Read all of our 2025 Childcare and Preschool Provider of the Year Nominations! Click the link to read all of our 2025 Educator of the the Year Nominations.
Educator and Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year is presented by The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Solis Photography.
Sara Brinkman, Sioux Falls Lutheran School
As a preschool parent, I am honored to nominate Mrs. Sara Brinkman for the Educator of the Year award. Her dedication to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment has made an incredible impact on my child’s early education. From the moment you step into her classroom, you’re greeted by a warm, homey atmosphere that puts both children and parents at ease. Mrs. Brinkman’s ability to make every child feel valued and included has fostered a strong sense of community among the students. Her stellar communication with parents through frequent thoughtful updates, has made us feel like true partners in our child’s learning journey, allowing us to carry forward the learnings and principles from the classroom into home life.
The progress my child has made this year under Mrs. Brinkman’s guidance has been truly phenomenal. She has gone above and beyond in preparing him for kindergarten, focusing on both academic skills and social-emotional development. Her innovative and engaging approach to learning has ignited a passion for education in my child, who now eagerly looks forward to school each day. Whether it’s through hands-on activities, songs, or storytelling, Mrs. Brinkman finds creative ways to make learning fun and exciting for all her students. Her lasting impact on our child’s early education makes her the ideal candidate for this prestigious award.
Kim Kvale, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
I am nominating Kim Because she has been so welcoming and a joy to work with during my first experience of bringing my child to daycare. She’s made me feel comfortable whenever I ask her any questions that I have. I know that my child is well taken care of throughout the day. She’s definitely made bringing my child to daycare an enjoyable one.
Catie, Bright Eyes
Hi I am writing to nominate Catie for recognition of her exceptional work as an infant room teacher at Bright Eyes Daycare in Sioux Falls.
Since Otto began attending class in July of 2024, we have been consistently impressed by her dedication and compassion. She creates a warm and nurturing environment where our son feels safe and secure, which is invaluable to us as working parents.
Catie goes above and beyond her duties, consistently providing us with updates on our son’s development and offering valuable advice and support. She is an amazing sounding board for any questions or concerns we have, and she always makes us feel heard and understood.
Thanks to her, we feel confident that our son is receiving the best possible care while we are at work. Her positive influence on our son and our family is immeasurable.
Destiny, Ava, Laura, and Deb, Bright Eyes
I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Destiny, Ava, Laura and Deb for recognition of their exceptional work as infant daycare providers. They have consistently demonstrated a remarkable level of care, kindness, and professionalism in her interactions with my child, Otto, and our family.
From the very first day, they have created a warm and nurturing environment for Otto. Their gentle and patient demeanors immediately put us at ease, allowing us to feel confident leaving our child in her care while we work. Their genuine affection for infants is evident in the way she interacts with the kids, providing comfort and reassurance during moments of distress and celebrating every milestone with joy.
Jami Schott, Jami’s Daycare
Jami has provided exceptional care to my children for over 8 years. She is more than just a daycare provider. She is like family and treats all of the children she cares for like her own. She goes above and beyond for them. Always singing their praises, building their confidence and showing so much love to them. She helps them grow by helping them reach their developmental milestones but also showing them how to love nature, animals and others. She constantly brags about “her (daycare) kids”, and spends time with them outside of their daycare hours; attending birthday parties, events, and even taking them to celebrate special days. She puts so much of her time and her own money into into giving these kids such a fun and balanced childhood. My kids look forward to going to Jami’s. She somehow keeps them in routine and on a schedule, but still allows them to grow and be themselves, supporting and encouraging them to try new things, do the right thing, be brave, and be kind. Jami adores the children she cares for. Our family is forever thankful we were blessed to find her and have Jami help us raise our babies into the wonderful children they are. We couldn’t have done it without her.
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Jami has been taking care of our kids for almost 3 years now and she has been an amazing daycare provider! She takes our kids and treats them like her own. They have so much fun. Summers are a blast! Our daughter loves to go on walks, play outside and go to the gas station for slushies. She has an amazing heart. We love Jami!
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Jami is an incredible provider and co-professional in parenting. She loves the kids like her own. I’m constantly amazed at how much she truly enjoys what she does. We are so grateful to have Jami in our son’s life, and we will miss her when he starts kindergarten in the fall (although I guess that opens up a spot for another incredibly lucky child). She is patient, kind, and so understanding. Our child struggles with anxiety, and she is a safe place for him when I’m not around. What more could a parent ask for???
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Jami has played a crucial role in my son’s life. We were so lucky to have found her through a friend of ours. It absolutely melts my heart how happy he is when I drop him off each morning and then again in the afternoon. He even picked his favorite color the same as Jami’s. She treats every child as her own and I couldn’t imagine anyone else watching over him. Our infant daughter will soon start joining her big brother at Jami’s.
Shelly Logue, Bright Eyes
The entire Bright Eyes staff is incredible – all a parent wants is for their children to feel happy and safe and it is clear they achieve this there. Leo is ecstatic to go to “school” every day and it really sets him up for the life ahead and has a positive outlook on it. He is learning at a really high level and we are constantly amazed and what he comes home with having learned. They are also very patient with your child’s development and really help with the “hard stuff” like potty training!
Mrs. Shelly deserves a special notice because she clearly leads by example setting the bar for the staff, she makes it a point to know your child and apply the appropriate treatment to each individual – Leo can be a bit on the emotional side and Mrs. Shelly dedicates time to him to help him understand the way he is feeling and appropriately manage these feelings. This, of course, is only part of the story because emotional intelligence is critical for managing life’s difficult situations while academic intelligence is critical to excelling in a productive career much later in life and she really accomplishes both. She has made a life-long impact on Leo especially as he has been forming his very first memories in life. He is happy, healthy and will be will suited for the next stage of life. We cant thank her enough and the entire Bright Eyes Team.
As with many modern families, we are both busy professionals and having a place like Bright Eyes and a person like Mrs. Shelly is the model of what modern child care can and should be.
Miranda Scholes, Acton Academy Sioux Falls
Miranda Scholes is a truly deserving candidate for the Educator of the Year Issue, particularly in her role as a Spark Guide at Acton Academy. Her dedication to empowering her learners and creating a safe, nurturing environment has had a profound impact on the children she guides.
One of Miranda’s greatest strengths is her ability to empower learners by giving them the space to think critically, solve problems, and discover answers on their own. As a Spark Guide at Acton Academy, she is deeply committed to the Socratic method of teaching, which encourages questioning, exploration, and self-directed learning. Miranda doesn’t just teach content; she creates an environment where learners feel confident and inspired to take ownership of their learning. She values their voices, listens intently to their ideas, and guides them with purpose and respect.
Miranda’s patience is truly exceptional. Working with young learners requires a level of understanding and empathy that can’t be overstated. Whether a learner is struggling with a concept, feeling unsure about a project, or navigating challenges in their personal and emotional growth, Miranda is always there, with the patience to listen and the wisdom to guide them through. She approaches every learner as an individual, offering tailored support and encouragement when needed, and always maintaining a calm, steady presence in the studio.
Perhaps one of Miranda’s most remarkable qualities is her kind, loving heart. She treats every learner with deep care and respect, creating an atmosphere where learners feel valued, safe, and seen. Her warmth and empathy extend beyond academics, ensuring that every child knows they are part of a community that believes in them and supports their journey. Miranda’s ability to connect with her learners on such a personal level cultivates a sense of belonging, which is essential for encourages a love of learning.
In short, Miranda Scholes embodies the qualities of a truly outstanding guide at Acton. She’s empowering, patient, and kind-hearted. She inspires her learners to grow, to think critically, and to approach challenges with confidence and curiosity. For these reasons, Miranda is a perfect candidate for the Educator of the Year Issue.
Amanda Hooker, Amanda’s Daycare
Amanda care for my children like they are her own. She expresses how its not the same when they are gone and cares so deeply for them. She has a passion and love for all the children in her care.
Peyton Christians, Harvey Dunn Early Childhood
Ms. Peyton has a way of making all of her students feel welcomed and special in her classroom. As a Mom I was nervous at first to send my 3 year old on a bus to school Ms. Peyton was very reassuring and has been super kind and caring for my son and it has been so fun to see how much he has grown since starting in her class.
Jenny Maier, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
I am nominating Ms. Jenny because she is an extraordinary educator whose dedication, kindness, and passion truly set her apart. Her absence for a few weeks was deeply felt by both parents and children, which speaks volumes about the impact she has on everyone around her. Even without children of her own, she treats every child in her classroom as if they were her own, offering them love, care, and unwavering support.
Ms. Jenny’s commitment to caring for children goes far beyond the classroom. Before joining Kids R Kids, she was a nanny for the same family with four children for over 15 years, and she still keeps in touch with them to this day. This lifelong dedication to the children she cares for is a testament to her deep passion and love for what she does.
Her emotional connection to her students is undeniable—she has shed bittersweet tears when her students move on to the next classroom, a reflection of how much she truly invests in their growth and well-being. Beyond her kindness, she is an incredible teacher. My child has flourished in her class, learning to speak in phrases and expanding his vocabulary in ways that have amazed us. Thanks to Ms. Jenny, he now knows numbers, colors, and shapes, plus an impressive amount of sign language which is far beyond what we expected at this stage.
Ms. Jenny is more than just a teacher—she is a positive influence, a guiding light, and a source of comfort and learning for so many children and families. Her dedication deserves to be recognized, and I am honored to nominate her.
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We’ve had a great experience with our daughter’s care at Kids R Kids, but no one has impacted her experience as much as Ms. Jenny. When our daughter transitioned to Ms. Jenny’s room we noticed an immediate change in her demeanor and, more importantly, in her milestones. She quickly began talking in two- to three-word sentences, suddenly knew her colors and numbers, as well as words for objects we have never discussed at home. I’d walk through the door to her classroom in the morning and our daughter would immediately demand to be put down so she could run into Ms. Jenny’s open arms for her morning hug (the first of a certainly uncountable number that took place throughout the day). Ms. Jenny always took the time to update us on our daughter’s progress, infrequent concerns, or generally just rave about her comical antics. Ms. Jenny always made us feel like our daughter was thriving, and we could literally watch her communicate and encourage our daughter’s growth and independence in the moments we’d spend with her in the classroom. Our daughter developed a bond with Ms. Jenny that has persisted despite her age-related transition to another room. We still have to stop by her old room some mornings to say hi to Ms. Jenny before the day starts. Everyone’s day should start with a hug from someone you love, and we are so grateful Ms. Jenny has been able to be a consistent source of comfort and love for our daughter while we are away from her.
Melissa Lockey, Central Lyon Community School District
Melissa is an outstanding preschool teacher. She had our first daughter in preschool, and now has our second. She greets each child with a smile each day, embraces all of their interests and makes her classroom accommodating for all of their interests/needs. For my own children in particular, she has really helped develop their social skills and helped them come out of their shell. My kids LOVE to go to preschool and talk about Miss Lockey all of the time, including inviting her to our home for play dates 🙂
Michelle Niemi, Nana’s Love Bugs Daycare/Preschool
Michelle (and all the staff she employs at her in- home daycare) are amazing. She has hours that work for just about anyone by opening early morning at 6 and staying open until 5 pm! Each morning we are greeted by a welcoming smile each morning at drop off. My child tells me bye as soon as we walk into her house as im sure it feels like his “home away from home”. As soon as we hit the last step my child is already reaching towards Michelle to get started and playing/ learning for the day. She provides breakfast, morning snack, lunch. And afternoon snack for all the kids in her care. In the basement is where she runs the daycare (babies-3/4 year olds) and then she runs a preschool program upstairs. She does activities with all the children in her care. My 18 month old has come home with a lot of art work and other pictures- and the best part is Michelle even laminates some of the artwork so that when we take it home it doesn’t get crumpled or ripped and it’s easier to keep around/ hang up! She ensures that the kids get outside time when its nice out. I haven’t been through the preschool part of her daycare yet but just from drop off/ pick up/ the updates parents get it sounds like they do a lot of amazing things such as art projects, preschool curriculum lessons (Michelle hss a degree), and she does a lot of hands on learning with is great for kids. I would be so lost without Michelle and her daycare. It is so nice as a parent to be sble to leave you child somewhere and not have to worry because you know they sre in the absolute safest and best environment for them!
Tara Topete, Holy Cross Lutheran Preschool
Tara has been such a blessing to our family. We have been lucky to have her as our daughter and now son’s preschool teacher at Holy Cross. She is innovative in her instructional practices, incorporates play-based opportunities, and truly embraces each child’s unique abilities. She fosters a relationship with children that allows them to grow and thrive.
Ashley Gylfe-Baird, Encore Learning Center
I had the privilege to work with Mrs. Ashley and she also was my child’s teacher for Pre-K. Ashley is always so happy to see each child, she creates an individual unique bond and truly makes a difference in each child’s life. She makes learning so exciting and fun for the children, I saw it on my child’s face everyday when she went to “school”. My daughter still talks about Mrs, Ashley almost everyday & the memories she had in Ashley’s classroom. Ashley is always looking for new learning techniques for the children and looking for ways to implement new things to the classroom to make learning fun for the kids. I truly believe if it wasn’t for Mrs. Ashley, my daughter would not have the passion & love for school like she does. Ashely helped my daughter to start reading at the age of 5 and my daughter now has a large love for reading. The freedom and expression that Ashley encourages for the children is beyond words, my daughter has so much love for art and music and I think a large part of that came from Ashley’s classroom environment. I cannot say enough great things about this incredible teacher. She is exactly what a teacher should be.
Shataya Svatos, Encore Learning Center
Mrs. Shataya is such an incredible nursery teacher. She treats each baby as if they were her own. She has incredible communication with the parents, as we all know how scary it can be to leave your child at any age, but especially as an infant with someone new. She creates a loving and warm environment for the infants and for the parents to have peace of mind when dropping their child off. She helps the infants meet new milestones and cheers them on each step of the way. She is making an incredible impact on these babies.
Theresa Senst, Dakota Kids
Theresa is so amazing! We found her by the grace of God! We were looking for a daycare for our youngest and I saw her page. I was set on my child going there. She welcomed us with open arms. She’s been with us and for us through two miscarriages. She’s an angel on Earth! She’s so kind to the children. She loves all her daycare babies!
Tracy Robinson, Robinson Family Daycare
Tracy not only loves the kiddos in her care, she also loves her moms. We have regular mom’s nights out (current and alumni moms always welcome), annual daycare mom tubing trip, book club with the daycare moms, and overall just makes sure we are friends! The kiddos serve at St. Francis to learn about volunteering and giving back. They garden in the summer to learn how plants grow. My child is learning how to be a kind and caring individual under her guidance. I have loved every moment of my boys being part of her life and it’s amazing to know she will always be a part of their lives no matter how old they are. She truly is the best.
Brianna Skovly, EmBe South
I am nominating Brianna because she is absolutely amazing. She cares for the children like her own and celebrates any accomplishment big or small. My daughter loves going to school bc of Ms. Bri. Brianna will do her hair whenever she asks, help her when she needs and if she’s having a rough day, she is always there to comfort her and make her feel better. My daughter talks about her all the time.
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Miss Bri goes above and beyond everyday for her students, she is always engaging with her kids, sparking their creativity, and teaching them in the most positive manner. In the time frame that my child has been in Miss Bri’s care, I have seen her confidence bloom and her academic and emotional development sky rocket. Despite the difficulties of being a preschool teacher, she does it with grace everyday.
Allison M, EmBe
Allison has been caring for our son Derrick Parsons for 2 years at Horizon. Our son has Down syndrome and needs extra supports. Allison works so hard in communicating with us and helping Derrick grow in his safety, maturity, and responsibility. We work hard to teach Derrick how to play safe with the guidance of Allison promptly communicating any issues he may experience that same day. We can express the gratitude we have for Allison, she quite honestly goes above and beyond his daytime educators, and they do a good job too. But she cares above and beyond what she needs too, and as a parent, there is NOTHING more comforting than knowing your child care provider has that much heart for helping your child grow. Her leadership skills are strong and deserve to be recognized. True leaders help others grow, Allison has mastered this skill.
Dayleen Swanson, Gloria Dei
Ms. Dayleen loves each of her students and takes quality time to know them not only as their educator but also on a personal level. Ms. Dayleen provides a nurturing environment focused on learning but takes the time to help develop her children’s social and emotional skills too. She leads with love and I am at ease knowing my child is safe, loved and cared for in her care.
Sarah Ellis, Snicklefritz Early Childhood Campus
We are nominating Sarah because she does a fabulous job with babies. Our little one Freyja is always excited to see Sarah. Freyja has grown so much in the last 5 months of daycare it is amazing.
Kaira, EmBe South
Ever since my daughter has moved to this classroom, she has had a strong attachment to her “diaper buddy”, Kira. My daughter and Kira have developed an instant friendship right away. So much so, that if Kira’s day ends and she leaves before my daughter is picked up from daycare, my daughter will not go to other leaders and calm down. They have even tried to stick my daughter in a previous classroom where she would be more comfortable, which did not work. Kira is such a fantastic provider for my daughter because she is willing to stay late (while being clocked in or not) to ensure she will be with my daughter to ensure she is comfortable before being picked up. Kira has also expressed changing her schedule to be a closer to ensure my daughter is taken care of every night so she doesn’t get sad.
The reason why I am nominating Kira is because she is willing to change not only her work schedule, but also her personal schedule to ensure my daughter feels safe and comfortable at daycare.
This entire facility deserves to be recognized. We have never had a child care provider that has not put the entire heart and soul into their job to care for these children. The communication with everyone, including us parents, is excellent. Everyone listens to the parents concerns while giving out solutions instead of problems. The children bring home cute art projects while working on their motor skills. The balance between education and fun is spot on. When my child gets excited to go to daycare, it lightens up the burden of bringing them in.
Danielle Meier, Oliver and Friends Daycare
I am nominating this amazing daycare provider because she puts all of her love and passion into her daycare kids. Danielle has a passion for having her daycare kids learn through play and let them get ready for school at their own pace. My two kids always felt loved and always want to stay with Danielle. She deserves to be recognized for her love and dedication to her daycare kids.
Jenna Roach, EmBe South
Jenna is the best thing to happen to my son. He loves her so much and has learned so much in her room. I feel so comfortable dropping my son off every day knowing he’s going to someone who loves him just as much as me. Her support staff Macy, is equally as amazing. She’s my son’s primary caregiver and we love her just as much. They deserve the world and more for what they do every day.
Mel Wehrkamp, Little Wings Preschool
Mel has educated my oldest daughter and is now doing it for my youngest. She is the epitome of what an educator should be. She is kind, patient, and is very good at making sure the child learns in the way they can learn best. She recognizes that every child is different and will make sure to do whatever she can to help that child learn in a way that they can understand it. I will forever refer her to other parents for early child education.
Michelle Haase, Michelle Haase Family Daycare
Michelle consistently goes above and beyond in creating a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment for not only my boys, but many other families. We were blessed when we found Michelle as our child care provider. She is someone who we can truly trust with our boys and have for the last 5 years. As we became first time parents, Michelle was always someone we could ask for advice or help without judgement. Most parents understand strategies that work with one child are often not as effective with another. Michelle seems unbothered by the requests for different strategies to use with our children as well as always aware of their medical needs. She has created a hands on learning environment and encourages our kids’ passions. Michelle nurtures the love of learning through play. My children love playing outside, having picnics, going on walks, and doing preschool curriculum activities with her. It truly takes a village to raise children, and we are so grateful that Michelle is a part of ours.
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Michelle is an outstanding caregiver that goes above and beyond to take care of the littles that attend her daycare! We have been taking our son to Michelle’s house for 3 years, and he absolutely adores Michelle. Michelle not only gives 110% to all of her daycare kids, but she also has raised 4 children of her own. One of her Children has special needs and requires lots of extra care. Michelle balances both taking care of her 4 kids in addition to all of her daycare kids with such grace and unconditional love!
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I nominate Michelle for childcare provider of the year because she meets and then exceeds every expectation for caring for kids. Michelle has a patient, kind, heart and every day gives my children and others the love and lessons needed at their young age. She is always keeping things fun and teaches in a fun way. My kids come home with projects relevant to the happenings of the world (Christmas, MLK Day, etc.). The way Michelle keeps the chaos controlled and has the respect of the kids that are at her house is truly impressive. With a majority being boys, I leave most days in awe of how great she is with them and how kindly she demands respect. My kids love going to “Chelle’s House” every day and we couldn’t be more thankful for her!
and
I am writing to wholeheartedly nominate our incredible daycare provider, who has cared for my four children over the past nine years with unparalleled love and dedication. Her nurturing demeanor and exceptional communication skills create a warm and inviting environment in her tidy home, where engaging, age-appropriate activities are always included. She holds the children accountable for their actions, doesn’t shy away from tough conversations when necessary, and is always there to comfort them when they’re hurt. Her efforts go far beyond daily care; she actively applies for grants to enhance the daycare, conducts regular health code inspections with a 100% score, and keeps us informed about community opportunities and events for our family to participate in. My older kids miss her dearly even though they are now in school, which speaks volumes about the bond she creates. Her personal touches, like sending letters in the mail, surprising us with thoughtful gestures, and posting photos to connect with families, have truly enriched our lives. Her commitment to knowing the ins and outs of our family, combined with her development curriculum, makes her an invaluable part of our lives, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. I couldn’t imagine life without her and is so sad to think some day I will no longer have a kid in her care. I don’t know where my family would be without her.
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Jena Farr, Little Wings Preschool
Miss Jena was made for teaching preschool and young children. She is levelheaded, patient, creative, loving and truly cares about every single child that’s enters her classroom. I was nervous about my sending my first child to school but Ms. Jena has made me feel comfortable and confident since day 1. My daughter, Meadow, is always excited to go to school and see her teacher. She is greeted every morning with a huge smile and hug from Ms. Jena which really sets her whole mood for the day. One day, Ms. Jena was going to be late for class due to a meeting so she wrote a note for Meadow telling her she loves her and will be in class soon. That note made Meadow’s whole month. Her attention to detail and the effort that she puts into little things like that note are unmatched. My daughter loves to play school with her dolls and always pretends the teacher is Ms. Jena. While she’s playing, she makes the teacher doll talk to the pretend students with such love and kindness. I know that she is mimicking how Ms. Jena treats her and it melts my heart to see how reciprocal their love is for each other. Ms. Jena also works with me on not only improving Meadow’s educational development but also her emotional and behavioral skills. She has given me great tips and advice to use at home. She tells me all the time how much she loves her job, but the truth in her words is seen through the growth in my child. I wish I could give her the world for the care and comfort she provides all of the students in her class. I trust her every day with my child and know she’s in the best hands. I could go on forever about all of the great things she does. Ms. Jena is deserving of this award and for so much more.
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Jena goes above and beyond while taking care of my child. She greets not just my child that walks through her doors, but every person with enthusiasm and care. She consistently shows love, patience and kindness to the children every day. She responds to messages even on her days off and after work hours with punctuality. She even comes in on her days off to say Hi to her students because she loves them so much. My child always tells me about his day and how much Jena loved her and how much he learned at preschool. She always has a fun activity thats not just an activity, it teaches them crucial skills that they need while having fun. Her passion is unlike anything ive ever seen in a teacher. To say she deserves this is an understatement and deserves the world for the work she does day in and day out.
Stephanie Graff, Canisters Preschool
Stephanie has always put her whole heart into teaching. When my daughter was struggling with reading she donated some of her own books from her classroom she had purchased herself to help make reading more fun for her. She is constantly coming up with themes for her classroom to make learning more fun. We all know the extra hours she puts in after school is out to do these types of things. She is known around the community for being the teacher that goes above and beyond. My nephew who is autistic had her last year and she had so much patience with him. Stephanie deserves this award because she truly loves what she does and is always trying to improve on what she does for educating.
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Mrs. Stephanie Graff has such a kind heart. She does everything to see the best in others and her students. She is very understanding and works hard to provide the best care and show everyone they are important!
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Stephanie is passionate about her role as a teacher and fostering an amazing learning environment for all children. She ensures that each child has all the tools they need to be successful. She will meet each child where they are and work with them to help them to the next level.
Jennifer Fenicle
I am the daughter of Jennifer Fenicle. Watching her my whole life run her home daycare has made me see how great she is with the kids. She makes sure to do “circle time” every single morning to get a routine for the kids and teach them general things, as well as “schoolwork” to learn math, ABCs, how to spell there name, etc. This grant would be really helpful for her to get things to better the kids’ education and fun.
Laurie Townsend, EmBe South
It is our pleasure to nominate Lauri Townsend for the 2025 Educator and Child Care Provider of the Year award. As the Lead Teacher for our child, Theodore O’Toole, Lauri has consistently demonstrated a level of care, dedication, and professionalism that goes above and beyond expectations.
Lauri’s nurturing and care for our child creates a warm and welcoming environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to learn. She is exceptionally selfless, always putting the needs of her students first, ensuring they receive the attention, support, and care they deserve. Her thoughtful approach to teaching fosters a love of learning, and her ability to connect with each child on an individual level is truly remarkable.
One of Lauri’s greatest strengths is her communication. She keeps us well-informed about Theodore’s progress, daily activities, and developmental milestones. Whether it’s through regular updates, thoughtful conversations, or timely feedback, we always feel involved and assured that our child is thriving under her guidance.
Beyond her caring nature, Lauri excels in planning and implementing a well-rounded curriculum that engages young minds. Her lessons are creative, developmentally appropriate, and designed to inspire curiosity, exploration, and growth. The activities she provides not only support Theodore’s cognitive and social development but also encourage independence and confidence.
We are incredibly grateful for Lauri’s impact on our child’s early education and development. She is an outstanding educator and caregiver who embodies excellence in child care. Her dedication, kindness, and expertise make her more than deserving of this recognition.
We wholeheartedly support Lauri Townsend’s nomination for the 2025 Educator and Child Care Provider of the Year and hope she receives the recognition she truly deserves.
Joe Thompson, Truks and Tykes
I am nominating Mr. Joe because I can’t imagine a better teacher for my daughter. He’s everything. He is the perfect combination of serious, silly, compassionate, empathetic, and structure. My daughter not only sees him as a teacher but also a leader, a second dad, a safe space and so much more. Mr. Joe is a very complex person. A Cub Scout ringmaster, a manager at his second job, a dad, a husband, man of faith and a teacher. Each of these roles he is immensely compassionate towards and gives it his all.
Aleta Jaspers, Miss Jaspers House
I wholeheartedly nominate Aleta for this recognition because she is truly one of the most extraordinary individuals I have ever met. She has an undeniable heart for children and a deep, unwavering commitment to their well-being. Every child in her care is met with open arms, patience, and kindness that seem boundless.
Aleta doesn’t just provide care- she nurtures, teaches, and inspires. She continually sets an example of compassion, respect, and encouragement, shaping young lives in ways that extend far beyond the walls of her care. Her impact reaches across the city, touching countless children and families with her warmth and dedication.
What makes Aleta truly exceptional is her ability to see and meet children exactly where they are. Regardless of background, economic status, or circumstance, she believes in every child’s potential and works tirelessly to support their success. She invests in each child, helping to shape them into confident, kind, and capable individuals.
Aleta is a light in the lives of so many. Her passion for children and their growth is nothing short of inspiring, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor.
Kerra Wallace, EmBe South
Kerra Wallace leads a special environment for the Creators C classroom at EmBe South in Sioux Falls. Kerra is very organized, giving families weekly lesson plans and monthly calendars. She finds creative ways to engage her class of 2 year olds with a balance between learning and being active. I have watched Kerra, Crystal and Nicole demonstrate patience and it shows that they truly love their “students.” If our child is ill or absent, we always receive a message checking to see how they are doing at home. Their classroom is great at communicating, which is huge when this age of children are reaching the (usually stressful) milestone of potty training. They work to partner with the EmBe families to encourage what is best for the child and give feedback with the child’s progress in all areas. It is invaluable to us that we can leave our child in their hands, knowing the safe environment they provide and how much they care. Please consider Kerra [and Crystal and Nicole] as the 2025 Childcare Provider of the Year.
Caitlin Rothschadl, EmBe
I would like to nominate Caitlin as an exceptional childcare provider. She is always kind, welcoming, and greets both parents and children with a warm smile, creating a positive and comforting environment. Caitlin’s quick response time to any concerns or questions makes parents feel supported and valued. She takes the time to get to know each child individually and makes sure they feel safe and cared for, which gives parents peace of mind. Caitlin’s dedication and personal touch truly set her apart as an outstanding caregiver. She’s always proactive in providing updates and ensuring the children’s needs are met, and her thoughtful approach makes her a standout in every way. We are incredibly grateful for her commitment to our child’s well-being and development.
Crystal Glasgow, Walk and Roll Childcare
We found Crystal during a time when we were looking for a different child care provider. She came highly recommended and boy did she live up to the expectations and then some. We ended up moving two of our kids to her care right before COVID started. Crystal and her family are amazing. They were open, honest and transparent with us about everything happening with our kids during the day to day. She spent countless hours and resources creating a safe and healthy environment for the kids. She planned parties, did educational activities and was a true partner in all of the milestones that our kids experienced. She was a partner in our kids’ growth and a critical part of our “village”. Crystal cares deeply about the kids that she watches and became an extension of our family. Her patience and genuine love for the kids is long lasting and even though our kids have now started school they still talk about her and want to see her every time we drive by her house. In a time when child care is facing challenges we never had to stress about the care our kids received. This is something every family deserves and she deserves to be recognized for her love of kids and the impact that she has had on not only our family but many others!
Amy, EmBe South
I am nominating this educator because she has been great and really welcoming her classroom. We had a preemie baby and they took care of her early for us and it was greatly appreciated! We really enjoy the pictures that we receive! Amy has been really good at communicating with us and updating us on what they work with with our daughter.
Amanda Wiltse, Bright Eyes Daycare
Amanda is a caring educator who goes above and beyond for her students. She’s great at communication and ensures that each child feels loved and safe at drop-off. Her love for her work shines through in every interaction, and her enthusiasm inspires the children to be excited about learning. I love how happy my little one gets to run up and give her hugs each time they see her.
Azra H, Boys and Girls Club of the Sioux Empire Empower Campus
It is with great admiration and deep respect that I nominate Mrs. Azra for Teacher of the Year. With over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, she is the epitome of dedication, passion, and expertise. As a preschool teacher, Azra has not only shaped the minds of countless children but has also left a profound and lasting impact on every child and family she has touched, including mine.
What sets Mrs. Azra apart is her incredible attention to detail in child development. She understands that each child is unique and works tirelessly to meet them where they are, fostering an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and growth is celebrated. She doesn’t just teach; she listens, observes, and tailors her approach to each child’s needs. Her keen ability to identify and nurture developmental milestones ensures that each child’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth is thoughtfully supported.
Her wisdom, honed through years of experience, is invaluable. Azra has seen countless trends in education come and go, but her dedication to the core values of early learning—building a strong foundation of trust, kindness, and confidence—has remained unwavering. She has a natural gift for creating a learning environment that is not only educational but also joyful. Through her guidance, children learn how to think critically, solve problems, and express themselves.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Azra’s teaching is her hands-on, real-world approach to experimentation. She understands that the best learning happens when children are engaged in meaningful, experiential activities. Whether they are interacting with valuable community members, creating art projects, or conducting simple science experiments, Azra encourages them to ask questions, make connections, and explore their world with wonder. She sparks their imagination in a way that fosters a lifelong love of learning. With both my husband and I working in the Sioux Falls School District, we know how critical this is.
Mrs. Azra also excels in fostering one-on-one connections with her students. Every child in her class feels seen and heard. She takes the time to sit down with each child, offering personal attention and positive praise that boosts their confidence and motivates them to do their best. Her gentle encouragement helps children feel valued, which in turn allows them to thrive and develop strong self-esteem. Her praise is always genuine, reinforcing not only academic achievements but also the importance of kindness, perseverance, and effort. Though my daughter moved to the next class at the beginning of this school year, she has let my daughter know that she is not forgotten. She still gives her that same undivided one on one conversation, positive praise, and love that only a caretaker can feel.
Even years after leaving her classroom, the effect that Mrs. Azra has had on her students remains clear. Former students often return to visit her, and their faces light up when they speak of the time they spent in her care. She has instilled in them a love for learning, a respect for others, and a sense of responsibility that stays with them throughout their lives. She is the definition of a legacy and I couldn’t have asked for a better person to help guide our daughter and our other children in the years to come.
Mrs. Azra is more than a teacher—she is a mentor, a guide, a second Mom, and a beacon of positivity for her students and other staff. Her 25+ years of experience are not just measured in the number of years she’s spent in the classroom, but in the countless lives she’s impacted. She is the definition of what it means to be a teacher of the year, and it is an honor to nominate her for this recognition.
Ashley D, Boys and Girls Club of the Sioux Empire Empower Campus
I am honored to nominate Ms. Ashley for Teacher of the Year. As a daycare teacher for two-year-olds, she demonstrates exceptional dedication, creativity, and love for the children she cares for each day. Her ability to engage and connect with the children is truly remarkable. Through hands-on activities, songs, and creative play, she fosters an environment where the children feel excited to learn and grow.
Ms. Ashley has a unique gift for working with children at such a critical developmental stage. She recognizes that each child is different, and her individualized approach ensures that every child feels valued and understood. She skillfully adapts her lessons to meet the needs of the children, creating opportunities for both exploration and learning, while always keeping their emotional and developmental well-being at the forefront of her care.
One of her greatest strengths is her ability to form deep, meaningful relationships with the children. Even though they are still learning to communicate verbally, Ashley has a way of connecting with them that transcends words. She listens to their needs, comforts them, and celebrates their milestones. It is clear that she is not just teaching them, but nurturing them and helping them build a foundation of trust, confidence, and curiosity. She is the only person my son asks for more than me!
Beyond her interactions with the children, Ms. Ashley is also exceptional in keeping parents informed and involved in their child’s growth. Whether through regular updates, notes, or meetings, she ensures that parents feel connected to their child’s day-to-day experience, which strengthens the partnership between home and school.
In every way, Ms. Ashley is a teacher with a heart made to work with children. Her passion, creativity, and genuine care for the children’s development set her apart as an extraordinary educator. She is a great example of what it means to be a gold standard teacher.
Morgan W, Boys and Girls Club of the Sioux Empire
It is with great gratitude that I nominate Ms. Morgan for Teacher of the Year. She is a true embodiment of what it means to be a compassionate, dedicated, and selfless educator.
Each morning, Ms. Morgan greets us with a smile that lights up the room, no matter how busy or challenging her day may be. She has the incredible ability to make each child, and their family, feel seen and heard, taking the time to give them individual attention and guidance, even when her plate is full. Her commitment to the success and well-being of every student is inspiring. She becomes a second Mom—caring deeply about each child’s academic and emotional growth.
Her kindness and compassion extend beyond the classroom. Ms. Morgan has an open heart for her students’ families, offering support, listening to concerns, and creating a strong partnership with parents. She makes it clear that teaching is a team effort, and that every parent is valued and appreciated as part of their child’s learning journey.
Her teaching is nothing short of graceful. She teaches with such patience and understanding, and it’s clear that her passion for children shines through in everything she does. She doesn’t simply provide education; she creates an environment where children feel comfortable, confident, and eager to learn.
It is rare to encounter someone who embodies such grace, compassion, and thoughtfulness in both their personal and professional life. Morgan is the definition of kindness, and she truly deserves recognition for her tireless dedication to her students, their families, and the preschool community.
Even years later, the impact she had reaches beyond her classroom and into the hearts of my kiddos in their new rooms, as is the same for so many. She deserves an abundance of recognition and praise!
Tasha Pender, Tigertots
Nomination for Child Care Provider of the Year – Tasha
Tasha is, without a doubt, the best person to help mold the futures of tomorrow. Her deep love and dedication to each child she cares for is unmatched. Even though our children are no longer in her care, we continue to visit her, as she remains a special part of our lives years later. Tasha is always the first to celebrate her students’ wins and the first to offer comfort when they are feeling down. My child experienced tremendous growth during the year spent with Tasha, and her impact has been lasting. There is truly no one more deserving of this recognition than Tasha.
Joi Carrillo, EmBe South
My twins absolutely loves Miss Joi. She was their first teacher when they started at Embe. She shows and treats every single kid with love, she’s patient and she’s someone that will probably always be apart of my children lives. Joi is an exceptional teacher and we will miss seeing her face as the girls will be in Kindergarten next year. Lastly I truly appreciate her nuturing spirit, she is literally a joy to be around.
Lexi, EmBe South
She always greets us in the morning so cheerfully, I get to hear about my child’s day when I pick him up and she shares the cute or funny things he did that day.
Joseph Thompson, Trucks N Tykes
Mr. Joe has been phenomenal with our daughter and his class engagement has driven a learning mindset. We could not be happier with her progress and her enjoyment for class each day. Mr. Joe lives a busy life but that does not stop him from being a great teacher for our kids each and every day. Great job Mr. Joe
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Mr. Joe has been unbelievable for my son and our family. We have not had great experiences in the past with the support for my son and his high energy. Mr. Joe began his communication early, had ideas on how he could structure his class as well as how we could support our son at home. Mr. Joe’s collaboration and level of communication with families is outstanding. He goes above and beyond to develop classroom activities and experiences. He spends his nights and weekends planning activities and communicating with families. He will go above and beyond to let parents know about activities that may involve allergies so we can plan ahead and everyone is included. My son enjoys going to school and loves all the fun activities. He has learned so much academics as well as behavior skills. Mr. Joe is truly an amazing teacher and has helped my son develop the love for learning and going to school. There are teachers who love your child, and then there are teachers who go above and beyond to love your child, teach them, and make them feel comfortable in their own skin. He is an outstanding educator and deserves recognition for his hard work and dedication to not only my son, but all of his students.
Richelle Inman, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
Ms. Richelle does an exceptional job of not only building relationships with students, families, and team members, but she fosters those relationships through listening and seeking to understand everyone’s needs and desires. She truly elevates the environment of KRK, and her positivity radiates throughout the Academy. She also is deliberate about helping elevate her teachers so they are able to feel confident in their positions so they can provide the best possible care to the students of the Academy. You can feel the warm, welcoming environment when you walk in the door at KRK and it is due to Ms. Richelle’s presence and the culture she has established.
Caitlin Rothschadl, EmBe
Caitlin has been a phenomenal help in making sure our children are cared for and goes above and beyond when she can. She makes juggling all of her responsibilities look easy! We are so thankful for her leadership!
Kiara Alexander, EmBe
I have known Kiara for almost 3 years in her role as a Child Care Teacher. She is a member of our Team at EmBe, and also has been my daughter’s teacher for several years as she transitioned from toddler rooms to preschool rooms. Kiara has a wonderful attitude toward children and teaching, leading with fun and love. She is really thoughtful, and so good at teaching my daughter (and all of her students) how to be herself, love herself, and love others.
Ozzy Ricardez, Boys and Girls Club of the Sioux Empire
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Mr. Ozzy for Teacher of the Year. As an art teacher, he has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to connect with children across all grade levels, from pre K through 5th grade. Mr. Ozzy’s unique gift lies in his ability to make the standards come to life in a creative, hands-on way that not only engages his students but also sparks their imagination and curiosity.
What truly sets Mr. Ozzy apart is his remarkable ability to “think outside the box.” He doesn’t simply teach art; he brings the world into the classroom. Whether it’s through integrating art with other subjects, weaving in current events, or using innovative techniques to make learning fun, he ensures that every student finds joy in the creative process. His students feel empowered to express themselves and explore new concepts, and they do so with confidence and enthusiasm.
One of Mr. Ozzy’s greatest strengths is his ability to connect with students of all ability levels. He tailors his lessons to meet the diverse needs of his students, always ensuring that each child feels seen, heard, and capable of success. His gentle guidance encourages even the most hesitant students to take creative risks, and the result is a classroom full of inspired young artists.
It is no surprise that my daughter counts Mr. Ozzy’s class as her favorite day of the week. His positive energy, warm heart, and passion for art make him a teacher who leaves a lasting impact on his students. Even my 2-year-old, who is not yet old enough for his class, looks forward to the day when he can have Mr. Ozzy as his teacher, too.
Through his skillful ability to code-switch, Mr. Ozzy ensures that each child—no matter their background or level of understanding—feels included and inspired. His passion for teaching, his deep connection with his students, and his dedication to making art accessible to all children are just a few reasons why Mr. Ozzy deserves to be recognized as Teacher of the Year.
I wholeheartedly support Mr. Ozzy’s nomination and thank him for the incredible impact he has had on my family and countless other students.
