‘A DOER, THROUGH AND THROUGH’ M State early childhood program founder and director, Susan TenEyck-Stafki, is an innovative and tireless advocate for kids, families and educators BY DAWN DUNCAN For Luminous
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usan TenEyck-Stafki is a regional standout in the realm of early childhood education. A local leader, anchor and visionary in the field, she has throughout her 30-year career continually sought ways to innovate, pivot and strategize for the benefit of kids, families and early childhood educators. Even as the industry has been battered by budget cuts, staffing shortages, high turnover, space restrictions and myriad other issues, she has remained firmly grounded in her mission to serve young children. Well known across the region for her founding role and continuing directorship of M State’s early childhood program, TenEyck-Stafki is also the executive director of Children’s Corner in Fergus Falls and
recently launched an early childhood studies program with Perham High School, among many other leadership efforts. “Susan is one of the hardestworking, committed child care center directors that I have had the privilege to know,” says Kay Heidrich, a colleague and friend who runs a child care center in Moorhead. “She is an ever-ready listening ear for those directors who are struggling, and offers compassion and support. She is committed to teaching and practicing best practices in our field, has committed her life and all of her energy toward making sure that families and communities have quality child care options, and tirelessly advocates at the local and state level to improve services.”
With the pandemic shining a light on the importance of quality child care and the need for more government support for it, Heidrich adds that now is a critical time to be having conversations about early childhood education, and TenEyck-Stafki, “works to inform policymakers and tell the story of child care in our communities. She is a true professional in every sense of the word.” TenEyck-Stafki’s passion for education goes far back: she was just six years old when she first told her mother that she wanted to be a teacher. And while most of her peers wavered on their plans over the years, she stayed committed and passionate, excited to one day be an educator.
Susan TenEyck-Stafki is a local pillar of early childhood education. She’s pictured above, at left, with her husband Shawn, who’s also an educator, and, at right, with members of the West Central Child Care Directors Association and Senator Kent Eken. All Photos Submitted By Susan TenEyck-Stafki / Luminous 6 | LUMINOUS 2021
