10-Q 1 d10q.htm FORM 10-Q Form 10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended: September 30, 2003

 

Commission File Number: 000-21363

 


 

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Pennsylvania   25-1119571

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

210 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA   15222
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (412) 562-0900

 


 

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.     Yes  x    No  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  x    No  ¨

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s Common Stock outstanding as of September 30, 2003 was 36,175,588.

 



INDEX

 

             PAGE

PART I   –  

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    
   

ITEM 1 –

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   3-11
    ITEM 2 –   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS   

12-16

    ITEM 3 –   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK   

17

    ITEM 4 –   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES   

17

PART II  –  

  OTHER INFORMATION     
    ITEM 6 –   EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K   

18

SIGNATURES

   19

EXHIBIT INDEX

   20

 

2


PART I

 

ITEM 1 – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in thousands)

 

     September 30,
2002


    June 30,
2003


    September 30,
2003


 
     (unaudited)           (unaudited)  

Assets

                        

Current assets:

                        

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 66,010     $ 79,896     $ 5,635  

Restricted cash

     2,428       595       8,812  
    


 


 


Total cash and cash equivalents

     68,438       80,491       14,447  

Receivables, net

     43,298       39,709       54,924  

Inventories

     6,261       4,371       7,332  

Deferred and prepaid income taxes

     12,847       17,162       18,253  

Other current assets

     8,344       9,296       11,775  
    


 


 


Total current assets

     139,188       151,029       106,731  
    


 


 


Property and equipment, net

     203,370       230,749       252,411  

Deferred income taxes and other long-term assets

     10,848       11,202       11,001  

Intangible assets, net of amortization

     17,954       16,892       23,147  

Goodwill

     131,080       156,701       299,947  
    


 


 


Total assets

   $ 502,440     $ 566,573     $ 693,237  
    


 


 


Liabilities and shareholders’ investment

                        

Current liabilities:

                        

Current portion of long-term debt

   $ 77     $ 35,074     $ 50,120  

Notes payable

                 11,000  

Accounts payable

     11,565       16,301       17,298  

Accrued liabilities

     22,564       28,461       33,116  

Advance payments and deferred tuition

     109,423       50,372       139,542  
    


 


 


Total current liabilities

     143,629       130,208       251,076  

Long-term debt, less current portion

     3,480       3,426       3,401  

Deferred income taxes and other long-term liabilities

     2,887       5,160       4,175  

Shareholders’ investment:

                        

Common stock

     354       361       363  

Additional paid-in capital

     253,587       273,063       275,276  

Treasury stock, at cost

     (1,495 )     (1,495 )     (1,495 )

Retained earnings

     99,929       153,368       157,869  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     69       2,482       2,572  
    


 


 


Total shareholders’ investment

     352,444       427,779       434,585  
    


 


 


Total liabilities and shareholders’ investment

   $ 502,440     $ 566,573     $ 693,237  
    


 


 


 

The accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

3


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

    

Three months

Ended September 30,


     2002

   2003

Net revenues

   $ 128,143    $ 168,976

Costs and expenses:

             

Educational services

     94,130      123,599

General and administrative

     28,160      35,862

Amortization of intangible assets

     965      1,446
    

  

       123,255      160,907
    

  

Income before interest and taxes

     4,888      8,069

Interest expense, net

     310      690
    

  

Income before income taxes

     4,578      7,379

Provision for income taxes

     1,740      2,878
    

  

Net income

   $ 2,838    $ 4,501
    

  

Earnings per share:

             

Basic

   $ .08    $ .12
    

  

Diluted

   $ .08    $ .12
    

  

Weighted average number of shares outstanding (000’s):

             

Basic

     35,152      36,068

Diluted

     36,578      37,408

 

 

 

The accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

4


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

(Dollars in thousands)

 

     Three months ended
September 30,


 
     2002

    2003

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                

Net income

   $ 2,838     $ 4,501  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:

                

Depreciation and amortization

     9,250       12,588  

Changes in current assets and liabilities:

                

Restricted cash

     (672 )     (8,217 )

Receivables

     (12,920 )     (9,927 )

Inventories

     (2,329 )     (2,523 )

Other current assets

     (1,692 )     (1,236 )

Accounts payable

     3,492       5,970  

Accrued liabilities

     (3,894 )     2,024  

Advance payments and deferred tuition

     38,835       79,632  
    


 


Total adjustments

     30,070       78,311  
    


 


Net cash flows from operating activities

     32,908       82,812  
    


 


Cash flows from investing activities:

                

Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired

           (149,050 )

Expenditures for property and equipment

     (29,395 )     (24,259 )

Other items, net

     (105 )     (933 )
    


 


Net cash flows from investing activities

     (29,500 )     (174,242 )
    


 


Cash flows from financing activities:

                

Revolving credit facility activity, net

     (25,000 )     15,120  

Principal payments on debt

     (19 )     (99 )

Proceeds from issuance of Common Stock

     3,318       2,215  
    


 


Net cash flows from financing activities

     (21,701 )     17,236  
    


 


Effective exchange rate changes on cash

     (174 )     (67 )
    


 


Net change in cash and cash equivalents

     (18,467 )     (74,261 )

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     84,477       79,896  
    


 


Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 66,010     $ 5,635  
    


 


Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

                

Cash paid during the period for:

                

Interest

   $ 213     $ 495  

Income taxes

   $ 22     $ 7  

Cash paid for acquisitions:

                

Fair value of:

                

Assets acquired

   $     $ 179,393  

Liabilities assumed

           (12,948 )

Less: Cash acquired

           (6,395 )

Notes payable

           (11,000 )
    


 


Net cash paid for acquisitions

   $     $ 149,050  
    


 


 

The accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

 

5


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

 

1.   NATURE OF OPERATIONS:

 

Education Management Corporation (“EDMC” or the “Company”) is among the largest providers of private postsecondary education in North America, based on student enrollment and revenue. EDMC’s education institutions offer a broad range of academic programs concentrated in the media arts, design, fashion, culinary arts, behavioral sciences, health sciences, education, information technology and business fields, culminating in the award of associate’s through doctoral degrees. EDMC has provided career-oriented education for over 40 years.

 

The Company’s quarterly revenues and income fluctuate primarily as a result of the pattern of student enrollments. The Company experiences a seasonal increase in new enrollments in the fall (fiscal year second quarter), which is traditionally when the largest number of new students begin postsecondary education. Some students choose not to attend classes during summer months, although the Company’s schools encourage year-round attendance. As a result, total student enrollments at the Company’s schools are highest in the fall quarter and lowest in the summer months (fiscal year first quarter). The Company’s costs and expenses, however, do not fluctuate as significantly as revenues on a quarterly basis. Historically, the Company’s profitability has been lowest in its fiscal first quarter due to lower revenues combined with expenses incurred in preparation for the peak enrollments in the fall quarter. The Company anticipates that this seasonal pattern in revenues and earnings will continue in the future.

 

2.   BASIS OF PRESENTATION:

 

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2003 (the “Fiscal 2003 Annual Report”). The accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2003 has been derived from the audited balance sheet included in the Company’s Fiscal 2003 Annual Report. The accompanying interim financial statements are unaudited; however, management believes that all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation have been made and all such adjustments are considered normal and recurring. The results for the three-month period ended September 30, 2003 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full fiscal year. Unless otherwise noted, references to 2003 and 2004 refer to the periods ended September 30, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

On April 1, 2003, the Company revised the estimated useful lives of several classes of fixed assets to more accurately reflect the current estimates of actual usage. See Note 6 of the Company’s Fiscal 2003 Annual Report for additional information regarding the change in estimates for useful lives. The impact of this change in estimate was an incremental depreciation charge of approximately $300,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2003.

 

3.   STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:

 

The Company has three stock incentive plans, which are described more fully in Note 15 of the Company’s Fiscal 2003 Annual Report. The Company accounts for these plans using the intrinsic value method of APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. With the exception of a restricted stock grant made in the first quarter of 2004, there is no stock-based employee compensation cost reflected in net income, as all options granted under those plans had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying Common Stock on the date of grant. The

 

6


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

 

following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share as if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS 123”), to stock-based employee compensation.

 

     Three months ended
September 30,


 
     2002

    2003

 

Net income (in thousands)

                

As reported

   $ 2,838     $ 4,501  

Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of tax

     —         52  

Stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value method, net of tax

     (1,655 )     (2,455 )
    


 


Pro forma

   $ 1,183     $ 2,098  
    


 


Basic earnings per share

                

As reported

   $ .08     $ .12  

Pro forma

     .03       .06  

Diluted earnings per share

                

As reported

   $ .08     $ .12  

Pro forma

     .03       .06  

 

4.   EARNINGS PER SHARE:

 

Basic EPS is computed using the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period, while diluted EPS is calculated to reflect the potential dilution related to stock options, using the treasury stock method.

 

Reconciliation of diluted shares (in thousands):

 

     Three months ended
September 30,


     2002

   2003

Basic shares

   35,152    36,068

Dilution for stock options

   1,426    1,340
    
  

Diluted shares

   36,578    37,408
    
  

 

For the quarters ended September 30, 2002 and 2003, options to purchase 108,644 and 137,607 shares, respectively, were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because of their antidilutive effect (due to the exercise price of such options exceeding the average market price for the period).

 

5.   CAPITAL STOCK:

 

Reflected below is a summary of the Company’s capital stock:

 

     Par Value

   Authorized

   September 30, 2002

   June 30, 2003

   September 30, 2003

Issued:

                          

Preferred Stock

   $ .01    10,000,000         

Common Stock

   $ .01    60,000,000    35,364,211    36,080,691    36,265,770

Held in treasury:

                          

Common Stock

     N/A    N/A    90,182    90,182    90,182

 

7


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

 

6.   BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS:

 

On July 14, 2003, the Company acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of South University, Inc. (“South”). South has four campuses in the southeastern United States and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, legal studies, information technology and health sciences fields. The Company paid approximately $51.0 million for South, which includes $4.0 million held in escrow. Funds from this account will be transferred to the previous owner if certain conditions are met. These conditions primarily relate to the development and performance of certain health profession programs. The acquisition was subject to receipt of final regulatory approvals, which have since been obtained.

 

On September 2, 2003, the Company acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of American Education Centers, Inc. and related companies (“AEC”), headquartered in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio. AEC operates 18 education institutions in eight states, mainly in the Midwest, offering programs in health sciences, business, information technology, legal studies and design technologies. The Company paid approximately $103.5 million in cash; an additional $11.0 million in notes, payable on September 2, 2004; and assumed $3.5 million in debt. The acquisition is subject to receipt of final regulatory approvals, which management expects will be obtained in the near future.

 

South and AEC were acquired to create a broad range of market-sensitive academic programs and a comprehensive distribution system. These transactions are accounted for in accordance with SFAS 141, “Business Combinations” (“SFAS No. 141”). The results of operations for South and AEC have been consolidated as of the respective closing dates. Approximately $143.2 million and $7.3 million were assigned to goodwill and intangible assets, respectively. The Company is in the process of finalizing third-party valuations of certain tangible and intangible assets for these acquisitions; therefore, the allocation of the purchase price is subject to adjustments, which are currently believed to be immaterial to the Company’s consolidated results of operations and financial position.

 

The following table reports pro forma information as if the acquisitions of South and AEC had been completed at July 1, 2002 (unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts). Pro forma results for the three-month period ended September 30, 2003 include $15.9 million in expenses for AEC pertaining to stock compensation payouts and costs incurred related to the acquisition by EDMC. These stock plans at AEC are no longer in place and the Company does not expect to incur charges of this nature in future periods.

 

     Three months ended
September 30,


 
     2002

   2003

 

Net revenues

               

As reported

   $ 128,143    $ 168,976  

Pro forma

     144,675      179,305  

Net income

               

As reported

   $ 2,838    $ 4,501  

Pro forma

     3,620      (4,661 )

Diluted earnings per share

               

As reported

   $ 0.08    $ 0.12  

Pro forma

     0.10      (0.12 )

 

Subsequent to September 30, 2003, the Company acquired Dubrulle International Culinary & Hotel Institute of Canada, located in Vancouver, British Columbia and Bradley Academy for the Visual Arts, located in York, Pennsylvania. See Note 12, “Subsequent Events.”

 

8


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

 

7.   SEGMENT REPORTING:

 

The Company’s principal business is providing postsecondary education. The services of EDMC’s operations are discussed in more detail under Note 1, “Nature of Operations.” In accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information” (“SFAS 131”), in the first quarter of 2003 and 2004, EDMC managed its business according to two segments: The Art Institutes and Argosy. South and AEC, acquired in the first quarter of 2004, are reflected in a separate segment, “Other,” to reconcile segment data to the consolidated financial statements. These segments are based upon the method by which management makes operating decisions and assesses performance. Corporate information is included where it is needed to reconcile segment data to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Effective October 1, 2003, the Company has shifted from this divisional approach to capitalize on the synergies apparent in serving the multiple locations from a centralized corporate structure, and it is now managed as one segment.

 

Summary information by reportable segment is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Three months ended
September 30,


 
     2002

    2003

 

Net revenue

                

Art Institutes

   $ 110,606     $ 137,591  

Argosy

     17,537       22,471  

Other

           8,914  
    


 


     $ 128,143     $ 168,976  
    


 


Income before interest and taxes

                

Art Institutes

   $ 6,532     $ 8,717  

Argosy

     (1,644 )     (1,510 )

Other

           862  
    


 


     $ 4,888     $ 8,069  
    


 


 

     As of

     September 30, 2002

   June 30, 2003

   September 30, 2003

Total assets

                    

Art Institutes

   $ 281,343    $ 334,937    $ 314,059

Argosy

     138,275      131,734      151,412

Other

     —        —        176,519
    

  

  

       419,618      466,671      641,990

Corporate

     82,822      25,984      51,247
    

  

  

Consolidated

   $ 502,440    $ 492,655    $ 693,237
    

  

  

 

9


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

 

8.   COMPREHENSIVE INCOME:

 

Comprehensive income consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    

Three months ended

September 30,


     2002

    2003

Net income

   $ 2,838     $ 4,501

Other comprehensive income:

              

Foreign currency translation

     (289 )     90
    


 

Comprehensive income

   $ 2,549     $ 4,591
    


 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income represents only the foreign currency translation adjustment of approximately $69,000 and $2.6 million as of September 30, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

9.   INTANGIBLE ASSETS:

 

In the first quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”), under which goodwill is no longer amortized. The Company reviews intangible assets with an identifiable useful life for impairment, when indicators of impairment exist, as defined by SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” Annually, or more frequently if necessary, the Company evaluates goodwill for impairment, with any resulting impairment reflected as an operating expense.

 

Amortization of intangible assets for the three months ended September 30, 2003 was approximately $1.4 million. Estimated amortization expense for amortized intangible assets for the next five fiscal years ending June 30 is as follows:

 

Fiscal years


 

Expense

(in thousands)


2004 (remainder)

  $5,060

2005

    5,522

2006

    2,647

2007

    1,168

2008

    1,005

 

Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     As of June 30, 2003

    As of September 30, 2003

   

Weighted
Average
Amortization
Period (years)


   Gross
Carrying
Amount


   Accumulated
Amortization


    Gross
Carrying
Amount


   Accumulated
Amortization


   

Curriculum

   $ 9,126    $ (3,080 )   $ 11,582    $ (3,509 )   7

Accreditation

     3,534      (732 )     4,018      (815 )   11

Bachelor’s degree programs

     1,100      (198 )     1,100      (216 )   15

Student contracts and applications

     7,854      (3,589 )     12,271      (4,405 )   3

Software

     395      (166 )     419      (198 )   3

Title IV

     785      (82 )     1,105      (100 )   12

Tradename

     500            500          Indefinite

Other

     2,768      (1,323 )     2,768      (1,373 )   15
    

  


 

  


 

Total

   $ 26,062    $ (9,170 )   $ 33,763    $ (10,616 )   5
    

  


 

  


 

 

10


EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill, by reporting segment, for the three months ended September 30, 2003 are as follows (in thousands):

 

     Art
Institutes


   Argosy

   Other

   Total

Balance as of June 30, 2003

   $ 90,626    $ 66,075    $ —      $ 156,701

Goodwill related to acquisitions during the current period

     —        —        143,173      143,173

Goodwill variance due to foreign currency translation

     73      —        —        73
    

  

  

  

Balance as of September 30, 2003

   $ 90,699    $ 66,075    $ 143,173    $ 299,947
    

  

  

  

 

10.   GUARANTEES:

 

In November 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Indebtedness of Others.” This interpretation elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under certain guarantees that it issued. The Company guarantees a significant portion of real estate lease obligations for its subsidiaries, including a mortgage on the building that the Western State University College of Law occupies, which had an outstanding balance of $3.4 million as of September 30, 2003. The Company would be required to perform under these guarantees if the subsidiary could not satisfy the obligations. The Company has no guarantees for any unconsolidated entities. The minimum future commitments under non-cancelable, long-term operating leases as of September 30, 2003 are reflected below:

 

Fiscal years


 

(in thousands)


2004 (remainder)

  $  54,364

2005

      65,728

2006

      60,105

2007

      56,131

2008

      52,521

Thereafter

    235,001
   

Total

  $523,850
   

 

11.   NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (“FIN 46”), which nullifies Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 90-15, “Impact of Nonsubstantive Lessors, Residual Value Guarantees, and Other Provisions in Leasing Transactions.” This interpretation addresses consolidation by business enterprises of variable interest entities with certain characteristics. FIN 46 is effective immediately for all variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. In October 2003, the FASB agreed to defer the effective date of FIN 46 for variable interest entities held by public companies that were acquired before February 1, 2003. The deferral will require that public companies adopt the provisions of FIN 46 for periods after December 15, 2003. The Company believes that the adoption of FIN 46 will not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

 

12.   SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:

 

On October 1, 2003, the Company acquired Dubrulle International Culinary & Hotel Institute of Canada, located in Vancouver, British Columbia. On October 8, 2003, the Company acquired Bradley Academy for the Visual Arts, located in York, Pennsylvania. These transactions are subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals. The aggregate purchase price for these entities was approximately $9.6 million.

 

11


ITEM 2 – MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains statements that may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “continues,” “contemplates,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should” or “would” or the negatives thereof. Those statements are based on the intent, belief or expectation of the Company as of the date of this Quarterly Report. Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and may involve risks and uncertainties that are outside the control of the Company. Actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of changes in United States and Canada or international economic conditions, governmental regulations and other factors. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or understanding to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. The following discussion of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company and the notes thereto, included herein. Unless otherwise noted, references to 2003 and 2004 are to the periods ended September 30, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

In preparing the Company’s financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, judgements and estimates are made about the amounts reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements. As part of the financial reporting process, the Company’s management collaborates to determine the necessary information on which to base judgements and develop estimates used to prepare the condensed consolidated financial statements. Historical experience and available information are used to make these judgements and estimates. However, different amounts could be reported using different assumptions and in light of different facts and circumstances. Therefore, actual amounts could differ from the estimates reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

The Company believes that the following critical accounting policies affect the more significant judgements and estimates used in the preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements:

 

Revenue Recognition and Receivables

 

The Company’s net revenues consist of tuition and fees, student housing charges and bookstore and restaurant sales. The Company derived 90.6% of its net revenues from tuition and fees paid by or on behalf of its students for the periods ended September 30, 2002 and 2003. Net revenues are reduced for student refunds and scholarships. Bookstore and restaurant revenue is recognized when the sale occurs. Advance payments represent that portion of payments received but not earned and are reflected as a current liability in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. These payments are typically related to future academic periods and are for the most part, refundable.

 

The Company bills tuition and housing revenues at the beginning of an academic term and recognizes the revenue on a pro rata basis over the term of instruction or occupancy. For most Art Institute programs, the academic and fiscal quarters are the same; therefore, unearned revenue is not significant at the end of a fiscal quarter. However, certain recently-acquired schools, including South and AEC, have programs with class starting and ending dates that differ from the Company’s fiscal quarters. Therefore, at the end of the fiscal quarter, the Company has revenue from these programs that has not yet been earned in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, “Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements.” Unearned tuition revenue of approximately $5.2 million and $8.5 million, related to programs not on the Art Institutes’ quarterly academic calendar, is included with advance payments and deferred tuition in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

12


Argosy’s academic programs follow a semester schedule and several programs were in session as of September 30, 2003. Accordingly, unearned revenue of approximately $21.0 million and $25.7 million related to Argosy is included with advance payments and deferred tuition in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

Refunds are calculated and paid in accordance with federal, state and accrediting agency standards.

 

The trade receivable balances are comprised of individually insignificant amounts due primarily from students throughout the United States and Canada. The Company determines its allowance for doubtful accounts primarily by categorizing gross receivables based upon the enrollment status of the student and establishing a reserve based on the likelihood of collection. Student accounts are monitored through an aging process whereby past due accounts are pursued when certain criteria are met and internal collection measures have been taken, the account is placed with an outside collection agency. Student accounts in collection are evaluated on a case-by-case basis before being written off.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

The Company evaluates the recoverability of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets other than goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of any such assets may not be fully recoverable in accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” Changes in circumstances include economic conditions or operating performance. If such a circumstance existed, the Company would perform additional analysis which is based upon assumptions about the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset. If the projected undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value, the Company would determine the fair value of the asset based upon a discounted cash flow model. If the discounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized. The Company continually applies its best judgement when performing these evaluations to determine the timing of the testing, the undiscounted cash flows used to assess recoverability and the fair value of the asset.

 

The Company evaluates the recoverability of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets attributable to each reporting unit as required under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying value. The evaluation is performed at least annually and when potential impairment indicators exist as required by SFAS No. 142. The Company continually applies its best judgement when performing these evaluations to determine the financial projections used to assess the fair value of each reporting unit.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company calculates income taxes in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” which requires the use of the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the difference between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. The Company has generated foreign and state operating loss carryforwards. Management has determined that it is currently more likely than not that the benefits will be realized and has established a valuation allowance

 

13


against only a portion of these assets. The utilization of the net deferred tax asset recorded for net operating loss carryforwards is dependent on the execution of certain tax planning strategies and the generation of future taxable income. The Company has continuously implemented these tax planning strategies and plans to implement these strategies in the future. The Company continues to evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a quarterly basis.

 

Results of Operations

 

Three months ended September 30, 2003 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2002

 

Net revenues increased by 31.9% to $169.0 million in 2004 from $128.1 million in the first quarter of 2003 primarily due to increases in student enrollment and tuition rates. Total student enrollment for the first quarter increased 21.8% to 39,977 as compared to 32,814 in the prior year. The enrollment increase was accompanied by a tuition increase of approximately 6% over the prior year.

 

Art Institute net revenues increased by 24.4% to $137.6 million in 2004 from $110.6 million in the first quarter of 2003. Total student enrollment at the Art Institutes increased 17.1% over the prior year to 32,910 from 28,108. Enrollment at locations operated by the Art Institutes for 24 months or more increased 14.2% to 30,961 compared to 27,115 in the prior year.

 

Argosy’s net revenues increased by 28.1% to $22.5 million in 2004 from $17.5 million in the first quarter of 2003. Total student enrollment at Argosy increased 23.5% over the prior year to 5,813 from 4,706.

 

South and AEC contributed $8.9 million in net revenues to the Company’s consolidated results for the three months ended September 30, 2003. South and AEC were included in the Company’s results from their acquisition dates of July 14, 2003 and September 2, 2003, respectively.

 

Educational services expense increased by $29.5 million, or 31.3%, to $123.6 million in 2004 from $94.1 million in 2003, due primarily to the incremental costs incurred to support higher student enrollment. These costs include employee compensation, rent and other facility operating costs, and depreciation and amortization. Overall, educational services expense as a percentage of revenue decreased approximately 40 basis points from 73.5% in fiscal 2003 to 73.1% in 2004. Art Institutes’ educational services expenses increased 24.1% to $99.0 million in 2004, as compared to $79.8 million in 2003. As a percentage of revenue, Art Institutes’ expenses decreased 20 basis points to 72.0% in 2004 from 72.2% for the first quarter of 2003. This improvement at The Art Institutes primarily reflects leverage on costs at established locations. Argosy’s educational services expenses increased 29.9% to $18.6 million in 2004, as compared to $14.3 million in 2003. As a percentage of revenue, Argosy’s expenses increased to 82.8% in 2004 from 81.7% for the first quarter of 2003. Investments in facilities and the introduction of new programs in the first quarter of 2004 led to the increase. South and AEC’s educational services expenses were $6.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003, which represented 66.8% of their combined net revenues.

 

General and administrative expense was $35.9 million in 2004, up 27.4% from $28.2 million in 2003. The increase over the comparable quarter in the prior year primarily reflects increases in costs related to newly-acquired entities as well as increases in marketing and admissions expenses. As a percentage of net revenues, general and administrative expense decreased approximately 80 basis points to 21.2% as compared to 22.0% in the first quarter of fiscal 2003. The improvement in these expenses as a percentage of revenue primarily reflects operating leverage on marketing and admissions expenses. Art Institutes’ general and administrative expenses increased 22.5% to $29.0 million in 2004, as compared to $23.7 million in 2003. As a percentage of revenue, Art Institutes’ expenses decreased approximately 30 basis points to 21.1% in 2004 from 21.4% for the first quarter of 2003. Argosy’s general and administrative expenses increased slightly to $5.0 million for 2004, as compared to $4.5 million in 2003. As a percentage of revenue, Argosy’s expenses decreased to 22.2% in 2004 from 25.5% for the first quarter of 2003 reflective of leverage on certain centralized costs. South and AEC’s general and administrative expenses were $1.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003, which represented 20.8% of their combined net revenues.

 

14


Amortization of intangibles increased by $481,000 to $1.4 million in 2004, as compared to $965,000 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2003. This increase results from amortization associated with the 2004 acquisitions of South, AEC and those acquisitions made in the second quarter of 2003, along with ongoing curriculum development at The Art Institute Online.

 

Income before interest and taxes (“operating income”) increased by $3.2 million to $8.1 million in 2004 from $4.9 million in 2003. The corresponding margin increased approximately 100 basis points to 4.8% for the quarter as compared to 3.8% for the prior year.

 

Art Institute operating income increased $2.2 million to $8.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to $6.5 million in the prior year. Art Institute operating income margin increased to 6.3% for the quarter as compared to 5.9% for the prior year. This was a result of margin improvements at the Art Institutes in educational services and general and administrative expense, including newer locations that recently became more profitable.

 

Argosy’s operating loss improved approximately $134,000 to $(1.5) million for the three months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to $(1.6) million in 2002. The corresponding Argosy operating margin increased to (6.7)% in 2003 from (9.4)% in 2002 primarily as a result of margin improvements and improved efficiency with marketing and admissions expenses. Argosy’s operating loss includes an allocation of certain centralized costs, representing 3.6% and 2.8% of their net revenues for 2003 and 2004, respectively.

 

South and AEC contributed approximately $860,000 to the Company’s results from operations for the quarter ended September 30, 2003.

 

Net interest expense was $690,000 in the first quarter of 2004, as compared to $310,000 in 2003. The increase of $380,000 or 122.6% as compared to the prior quarter is primarily a result of borrowings incurred to fund the acquisition of AEC. In addition to interest on the borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), net interest expense includes the amortization of fees paid in connection with securing the Credit Agreement and interest expense on mortgage indebtedness at one of the Company’s schools, partially offset by interest income.

 

The Company’s effective tax rate was 39.0% for the first quarter of fiscal 2004, as compared to 38.0% recorded in the comparable quarter of the prior year. The effective tax rate for fiscal 2003 was 38.5%. The increase in the rate as compared to the prior year reflects the distribution of taxable income as apportioned through unitary filings. The effective rates differed from the combined federal and state statutory rates due primarily to expenses that are non-deductible for tax purposes.

 

Net income increased by $1.7 million to $4.5 million in 2004 from $2.8 million in 2003. The increase is attributable to improved results from operations, partially offset by increased amortization of intangibles expense, and a higher tax provision in 2004.

 

Seasonality and Other Factors Affecting Quarterly Results

 

The Company’s quarterly revenues and income fluctuate primarily as a result of the pattern of student enrollments. The Company experiences a seasonal increase in new enrollments in the fall (fiscal year second quarter), which is traditionally when the largest number of new students begin postsecondary education. Some students choose not to attend classes during summer months, although the Company’s schools encourage year-round attendance. As a result, total student enrollments at the Company’s schools are highest in the fall quarter and lowest in the summer months (fiscal year first quarter). The Company’s costs and expenses, however, do not fluctuate as significantly as revenues on a quarterly basis. Historically, the Company’s profitability has been lowest in its fiscal first quarter due to lower revenues combined with expenses incurred in preparation for the peak enrollments in the fall quarter. The Company anticipates that this seasonal pattern in revenues and earnings will continue in the future.

 

15


Liquidity and Funds of Capital Resources

 

As of September 30, 2003, the Company’s unrestricted cash balance was $5.6 million, a decrease of $74.3 million from $79.9 million at June 30, 2003 and a decrease of $60.4 million as compared to September 30, 2002. The decreases are primarily a result of cash paid for acquisitions in the first quarter of 2004 of $149.1 million, net of $6.4 million cash acquired. This decrease was partially offset by the receipt of financial aid proceeds for both the summer and fall semesters.

 

The Company generated positive cash flow from operating activities of $82.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $49.9 million as compared to the comparable period for fiscal 2003. A substantial portion of this increase in cash flow from operations is due to the timing of receipt of financial aid for the Art Institutes summer term, which started nine days later in the current year; therefore, in the first quarter of 2004, financial aid was received for both the summer and fall terms. Improved operating results and an increase in non-cash charges also contributed to the increase.

 

The Company had a working capital deficit of $144.3 million as of September 30, 2003, as compared to working capital of $20.8 million as of June 30, 2003 and a deficit of $4.4 million at September 30, 2002. This decrease in working capital was primarily a result of the decrease in cash and cash equivalents, due to cash paid for acquisitions, accompanied by higher advance payments and deferred tuition. Net receivables increased $15.2 million from June 30, 2003 and increased $11.6 million from September 30, 2002. The increase in net receivables relates primarily to recent acquisitions, higher student enrollment at existing schools and the corresponding revenue increases.

 

The Company and its lenders amended and restated the Credit Agreement, effective August 18, 2003, to increase allowable borrowings from $150 million to $250 million. The Credit Agreement, which now expires August 18, 2008, contains customary covenants that, among other matters, require the Company to meet specified financial ratios, restrict the repurchase of Common Stock and limit the incurrence of additional indebtedness. As of September 30, 2003, the Company had approximately $186 million available under this facility and was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement.

 

Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are available to the Company to finance acquisitions and fund seasonal working capital needs resulting from the seasonal pattern of cash receipts throughout the year. The level of accounts receivable reaches a peak immediately after the billing of tuition and fees at the beginning of each academic quarter. Collection of these receivables is heaviest at the start of each academic quarter. Additionally, federal financial aid proceeds for continuing students can be received up to ten days prior to the start of an academic quarter. For most of the Company’s Art Institute schools, the academic and financial quarters coincide.

 

The Company believes that cash flow from operations, supplemented from time to time by borrowings under the Credit Agreement, will provide adequate funds for ongoing operations, planned expansion to new locations, planned capital expenditures and debt service during the term of the Credit Agreement.

 

The following table describes the Company’s commitments under various contracts and agreements as of September 30, 2003 (in thousands):

 

     Total
amounts
committed


  

Payments due by fiscal year


      2004
(remainder)


   2005-2006

   2007-2008

   2009 -
Thereafter


Line of credit borrowings (1)

   $ 50,040                    

Standby letters of credit (2)

     3,388                    

Mortgage obligation

     3,482      56      3,426          

Note payable

     11,000           11,000          

Operating leases

     523,850      54,364      125,833      108,652      235,001
    

  

  

  

  

Total commitments

   $ 591,760    $ 54,420    $ 140,259    $ 108,652    $ 235,001
    

  

  

  

  

 

16


(1)   A portion of these borrowings were repaid subsequent to September 30, 2003. Under the terms of the Company’s Credit Agreement, all outstanding borrowings become due at expiration of the facility in fiscal 2009.
(2)   The Company does not anticipate these letters of credit will be drawn on.

 

The Company anticipates its total capital spending for fiscal 2004 will be approximately $89.0 million, as compared to $76.9 million in the prior year. The 2004 expenditures relate to the investment in schools acquired or started during the previous several years and schools to be added in 2004, continued expansion and improvements to current facilities, new culinary arts programs, additional or replacement school and housing facilities, and classroom and administrative technology.

 

The Company leases the majority of its facilities. The Company anticipates that future commitments on existing leases will be paid from cash provided from operating activities.

 

On November 11, 2003, the Accreditation Committee of the Section on Legal Education and Admission to the Bar of the American Bar Association (“ABA”) notified Western State University College of Law (“WSU”) that it will not recommend to the ABA’s Council of the Section on Legal Education and Admission to the Bar (the “Council”) that WSU receive full approval and would not recommend that WSU’s provisional approval be extended. (WSU is currently provisionally approved by the ABA, but its period of provisional approval is scheduled to expire in 2004 unless the ABA elects to extend the period.) WSU will have an opportunity to appear before the Council to challenge the recommendation of the Accreditation Committee. The Company believes that WSU meets the ABA’s standards for approval, but if the ABA should decide not to grant WSU full approval, or not to extend the time during which WSU is provisionally approved, this action could have a material adverse effect on WSU. However, WSU would continue to be eligible to participate in federal financial aid programs as it is separately accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

 

ITEM 3 – QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

The Company is exposed to market risks in the ordinary course of business that include foreign currency exchange rates. The Company does not utilize interest rate swaps, forward or option contracts on foreign currencies or commodities, or other types of derivative financial instruments. The Company is subject to fluctuations in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar. The Company does not believe it is subject to material risks from reasonably possible near-term change in exchange rates.

 

ITEM 4 – CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

(a)    The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that it is able to collect the information it is required to disclose in the reports it files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and to process, summarize and disclose this information within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules. The Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, evaluated disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2003. Based on that evaluation, the Company concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in alerting them on a timely basis to material information relating to the Company (including its consolidated subsidiaries) required to be included in the Company’s periodic filings with the SEC.

 

(b)    There have not been any significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect such controls during the quarterly period ended September 30, 2003.

 

17


PART II

 

ITEM 6 – EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

 

  (a)   Exhibits:

 

  (15.1)   Independent Accountant’s Review Report

 

  (15.2)   Auditor’s Acknowledgement

 

  (31.1)   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

 

  (32.1)   Certifications by the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
  pursuant   to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

 

  (b)   Reports on Form 8-K:

 

During the last fiscal quarter of the period covered by this Form 10-Q, the Company filed a current report on Form 8-K dated July 14, 2003 announcing that it had completed its previously-announced acquisition of South University; a current report on Form 8-K dated August 4, 2003 relating to its financial results for the quarter and fiscal year ended June 30, 2003; a current report on Form 8-K dated September 2, 2003 announcing that it had completed its previously-announced acquisition of American Education Centers; and a current report on Form 8-K dated September 15, 2003 announcing that J. William Brooks, Jr. has been elected President and Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President David J. Pauldine has been elected Chief Marketing Officer.

 

18


SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements 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.

 

   

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

   

(Registrant)

Date: November 14, 2003

   
   

/s/    JOHN R. MCKERNAN, JR.        


    John R. McKernan, Jr.
    Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
   

/s/    ROBERT T. MCDOWELL        


    Robert T. McDowell
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

19


EXHIBIT INDEX

 

(15.1)   Independent Accountant’s Review Report

 

(15.2)   Auditor’s Acknowledgement

 

(31.1)   Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications

 

(32.1)   Certifications by the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

 

20