'hood April 2023

Educator of the Year

Cait Haug

No gift is greater than an education.

To learn how to start saving today visit www.collegeaccess529.com.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses of the CollegeAccess 529 plan before investing. This and other important information is in the Plan Disclosure Statement, available at www.CollegeAccess529.com. Read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully before investing.

Before investing, you should consider whether your state of residency, or your intended beneficiary’s state of residency, offers a state tax deduction or any other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program.

The CollegeAccess 529 Plan is issued by the South Dakota Higher Education Savings Trust. The Program Manager and Underwriter for the CollegeAccess 529 Plan is VP Distributors, LLC, One Financial Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103, 800-243-4361.

Certain of the investment management firms that manage underlying mutual Funds in the Program, including Virtus Investment Advisers, Inc., are affiliated with the Program Manager.

Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial professional. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial professional. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details. State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota.

Notice: CollegeAccess 529 Plan accounts are not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state.

Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529

YOUR WORLD IN OUR HANDS

PRIMARY PEDIATRIC CARE

They are a bundle of energy, smiles and snuggles one minute and causing mischief the next. But you wouldn’t have it any other way. To help keep your little ones going at top speed, partner with a pediatrician from Sanford Health. Whether it’s a well-child check-up, a cold or a complex medical issue, we’re here for all your child’s health needs.

Find a pediatrician for your child at sanfordhealth.org

Education Issue

I am excited to celebrate our 10th year of Educator of the Year (EDOY). We are lucky to have excellent teachers in our schools and childcare settings who work countless hours and love being the person helping shape our future leaders. Our educators are doing what they love not for the money or the credit but because they love watching how far a child can grow in one year. Our 2023 winner, Mrs. Haug, has been a teacher for many years and always goes above and beyond for families! I have heard from many parents how hard childcare has been to find over the last couple of years, and I know many parents who have been on a waiting list since they found out they were pregnant. While this shortage is something that the community is working on, the ’hood team decided this year we should honor a childcare/preschool provider. We’re excited for you to meet this year’s winner, Tracy Robinson. This section starts on page 25.

Also in this issue, there are two local moms sharing articles. One story is from an educator’s perspective about breaking down barriers to support our youth. The other is a local executive who shares how she gives her daughter a different kind of education by exposing her to various organizations and business activities.

You will also find experts sharing resources and knowledge. There are three doctors in our Ask the Expert column sharing helpful advice. Laura from Your Nurtured Baby shares how she was looking for a baby spa for her daughter’s medical needs, and when there wasn’t one in our market, she took steps to make it happen for other families. And finally, we learn reasons you should visit Siouxland Libraries.

Our guide in this issue is all things education. While I know September is months away, spots fill up quickly for preschool and private school classes. In addition to those, we also have childcare and tutoring/lessons in this Education Guide, all starting on page 17.

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited. ‘Hood Magazine is published 9 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

©2023 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.

17 Education Guide

Childcare, Preschool, Private School, Tutoring & Lessons.

26 2023 Educator of the Year

Meet Cait Haug from Discovery Elementary.

28 2023 Childcare Provider of the Year

Meet Tracy Robinson from Robinson Family Daycare.

IN

8 Education through Experiences

Learning doesn’t just have to happen in the classroom but through life experiences.

12 Breaking Down Barriers

A local educator shares insight on how we can break down barriers for students.

25 Celebrating 10 Years

‘hood celebrates 10 years of honoring outstanding educators in the Sioux Empire.

What to Expect for a Newborn Session

Your little bundle is almost here! If you have been thinking about documenting those newborn moments, find out what you can expect in a newborn session from our cover photographer, S. Kay Photography!

Headquarters

Looking for local egg hunts or bunny appearances? Want some cute egg craft ideas and Easter recipes? We have it all! With dozens of Easter family fun events and years of fun ideas to do at home,

Easter Headquarters. Hop on over and take a look.

Community Sponsors. Thank you Our community experts, bringing advice and tips to our ‘hood community.

club

Discounted party packages? Free treats?

Exclusive coupons? The ‘hood Birthday Club is like no other for our Sioux Empire families. It’s not too late to sign up to join. Scan QR code to sign your child(ren) up today!

of Awesome Educators years 10

For the past 10 years we have been fortunate enough to celebrate and shine a light on amazing educators all over the Sioux Empire and surrounding towns. The privilege has been all ours, as we have been welcomed into schools, met families, and made lasting friendships.

Over this past decade we have been so inspired by the countless nominations of classroom teachers, principals, support staff, bus drivers, school nurses and more. To get to hear and witness how educators of all kinds have shaped and played a role in local children will forever be one of the favorite moments throughout each year.

Scan the QR code to take a look back at past winners and nominations. See any names you recognize?

beyond the pages

Find local directories, stories, recipes, extra articles and so much more. Find it all at www.thehoodmagazine.com.

Find upcoming events on our online calendar.

Education through

Experiences

Learning doesn’t just have to happen in the classroom but through life experiences. The world is changing rapidly, and it is increasingly essential to show young children unique life and career opportunities. From the day my daughter, Pearl, was born, I knew I wanted to show her everything I am involved in to give her a diverse view of what her life could be.

Here are a few things I have done with her over the years and some advice for parents wanting to give their children a similar experience.

• Being a part of a community is crucial, and it is important to surround children with people who can help them see potential and develop skill sets. Real-life situations show children what is out there. Furthermore, children need to learn how to rely on their community. It is okay not to have all the answers and teaching them how to ask for help early on is greatly beneficial.

• Volunteering at events can also be a great way to showcase new ideas and opportunities. Children can disarm people in a room, make them think differently, and set better examples. I love taking Pearl into big rooms and watching her thrive in that unique environment. Of course, parents must be careful about how visible their

children are to the public in terms of photos and appearances. If children have profound experiences growing up through community involvement, they are more likely to plant their roots and stay here.

• Parents can involve their children in small business activities and pass down the spirit of hard work, service, and community. They can also show their children what they know, exposing them to appropriate opportunities in the workplace and enrolling them in programs in our area like Junior Achievement, Girl Scouts/ Scouts, or EmBe programming.

Learning opportunities come in many ways, and taking the time to expose your children to all that life has to offer can only set them on a path to a fulfilling life. l

by Laura Hanson

From a Surprise Diagnosis to a New Business:

Our Journey to Helping Parents Nurture Their Babies

I was just weeks away from my 40th birthday when my husband, Tony, and I were expecting our first child together – the fourth in the mix. Because of my age, my OB suggested we meet with a genetic counselor. It felt like we were simply checking a box and getting a few extra ultrasound pictures of our sweet baby, so we opted in. We truly did not expect anything life-changing to come out of that visit.

Three weeks later, we received the results of our amnio via email. We accidentally found out we were having a girl (we were hoping not to discover her gender until birth) and that she would indeed be born with Down syndrome and a complete AVSD that would require open heart surgery within six to nine months. Our world came crumbling down around us.

Following an extremely stressful pregnancy, Mara Elaine joined our family in November 2020, and she is every bit of perfection.

About a month and a half after her birth, Mara entered heart failure sooner than expected. While waiting for Mayo to hear her case and be given a surgery date, we were searching for ways to help her. During Mara’s 3:00 a.m. tube feeding, I discovered infant massage and baby spas. I immediately texted it to Tony, who was on shift as a firefighter. Then, I texted it to my oldest daughter, Liz. What if we learned infant massage to help Mara? It’s great for helping babies with low muscle tone, low appetite, sleep, bonding, and simply to relax.

We met with a Certified Infant Massage Instructor at Mayo only a few weeks later. Because Mara was still intubated and the fact that infant massage is taught over four weekly sessions, we were

we returned to Sioux Falls, so Liz and I decided to take steps to become certified to teach parents. That turned into taking other courses and training, eventually leading us to open a beautiful baby spa and boutique called Your Nurtured Baby.

Your Nurtured Baby, we help parents navigate the first year and a half of the new baby’s life through infant massage education, water movement,

other education for parents and caregivers, and simply socialization. Liz and I love watching parents connect and share experiences and advice during classes. It truly is a place of no judgment –just support. All of this came about because of our sweet baby Mara.

Be sure to check us out at www.yournurturedbaby.com and consider joining us for Baby Day 2023 on April 29! Details can be found on our website and social media pages.

by Dawn Marie Johnson

Breaking Down Barriers

Access to education is one of the most powerful tools for upward mobility, but it remains a challenge for many of our youth. From working as a teacher at Joe Foss to my current work with the South Dakota Afterschool Network, I see firsthand how barriers such as poverty, lack of resources, and discrimination can make it difficult for young people to succeed. However, we can start breaking down these barriers as a community.

The first step is to provide exposure to different opportunities. Many kids may need to learn the vast range of possibilities available to them regarding schooling and careers. Exposure to different options allows them to broaden their horizons and see what is beyond their immediate surroundings.

“When children are encouraged to explore and imagine, they are more likely to see education as an opportunity rather than a chore.

Various academic and community organizations are working to provide kids with opportunities to explore future options well before graduation. For example, the Sioux Falls School District allows students to earn up to credit hours for job shadowing, allowing youth to explore potential careers before making post-graduation decisions. Organizations like The Promising Futures Fund are working on curating experiences for youth that expose them to post-secondary institutions and art and cultural programs.

Another critical factor is allowing them to dream and nurture their curiosity. When children are encouraged to explore and imagine, they are more likely to see education as an opportunity rather than a chore. Nurturing children’s curiosity starts from day one. When students reach school age, afterschool programs provide an environment that enhances and expands on skills taught in the classroom. According to the Afterschool Alliance, afterschool programs provide kids with hands-on learning, a place to explore new interests, grow communication skills, work collaboratively, and foster a sense of self-confidence.

Simply giving time and attention can be incredibly valuable to a By valuing experiences over possessions, families can instill a love of learning in their children. There is a population of youth who come from broken homes or are already on their own; for these youth and many others, mentorship is another powerful tool. Sometimes, all young people need is someone to call on when they need guidance or support. Having a mentor can make all the difference. You can take the first step to a mentor relationship by learning more about programs like Sioux 52, which works to pair mentors and mentees to create mutually beneficial one-to-one relationships that build a stronger community.

Financial barriers can also be a significant obstacle. Some kids must drop out of school to work and support their families. It is essential to provide alternative ways of support to help these kids stay in school and build a better future for themselves and their families. These unique situations require a unique solution. The Joe Foss program in the Sioux Falls School District allows students the flexibility to finish coursework at their pace while also completing internships and holding full-time employment.

By working together, we can help all young people have access to the education they need to succeed. l

Expert Ask the

Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.

soon as they appear in the mouth. When the first tooth erupts, use a small toothbrush or wash cloth to clean the teeth. As more teeth erupt, a parent can graduate to more of a traditional toothbrush for their child. Brush and floss twice daily. This establishes healthy dental habits and routines early.

How do you make going to the dentist not so scary for kids?

I strive to engage kids by asking questions that interest them. Sometimes we sing songs or tell jokes, whatever it takes to help the child feel comfortable. It also doesn’t hurt to have cartoons playing with a comfortable blanket while in the dental chair.

Gulbranson Developmental Optometrist

Can hidden vision problems block learning?

When children continue to struggle with reading and learning despite all best efforts to help them, it can be very difficult to figure out what is needed.

Eye coordination problems are often at the root of a child’s struggles with learning. Unfortunately, the struggles can easily be mistaken for learning difficulties, behavior and attention problems.

Children don’t know how they are supposed to see, so the only way they can tell you they have a vision problem is with their behavior.

The most common signs include a short attention span when reading, poor reading comprehension, and homework taking longer than it should.

A developmental vision evaluation by one of our doctors could open the door to your child’s success.

3305 S Lincoln Ave

Sioux Falls, SD 57105

www.legacydds.com

605-339-1381

6201 S. Minnesota Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57108

www.sdvisions.com

605-274-6717

Dr. Harley Martinmaas Owner/Chiropractor

Should I take my child to a Chiropractor?

The short answer is yes! Just like for adults, Chiropractic helps the body to heal from the inside out. Each stage of a child’s life come with it’s own challenges. We see many babies for latching issues, colic, infantile reflux, and even difficulty sleeping.

For toddlers, we see more issues with crawling or walking. For older kids behavioral problems, ear infections, and bed wetting issues.

We deliver a gentle and specific adjustment to the spine to help restore proper function of the nervous system, which helps the body to heal and feel better. It all starts with a consultation to see what is going on with your child and to see how we can help!

3801 W 34th Street, Suite 105 Sioux Falls, SD 57106

www.balancedlifesd.com 605-215-1785

Visions Eye Care + Therapy Center

Dr. Angela

Balanced Life Chiropractic

5 Secrets for Early Learners

at Siouxland Libraries

Teaching your child to read doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The mission of Siouxland Libraries is to connect residents of Sioux Falls and Minnehaha County to resources to make learning engaging and fun from birth to kindergarten—all free with a library card!

1. Check out Specialty Books

There are hundreds of titles in Siouxland Libraries’ community-built collection, commented Mateja Barrett, mom of four who frequents the Downtown Library. Wonderbooks are among her children’s favorites.

2. Audio Books

Mother of four, Felicia Stout, has worked to create an “atmosphere of education” in her home. She does this by letting her children listen to stories they check out on Libby and Hoopla with their library cards.

3. Check out a Reading Kit and Toys

Siouxland Libraries created kits designed to help beginning readers develop and practice core reading skills such as background knowledge, comprehension, decoding, and fluency at home. In addition, Siouxland Libraries partners with Toy Lending Library to provide educational toys for ages birth and up.

“From a kid’s perspective, you have everything,“ Matt Chicoine, Oak View Branch patron, said.

“The toys are great to check out, especially if you can’t afford toys or are looking for new ones.”

4. Storytimes and Programming

Siouxland Libraries offers programs for children ages birth to five. Each storyteller receives extensive training to educate children on phonological awareness, vocabulary, background knowledge, print conventions, and letter knowledge.

5. A Family Librarian

Stout says the most life-changing library service is her family’s relationship with Caille Branch’s Brianna Leesch, library associate.

“We love her. She’s our personal family librarian. We call her the ‘Stout Librarian,’” Stout said. “She knows my kids because we’ve been visiting this library for eight years. She’s seen them all grow up and will make recommendations to Abby on different book series.”

“Siouxland Libraries has everything a family needs to take their child from square one to reading success. With a library card, get your child reading and ready for school with 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. Sign up your early learner at http://bit.ly/1000BooksSiouxland

Setting them up for lifelong success.

Our childcare programs facilitate each child’s social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Whether you choose our traditional preschool curriculum, Spanish Immersion, or KinderCollege, start your child’s early education here. EmBe.org

“Our goal is for each student to leave our school with confidence in their abilities, a sense of joy in their hearts and a feeling of security that they are growing to be their best self and reach their fullest potential.”

- Julie Kolbeck, Principal, Christ the King Elementary

Education Guide

Welcome to the 2023 ‘hood Education Guide. Learning starts at daycare, is enhanced at preschool, and continues through private school, lessons, and tutoring. Children and families in our community are fortunate to have many diverse educational opportunities to explore and grow in their learning.

CHILDCARE

Creator’s Kids

www.creatorskids.com

Creator’s Kids offers care for 6 weeks to 6 years. We provide more personalized care with lower ratios and smaller class sizes, healthier food

EmBe

www.Embe.org

At EmBe, your child’s social, emotional, and physical well-being is our greatest priority. Our comprehensive child development programs facilitate growth and development, through tailored classrooms and educational activities. We invite you to tour the EmBe childcare centers and learn more about our safe and caring environment for children. Call today!

PRESCHOOL

EmBe

www.Embe.org

Our childcare programs facilitate each child’s social, physical, and intellectual development, setting them up for lifelong success. EmBe’s childcare centers offer a safe space for your children to grow. Whether you choose the traditional preschool curriculum, Spanish Immersion, or KinderCollege, EmBe will meet each student right where they’re at.

The Graham Academy Preschool

Washington Pavilion

www.WashingtonPavilion.org/preschool

Imagine a program developed for the whole child - using investigation and play to explore the areas of science, technology, engineering, art and math. Our curriculum stimulates confidence, creativity and encourages critical thinking skills through project-based investigations. We provide unique experiences at the Washington Pavilion to create a one-of-akind preschool experience.

Blessed Redeemer Lutheran Preschool

www.blessedredeemer.com

Blessed Redeemer Preschool, established in 1995, provides an environment of Christian love where preschool-aged children may experience the love and forgiveness of Christ, be taught basic skills and knowledge in preparation for kindergarten, and have the opportunity to grow socially and emotionally by applying the truths of the Christian faith.

Apple Tree Learning Centers

https://appletreechildren.org

Our mission is to provide exceptional care, nurture, and age-appropriate learning opportunities in the context of a Christ-centered worldview. Our lesson plans are created following the SD Early Learning Guidelines and the Funshine curriculum, with preschool held throughout the day. Our tuition prices include wrap-around care for the entire day.

Creator’s Kids

www.creatorskids.com

Creator’s Kids preschool program has small classes of up to 8 kids with 1 teacher. We rotate between 6 rooms themed after the seven days of creation to explore new toys and activities. Our Experience curriculum provides hands on activities and ensures each child is more than ready for kindergarten!

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

www.ogknights.org/admissions/ myschoolwhy

The journey begins at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools! Our preschool programs create a faith-filled, supportive and developmentally appropriate learning environment through structured activities, creative play and hands-on learning. For more reasons “WHY?” our students and parents of all faiths choose our schools, visit our website. Enrollment is open now!

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

www.kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills

At KRK, children are “Hugged First, Then Taught.” Our proprietary, research-based Fast Track curriculum for preschool is nationally recognized by the National Association for Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and paired with our highly trained staff provides the perfect environment for your child to be successful, healthy, and happy.

Trinity Lutheran Preschool

www.teatrinity.org

Teachers will provide activities that are ageappropriate, and interest driven. Learning outcomes will enhance a child’s spiritual, social-emotional, physical and intellectual development. Our Mission is to establish a foundation of faith for children to build upon throughout their lifetime.

Tues/Thurs 3/4-yr class 8:30 to 11:00

M/W/F Pre-K 8:30 to 11:30

Discovery Learning Center

www.discoverylearningcentersd.com

Every child matters and every child learns differently, so we teach in various ways to boost their self-esteem. Discovery teaches with thematic units, hands-on experiences, and play. Each week we have a new theme in which we integrate math, language arts, science, social studies, and STEM making learning fun.

Peace Lutheran Preschool & Pre-K

www.peacelutheran.com/preschool

Peace Lutheran Preschool and Pre-K strives to provide a safe, loving, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, explore, play, create and discover all that God’s great big world has to offer them, all while creating a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

PRIVATE SCHOOL

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

www.ogknights.org/admissions/ myschoolwhy

At Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, faith and education go hand-in-hand and character is developed through perseverance and service. For more reasons “WHY?” our students and parents of all faiths choose Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, visit our website. Enrollment is open now!

Sioux Falls Lutheran School

www.siouxfallslutheran.com

Established as a preschool in 1977, SFLS now serves over 425 children ranging in age from infancy through 12th grade. Our faculty and staff operate as a family and are committed to our mission of developing capable, Christian servant-leaders in a complex world who are world ready and faith secure.

Field trips and special speakers are also used to enhance the educational experience. Our teachers help each child become an individual who is aware of their abilities and who can focus on their own strengths. Stop in and check out our program and teachers anytime!

No appointment necessary.

Mathnasium of Sioux Falls helps parents who care about their child’s success in math by creating a plan for their child that cultivates confidence, knowledge, & success.

TUTORING & LESSONS

Library Early Learning Resources

www.siouxlandlib.org/Kids/early-learningprograms

Up Tempo Music Lessons

www.uptempolessons.com

Music lessons kids love! At Up Tempo Music Lessons, your child can learn guitar, piano, and drums. Watch them grow into confident musicians as they progress through this fun and results-driven program. Kids as young as four years old can start learning music and even perform in our one-of-a-kind concerts!

Learning to read comes before reading to learn. No child should grow up without knowing how to read. Use Siouxland Libraries’ learning resources to get your child reading and learning.

BritZa Performing Arts Studio

www.britzaperformingarts.com

Come and join the fun at BritZa Performing Arts Studio! Our team of talented and enthusiastic instructors will help your child develop their artistic skills, confidence, and creativity. We offer a variety of programs teaching dance, theatre, and vocals. Class offerings range from 18 months to adults!

Our Dakota Dreams

www.OurDakotaDreams.com

When your student needs a little support, put down your pencil and pick up your laptop. Our Dakota Dreams offers online tutoring in math, science, English and social studies. It’s free, it’s simple, and it’s open to all K–12 students in South Dakota. No appointment needed.

Scan to view our 2023 Education Guide on our website.

IF YOU CARE LEAVE IT THERE

Abiding Savior Academy

www.abidingacademy.org

What if the purpose of education is soul formation rather than career placement? Abiding Savior Academy offers an academically-rigorous classical Christian education that seeks to cultivate in students a lifetime love of learning and eternal love of the Lord. Call 371-1876 to schedule a tour!

OUTDOOR CAMPUS

Sioux Falls Lutheran School

www.siouxfallslutheran.com

Established as a preschool in 1977, SFLS now serves over 425 children ranging in age from infancy through 12th grade. Our faculty and staff operate as a family and are committed to our mission of developing capable, Christian servant-leaders in a complex world who are world ready and faith secure.

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

www.ogknights.org/admissions/belong

We provide your child with an engaging environment in which they will grow in their knowledge and faith. We encourage our students to explore their interests with a supportive community by their side. Enrollment is open now! Flexible preschool options available!

Celebrating 10 Years

Educator of the Year

If we had to choose one thing that we are most grateful for at ’hood, it would be the people that help us raise our kids: our teachers, educators, and childcare providers.

Most parents learned how imperative these heroes are when we went through the beginning of the pandemic when schools and daycares closed. It is something we’ve known all along, and why we’re on our 10th year of celebrating educators through our Educator of the Year award.

We’ve had hundreds of nominations come in throughout the years. The stories from you, our parent readers, about one special person’s impact on your child and family’s life are always inspirational to read. It’s not just the great teachers but also the school bus drivers, counselors, lunchroom staff, principals, assistants, and anyone interacting with our children during the school

day. We are thankful to be a part of helping celebrate and honor them.

This year, ’hood added a new category: Childcare/ Preschool Provider of the Year. While our Educator of the Year focuses on JK-6th grade, this new category celebrates those caring for our littles and early learners. These caregivers and teachers get to deal with not only the chaos that comes with kids but diaper changes and using scissors for the first time. We see you, and we thank you.

To learn more about our awards, winners, and nominees throughout the years, visit www.thehoodmagazine.com or scan the QR code. l

Educator of the Year

Cait Haug

Kindergarten Teacher, Discovery Elementary

It takes a village to raise kids, but the same is true about creating great teachers. Mrs. Cait Haug was in complete shock when the ‘hood and Sanford fit teams, along with her family and school staff, surprised to congratulate her on being the 2023 ‘hood Educator of the Year.

In the true spirit of kindness, she pointed to a mentor’s guidance that helped shape her.

“I was blessed to have an amazing mentor, Jean Banek, and she had a huge role in the teacher I am today,” Mrs. Haug said.

Mrs. Haug has been a teacher for 12 years and still loves the energy and excitement of a kindergarten

class. She said, “My favorite part of teaching kindergarten is the amount of growth they make in a year. Some students may not even know their letters in September and leave my room in May writing stories that are multiple pages long!” They have fun, too, and she noted that her students are still at an age where they think she is funny and can be goofy with them.

During the award presentation, the kids explored the items provided by Sanford part of the class’s calm-down corner. The Discovery Elementary counselors have prioritized teaching all students about their mindfulness and Zones of Regulation. Mrs. Haug shared that her students love incorporating these new tools into their classroom. “Exceptional educators make an impact on the wellbeing of students every day through creativity, empathy, and passion,” said Amy Baete, Director at Sanford fit. “Mrs. Haug embodies these qualities in her classroom to ensure every student feels welcomed, valued, and motivated to learn. Our team at Sanford Haug and provide her with new classroom cozy corner supplies and learning tools to nurture the social and emotional development of her students.”

Winning Nomination

“Mrs. Haug changes lives. She colors the world for new learners (and their families) and believes every child has the potential to move the biggest mountains. Cait opens up her classroom, loves our children like her own, meets them where they are (emotionally, academically, socially, etc.), and engages every single child in a way that makes them believe they’re unstoppable. When my son was in Kindergarten, he got very ill. He was absent for over a month of school after a diagnosis with an autoimmune sickness. He may not have been in the classroom but she never let my sick, sad little boy miss anything. The darkest time in his life was brightened by her shining light. Her profession is not a job, it’s a calling. She takes the time to know the kids and love them. In a world full of tests and data, her classroom sparkles with individualized education. A safe place for kids from all backgrounds, walks of life, and stories to come and feel cared about. Mrs. Haug is the teacher parents pray for. And we thank God for all ways she’s changed our lives! ”

- Erica (mom) and Elias (1st grade)

Pictured to the left: Cait with her husband Nick, her parents and children. Pictured above: Kelsey Wollmuth, Cait, Dan Fischer and Chris Kirschman.

Pictured above: Cait with the Sanford fit team.

presents our 2023

Childcare & Preschool Provider of the Year

Tracy Robinson Robinson Family Daycare

Some days it can be challenging to get your kids out the door. Imagine a dozen little ones under five going to the grocery store to pick out food to donate to those in need or volunteering at a local nonprofit.

Those are just a few reasons why the 2023 Childcare and Preschool Provider of the Year, Tracy Robinson, was nominated by multiple parents from her daycare.

“Unconditional love,” “trust,” and “selfless” are just a few of the words used in her nominations.

Tears came when the ‘hood and Sanford fit teams, along with the nominating parents, showed up to surprise Tracy. She said she has never done it for recognition but to be a helping hand to her families. “Many parents have a limited amount of time with their kids between picking them up and bedtime, so I want to ensure I’m giving the kids

plenty of experiences during the day, so parents don’t need to feel guilty,” Tracy said.

Over the 20 years that Tracy has cared for children, she has stayed in touch with most of them. “I get asked to attend their events, shows, and graduations. Their family has become my family,” she added. Even outside of care, Tracy and the parents get together for fun and bonding, like going to games. Support systems are essential for parents, and Tracy helps guide and connect her families. “Seasoned moms share their stories and advice. I wouldn’t have had that and the wealth of knowledge about parenting without Tracy,” said Teresa, one of the nominators. Ann, another nominator, added, “She celebrates all the wins and helps navigate the trials.”

Ashley, another nominating mom, sums it up: “Tracy deserves this because she is not just a good daycare provider; she is a good human.”

Congratulations to the 2023 ‘hood Educator and Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year nominees in the Sioux Empire. To read all the nominations, visit www.thehoodmagazine.com or scan this QR code.

Other Nominees

Aaron Munce

6th Grade Teacher

Abiding Savior Academy

Alyssa Avery

Preschool/Pre-K

Peace Lutheran Preschool & Pre-K

Amanda Bork

Resource Teacher

John Harris Elementary

Amanda Wiltse

Mobile Infant Room

Bright Eyes Daycare

Amy Miller

Jr. Kindergarten Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Angie Olsen

Head Preschool Teacher

The Sandlot Preschool Academy

Ashley Markley

Early Preschool

Bright Eyes Daycare

Dr. Brad Bierle

Principal

Abiding Savior Academy

Carla Tibbetts

4th & 5th Grade Teacher

Abiding Savior Academy

Dayleen Swanson

3 Year Old Preschool

Gloria Dei Preschool

DeAnna Dreesman Director

Peace Lutheran Preschool & Pre-K

Delaney Zahnley

Toddler Room

Bright Eyes Daycare

Dena DenHerder

K-6 Music Teacher

Lincoln Elementary, Yankton

Desiree Burggraaf

Lead RISE Teacher

Ben Reifel Middle School

Destinee VanGerpen

Team Lead / Toddler 2

La Petite Academy

Ellen Weber

1st Grade Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Emily Rasmussen

Kindergarten Teacher

Inspiration Elementary

Esther Crandall

SPED Teacher

Liberty Elementary

Heather Miller

3 Year Old Preschool

Sioux Falls Lutheran

Jennifer Fenicle

Lead Daycare

In-Home Daycare

Jennifer Pearson

2nd Grade Teacher

Abiding Savior Academy

Jess Snyder School Administrator

605 Prep

Jody Holt

2nd Grade Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Joseph Thompson

Jr. Kindergarten

Truks-N-Trykes Playcare

Julie Reiter

PE Teacher

Fred Assam Elementary

Justin Pudenz

3rd Grade Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Kelly Powell

Kindergarten Teacher

John F. Kennedy Elementary

Megan Finnicum

2nd Grade PL Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Megan Schneider

1st Grade Teacher

Explorer Elementary

Mel Wehrkamp

Teacher and Owner

Little Wings Preschool

Rachael Hakl

Kindergarten Teacher

West Central Elementary

Sarah Smith

3rd Grade Teacher

Frontier Elementary

Shelly Bryant Logue

Preschool Curriculum Planner

Bright Eyes Daycare

Shelly Enger

3 & 4 Year Old Preschool Teacher

Central Preschool & Kindergarten

Shelly Ziebell

Kindergarten Teacher St. Michael Elementary

Stephanie Graff

2nd Grade Teacher

Montrose Elementary

Susan Foster Principle

Fred Assam Elementary

Tammy Cooper-Moser

1st Grade Teacher

Abiding Savior Academy

Tasha Jensen Teacher

Blessed Redeemer Preschool

Theresa Fischer

1st Grade Teacher

Journey Elementary

Tina Schneider

5th Grade Teacher

Baltic Elementary

Victor Naranjo

Kindergarten Teacher

Sonia Sotomayor Elementary

From the experts at Sanford fit

Make Meaningful Connections With Kids

Life can get busy and stressful. As caregivers trying to juggle it all, sometimes we forget our kids also experience their own big feelings and stressors. It is important to take time to check in with our children. Here are a few ideas on how you can give your kids a little extra TLC to help them feel seen and heard in day-to-day life.

Communication is key

If your child can read, leave them a note in their lunch box, in their room, or on the bathroom mirror to let them know that you’re thinking of them and available to talk anytime. For non-readers, you can draw a heart or a special image to let them know that you’re thinking about them.

Share some positivity

Make the most of travel time or dinners together by sharing everyone’s favorite part of their day. Being mindful of the good things that happen during the day can help your kids open up and look for positives in their day-to-day life.

Add a few of their favorite things

Tell your child that their favorite lunch is packed or you have time to play their favorite game. It truly is the little things that make the day better, no matter your age.

For more ideas, scan the code below and check out the full article.

After-school homework help made easy.

When your student needs a little support, put down your pencil and pick up your laptop. Our Dakota Dreams offers online tutoring in math, science, English and social studies. It’s free, it’s simple, and it’s open to all K–12 students in South Dakota.

With no appointment needed, it’s a real no-brainer.

OurDakotaDreams.com

Visit or scan the QR code to get started.