Multiple Sylvan centers close in Twin Cities
FOX 9 reports several Sylvan Learning centers in the Twin Cities shut down ahead of the school year, with Maple Grove and Burnsville locations evicted for unpaid rent and only Edina and Coon Rapids still operating under franchise owner Paul Ripon. Parents who paid thousands of dollars—some financed through Comenity Capital Bank—say sessions were repeatedly canceled or unavailable; Sylvan’s national office says it is working to help impacted customers find services elsewhere.
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Key Facts
- Franchise owner Paul Ripon bought nine centers in 2024; now says only Edina and Coon Rapids are operating, with virtual tutoring offered while relocating.
- Maple Grove and Burnsville centers stopped operating after court-ordered evictions for tens of thousands in unpaid rent; Woodbury is among seven locations no longer operating.
- Parents cited payments of $5,300 (100 sessions, Woodbury) and $8,000 (Maple Grove, partly financed via Comenity) and reported difficulty obtaining refunds; some are exploring litigation.
- Sylvan Learning (national) acknowledged the Minnesota franchise issues and says it is assisting affected customers at other locations.
Sources (1)
Several Sylvan Learning Centers shutting down as Minnesota school year begins
- Franchise owner Paul Ripon bought nine centers in 2024; now says only Edina and Coon Rapids are operating, with virtual tutoring offered while relocating.
- Maple Grove and Burnsville centers stopped operating after court-ordered evictions for tens of thousands in unpaid rent; Woodbury is among seven locations no longer operating.
- Parents cited payments of $5,300 (100 sessions, Woodbury) and $8,000 (Maple Grove, partly financed via Comenity) and reported difficulty obtaining refunds; some are exploring litigation.