, limit the ability of the Company to incur additional indebtedness, transfer or sell assets and pay dividends. As of August 30, 1997, LaPetite would not be permitted to pay cash dividends on its common or preferred stock. The stock of the Company is pledged as collateral for the Senior Notes. On July 10, 1996, La Petite entered into a Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility") providing for a $15 million revolving credit facility for working capital and other general corporate purposes through July 2000. Borrowings under the Credit Facility will be secured by a pledge of substantially all the assets of the Company. Loans under the Credit Facility will bear interest at 1% above prime rate or 2.25% above the Eurodollar rate, at La Petite's option. La Petite is required to pay quarterly commitment fees of 0.5% per annum on the unused revolving credit facility. As of August 30, 1997, no amounts were outstanding under the Credit facility; however, letters of credit issued under the facility in the amount of $5.7 million were outstanding as of August 30, 1997. The letters of credit were issued as security for the self-insured portion of the Company's workers' compensation and automobile insurance coverages. During fiscal year 1997, the Company entered into a master lease agreement to provide computer equipment to the Company. The leases are recorded as a capital lease at the time of delivery at a discount rate of 1.5% over the interest rate of three year US Treasury notes. -24- 26 Scheduled maturities and mandatory prepayments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations during the five years subsequent to August 30, 1997 are as follows (in thousands of dollars): 1999 $ 126 2000 42,618 2001 and thereafter 43,350 --------- $ 86,094 ========= 4. OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES (in thousands of dollars) AUGUST 30, AUGUST 31, 1997 1996 Unfavorable leases, net of accumulated amortization $ 6,085 $ 7,323 Non-current reserve for closed academies 5,609 8,193 Long-term insurance liabilities 2,625 4,233 --------- -------- $ 14,319 $ 19,749 ========= ======== In connection with the acquisition of the Company, an intangible liability for unfavorable operating leases was recorded, which is being amortized over the average remaining life of the leases. The reserve for closed academies includes the long-term liability related to leases for Academies which were closed and are no longer operated by the Company. 5. INCOME TAXES TAX SHARING AGREEMENT - The Company and Investment file a consolidated Federal income tax return and have entered into a Tax Sharing Agreement, pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay to Investment an amount equal to the Federal and state income taxes the Company would have been required to pay if the Company were not part of Investment's consolidated group for income tax purposes. -25- 27 The provisions for income taxes recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars): 52 WEEKS ENDED 53 WEEKS ENDED 52 WEEKS ENDED AUGUST 30, 1997 AUGUST 31, 1996 AUGUST 26, 1995 Payable currently: Federal $ 2,921 $ 1,481 $ 910 State 567 262 160 ----------- ---------- --------- Total 3,488 1,743 1,070 ----------- ---------- --------- Deferred: Federal (187) (190) (6,141) State (37) (35) (1,084) ----------- ---------- --------- Total (224) (225) (7,225) ----------- ---------- --------- Income tax provision (benefit) $ 3,264 $ $1,518 $ (6,155) =========== ========== ========= The difference between the provision for income taxes as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Income and the provision computed at the statutory Federal rate of 34 percent is due primarily to state income taxes and nondeductible amortization of the excess of purchase price over the net assets acquired of $2.1 million, $2.1 million, and $2.2 million in the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, the 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and the 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995, respectively. Deferred income taxes result from differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of the Company's assets and liabilities. The sources of these differences and their cumulative tax effects at August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 are estimated as follows (in thousands of dollars): AUGUST 30, 1997 AUGUST 31, 1996 Current deferred taxes: Accruals not currently deductible $ 3,817 $ 4,576 Supplies (2,386) (2,596) Prepaids and other (407) (261) ----------- --------- Net current deferred tax assets $ 1,024 $ 1,719 Noncurrent deferred taxes: =========== ========= Unfavorable leases $ 2,471 $ 2,973 Insurance reserves 1,067 1,719 Reserve for closed academies 2,277 3,326 Other 342 361 Property and equipment (1,534) (3,528) Long-term debt (78) (207) Intangible assets (311) (385) Deferred financing costs and other (826) (1,323) ----------- --------- Net noncurrent deferred tax assets $ 3,408 $ 2,936 =========== ========= As of August 30, 1997, only the income tax returns for years subsequent to 1992 are open to examination. -26- 28 6. LEASES Academy facilities are leased for terms ranging from 15 to 20 years. The leases provide renewal options and require the Company to pay utilities, maintenance, insurance and property taxes. Some leases provide for annual increases in the rental payment and many leases require the payment of additional rentals if operating revenue exceeds stated amounts. These additional rentals range from 2% to 10% of operating revenue in excess of the stated amounts and are recorded as rental expense. Vehicles are also rented under various lease agreements, most of which are cancelable within 30 days after a one-year lease obligation. Substantially all Academy and vehicle leases are operating leases. Rental expense for these leases were $44.9 million, $45.1 million, and $44.8 million, for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996, and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995, respectively. Contingent rental expense of $1.5 million, $1.2 million and $0.9 million were included in rental expense for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995, respectively. Aggregate minimum future rentals payable under facility leases as of August 30, 1997 were (in thousands of dollars): Fiscal Year Ending: 1998 $ 38,948 1999 36,783 2000 34,264 2001 30,445 2002 and thereafter 94,790 -------- $235,230 ======== 7. REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK The Company has outstanding 800,000 shares of Preferred Stock (see Note 1) as of July 24, 1993. The carrying value of the Preferred Stock is being accreted to its redemption value of $20.0 million on August 1, 2003. The Preferred Stock is nonvoting and mandatorily redeemable in August 2003, with La Petite having an option to redeem the Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, on or after August 1, 1998. Dividends at 12.125% are cumulative and if not paid upon quarterly declaration are added to the liquidation value. The liquidation values per share as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 were $40.836 and $36.250, respectively. The Preferred Stock may be exchanged for 12.125% Subordinated Exchange Debentures due 2003, at the Company's option, subject to certain conditions, in whole, but not in part, on any scheduled dividend payment date. The Preferred Stock contains certain restrictive provisions that limit the ability of the Company to incur additional indebtedness, pay cash dividends or make certain other restricted payments, or merge or consolidate with or sell all or substantially all of its assets. 8. BENEFIT PLAN The Company sponsors a defined contribution plan (the "Plan") for substantially all employees. Eligible participants may make contributions to the Plan from 1% to 20% of their compensation (as defined). The -27- 29 Company may also make contributions at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Contribution expense attributable to this Plan was $425,000, $405,000, and $0, for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, the 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996, and the 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. The Plan is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") which has raised several issues concerning the Plan's operation. The Company believes that the Plan, as amended, continues to operate pursuant to IRS and Department of Labor regulations. 9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS MANAGEMENT CONSULTING AGREEMENT - The Company has entered into an agreement for management consulting services (the "Management Consulting Agreement") with Vestar Management Partners ("Vestar") pursuant to which Vestar will make available to the Company management consulting, corporate finance and investment advice for which the Company pays to Vestar an annual fee of $500,000. TRANSACTIONS WITH CERTAIN INVESTORS - In 1992, the Company entered into a joint venture with Benesse Corp. ("Benesse"), formerly known as Fukutake Publishing Company, Ltd. The Company agreed in principle to grant to Benesse exclusive rights to develop and operate La Petite Academies in certain Asian countries. Under the terms of the pilot program, Benesse operates 10 La Petite Academies in Japan. The Company is reimbursed for all of its out-of-pocket expenses associated with assisting Benesse with the pilot program. Benesse is a stockholder of Investment and certain directors of the Company are affiliates of Benesse. 10. CONTINGENCIES The Company has litigation pending which arose in the ordinary course of business. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties and the outcome of the individual matters is not presently determinable. It is management's opinion that this litigation will not result in liabilities that would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. 11. RESTRUCTURING CHARGE During fiscal year 1995, the Company approved a plan to close 39 Academies located in areas where the demographic conditions no longer support an economically viable operation and to restructure its operating management to better serve the remaining Academies. Accordingly, the Company recorded an $11.7 million restructuring charge ($7.0 million after tax) to provide for costs associated with the Academy closures and restructuring. The charge includes approximately $10.0 million for the present value of rent and real estate taxes for the remaining lease terms. The charge also includes restructuring and other costs related to the closures. As of August 30, 1997, $4.5 million of costs related to the closings and restructuring had been charged against the restructuring reserve. 12. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION From time to time, the Board of Directors of Investment in their sole discretion, grant non-qualified stock options, with respect to the common stock of Investment, to key executives of the Company. Options are granted pursuant to an agreement at the time of grant, and typically become exercisable in equal cumulative installments over a five-year period beginning one year after the date of grant. To date, all options granted expire on the tenth anniversary of the grant date. No market exists for the common stock -28- 30 of Investment, but options are granted at prices that, in the opinion of the Board of Directors, are equal to or greater than the fair value of the stock at the time of grant. Options on 62,794 shares have been granted to employees through August 30, 1997, of which 36,315 were exercisable at that date. The Company accounts for the options in accordance with APB Opinion No. 25, which requires compensation cost to be recognized only on the excess, if any, between the fair value of the stock at the date of grant and the amount an employee must pay to acquire the stock. Under this method, no compensation cost has been recognized for stock options granted. Had compensation cost for these options been recognized as prescribed by SFAS No. 123, the Company's income (loss) would have been reduced by (in thousands) $19 in 1997 and $17 in 1996. The Company is privately owned and there is no market for the stock of Investment. The estimated compensation element is based on the time value of money at the US Treasury rates assuming that the value of the stock will be at least equal to the grant price five years out when fully exercisable. The estimated compensation expense above is assumed to be amortized over the vesting period. There is no basis on which to assume that these stock options have any value at the date of grant since future value is solely dependent on future events not currently in evidence. ********* ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE Not applicable. -29- 31 PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT The following table sets forth the name, age and current position held by the current directors and executive officers of La Petite: Name Age Position of Office - - - ---- --- ------------------ James P. Kelley 43 Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director James R. Kahl 56 Chief Executive Officer, President and Director Barbara W. Bell Coleman 47 Director Habib Gorgi 41 Director Leonard Lieberman 69 Director Patrick J. McNeela 47 Director Arthur J. Nagle 59 Director Agnes T. Richardson 67 Director Naoto Sugiyama 39 Director Robert T. Thompson 43 Director Hiromasa Yokoi 58 Director Rebecca L. Perry 43 Executive Vice President, Operations David J. Anglewicz 50 Senior Vice President Facility Services Phillip M. Kane 50 Senior Vice President Finance/Chief Financial Officer Mary Jean Wolf 60 Senior Vice President, Organization Services Robert A. Rodriguez 51 Senior Vice President, Education, Regulation and Industry Affairs The business experience during the last five years and other information relating to each executive officer and director of La Petite is set forth below: James P. Kelley Chairman of the Board and Director Mr. Kelley has been Chairman of the Board and a Director of La Petite since July 1993 and Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Investment since July 1993. Since 1988, Mr. Kelley has been a Managing Director of Vestar Capital, a private investment firm which is affiliated with the Company. Mr. Kelley is a director of Celestial Seasonings, Inc. and The Westinghouse Air Brake Company. -30- 32 James R. Kahl Chief Executive Officer, President and Director Mr. Kahl has been a Director of La Petite since September 1993. Mr. Kahl has been the Chief Executive Officer of La Petite since July 1993 and President since May 1997. Mr. Kahl was an Executive Vice President at Knott's Berry Farm from 1991 to February 1993. From 1988 to 1991, Mr. Kahl was the Senior Vice President, Operations of the Contract Food and Services Division, Health Care and Education Group at the Marriott Corporation in Washington, D.C. From 1982 to 1988, Mr. Kahl held various other executive positions with Marriott Corporation. Prior to joining Marriott, Mr. Kahl held various positions with Arthur Andersen & Co. between 1964 and 1982, including Partner and Managing Partner. He holds an M.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin and is a Certified Public Accountant. Barbara W. Bell Coleman Director Mrs. Coleman has been a Director of La Petite since October 1993. Until recently, Mrs. Coleman served as President of the Amelior Foundation. Mrs. Coleman serves as a corporate director of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of New Jersey and City National Bank of New Jersey. She also serves on a number of not-for-profit boards including the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the Newark Museum, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, the Community Movie Corp., and the National Urban League. She is a member of the Vestry of the Parish of Trinity Church in New York City. Mrs. Coleman holds a BA from Rutgers University, NCAS, a MPH from Columbia University, School of Public Health, and an honorary doctorate from Bloomfield College. Habib Y. Gorgi Director Mr. Gorgi has been a Director of La Petite since September 1993. Mr. Gorgi is a nominee of the Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership, an affiliate of the Company. Mr. Gorgi is a Managing Partner of Fleet Equity Partners, a private equity fund, since January 1986. He is a Director of a number of private companies including Rosina Food Products, Inc., Dines Industrial Group, Inc., Simonds Industries, Inc., Savage Sports Corporation, and is Chairman of the Board of Wain-Roy, Inc. Mr. Gorgi earned a B.A. from Brown University and an MBA from Columbia University. Leonard Lieberman Director Mr. Lieberman has been a Director of La Petite since September 1993. Mr. Lieberman is a retired Chairman of the Board and CEO of Supermarkets General Corporation. He is a director of numerous non-profit and private sector organizations including: Boys' and Girls' Clubs of Newark, Inc., the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the New Community Foundation. Mr. Lieberman is the Chairman of the Fund for New Jersey and the Treasurer of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Center for Health Care Strategies. He is a Director of Celestial Seasonings, Inc., Republic New York Corporation, Russell Stanley Corporation, and Sonic Corp. -31- 33 Patrick J. McNeela Director Mr. McNeela has been a Director of La Petite since February 1996. Mr. McNeela is Senior Vice President and Manager, Equity Capital Group - GE Capital Corporation and has held various executive positions at GE Capital for 15 years. He has been involved in making equity investments for GE Capital for over 10 years, both domestically as well as in Asia. He has a B.A. in Economics from Old Dominion University and an M.B.A. from the University of Virginia. Arthur J. Nagle Director Mr. Nagle has been a Director of La Petite since October 1993. Since 1988, Mr. Nagle has been a Managing Director of Vestar and Chairman of Vestar Resources, Inc., a management consulting firm, both of which are affiliates of the Company. Mr. Nagle is a director of Chart House Enterprises, Inc., Aearo Corporation, Russell Stanley Corporation, Remington Products Company and Clark-Schwebel, Inc. Agnes T. Richardson Director Ms. Richardson has been a Director of La Petite since January 1994. Ms. Richardson is the Executive Director of the Center for Educational Innovation (CEI) at the Manhattan Institute. From 1975 to 1993, Ms. Richardson was Editor-in-Chief of SEVENTEEN Magazine. Ms. Richardson is a Life Trustee of International House and a director of the 1995 Special Olympics World Summer Games. Naoto Sugiyama Director Mr. Sugiyama has been a Director of La Petite since January 1997. Mr. Sugiyama is in the Accounting Division of Benesse, formerly known as Fukutake Publishing Company, Ltd. Robert T. Thompson Director Mr. Thompson has been a Director of since September 1993. Since 1995, Mr. Thompson has been General Partner of Ferrer Freeman Thompson and Company. From 1989 to 1995, Mr. Thompson was Managing Director of GE Capital Corporation. From 1983 to 1988, Mr. Thompson was a consultant with Bain and Company and Bain Capital. -32- 34 Hiromosa Yokoi Director Mr. Yokoi has been a Director of La Petite since February 1996. Mr. Yokoi was elected Vice Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Berlitz International, Inc. in February 1993 and additionally was elected President effective August 1993. Mr. Yokoi has served as a Director of Benesse, since June 1992 and Director for Berlitz and North American Sector since April 1994. Prior to that, he served as General Manager of the Overseas Operations Division (formerly the International Division) of Benesse from October 1990 to March 1994. Mr. Yokoi has served as a Director of Berlitz International, Inc. since January 1991 and is currently a member of the Executive Committee. Rebecca L. Perry Executive Vice President, Operations Ms. Perry began her employment with La Petite in 1981 as Regional Director of Tampa. She was promoted in 1985 to Divisional Director of Florida. In 1988, she was made an officer of La Petite and promoted to Assistant Vice President of Operations with supervisory responsibility for La Petite operations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Ohio, Kentucky, Minnesota, Arkansas, Virginia and Tennessee. In July 1993, Ms. Perry was named a Senior Vice President and Eastern Operating Officer and promoted to her current position as Executive Vice President of Operations in May 1997. David J. Anglewicz Senior Vice President Facility Services Mr. Anglewicz has been involved in the development of over 500 La Petite Academies throughout the United States since his arrival in 1985. He is currently Senior Vice President, Facility Services with prior responsibilities as Executive Vice President - Property Development and Vice President - Property Development. His main responsibilities include real estate acquisitions, construction and maintenance of the Academies. Mr. Anglewicz obtained an M.B.A. from the University of Illinois and holds a B.S. in architecture from the Lawrence Institute of Technology. Phillip M. Kane Senior Vice President, Finance/Chief Financial Officer Mr. Kane has been Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer since March 1994. Previously, Mr. Kane was the Chief Financial Officer of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. From 1974 to 1989 Mr. Kane held various financial management positions with Knight-Ridder including Vice President and Controller. Prior to joining Knight-Ridder, Mr. Kane was associated with Arthur Andersen & Co. Mr. Kane holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Miami (Fla.) and is a Certified Public Accountant. -33- 35 Mary Jean Wolf Senior Vice President, Organization Services Ms. Wolf joined La Petite Academy in August 1997, responsible for Human Resources, Training, and Employee Communication and Recognition. Ms. Wolf was previously a Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer with Dime Savings Bank of New York, and Vice President of Personnel with Trans World Airlines. Ms. Wolf has a B.S. from Drexel University and an M.B.A. from New York University Graduate School of Business. Robert A. Rodriguez Senior Vice President, Education, Regulation and Industry Affairs Mr. Rodriguez joined La Petite in 1982 as Vice President. In 1983, he was promoted to Vice President of Operations and in 1985 was promoted to Executive Vice President. He became the President of La Petite in 1993 and was appointed a Director. Mr. Rodriguez's current responsibilities include Education, Regulation and Industry Affairs. STOCKHOLDER'S AGREEMENT Pursuant to a stockholder's agreement, each of Investment, Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership, Benesse Holdings (America), Inc. ("Benesse Holdings"), and the members of the Company's management (the "Management Investors") have agreed to vote their shares of voting securities of Investment so as to elect and to continue in office a Board of Directors of Investment and La Petite consisting solely of (a) two designees of Benesse Holdings, (b) up to seven designees of Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership, (c) two independent directors recommended by Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership after consultation with representatives of the Management Investors and (d) two designees of the Management Investors. COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Compensation Paid by La Petite Compensation is paid to each member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation who is not an officer of Vestar, a nominee of Benesse, nor an employee of the Corporation. Each such member is entitled to receive an Attendance Fee of $1,500 for each meeting the Director attends, a Quarterly Retainer Fee of $2,500 per calendar quarter and a Committee Attendance Fee of $750 for each meeting the Director attends. -34- 36 ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The following table provides certain summary information concerning compensation earned for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997 ("1997"), 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 ("1996") and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995 ("1995") on behalf of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and the other most highly compensated executive officers of the Company whose salary and bonus exceeded $100,000 for the fiscal year: SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE COMPENSATION FOR THE PERIOD (1) ALL OTHER ----------------------------------- LONG-TERM COMPENSATION COMPENSATION (1) NUMBER OF SECURITIES UNDERLYING OPTION/SAR AWARDS NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR SALARY BONUS James R. Kahl, 1997 $ 280,000 $ 125,000 Chief Executive Officer & President 1996 265,000 142,500 10,000 1995 239,200 20,000 Rebecca L. Perry 1997 130,000 60,000 1,000 Executive Vice President, 1996 110,000 40,900 5,000 Operations 1995 90,000 9,000 David J. Anglewicz 1997 150,000 15,000 Senior Vice President, 1996 142,000 35,000 Facility Services 1995 135,000 7,000 Phillip M. Kane 1997 160,000 28,000 1,000 Senior Vice President, Finance and 1996 150,000 41,400 5,000 Chief Financial Officer 1995 125,000 9,500 Robert R. Rodriguez, 1997 165,000 20,000 Senior Vice President, Education, 1996 190,000 33,900 Regulation and Industry Affairs 1995 185,000 10,000 (1) Perquisites and other personal benefits for the fiscal years 1997, 1996 and 1995 paid to the named officers did not, as to any of them, exceed the lesser of $50,000 or 10 percent of the sum of their respective salary and bonus. -35- 37 The following table presents information relating to grants to executive officers of options to purchase common stock of Investment: OPTION/SAR GRANTS POTENTIAL REALIZABLE VALUE AT ASSUMED NUMBER OF ANNUAL RATE OF STOCK SECURITIES % OF TOTAL PRICE APPRECIATION UNDERLYING OPTIONS/SARS EXERCISE FOR OPTION TERM OPTIONS/SAR GRANTED TO OR BASE NAME GRANTED (1) EMPLOYEES PRICE EXPIRATION DATE 5% 10% FISCAL YEAR 1997 Rebecca L. Perry 1,000 50% $35 December 1, 2006 $0 $0 Phillip M. Kane 1,000 50% $35 December 1, 2006 $0 $0 FISCAL YEAR 1996 James R. Kahl 10,000 29% $18 August 27, 2005 $0 $0 Phillip M. Kane 5,000 15% $18 August 27, 2005 $0 $0 Rebecca L. Perry 5,000 15% $18 August 27, 2005 $0 $0 FISCAL YEAR 1995 None FISCAL YEAR 1994 Phillip M. Kane 6,600 42% $18 March 31, 2004 $0 $0 FISCAL YEAR 1993 James R. Kahl 26,694 100% $15 July 22, 2003 $0 $0 (1) Options generally become exercisable at the rate of 20% per year after the date of grant. As of August 30, 1997, only 23,355 of Mr. Kahl's options, 5,960 of Mr. Kane's options and 2,000 of Ms. Perry's options were exercisable. As of August 26, 1996, only 18,016 of Mr. Kahl's options, 3,640 of Mr. Kane's options and 1,000 of Ms. Perry's options were exercisable. As of August 27, 1995, only 10,678 shares of Mr. Kahl's options and 1,320 of Mr. Kane's options were exercisable. (2) No options have been exercised to date. EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS La Petite and Mr. Kahl have entered into an employment agreement, dated July 23, 1993, pursuant to which Mr. Kahl is entitled to an initial minimum annual base salary which was increased by 4% on January 1, 1994 and will be increased on each succeeding January 1. Mr. Kahl also may receive a performance bonus each year of up to 180% of his base salary. In addition, Mr. Kahl is entitled to participate in the health and welfare -36- 38 benefit plans of La Petite and other plans which are available to La Petite's senior executives. Mr. Kahl also received reimbursement of certain relocation expenses in connection with his joining the Company. The employment agreement provides for severance compensation equal to a year's base salary and bonus if Mr. Kahl is terminated by La Petite without cause or Mr. Kahl resigns with "good reason" (as defined in the employment agreement). In the event of a change of control (as defined in Mr. Kahl's employment agreement), if any successor does not specifically assume Mr. Kahl's employment contract or if he is terminated without cause or if Mr. Kahl terminates his employment agreement with good reason after a change of control, Mr. Kahl is entitled to two year's base salary and bonus. ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT Investment owns 100% of the common stock of La Petite. The principal stockholder of Investment is Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership, a Delaware limited partnership (the "Partnership"), which owns 680,000 shares of common stock of Investment or 68% of the total voting power of Investment on a fully diluted basis. James P. Kelley and Arthur J. Nagle, each a director of the Company, and Norman W. Alpert, Daniel S. O'Connell, Prakash A. Melwani and Robert L. Rosner are the general partners of the Partnership. Such persons may be deemed to share beneficial ownership of the shares owned by the Partnership and disclaim beneficial ownership of any such shares. For a discussion of certain voting arrangements with respect to the common stock of Investment, see "Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant." All of the Common Stock of La Petite owned by Investment is pledged to secure the obligations of Investments under the Senior Notes. ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS Management Consulting Agreement - The Company has entered into an agreement for management consulting services with Vestar pursuant to which Vestar will make available to the Company management consulting, corporate finance and investment advice for which the Company pays to Vestar an annual fee of $500,000. Transactions with Certain Investors - In 1992, the Company entered into a joint venture with Benesse Corp. ("Benesse"), formerly known as Fukutake Publishing Company, Ltd. Benesse is a stockholder of Investment and certain directors of the Company are affiliates of Benesse. The Company agreed in principle to grant to Benesse exclusive rights to develop and operate La Petite Academies in certain Asian countries. Under the terms of the pilot program, Benesse operates 10 La Petite Academies in Japan. The Company is reimbursed for all of its out-of-pocket expenses associated with assisting Benesse with the pilot program. Tax Sharing Agreement - The Company and Investment have entered into a Tax Sharing Agreement, pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay to Investment an amount equal to the Federal and state income taxes the Company would have been required to pay if the Company were not part of Investment's consolidated group for tax purposes. -37- 39 PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (a) 1. Financial Statements See pages 14 to 29 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for financial statements of La Petite Academy, Inc. as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 and for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, and 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. (a) 2. Financial Statement Schedules The following additional financial data should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996 and 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995. Schedules not included with these additional financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is contained in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto. SCHEDULES Independent Auditors' Report on Financial Statement Schedules Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts -38- 40 (a) 3. Exhibits EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION 3.1* Certificate of Incorporation of La Petite Academy, Inc. 3.2* By-laws of La Petite Academy, Inc. 3.3*** Restated Certificate of Incorporation of La Petite Academy, Inc. 4.1** Certificate of Designation of the Powers, Preferences and Relative Participating, Optional and Other Special Rights of La Petite Academy, Inc.'s Series A Cumulative Redeemable Exchangeable Preferred Stock and Qualifications, Limitations and Restrictions thereof. 4.2** Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1993, between La Petite Academy, Inc. and Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Trustee, with respect to the Exchange Debentures. 4.3** Form of Exchange Debenture. (Included as part of Exhibit 4.2 hereto). 4.4** Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1993, between La Petite Academy, Inc. and Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Trustee, with respect to the Senior Notes. 4.5** Form of Senior Note. (Included as part of Exhibit 4.4 hereto). 4.6** Indenture, dated June 1, 1986, between La Petite Academy, Inc. and United Missouri Bank of Kansas City, n.a., as Trustee, with respect to the Convertible Debentures. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 (c) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Sec. File No. 2-96117).) 4.7*** First Supplemental Indenture dated as of May 19, 1997 between La Petite Holdings Corp., La Petite Academy, Inc and Fleet National Bank, as successor Trustee to Shawmut Bank Connecticut, with respect to Senior Notes. 4.8*** First Supplemental Indenture dated as of May 19, 1997 between La Petite Holdings Corp., La Petite Academy, Inc., and Fleet National Bank, as successor Trustee to Shawmut Bank Connecticut, with respect to Senior Notes. 9.1** Stockholders' Agreement, dated as of July 23, 1993, among Vestar/LPT Limited Partnership, Benesse Holdings (America), Inc., Vestar/LPA Investment Corp., and the Management Investors (as defined therein). 10.1** Amended and Restated Agreement, dated April 5, 1990, as to Relationship and Services to be Provided between CenCor, Inc., La Petite Academy, Inc. and Concorde Career Colleges, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K of La Petite Academy, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 1991.) -39- 41 EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION 10.2** La Petite Academy, Inc. Amended and Restated Employee Incentive Stock Option Plan-I, covering 666,666 shares of common stock. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 28(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Registration No. 33-25625).) 10.3** Intercompany Note, dated July 23, 1993, of La Petite Acquisition Corp. in favor of La Petite Holdings Corp. 10.4** Collateral Agency Agreement, dated as of July 15, 1993, between La Petite Academy, Inc. and Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Trustee and Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Collateral Agent. 10.5** Securities Pledge Agreement, dated as of July 15, 1993, among La Petite Academy, Inc., as pledgor, Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Trustee, and Shawmut Bank Connecticut, National Association, as Collateral Agent. 10.6** Credit Agreement, dated as of July 1, 1993, among La Petite Academy, Inc., La Petite Acquisition Corp., Various Banks, Bankers Trust Company as administrative agent and Banque Paribas, as agents for the financial institutions party thereto. 10.7** Management Consulting Agreement between La Petite Academy, Inc. and Vestar Management Partners, dated as of July 23, 1993. 10.8** Employment Agreement, dated as of July 23, 1993, among La Petite Academy Acquisition Corp., La Petite Academy, Inc. and James R. Kahl. 10.9** Non-qualified Stock Option Agreement, dated as of July 22, 1993, between Vestar/LPA Investment Corp. and James R. Kahl. 10.10** Tax Sharing Agreement, effective as of July 23, 1993, among Vestar/LPA Investment Corp. and La Petite Academy, Inc. 10.11*** Credit Facility, effective July 10, 1996, among La Petite Academy, Inc.,various Banks, Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent, and Mercantile Bank, as Co-Agent. 10.12*** First Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of May 27, 1997, among La Petite Academy, Inc., La Petite Holdings Corp., various financial institutions, Bankers Trust Company as Administrative Agent, and Mercantile Bank as Co-Agent. 27.0 Financial Data Schedule - filed only with the EDGAR version. -40- 42 * Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits to La Petite Holdings Corp.'s Registration Statement on Form S-1, Registration No. 33-61232, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 16, 1993. ** Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits to La Petite Holdings Corp.'s Transition Report on Form 10-K for the period from January 1, 1993 to August 28, 1993. *** Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits to the registrants's Quarterly Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal Quarter ended June 6, 1997. b) Reports on Form 8-K Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 10, 1997 reporting the merger on June 1, 1997 of La Petite Holdings Corp. with and into La Petite Academy, Inc. -41- 43 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT The Stockholders and Board of Directors of La Petite Academy, Inc.: We have audited the consolidated financial statements of La Petite Academy, Inc. and its subsidiary as of August 30, 1997 and August 31, 1996 and for the 52 weeks ended August 30, 1997, the 53 weeks ended August 31, 1996, and the 52 weeks ended August 26, 1995 and have issued our report thereon dated October 3, 1997; such report is included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules of La Petite Academy, Inc. and its subsidiary listed in Item 14. These financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audits. In our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Kansas City, Missouri October 3, 1997 -42- 44 LA PETITE ACADEMY INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) ================================================================================================================== ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST COSTS AND AUGUST DESCRIPTION 31, 1996 EXPENSES WRITE-OFFS 30, 1997 Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 82 $ 1,670 $ 1,669 $ 83 --------- ---------- ---------- --------- BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST COSTS AND AUGUST DESCRIPTION 26, 1995 EXPENSES WRITE-OFFS 31, 1996 Allowance for doubtful accounts (a) $ 722 $ 1,109 $ 1,749 $ 82 --------- ---------- ---------- --------- BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST COSTS AND AUGUST 27, 1994 EXPENSES WRITE-OFFS 26, 1995 DESCRIPTION Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 621 $ 841 $ 740 $ 722 --------- ---------- ---------- --------- (a) During the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996, the Company performed an audit of its third party receivable balances and wrote off substantially all of its uncollectible accounts. In addition, the Company implemented new procedures and controls to ensure write-offs are recorded on a timely basis. (Continued) -43- 45 LA PETITE ACADEMY INC. SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (IN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS) ================================================================================================================ RESERVE FOR CLOSED ACADEMIES BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST 31, COSTS AND CHARGED TO AUGUST 30, DESCRIPTION 1996 EXPENSES RESERVE 1997 Reserve for Closed Academies $ 10,893 $ 3,424 $ 7,469 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST 26, COSTS AND CHARGED TO AUGUST 31, DESCRIPTION 1995 EXPENSES RESERVE 1996 Reserve for Closed Academies $ 13,711 $ 2,818 $ 10,893 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT AUGUST 27, COSTS AND CHARGED TO AUGUST 26, DESCRIPTION 1994 EXPENSES RESERVE 1995 Reserve for Closed Academies $ 2,971 $ 11,700 $ 960 $ 13,711 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- (Concluded) -44- 46 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on November 25, 1997. La Petite Academy, Inc. /s/ James R. Kahl ------------------ By: James R. Kahl Chief Executive Officer, President and Director Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capabilities indicated on November 25, 1997. /s/ James P. Kelley /s/ Patrick J. McNeela - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: James P. Kelley By: Patrick J. McNeela Chairman of the Board of Director Directors, and Director /s/ James R. Kahl /s/ Arthur J. Nagle - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: James R. Kahl By: Arthur J. Nagle Chief Executive Officer, Director President and Director /s/ Phillip M. Kane /s/ Agnes T. Richardson - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: Phillip M. Kane By: Agnes T. Richardson Senior Vice President, Director Finance and Chief Financial Officer /s/ Barbara W. Bell Coleman /s/ Naoto Sugiyama - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: Barbara W. Bell Coleman By: Naoto Sugiyama Director Director /s/ Habib Y. Gorgi /s/ Robert T. Thompson - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: Habib Y. Gorgi By: Robert T. Thompson Director Director /s/ Leonard Lieberman /s/ Hiromasa Yokoi - - - ------------------------ ------------------------ By: Leonard Lieberman By: Hiromasa Yokoi Director Director -45-