Read our 2026 ‘hood Educator of the Year Nominations! Educator and Childcare Provider of the Year are sponsored by The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography.
Alyssa Jennings, EmBe South
I am nominating Miss Alyssa because she’s a phenomenal teacher. Not only did she help my child learn/grow but she allowed him to feel seen, heard, and cared for. He would come home and say things like “We don’t like the same things BUT we can still be best friends, Mommy!” And I just know she had a huge impact on statements and mindsets like that! She pours her whole heart into shaping those little minds and my family is so grateful for her!
Amber Abrahamson, Hopecare Children’s Center
Amber treats every child in her care like her own. She’s kind, attentive and loving and really goes above and beyond to make sure the kids have a safe and friendly environment to play in. She has a positive attitude and always has a smile on her face.
Ashley Gylfe- Baird, O2B Kids – Dawley Farms
Ashley was and still is a tremendous teacher, leader and great person to be around. The way that she loves on her kids, how she knows each one is an individual and that they are very important and unique. That no one kid is the same and she treats all them best. She has a wonderful sense of purpose and the way she teachers her kids is incredible. She deserves to be recognized. AND Mrs. Ashley is the epitome of the best teacher. Her love for her students shines through every day. The parents and children adore her and so do her co-teachers. Any child that passes through Mrs. Ashley’s room leaves with academic and social emotional skills that will guide them through kindergarten and the rest of their life.
AND
I have had the privilege to have both of my children in Ashley’s care for Pre-K. Ashley brings so much knowledge, love & encouragement to the classroom. She has the kind of patience & guidance every parent hopes for their child to experience in their early childhood years of learning. There’s no doubt in my mind that she successfully prepares each child for kindergarten so they are ready for that big transition to elementary school. Ashley is the best!!
AND
Mrs. Ashley is truly one of a kind. I have never met a teacher so genuinely dedicated to their role. Her passion shines through every lesson plan, child interaction, and moment of her day. Every parent in her center comments about how they cannot wait for their child to be in her room and every parent who has had their child in her room wishes she could go with them to kindergarten. She works hard in her classroom to ensure her kiddos are kind, independent and ready for kindergarten. I truly have never met a teacher as fit for their role as Ashley. The children that pass through her room remember her for years to come and are so lucky to have been taught by her.
AND
I would love to nominate our son’s wonderful Pre-K teacher, Mrs. Ashley. Mrs. Ashley has an incredible amount of patience with all of her tiny friends and truly has a special gift. She is, without a doubt, a four-year-old whisperer. At lunchtime, while the kids eat, she has her class calm, respectful, and engaged, as she reads one or two stories. Watching a room full of Pre-K children listen so quietly while enjoying their lunch is truly amazing and speaks volumes about the environment she creates. She is always positive, upbeat, and encouraging with both parents and children. Our son comes home often telling us that Ashley is his favorite teacher and that he loves her. Most importantly, she works closely with us to help keep our son on the right path when it comes to making good choices, and we have seen such a positive change in him because of her consistency and care. Mrs. Ashley is the reason we have chosen to keep our son at this school. We even have the opportunity to transfer to a location just 60 seconds from our home, but the thought of pulling him from her class feels impossible. She is worth the extra drive, and more importantly, our son is thriving because of her. Mrs. Ashley is not just a teacher, she is a true influence in our child’s life, and we are incredibly grateful for the love, structure, and dedication she brings to her classroom every single day.
Ashley, EmBe South
Ashley is an exceptional Lead Daycare teacher. She creates a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where every child feels loved, valued, well cared for, and encouraged to grow. Ashley’s patience, creativity, and dedication shine in her daily interactions as she plans engaging activities that promote social, emotional, and developmental needs. She has impacted my life and my families life by taking care of her daughter when I worked in child care and now she takes care of my daughter. She is helping my daughter learn new things and to walk. She builds strong, trusting relationships with both children and families. She treats our daughter with love and communicates openly with us!
Ashley Groskreutz, Little Wings Preschool
Ashley is kind. caring . She loves the kids with everything she has she is passionate about her job and kids in her room she is very patient and gives 100 percent of her attention to the kids and parents
Avery Moss, LifeChange Learning Center
Avery has so much dedication to the children and not only helping them learning but making sure they are having fun while doing it. She is so creative with activities and intentional with all of her activities and crafts she does.
Becky Cook, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
Our eight-month old (our first child) started daycare at Kids R Kids a few months, which was really hard on me as a new mom. Ms. Becky has made the transition so easy for us. Our son absolutely loves her and gets a huge smile on his face when we walk into the room. She always treats him like he is her own, and constantly is keeping me apprised throughout the day. She is genuinely interested in how Bo is doing outside of daycare too, whether he is sick or completely fine. She spends quality time with him and plays with him, and she has made the daycare experience so seamless. It brings me so much comfort and peace knowing he spends his days with Ms. Becky while I am at work. I will be sad when my son moves up to the next classroom.
Kelli Hubers and Brittney Ellis, Bright Steps Playcare
Prior to finding Bright Steps, we bounced around to many different facilities trying to find the right fit for our daughter, and soon-to-be her medically complex sister. Like many parents, we struggled to find care that checked all the boxes until we discovered Bright Steps. Kelli and Brittney go above and beyond for their families. They make sure each child’s individual needs are met, that they are loved, having fun, and well cared for. Both of our daughters, including our extremely medically complex youngest, have thrived here. Daily, the staff incorporate developmentally appropriate activities to support each child’s growth. They worked closely with our Birth to Three providers to continue therapies at daycare for our youngest daughter, ensuring consistency and progress even outside the home. They thoughtfully push each child developmentally to meet milestones while also prioritizing play and fun. Outdoor time is always valued, and the children even nap outside when the weather is nice. After each hospital admission, Kelli and Brittney took the time to meet with us, learning about new medications, routines, and therapies to ensure seamless care. Staff consistency at Bright Steps has given us peace of mind, and we have never had to worry about who is caring for our daughters. When our youngest daughter passed, the staff truly became part of our family. They reached out, brought food, and cared for our oldest daughter as she mourned her sister. Even now, they continue to honor Hannah, celebrating her birthday with a Frozen dress-up day, wearing red for Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Month, and keeping her picture displayed on her art hook in the hallway. Kelli and Brittney go above and beyond to ensure the facility meets every guideline and protocol while caring for the whole family. Their dedication, compassion, and love have profoundly impacted our lives. We could not imagine sending our daughters anywhere else.
Brittany Semande, Mustard Seed Daycare
She is absolutely amazing at what she does! She is passionate about equipping children to loving the Lord and loving others. Something that makes her stand out is how she gives her daycare opportunity to give back to the community. In December, she did free date night and blessing bags to the homeless. All the parents and their children helped donate items and hand them out at the Douglas Bishop house. Her heart is not about making money but about loving the kids and giving back. AND Brittany has had an incredible impact on my child by creating a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where they feel seen, valued, and confident. She takes the time to understand each child’s individual needs and meets them with patience, kindness, and consistency. What makes her truly different is the way she goes beyond basic care—she builds genuine connections, encourages emotional growth, and celebrates each child’s progress, big or small. My child has grown socially and emotionally under her care, and I see the positive influence in their confidence, communication, and excitement for learning every day. We are incredibly grateful for the love and dedication she brings to her classroom.
AND
My son truly loves getting up and going to daycare every day. Brittany goes above and beyond by using an app to keep parents informed about what their child is doing throughout the day. She also takes the children on field trips so they aren’t stuck at the daycare every day, provides them with healthy, good-quality meals, and offers a preschool program that gives them a great head start for school. Transferring my son to Brittany’s care has made an enormous and positive impact on his life. AND Brittany is truly incredible. She projects such love and faith into her daycare kids. You can feel her warmth as soon as you meet her. She is truly a blessing to our family when our baby needed to find a new daycare immediately after we felt unsafe in our current childcare facility. She even went as far as grabbing me a coffee and leaving it on my doorstep after my little one had a rough night. She is so so special.
AND
We would like to nominate Brittany Semande, our exceptional daycare provider whose calling to serve families became evident from the very beginning of opening just this year. When daycare at her church fell through (due to construction), within days, she transformed her home into a warm, safe, learning space for the kids. She not only cares for the kids, but cares about raising them kind. She organized for the children to make bags for the homeless and invited families to hand out the bags and pray with them. She also understands the importance of strong families and healthy parents. She thoughtfully offers “date days,” providing free childcare on Saturdays so parents can reconnect with their spouse, rest, or catch up on chores at home. In addition, she hosts coffee dates for moms of the kids simply for connection—something all moms need and love! Her grace and flexibility are unmatched. She welcomes mistakes with understanding, accommodates changing schedules, shows patience with late pick-ups, and never makes families feel like a burden. Even with all of this, she still finds time to plan outings and enriching experiences for the children, ensuring their days are filled with learning, joy, and discovery. What makes her truly extraordinary is that she sees daycare not as a job, but as a ministry and a mission. Brittany recently moved to South Dakota and quickly has shown what we have been missing since the closing of Apple Tree. We have tried many daycares since and have always been missing something. We are endlessly grateful for the way she has supported our family and countless others, and we can think of no one more deserving of recognition.
Brynna Parmelee, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
I would like to nominate Brynna Parmelee for Educator of the Year. Brynna is an exceptional toddler teacher who consistently provides a calm, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for her students. She approaches each day with patience, kindness, and genuine care, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and valued. Brynna has built meaningful, trusting relationships with both her students and their families, and her dedication has a lasting, positive impact on the children in her care.
Callie Boomsma, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
Callie is one of the most caring and patient humans I have ever met. She always has a smile on her face and is always interacting with the children. She makes sure my son is safe and well taken care of and I couldn’t ask for more. She is loving and understanding in ways that deserve to be noticed. We love Callie and thank she deserves to know the impact she makes.
Connie Koppman, Kinder Academy
Connie has been an incredible caregiver to my children, and I truly cannot say enough good things about her. She greets each day with kindness, warmth, and a genuine happiness that immediately puts both children and parents at ease. It is so clear that caring for babies is what she was meant to do. She is endlessly patient and calm, even in a room full of infants, and she creates an environment filled with love and security. Leaving your children in someone else’s care is never easy, but Connie made that transition feel effortless. My children are naturally drawn to her gentle spirit, kindness, and the love she shows them every day. I am honored to nominate Connie because she truly deserves to be recognized for her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to caring for children. Her impact on our family has been meaningful and lasting.
Courtney Morris, Little Tigers Daycare
We have been blessed with Courtney as our childcare provider for over two years now. The second you walk into her home, you can feel the love and joy for the kids. She truly cares for each child like they’re her own. Courtney gives a beautiful blend of structure, routine, and fun allowing my child to grow at his pace. My child truly looks forward to going to Courtney’s every day and misses his friends when he’s not there. What a true gift it is to have someone we trust so deeply to care for our child!
Darcelle Robideau, Compassion Childcare
Darcelle and ALL the staff at Compassion have had a huge impact on our family. Never once have we felt like our children don’t want to go to Compassion everyday. When the weekend is over and they have had to go back to school, they are excited to see Darcelle. Darcelle has made a huge impact on my children. My daughter who is now in school talks about her still, my son who has her for preschool right now will talk about her when we are at home. Darcelle is compassionate, loving, and another “mom” to my children when I have to be at work. I would love for her to win this award. Not only is she deserving but there are SO many amazing teachers at this center that we love and appreciate.
Desirae Snodgrass, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
Desirae is amazing with the children she teaches! She is so genuine and fun, and that comes across in her teaching and in the love she shows her class. She clearly has a big heart for children and provides a safe classroom where the kids can learn and have fun. Her patience, love, and care are obvious whether she’s changing diapers, helping with potty training, dancing with the kids to music, teaching curriculum, or loving on a child having a hard day. Desirae has been in childcare for many years and deserves this award for being an awesome teacher and caregiver!!
AND
Miss Desirae brings so much joy to our 3 year olds son’s life. She leads a classroom of toddlers with kindness, strength and compassion. My son thrives on routine and he can count on Miss Desirae to share new activities, stories and lessons each day that help him use his imagination and problem solving skills. Every time we drop our son off he is welcomed with so much enthusiasm. He truly feels welcome. Our family is so impressed by her knowledge and care and feel confident that all of the kiddos are seen, heard and cared for.
Ella, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
We are incredibly grateful to Kids R Kids of Prairie Hills, and especially to Ms. Ella, for the remarkable impact she’s had on our daughter Logann. Before joining Kids R Kids, Logann was turned away from two previous daycare centers that struggled to meet her needs. She was often seen as too difficult to care for and was left feeling shy and intimidated. However, with Ms. Ella’s patience and kindness, Logann has truly blossomed. The “hug first, then teach” approach has been transformative, and it’s helped Logann grow into a confident and happy child. Kids R Kids has become more than just a daycare; it’s a true extension of our family. We deeply appreciate how the staff love and care for our children as we do.
Franny LeKander, The Purple Crayon Learning Center
Franny has been a dedicated childcare provider in the town of Tea for over 20 years. She has owned and operated in home childcare centers and is now working as a lead infant teacher. Franny has more dedication and love for children than anyone I’ve met. Franny will go above and beyond to make sure children are well cared for and ensures parents that their children are in the best possible care.
Gretchen Garry, Gretchens Daycare
I would like to nominate Gretchen because the care she gives goes far beyond what is expected. She truly loves my child as if they were her own, and that love shows in everything she does. She takes the time to communicate openly, offering thoughtful feedback when needed, always with my child’s best interest at heart. It’s clear that she genuinely loves what she does, and that passion creates a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment where children thrive. I am incredibly grateful for the care, dedication, and heart she brings every day.
Jaclyn Small, The Sensory Studio
Jaclyn goes above and beyond, always, for her preschool kids. Making each day fun, engaging, and meaningful by creating memories and out of the box ideas that help children grow and learn. She puts in 110% all the time and her preschool kids feel it each day when she is there to greet them with a smile, hug, and lots of fun.
Jami Anderson, Once Upon A Time
Jami is our Director/ preschool educator. She goes above and beyond her daily work by simply being there every day, doing everything from paperwork to teaching her 4 year olds. She usually opens and alot of times closes. Because we, like everywhere else, are short staffed. She makes sure everyone from the children we support, to her staff, are taken care of in all the best ways. She deserves the recognition of her hard working soul and heart of gold. She is always improving the kids lives by teaching them how to expand their minds and is very good at teaching them new things. For me, she is the kindest boss that I have ever had. She helps me out when I need help at work and doesn’t look down on her teachers and treats us as equals and makes us feel that we matter. She understands things happen when something goes wrong (like my own sick child that needs to be cared for, to car problems.) I just think with everything she does for our daycare center, the kids and my fellow co-workers, that she deserves all the recognition she can get after so many years of teaching/helping little minds learn and grow! She is truly appreciated by each of us teachers and all of the parents that put their trust in us and her to care and teach their children every day! My name is Megan Kuhnert. I am not a parent or child of the daycare, but an employee/teacher of hers! I hope this counts, as she deserves this very much!!
Jaqueline Bent, Little Wings Preschool
Ms Jaqueline loves to teach her kids, and play fun games to keep the kids interested. My preschooler loves to see her shining smile every morning at drop off. Ms Jaqueline keeps learning fun.
Jena Feltman, Little Wings Preschool
Mrs. Jeana is one of the kindest, sweetest human beings I have ever met. She has the perfect personality to work with children, and she has helped our daughter to grow and thrive in her classroom. AND I am nominating Jena because she has made an incredible difference in my child’s preschool experience. She brings patience, warmth, and genuine care into the classroom. My child looks forward to going to school and gets so excited.This lets me know that Jena has created a classroom where he feels safe, and happy. I feel he has really grown in the time he has been in Jena’s preschool room and I love seeing everything he learns each day. The confidence he’s gained, the new skills he brings home, and the excitement he shows about school all speak to the positive impact she has on him. Thank you. My child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn because of the environment she creates.
AND
I am honored to nominate Mrs. Jena for Teacher of the Year. Her impact on my child’s development has been nothing short of monumental. Since joining her classroom, my child’s confidence and love for learning have soared, thanks to the nurturing environment she creates. Mrs. Jena possesses a rare, graceful ability to connect with her students exactly where they are. I’ll never forget a particularly difficult morning when my daughter, Macie, was struggling to say goodbye. Mrs. Jena immediately stepped in, dropping to eye level to truly see and hear her. She transformed a moment of anxiety into one of excitement and comfort, providing an immense sense of relief for me as a parent. It is this kind of intentional, heart-led teaching that makes Mrs. Jena an invaluable asset to our school community!
AND
Jena is such a lovely teacher to be around. She comes to work with a smile on her face and a positive attitude every single day. She plans family nights and events for the center that bring children and parents together to create better relationships. She truly cares for every student like they are her own and makes every day exciting and welcoming. She incorporates fun activities that make the students excited to learn and provide them with knowledge that will stick with them for the rest of their lives. Jena also loves to make sure to get to know every family and make them confident she will bring her best every day.
AND
Jenna has gone above for my child and family! She is always working on new skills and takes her time to make sure my child feels safe and loved! She is kind, patient and caring! My child struggles with drop gf and new environment and she has done an amazing job at helping with this! I see her love and passion for all her kids that come through the school each day!
Jenna Stearns, Friendship Preschool
My son absolutely adores Mrs. Jenna. She is kind, compassionate, organized, intelligent, hardworking and so much more. Today she was outside shoveling snow so her students and their parents could safely walk into the building. I know my son is learning in her classroom both academically amd emotionally. My son is excited to be at school and I want Mrs. Jenna to know it is because of the person that she is. She makes school fun, and interesting. She always has a smile, always makes time for parents when we have questions or concerns. I just couldn’t be more grateful that my son has had the opportunity to be in her class!
Jennifer Fenicle, Home Away From Home Daycare
We tried multiple different childcare situations, and we finally felt at peace when we found Jennifer! She has taken such great care of our son!
AND
Jennifer is the best daycare provider I have had the pleasure of knowing. She loves our kids like they’re her own. She diligently works to create engaging activities for them as well as providing them with academic integration. My 1st grader always wants to visit and come to Jennifer’s on no school days – that is how strong the bond is between my children and my provider.
Joseph Thompson, The Cubhouse at Copper Creek (2026 Award Winner)
Joe has been incredible for our son, Arkin. The amount of growth that we have seen in the 6 months has far surpassed what he was accomplishing before getting to Joe’s classroom. Not only has he made strides educationally but socially and physically as well. Arkin has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) through the Brandon Valley School District. Joe immediately asked for a copy of it so he could make sure Arkin is meeting the milestones laid out for him. I don’t know too many daycare teachers who would take the time to track this information. Not only is Joe tracking this for Arkin he also tracks the progress of every other student based to make sure they are ready for kindergarten . It has been great for us as parents to be able to compare how Arkin is doing at school vs daycare. Throughout the day we constantly updated with photos and descriptions of what Arkin is doing throughout the day. Joe’s lesson plans cover every subject and are always engaging for the students. I can’t imagine the number of hours Joe puts in while he’s off the clock to make sure his students succeed. Daycare is expensive and we have thought about finding cheaper options but Joe makes it worth every penny. Probably the highest praise I can give Mr Joe, is that Arkin loves going to daycare and is constantly talking about how great Mr. Joe is.
AND
Joe has been very good with my daughter. She struggled before her ADHD her diagnosis. He will give her a little more attention when she is need of a little more attention. Even if it’s standing by him while he’s reading a book to the class. Just the little things makes all the difference in the world.
AND
When my son started Jr Kindergarten at Truks N Tykes, he was very timid and tearful as he had been at an in-home daycare up until then. Mr. Joe, as the kids call him, was the main reason my son opened up, and a few months into the school year, he was loving school. He has learned so much. Every day after school he talks about something Mr. Joe taught him. In addition to being a great teacher, I feel that Mr. Joe goes above and beyond what is expected of him. In addition to the basic letters and numbers, he also teaches them Spanish and American Sign Language. They have also gone on several field trips including the Washington Pavilion to coincide with their space and dinosaur units. My friends, whose children also learned from Mr. Joe, always told me that their kids loved him as their teacher, and they were definitely right. Sometimes in our day to day, we can fall into the trap of just doing the bare minimum in our work. However, Mr. Joe’s passion for teaching and caring for children is evident as he puts his heart and soul into his work.
Justin Rieck, MKH Childcare
Mr. Justin has gone above and beyond when it comes to caring for children. As a male in a predominantly female profession, Justin overcame stigmas to shine the way he does with children. Each day Justin is a “father” to every child he cares for through consistent love and support at the most crucial point in a childs life. Meeting the individual needs of every child is of the utmost importance to Justin and can be seen in how he cares for and attends to each one. Justin understands the importance of having strong, positive male role models and how that can greatly impact a child’s development, especially socially and emotionally. I truly believe that Justin has found his calling in life working with children. While it is very far from his military and insurance career, his level of care and dedication to family childcare is immeasurable. Mr. Justin has been in childcare for 20 plus years, prior to even having children of his own. What started out as a way to fill a void in our lives ended up being the best decision ever made. Justin has amazing relationships with all of the families and the kids adore his silly antics and voices when reading books. What i think is going above and beyond, he thinks is just normal life with children. That to me is amazing, just like him. Whether its building duplo trucks, baking homemade bread, rocking babies, doing yoga or modeling breathing techniques to help calm the kids Justin is right there. Justin is doing life every day doing what he loves most; raising kids and leaning into what they need.
Kate Boyens, Sioux Falls Lutheran School
I would like to recognize Miss Boyens for the incredible impact she has had on my child. I know how important a positive, high-quality preschool experience is, and I am so grateful that my child has her as a teacher. He is always excited to go to school, and it has been so special to see how much he has learned and grown in such a short time. Miss Boyens creates a caring, engaging classroom, and it’s clear how much she truly cares about her students. I hope she knows how appreciated she is and the difference she is making every single day.
AND
Ms. Boyens is the kind of teacher who quietly changes lives, one student at a time. She brings genuine compassion into everything she does, creating a classroom where learners feel safe, valued, and truly understood. Her care goes far beyond academics. She makes intentional connections with her students and their families, taking the time to know who each learner is, where they come from, and what they need to thrive. What sets Ms. Boyens apart is her ability to see the whole child. She thoughtfully considers every student’s abilities, personalities, strengths, and challenges, and she adapts her teaching to meet them where they are. Her instruction is not one-size-fits-all. It is responsive, inclusive, and rooted in respect for individual differences. Because of this, her students are not only learning, they are growing in confidence, independence, and self-worth. Most importantly, Ms. Boyens’ students feel loved and seen every single day. Her classroom is a place where learners know they belong, where their voices matter, and where they are encouraged to be their authentic selves. Her passion for teaching is evident in the joy she brings to her work and the trust she builds with those around her. Ms. Boyens does not simply teach lessons. She builds relationships, nurtures potential, and leaves a lasting impact on her students and their families. She is deeply deserving of the Educator of the Year award.
Kathie Caton, Kathie’s Inhome Daycare
Kathie goes above and beyond to provide a loving, nurturing in-home daycare. She always is providing them with opportunities to grow in social and emotional areas. She has awesome open communication with parents and willing to help in any way possible to make sure things carry over between home and daycare.
Kelsey Harmon, Kinder Academy
Kelsey is an incredibly caring and devoted teacher who truly goes above and beyond for my children. From the moment we met her, it was clear how deeply she cares for each child in her room. The love she shows my kids is genuine and heartfelt. She creates a warm, loving, and compassionate environment where kids feels safe, valued, and cared for. Knowing my children are with someone who treats them with such kindness brings me so much peace. My daughter (son previously) is truly lucky to have Kelsey as her teacher, and our family is so grateful for the care and dedication she provides every day.
Kyleigh Vrondran, Snickelfritz Early Childhood Center
To Whom It May Concern, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Kyleigh Vrondran in recognition of her exceptional care, compassion, and dedication as an early childhood educator. Kyleigh has had a meaningful impact on our family, and especially on my three-year-old, who speaks of her with pure joy: *“I love her and she always plays with me and does my hair.”* While simple, these words reflect the deep trust, comfort, and connection Kyleigh builds with the children in her care. As a mother herself, Kyleigh brings a unique level of empathy and understanding into the classroom. She treats every child as if they were her own, offering patience, kindness, and genuine affection. Her heart is truly remarkable, and it shows in the way she interacts with each child individually—meeting them where they are and ensuring they feel seen, safe, and loved. Kyleigh has a special ability to ease transitions, particularly during busy mornings when parents need to get to work. She consistently greets the children with a warm and enthusiastic “Good morning!” and provides extra reassurance, comfort, and encouragement when it’s needed most. Those small but meaningful moments make a significant difference for both children and parents alike. Her presence creates a welcoming, nurturing environment that fosters emotional security and positive development. Kyleigh’s dedication, warmth, and attentiveness exemplify the qualities of an outstanding caregiver and educator. I wholeheartedly recommend Kyleigh Vrondran for this recognition. She is deeply deserving, and her positive influence on the children and families she serves is both evident and lasting. Thank you for your time and consideration.
AND
Kyleigh has had a large impact on both my twins, Lynn and Robert. She has helped my daughter overcome her fears of being left and helping her stay engaged and control her frustration. She has also helped Robert learn new things (letters, numbers)more consistently than he has before as well as helping him develop more confidence in himself.
Laura Glanville, Sweet Sparrows
Laura is an exceptional daycare provider. She encourages and loves her daycare children as if they are her own by building up their minds, bodies, and souls. She runs a very organized and play-based daycare out of her home. Specifically, our child loves her “yummy healthy food.”Along with supporting her daycare children, she is always encouraging us as parents and gives great advice for any questions we have about parenting. We are truly blessed by Laura’s willingness to open her home and heart to love on our sweet Oliver during the day.
Lexi Sherman, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
Lexi is a teacher I have had the privilege crossing paths with. She has taken care of 2 of my children and treated them as her own. My son has some behavior issues and Lexi was so patient and devoted to helping him through each day no matter how difficult. My son learned so much with her as his teacher and now he was accepted into the gifted program in Sioux Falls. Lexi had also taken care of my youngest daughter and she was writing her name by the age of 4! Lexi is an amazing teacher with a huge devotion to teaching and caring for those under her wing.
Madison Waldner, Madison Marilyn Home Daycare
Madison goes above and beyond for every child who walks into her home. She treats them with kindness and love, no matter the situation. From the day our daughter started at her daycare, we knew she would be taken care of and we didn’t ever have to worry. Madison makes sure each child get individual attention all while entertaining and teaching the others. Our daughter started at age 1.5 and has learned SO much about letters, colors, writing, and Jesus. Madison’s days with the children are full of trips to the park, field trips to educational sites, messy sensory activities, science experiments, art projects, and Bible stories. She provides such well-rounded care for every child, infant through young child. Even when difficult moments arise such as a child biting or fighting, she is calm and understanding with both the children and parents. She offers advice and works with families to help every child be successful. She communicates extremely well with families about how each child is doing, shares pictures of their day, and responds quickly to messages. We will be SO sad when our daughter moves on to school, but are blessed to be sending another baby into her care soon. We also know that Madison and her family will be a huge part of our lives as they have become forever friends. As a teacher myself, I know how hard it can be to care for the children of others all day while trying to raise your own family but Madison does it with grace every day. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award than Madison and know every parent would agree!
Maria Van Dyke, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
She is the absolute best choice for this position. She has made an insane impact in our school and we have seen the biggest improvement in her classroom AND I would like to nominate Mrs. Maria Van Dyke for Childcare Provider of the Year. Mrs. Van Dyke has more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education and is an exceptional Pre-K teacher. She builds meaningful, trusting relationships with both children and families, creating a classroom environment where every child feels supported and valued. In a short amount of time, the children in her care have made remarkable growth academically, socially, and emotionally. Her dedication, knowledge, and passion for early learning truly set her apart, and she is incredibly deserving of this recognition.
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Maria Van Dyke is an outstanding child care provider at Primrose School of Sioux Falls, where she consistently brings the school’s balanced learning philosophy to life. She creates a warm, nurturing environment that supports children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development while fostering curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning. Maria builds strong, trusting relationships with families through open communication and genuine care, making her a valued partner during their child’s early years. Her commitment to high-quality early childhood education and her dedication to Primrose’s standards of excellence have a lasting, positive impact on the children and families she serves. Maria Van Dyke is truly deserving of the 2026 Child Care Provider of the Year award.
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I am nominating Maria our Pre-K teacher at Primrose Schools of Heather Ridge. She consistently completes all tasks in a positive and professional manner. She creates a nurturing classroom where children have the ability to learn and feel supported.
Mary Kohler, Wind and Willow Childcare
I am honored to nominate Mary Kohler, owner and childcare provider of Wind and Willow Childcare, for Childcare Provider of the Year. Mary has cared for my son since he was very young, and from the very beginning she has been nothing short of exceptional. Mary is the most patient, caring, and understanding childcare provider I have ever met. She has an incredible ability to connect with each child individually, meeting them where they are and helping them grow with kindness and confidence. She consistently goes above and beyond for every child in her care, not only supporting their development but truly nurturing them as if they were her own. What sets Mary apart is the sense of trust and peace she gives to parents. Knowing my child is with her allows me to feel completely at ease, confident that he is safe, loved, and supported every single day. Her communication, dedication, and genuine compassion make an immeasurable difference in the lives of both children and families. Wind and Willow Childcare is a reflection of Mary’s heart and commitment to excellence in early childhood care. She is deeply deserving of this recognition, and I cannot think of anyone more worthy of being named Childcare Provider of the Year.
Mel Wehrkamp, Little Wings Preschool
Mel has put together an amazing, inviting, wholesome, and strategic preschool center that is a blessing to drop your child off at and watch that child flourish. She is patient, strong at communication, and so interactive. Knowing each kid by name, their families, and how to make their days amazing is a trait that doesn’t go unnoticed. She has an amazing group of teachers and staff that surround her and make Little Wings a wonderful community to be apart of.
Michelle Haase, Haase Family Daycare
I would like to nominate our daycare provider for “Best Daycare” because she has been an incredible part of our family for the past 10 years. Over that time, she has lovingly cared for all four of my children, and her daycare has truly become a second home to them. She creates a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to learn, play, and grow. From spending time playing outside and exploring, to providing structure, routine, and comfort, she makes every day meaningful. Our two-year-old often tells us that the best part of his day is being at daycare, which speaks volumes about how happy and secure he feels in her care. During longer breaks, my children genuinely miss her, and they are always excited to return. What makes her care even more special is the lasting relationships she builds. Our older children still want to stop in to visit her and look forward to picking up their younger brothers, which shows how deeply connected they remain. She is not just a daycare provider — she has become part of our family. The love, dedication, and consistency she provides has had a lasting impact on our children, and we are incredibly grateful for everything she has done for our family. She is truly deserving of recognition as the best daycare. AND Michelle is an absolute angel and is amazing at what she does. Our kids look forward to going to her house each day and come home learning so many things and also good behaviors. We are thankful for Michelle and all the love and guidance she puts in to our kids and every kid there. Couldn’t imagine sharing my littles with anyone else while away at work!
Milly Tebbe, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
I am honored to nominate Milly Tebbe for Child Care Provider of the Year. Although Milly joined Kids R Kids relatively recently after spending time as a stay-at-home mom, the impact she has made in such a short period is truly remarkable. From the very beginning, she has brought warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine care into the classroom—and it is felt not only by the children, but by the families as well. Every single morning, Milly greets us with the brightest, most sincere smile and an unmistakable excitement for the day ahead. It is immediately clear that she loves what she does and truly looks forward to spending her days with the children. Our daughter, Hazel, talks about Milly constantly at home and wakes up excited to go see her each morning. As a parent, there is no greater reassurance than knowing your child is eager and happy to be in their caregiver’s care. Milly provides thoughtful and detailed daily reports, always sharing the special moments, activities, and milestones from the day. These updates give us a meaningful window into Hazel’s experiences and reinforce how attentive and engaged Milly is with each child. Most importantly, Milly creates a safe, nurturing environment where every child feels seen, valued, and loved. She builds genuine, individual relationships with the children while also fostering strong, trusting relationships with parents. We never have a doubt that Hazel is cared for as if she were Milly’s own. Milly Tebbe embodies everything a child care provider should be—kind, dedicated, compassionate, and deeply invested in the well-being and development of the children she serves. Kids R Kids, and the families who are part of it, are incredibly fortunate to have her. She is more than deserving of recognition as Child Care Provider of the Year.
Miranda Stuckey, The Cubhouse at Golden Gateway
Miranda goes above and beyond every single day to make sure my son and his classmates are enjoying their day and learning something new. My son genuinely looks forward to going to daycare/preschool just so he can spend the day with her. Sometimes I think he likes her more than me 🙂 He’s a timid little boy so the fact that she has captured his trust and heart in such a meaningful way makes us so happy and comfortable knowing he’s in the right hands. It will be a tear-filled day this spring when we move on to summer care, and then kindergarten. Miranda is simply the best and puts so much thought and care into each day. I know my son and we will remember the impact she has had on his life for a long time!
Missy Koch, Country Kids Oasis Childcare
I am honored to nominate Missy for Childcare Provider of the Year because she is truly one of a kind. With over 20 years of experience, Missy pours her heart and soul into every child who walks through her door. What first made her stand apart to us was the number of long-term families who trust her with all of their children. That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about the consistency, love, and excellence she provides every single day. Missy doesn’t just “watch” children; she invests in them, nurtures them, and helps shape them into confident, happy little humans. Before starting with Missy, our son was struggling at his previous daycare. By the end of each week, he was showing significant behavioral challenges. We found ourselves spending every weekend trying to undo the behaviors he was witnessing and participating in during the week. After just three days in Missy’s care, we saw a complete transformation. The happy boy we knew and loved was finally back. He was calmer, more secure, and genuinely excited about his days. With a little more time, the behaviors completely disappeared. That change was nothing short of life-changing for our family, especially with a new baby on the way, and it showed us how deeply Missy understands and supports children’s emotional needs. Missy creates a safe, loving, and structured environment where children feel seen, valued, and supported. She treats every child as if they are her own and forms bonds that last far beyond their time in her care. The impact she has had on our children and our family is immeasurable, and we know we are just one of many families who feel this way. Missy is not only an exceptional childcare provider; she is a true gift to every family fortunate enough to know her. She embodies everything this award represents and more.
Montana Tsosie, Snickelfritz Early Childhood Center
To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to submit this nomination for Montana Tsosie in recognition of her outstanding dedication, compassion, and impact as an early childhood educator. Montana has been an integral part of our family’s life for the past four years, guiding, nurturing, and caring for our children during some of their most formative years. As a parent, there is no greater comfort than knowing your child is not only safe, but genuinely loved and understood—and Montana embodies that every single day. My three-year-old’s words say it best: *“She’s nice and I love her so much.”* While simple, this sentiment speaks volumes. Montana creates an environment where children feel secure, valued, and excited to learn. That level of trust and connection cannot be taught—it comes from genuine care, patience, and an unwavering commitment to children. Montana is remarkably selfless and consistently puts the needs of her students first. She goes above and beyond her responsibilities, always thinking about how to better support the children in her care—emotionally, socially, and developmentally. Her ability to manage the demands of early childhood education with grace, positivity, and tireless energy truly sets her apart. This line of work is not easy, and Montana is one of the hardest-working educators I have encountered. She approaches her role with professionalism, empathy, and resilience, even on the most challenging days. Her dedication does not go unnoticed by parents, children, or colleagues alike. Montana Tsosie exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional teacher and caregiver. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom and leaves a lasting impression on the families she serves. I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for this recognition, and I wholeheartedly recommend her for this honor. Thank you for considering this nomination.
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Montana is so sweet and patient with the kids! My daughter just transitioned from an in home at the beginning of December and I was so nervous but she adjusted so quickly. I ask her every day how her day was and she just talks non stop about how much fun she has. She always talks about Miss Montana and how much she loves her, however she loves all of her teachers and they’re all great at Snicklefritz! When I come pick up early I can see how involved Montana is and how much she really interacts and works with the kids. My daughter has already grown and learned so much there as well it’s wonderful!
Nicole and Anthony Holtberg,The Play Annex
Nicole and Anthony have impacted our life and our childrens’ lives in so many ways. Both of our boys attended the Play Annex from the time they were 2 and 3. The first and best thing Nicole and Anthony do are build relationships. Even though my children are in elementary school now, they still love to return and see Nicole and Anthony because they know and love our children. Because they’ve worked so hard at building relationships, they know each kid’s interests, their sense of humor, what’s going on at home or with their family, and so much more. WIth a flexible, play based program they’re able to take those things about each child, and tailor the materials and environment to their interests, needs, and abilities. In this open ended space, kids are able to build magnetic tile towers, create inventions, engage in elaborate pretend play and do all the things kids need to do to grow and develop well. As a testament to their relationships, they have many students who are now elementary and even middle school age who come back and attend during the summer. Simply put, Nicole and Anthony are the best.
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I feel Nicole and Anthony have a special place with the play annex. They allow the kids to choose their own adventure all the while learning and growing with each other. They provide exactly what the kids need while also giving them a safe and open environment where the children feel safe. They’re pretty cool and Nicole has rainbow hair which the kids love. AND Nicole and Anthony embraces play-based learning theory, allowing children to explore, discover, and build essential skills naturally through joyful, child-led play while deeply respecting each child’s autonomy and encouraging critical thinking. What makes it truly special is that Nicole and Anthony model gentle, responsive approaches that honor children’s feelings and choices, creating a nurturing environment where positive behavior grows from understanding rather than control. Even more wonderful, my husband and I learn right alongside our son—watching how Nicole and Anthony calmly reframe moments like refusing shoes or climbing too high with alternative phrases and strategies that positively reinforce his development and inspire us to adopt the same thoughtful, effective parenting techniques at home.
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Nicole and her husband, Anthony, run an in-home daycare facility that truly meets kids where they are. They’ve created a welcoming environment where all kids can grow, self-regulate, and feel empowered through play. Their philosophy is that play is the foundation for all academics to build upon, and they do an amazing job of giving kids the freedom to play, get messy, make mistakes and learn. Juniper, my daughter, first started at The Play Annex after struggling in a traditional daycare setting. Nicole and Anthony welcomed her with open arms, and gave her a safe place to land and be her sweet, weird little self free of judgment. If she wants to spend the day sitting in the corner playing quietly, that’s OK. If she wants to paint, that’s OK too. If she wants to nap, that’s OK too. They let all of the kids have so much independence and autonomy, but all within a safe space. I’ve never seen my daughter so happy. Not only that, but I’m seeing really tangible progress in small things like zipping her own coat, wanting to walk instead of being carried, and expressing herself more creatively both at daycare and at home. It’s all thanks to Nicole and Anthony’s approach to caring for the whole child through child-led play.
Paige Berg, Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge
Paige Berg is an exceptional childcare provider whose dedication, knowledge, and compassion truly set her apart. When our family moved back to Sioux Falls from Minneapolis, we were searching for a childcare program that matched the high standards, accredited curriculum, and educational focus we had previously experienced. Paige took the time to thoughtfully explain the level of education and care provided at Primrose, and it was immediately clear that this was the right environment for our son to grow academically, socially, and creatively. What truly makes Paige deserving of Childcare Provider of the Year is the way she goes above and beyond for each child and family. Our son has experienced hearing challenges since birth, and Paige was incredibly intentional in ensuring he had every opportunity to succeed. She personally selected a classroom and teacher that would best support his needs, including placing him with a teacher fluent in ASL to better communicate with him during a time we believed his hearing loss was moderate to severe. Her advocacy, attention to detail, and willingness to accommodate speech therapy and specialist appointments have given our family priceless peace of mind. Paige’s genuine care, leadership, and commitment to inclusion make her an outstanding provider and an invaluable part of the Sioux Falls community.
Rachel Schuerman, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
My daughter loves spending time with Ms. Rachel. She always is excited to come to school and is always happy to see her. She goes the extra mile to make sure my daughter is safe, happy and always learning
Rosella Arias, Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills
Ms Ella is a diamond. From the first day my child got in her classroom she treated him like her own. She was kind, she was patient, she was loving and I watched my child’s confidence grow every day. She was an incredible teacher and he learned so much things that an average at that time 3 year old doesn’t know. He counted to almost 100, he was able to count by 10’s. His speech that we were worried about took off and he thrived in every way possible. His development was very quick and very satisfying to watch him thrive as fast as he did. When I would leave he never cried and he was happy and excited to be in her class. When I would log into the cameras even on the rough days the gentle nature I witnessed even through the cameras were cameras was astonishing. She is truly an asset in childcare and was so lucky to have her her passion for teaching and the kids is remarkable and she deserves the world at a minimum
Stephanie Genschorck, St. Michael’s
We are nominating Mrs. G for educator of the year award because she has such a great impact and presence on so many young kids as they begin their transition in to school and all the routines. We feel so blessed and see how she impacts our son in a positive way by keeping her classroom fun, seeing how much his knowledge has grown this year, and also voicing concerns or recommendations in a great way. It is nerve wracking sending your first kid off to school all day and wondering what he is up to and how he’s doing. Having Mrs. G as the teacher he is with all day we have always felt so safe and thankful for her. & With a pre-school room full of a lot of boys we are extra thankful for her guidance and patience!
Tarina Stroh, Central Baptist
Tarina is a phenomenal educator, and she sets a beautiful foundation for her students as they begin their education/school years. She has a heart of gold, and she is always willing to go the extra mile.
Theresa Senst, Dakota Kids
Theresa has been nothing but supportive from day one when we started with her. We had two bad experiences with daycare prior to switching to her and when we toured we could tell she was different and good. All her kiddos love her and st very happy to see her daily!
Beth Walton, The Purple Crayon Learning Center
Beth has been in childcare for most of her adult life. The children are always her top priority. She cares deeply for the kids & the importance that the care center environment plays in their lives. She goes over & above to make sure the staff & the kids are happy. I think it would be difficult to find someone more invested in their job & the children in her care.
Kelsey Zirbel, Christ Lutheran Church Daycare
I am nominating my wife because she has such a love for childcare. She spends so many hours working to better her center, between working 6-6, conferences and just going the extra mile for her staff. The Directors sometimes get “forgotten” in recognition but she deserves it. She has such a love for all the kids and getting to know them all on a personal level. She deserves her recognition because she always gives the credit to her team!
