'hood Magazine April 2024

‘hood

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

Childcare Provider of the Year

Educator of the Year

Principal Susan Foster

Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529

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.

Saturday, June 1st 9am-2pm

Get ready for family fun this June! Local families will be cruising the Sioux Empire and visiting local businesses to take part in fun activities and, of course, win prizes! Fancy the Unicorn is back! She’s excited to spread her rainbow unicorn joy all through the community leading up to the Familyfest Fun Cruise!

Trauma-Focused Treatment is a service designed for children and adolescents ages 4-17 and their families who have been impacted by traumatic events. Treatment can be delivered at our location or via telehealth.

Traumatic events can include: parent separation or divorce, death of someone close, abuse or neglect of any kind, witness of violence, family substance abuse or mental illness, medical challenges, grief, bullying, disasters and more.

In a child, trauma can look like: Behavior changes including temper tantrums, meltdowns, crying, and difficulty separating from trusted adults. Can also include regression including bed wetting, loss of self-help skills, learning difficulties, and changes in personality or temperment.

Volunteers of America, Dakotas is here to help guide children and their families with traumafocused treatment.

Education Issue

I am excited to celebrate our 11th year of Educator of the Year (EDOY). We are fortunate to have dedicated and passionate educators in our schools and childcare settings who work tirelessly to shape our future leaders. Our educators are doing what they love, not for the money or the credit, but because of their passion for teaching and their love for their students. Our 2024 winner, Ms. Foster, has been a principal for 23 years and always goes above and beyond for families! Once we contacted the school about Ms. Foster winning, they went to work to prepare an all-school surprise for her! It was exciting to witness the moment when Fred Assam’s students surprised her by yelling out that she had won this year! The best part was that Ms. Foster assisted us in surprising our winner in 2020, Angie Olson!

Last year, we introduced our Preschool/Childcare Provider of the Year Award. We know childcare is hard to find right now, and these providers work countless hours shaping our future leaders in their early years! We’re excited for you to meet this year’s winner, Mrs. Brinkman. When we walked into her classroom at Sioux Falls Lutheran, we knew the nominations described her perfectly! To learn more about our EDOY and Preschool/Childcare Provider Award winners, check out page 25.

Four local businesses are sharing their WHY in this issue. Our friends at Safesplash have compiled a chart of stats about swim safety, which is critical as we head into the summer months.

Our guide in this issue is all things education. Check out all the great childcare, preschool, private schools, tutoring, and lesson options we have in the area. Make sure to go online to check out our full list of area options!

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

‘hood

April 2024

COVER STORIES

17 Education Guide

Childcare, Preschool, Non-Public School, Tutoring, and Lessons

26 2024 Educator of the Year

Meet Principal Susan Foster

28 2024 Preschool/Childcare Provider of the Year

Meet Sara Brinkman

IN THIS ISSUE

14 Navigating the College Major Conversation

IN EVERY ISSUE

7 Calendar ‘hood Featured Events

Ask the Expert

Cassandra Brown

The Pelican School

Ashley Gentrup

Visions Eye Care + Therapy Center

Colton Eckstrand

Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House & Aquarium

FEATURES

8 Finding the Perfect Fit: EmBe Education Preschool Programs Made Easy

Sponsored by EmBe

9 Find Safety and Joy Around Water: SafeSplash Swimming Lessons

Sponsored by SafeSplash

10 Nurturing Our Future: Providing Love to the Children and Families of Sioux Falls

Sponsored by Kids’ R’ Kids

13 Move U-Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Sponsored by Move U

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

‘hood Online

Easy Afterschool Snacks

The end of the school year is approaching fast! With all the extra running around outside in the spring weather, your kids might be extra hungry after school each day. Check out these easy and healthy afterschool snacks your kids are sure to enjoy.

Weekend Travel: Twin Cities

The Twin Cities is a perfect destination for a weekend away! With plenty of family attractions, outstanding parks, great spots to eat, and more, your family will love spending time there. Check out our online guide to help you plan some family fun in the Twin Cities.

Bike Safety

Tips

It’s officially time to bring the bikes out of winter storage! Enjoying a spring bike ride is fun for the whole family, but do so safely. Stay safe while riding, and make sure to refresh your knowledge of bike safety. Check out our tips online!

you! Make your own facemasks and enjoy quality time together without breaking the bank—all while giving your skin a bit of love!

FEATURED EVENTS

The Sioux Falls area is full of fun family events! Check out some of our favorite upcoming events below. For a complete list of all the area events, check out our online Calendar by scanning the QR code!

april

The Premier Playhouse presents: Experience great local theater and a very entertaining show. whole family will enjoy. Oklahoma! Orpheum Theater Center

1121 May

30 - 1 MAY

Annie Washington Pavilion

family. Enjoy at night at the theater, taking in a story that generations have loved.

4

Baby Day 2024

Icon Lounge

Come out to Icon Lounge and meet the best in the baby business, hosted by Your Nurtured Baby. Learn about the resources available in the Sioux Falls Area and check out great vendors.

The BEST event calendar for Families in the Sioux Empire. New events added daily!

Holding TO FREEDOM

PRESENTEDBY

Sioux Falls

Keynote

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

Rick Green

Finding the Perfect Fit :

EmBe Education Preschool Programs Made Easy

EmBe Education is all about uplifting your child’s natural brilliance. When it comes to choosing the right preschool, they’ve got three fantastic options that cater to every child’s unique strengths.

At EmBe Education, they believe every child is born bright, and their mission is to nurture and bring out that inherent intelligence. The focus is on quality education, personalized attention, and creating a warm sense of belonging. Sarah Meagher, Director of Curriculum and Licensing, encapsulates this ethos: “At EmBe Education, we believe in the brilliance inherent in every child. Our curriculum is designed to bring out this brilliance and empower children to thrive in a nurturing environment.”

EmBe’s Recipe for Success:

1. Intentional Teaching: EmBe Education delivers a curriculum that promotes curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. From birth, children are supported and encouraged to reach their potential and are set up for success in Kindergarten.

2. Character Development: EmBe’s curriculum guides kids through self-discovery, understanding others, and appreciating their impact on the community. It’s not just education; it’s about developing well-rounded individuals.

3. Consistency is Key: EmBe Education builds intentional learning environments that allow teachers to be highly engaged with children. Consistency throughout learning spaces helps children feel at home and welcomed.

Preschool Delights:

EmBe offers three play-based programs for Preschool enrichment.

1. Traditional Preschool: learning is the focus here. EmBe’s Traditional Preschool sets the foundation for academic and social development.

2. KinderCollege: growth, and a love for learning are center stage. It’s about setting kids up for a successful, challenging, and joyful educational journey.

3. Spanish Immersion: Learn Spanish and embrace diversity. EmBe’s Spanish Immersion program teaches a new language and creates an enriching environment for every child.

Celebrating Achievements

Enroll your child in EmBe Education, and watch them flourish. This promise includes a strong foundation in academics, character, and physical development. Families experience a supportive community feeling, and graduates carry a love for learning and robust social skills into the future. l

& JOY SAFETY AROUND WATER

SafeSplash Swimming Lessons

3 LOCATIONS

SafeSplash offers three locations in the Sioux Falls Area.

FLEXIBILITY

Switch lesson location and time as needed for your convenience.

A weekly SafeSplash lesson in a 90-degree pool is 30 minutes long

88%

The National Institute of Health (NIH) reports that learning to swim can help reduce a child's risk of drowning by up to 88%

According to the Academy of Pediatrics

DROWNING #1 for kids 1-4 #3 for kids 5 and up

is the leading cause of death in children

HOW MANY STUDENTS PER INSTRUCTOR?

1 to 4 students based on lesson types listed below

70% of childhood drownings happen during non-swim times and 88% of child drownings occur with at least 1 adult present

WHO IS THIS FOR?

Everyone is welcome! Safesplash offers lessons for babies to adults

LEARN TO SWIM TIME EXPECTATIONS

5-7 MONTHS

10-14 MONTHS

18-24 MONTHS for Private (1:1) Lessons for Semi-Private (2:1) Lessons for Group (4:1) Lessons

Unlock a lifetime of water safety, adventure, and joy in and around water by learning to swim

Visit us at: safesplash.com/locations/sioux-falls-sd for

OurNurturingFuture:

Providing Love to the Children and Families of Sioux Falls

As the proud owner of Kids’ R’ Kids Learning Academy of Prairie Hills, I’m thrilled to share our story. You might wonder how I ended up in the world of early childhood education, but the answer is simple – a desire to offer families a high-quality childcare option that goes beyond the norm.

“Parent Testimonial

Coming to Kids ‘R’ Kids has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my children, and they have flourished in the time they have spent there in so many ways. They always have so much fun while learning, are eager to go, and I know that they are in a safe, clean, and most of all caring environment when they cannot be with me. And that, to me, is worth its weight in gold. Seriously, I cannot thank Mike and his staff enough. Their dedication to providing a nurturing and enriching environment with their philosophy of “hug first, then teach” really sets them above all of the rest in the quality of care and education they provide.”

Picture this: a place where love is not just a word but a daily practice. It’s the essence of our Academy, the driving force behind every decision we make. I’ve always believed that love isn’t just an emotion; it’s a powerful catalyst for learning and development. When children feel loved and secure, they’re more likely to explore, learn, and grow with confidence.

The idea for my wife and I to bring Kids ‘R’ Kids to Sioux Falls was born out of the overwhelming need for another trustworthy and loving childcare facility in our community. Parents needed another place where they could leave their little ones with peace of mind, knowing they’d receive the same level of love and care as they do at home.

To build trust with our families, we’ve incorporated features that prioritize safety, transparency, and constant connection. Our Academy is made with all-glass walls that ensure safety and allow students to see all the friends and teachers in the building, making it as if we have no strangers in our Academy.

more critical than ever. That’s why we’ve set up a live camera feed accessible through your mobile device. You can witness your child’s moments of joy, curiosity, and achievement in real time, fostering a deeper connection between home and our Academy. It’s about creating an environment where parents feel involved in their child’s daily

Our curriculum, carefully tailored for all age groups, is designed to nurture each child’s development. From the youngest infants to the oldest school-age kids, we’ve created an enriching atmosphere where learning seamlessly blends with play. We want every child to hit those developmental milestones while having a blast along

Kids’ R’ Kids Learning Academy of Prairie Hills isn’t just a place for childcare; it’s a testament to the love and dedication poured into each child’s growth. As the owner, my commitment is unwavering – to provide a nurturing space where children flourish, families trust, and love permeates every corner. So, here’s to shaping the future, one

To learn more about our Academy, or to schedule a tour, please visit us at kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills

- Pediatric Occupational Therapy

- Sensory Processing Integration

- Development & Coordination

- Emotional Regulation

- Attention & Behavior

- Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention in Tics (CBIT)

Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Limited time offer - $99 New Client Appointment

Embracing the role of a parent comes with unique challenges, and at Move U, we understand the pressure to provide answers and support for our children. However, we believe your primary job is to love your child(ren) as they are, fostering joy in their lives. When additional support is

to assisting children with specific diagnoses, behavioral struggles, or developmental milestones.

Meet our team of certified pediatric occupational therapists, including Kristin Wittmayer, MS, OTR/L, and Taylor Lee OTD, OTR/L. Proudly, they are two of only three providers in the state certified in DIR Floortime ®, a core practice that meets children where they are. Our non-traditional approach blends fun, movement, and highly skilled interventions into each session. Kristin, our clinical director, holds the esteemed title of being one of nine providers globally with the STAR mentored level II clinician certification. The foundation of our practice is built on Kristin’s expertise, translated into enjoyable, playful sessions that create effective brain changes in each child.

For a limited time, we’re offering our 1-hour long new client appointment for $99 (Normally $210).

Move U is the right fit for your child and family. As a cash-based practice, we accept various payment methods, including cash, check, card, HSA, or FSA.

Our knowledgeable team is ready to be your healthcare ally, assisting your child in overcoming challenges and supporting you in navigating parenthood.

Reach out!

Call (605) 409-9533 or visit us online at TheMoveU.com to start your journey with Move U.

by ‘hood Staff

Navigating the College Major Conversation

As your child embarks on the journey of higher education, one of the pivotal decisions they’ll face is choosing a college major. For many parents, broaching this topic with their child can be both exciting and daunting. How do you navigate this conversation effectively? How can you offer guidance without imposing your own expectations?

Here are some tips to help you navigate the college major conversation with your child:

Start the Conversation Early

Begin discussing college majors early in your child’s high school years. Encourage them to try new things, volunteer, job shadow, and explore any interests that they have. These years are the perfect opportunity to see where your student thrives.

Explore Their Interests and Strengths

Help your child identify their interests, passions, and strengths. Encourage them to reflect on their experiences, hobbies, academic subjects they enjoy, and extracurricular activities they’re involved in. This self-reflection can help them to understand what path to go down.

Look at the Whole Picture

Encourage your child to think about all aspects of their life and what they want it to look like. While having a satisfying future job is important, it’s also essential to consider their non-career life goals too. If travel, flexibility, or location (for example) is important to them, encourage them to think through how future career paths might affect these goals.

Emphasize Flexibility and Growth

Remind your child that choosing a college major doesn’t necessarily determine their entire career path! Many professionals end up working in fields unrelated to their college major. Encourage them to choose a major that interests them and aligns with their strengths, but also emphasize the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning.

Provide Support Without Pressure

While it’s natural to want the best for your child, avoid pressuring them to choose a specific major or follow a certain career path. Instead, offer support, encouragement, and guidance as they explore their options. Let them know that it’s okay to change their mind and that you’ll be there to support them every step of the way.

By approaching the college major conversation with empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness, you can empower your child to make a decision that aligns with their interests, values, and aspirations. Remember that this is just one step in their academic journey! l

Education Guide

Education is fundamental for every child’s future, and navigating the educational landscape can be both exciting and daunting for parents. Whether you’re seeking the perfect preschool or looking for extracurricular learning opportunities, our community has plenty of great educational options for every family. Our 2024 Education Guide is here to help!

CHILDCARE

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Prairie Hills kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills

Our most cherished principle, “Hug First, Then Teach,” defines every aspect of who we are and allows every child in our care to feel safe, loved, and inspired. We foster strong connections between families, our school, and the community to positively impact children’s lives.

Wildflower Academy wildfloweracademy.org

Wildflower Academy is a childcare center that is devoted to providing outstanding care and assistance to children from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs. Our objective is to cultivate children’s self-assurance, independence, and life skills. As an all-inclusive childcare center, we warmly welcome everyone.

EmBe embe.org/childcare

EmBe Education offers childcare and school-age care. We are your partner, fostering your child’s growth. With our focus on character, your child’s inherent intelligence, and physical well-being, EmBe ensures well-rounded development. At EmBe, families and teachers collaborate, providing education and holistic care that prepares your child for a bright future.

PRESCHOOL

EmBe

embe.org/childcare

EmBe Education is committed to fostering every child’s inherent intelligence. Explore three playbased programs, including Traditional Preschool, KinderCollege, and Spanish Immersion, each fostering academic, social, and linguistic development. EmBe Education’s curriculum nurtures intelligence, fosters emotional growth, and builds character for lifelong success. EmBe also offers swim, taekwondo, and soccer lessons.

Discovery Learning Center

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.

The Graham Academy Preschool Washington Pavilion

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 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

education guide

preschoolnest.com

Gymnastics Academy

Inspired by Maria Montessori and led by a SD-licensed teacher, Brianna Munce, Preschool Nest provides more than just a traditional education. Being in an in-home environment, I work intentionally with each student, focusing on developing social-emotional awareness, fostering independence, and preparing them to succeed for years to come.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Prairie Hills

kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills

Our most cherished principle, “Hug First, Then Teach,” defines every aspect of who we are and allows every child in our care to feel safe, loved, and inspired. We foster strong connections between families, our school, and the community to positively impact children’s lives. Preschool Nest

Trinity Lutheran Preschool teatrinity.org

Trinity Lutheran Preschool is a faith-based preschool that enhances a child’s spiritual, social-emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Each child will develop independence and kindergarten readiness so they can easily transition into kindergarten. Pre-K Class MWF 8:30 to 11:30

3 & /4 Year Class T/Th 8:30 to 11:00

Wings Learning Center

wingsgym.com/wings-kids

Wings Learning Center is a Christian-based preschool where your child can flourish in a nurturing environment that combines play with purpose. WLC accomplishes this by building a strong foundation through nurturing the Mind, Body, and Spirit. Morning and afternoon classes with early drop-off and lunch add-ons are available.

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools ogknights.org/admissions/prospectivefamilies

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 a deeper look into why our families of all faiths value the education we provide, visit our website. Enrollment is open!

NON-PUBLIC SCHOOL

interAct ABA interactaba.com

When looking for ABA therapy, interAct is the place to be! As a small therapy clinic, we offer structure, reduced distractions, and more opportunities to facilitate learning. interAct is Where Life Meets Learning!

Two

Office: 605-274-3475

NON-PUBLIC SCHOOL

Sioux Falls Lutheran School siouxfallslutheran.com

Established as a preschool in 1977, SFLS now serves over 450 children ranging in age from infancy to 12th grade. Our faculty and staff operate as a family and are committed to our mission of developing capable, Christian servant-leaders who are world-ready and faith-secure in a complex world.

The Pelican School pelicanschoolsf.com

The Pelican School is an in-home microschool for students in kindergarten and first grade. Our mission is to cultivate an understanding of God’s creative genius in an environment that promotes teamwork, humility, and stewardship. We are currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year!

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools ogknights.org/admissions/prospectivefamilies

At Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, we are committed to instilling traditional family values, setting high expectations and outcomes, creating structure and discipline, and providing a safe learning environment. For a deeper look into why our families of all faiths value the education we provide, visit our website. Enrollment is open!

TEACHSD (The Education Alliance of Christian Homeschoolers in South Dakota) teachsd.net

TEACHSD is dedicated to the cultivation, protection and promotion of Christian homeschooling and the homeschool community in the state of South Dakota. We do this by fighting for homeschooling rights in Pierre, putting on the annual homeschool conference the first weekend in May, and supporting homeschooling families across SD.

Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation

SiouxFalls.org/Guide

Get active and learn by doing with Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation Programs. Look at all the upcoming April and May activities, register, and enjoy! For event details, visit SiouxFalls.org/ Guide.

Acton Academy Sioux Falls actonacademysiouxfalls.org

Acton Academy Sioux Falls is an innovative school serving learners from Pre-K through Middle School. Our learner-driven community is a unique blend of active hands-on learning in a Montessori School, parent support of a Homeschool Co-op, and the energy of a Business Startup.

Center

TUTORING & LESSONS

Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons

gsdakotahorizons.org

Every Girl Scout has their own curiosity and talents—so when they come together to try one of thousands of activities, the sky’s the limit. Whatever Girl Scouts choose, they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good. Join now for summer membership specials.

Siouxland Libraries

siouxlandlib.org/programs-and-education/ birth-to-5

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

Kumon Math and Reading Center

kumon.com/sioux-falls

The Kumon Method fosters independent learning, empowering students to become self-learners. Instructors offer minimal guidance, allowing students to tackle exercises independently. Through this approach, students build confidence, enhance their academic abilities, and hone problem-solving skills. Ultimately, it empowers them to chart their own course in life.

Tilghman’s Academy of Music

TilghmansAOM.com

Explore Harrisburg, South Dakota’s new music school and shop. We offer private lessons, classes, camps, and instrument supplies. Reach out to us for a free trial.

Sylvan Learning of Sioux Falls

sylvanlearning.com/locations/us/sd/ sioux-falls-tutoring/sioux-falls/ Sylvan’s summer programs will keep your child on track! With the summer comes fun, but it’s also a time when kids aren’t getting the day-today learning like they were during the school year. Sylvan’s summer programs will help your child stay on track with academic goals.

Scan to view our expanded 2024 Education Guide on our website.

eschool

Established as a preschool in 1977

Sioux Falls Lutheran School serves over

hed as a preschool in 1977, lls Lutheran School serves over dren ranging in age from infancy grade. Our faculty and staff as a family and are committed to

Established as a preschool in 1977, Sioux Falls Lutheran School serves over

Established as a preschool in 1977, Sioux Falls Lutheran School serves over

Established as a preschool in 1977, Sioux Falls Lutheran School serves over

ion of developing capable n-servant leaders in a complex ho are world ready, faith

Schedule

450 children ranging in age from infancy to 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, faith secure.

1977, rves over rom infancy d staff ommitted to pable a complex , faith

450 children ranging in age from infancy to 12th grade Our faculty and staff operate as a family and are

450 children ranging in age from infancy to 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, faith secure.

450 children ranging in age from infancy to 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, faith secure.

to our mission of developing capable Christian-servant leaders in a complex world who are world ready, faith secure.

605-335-1923 or email

admissions@sflutheranschool.com

“Witnessing the love and respect the families have for the winners was incredibly special. The Sanford fit team is honored to sponsor these awards and provide items that foster children’s social and emotional development.”

2024 Educator of the Year

“Susan Foster

Principal, Fred Assam Elementary

presented by and

The whole school, including the ‘hood and Sanford fit teams, went wild in the gym when Susan Foster walked in. She was shocked to find an assembly happening and that it was all in her honor! Susan Foster has been in education for the last 41 years and is the 2024 ‘hood Educator of the Year.

Winning Nomination

I have never met a better person to care for my children. This principal puts in everything she has to make coming to school a positive experience. Her school is the only one in the Brandon School District that has the Walk to Read program. Thus program has caught both of my children lacking some reading skills and has gotten them both the extra help that they need.”

- Shannon (Mom), Memphis (4th Grade), and Phoenix (1st Grade)

As principal of Fred Assam Elementary, Ms. Foster has continually led the school to excellence. Becoming a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023 showcases the hard work, passion, and dedication Ms. Foster, her staff, and the students put in daily. Ms. Foster thrives on challenges and is passionate about education, learning, and kids. Knowing this, we asked her what the community can do to best support educators. She said, “The greatest form

“Winning Nomination

Principal Foster is a shining example of what an elementary school principal should be. She listens to each and every concern that crosses her desk - when she’s at it - she’s more than likely engaging with students in the lunch room, chatting with teachers about different behavior programs to influence positivity in the entire school, or speaking with parents about the next fun activity at school. Fred Assam Elementary is continually meeting and exceeding academic standards as well. Reading and Math scores have remained high, and the engagement of teachers and students is at the top of her list. Her Blue Ribbon School recognition in 2023 shows how important academics, kindness, and hard work play together in an elementary school.

- Amberly (Mom), and Thomas (1st Grade)

receive this award because it represents the passion in education. Thank you to ‘hood Magazine for creating the passion behind this award, to Sanford fit for sharing the gifts of fun and passion, and to the parents who wrote and acknowledged my passion for education. I am blessed.”

and Preschool

Childcare Provider of the Year

Sara

Brinkman

Preschool Teacher, Sioux Falls Lutheran School

presented by and “

2024 ‘hood Childcare and Preschool Provider of the knew she would be a teacher early on. “My mom was a teacher, and my dad’s mother was a teacher, so teaching has always been in my blood.

Winning Nomination

Mrs. Brinkman’s classroom exemplifies the true definition of going above and beyond. Superior and creative academic lessons, along with the social/emotional components that are tied into each day, show us that our kiddos are getting an all-encompassing education that they can use at school and out in the community as they continue to grow! We will forever be grateful to have been a part of Mrs. Brinkman’s preschool family.”

- Amanda (Mom), Michael and Camila (Students)

Growing up, I always said I was going to be a teacher someday. I decided to go to school for Early Childhood Education. It was during my time at SDSU that I began to understand the importance of education in those first 5 years of life.”

classroom sensory items provided by Sanford fit

Mrs. Brinkman has worked in early childcare education for 20 years, even teaching children for four seasons with the PGA Tour! This is her fourth year at Sioux Falls Luthern School, and she is passionate about teaching in early education, saying, “As their teacher, you have the opportunity to teach the WHOLE child- from motor skills to social skills, to letters, numbers, and science. You help them learn to talk, to walk, and to run. You teach them when to hug, when to help, how to be kind, and when to forgive.”

Winning Nomination

“Mrs. Brinkman does an amazing job of creating a fun and interactive learning experience for her students. Every day she has new and engaging activities set up for the children to learn from. Mrs. Brinkman is also very understanding of the needs of her students and teaches with a genuine desire to make a difference. Our daughter enters her classroom with a big smile on her face and leaves the same way, every time telling us that she “had the best day ever!”

- Dustin (Dad), and Everly (Student)

know that I had a hand in creating that excitement for learning, and hopefully, they will carry that excitement with them after they leave my classroom.”

To read all of our 2024 nominations scan the QR code or visit thehoodmagazine.com

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.

Founder/Teacher

What is a microschool?

Microschools are a modern take on the one-room schoolhouse, and have been growing in popularity around the country as an alternative to traditional schooling. While some microschools teach just a few grades, others serve kindergarten through high school. Most are privately owned, have much lower student/teacher ratios than a traditional school, and are based out of a home or another, larger facility. The primary focus of microschools is in developing a student’s natural ability to learn and achieve mastery: knowledge is viewed as a journey of exploration and discovery, and the questions “Why?” and “How?” are a student’s greatest tools for learning. Microschools are passionately guided by their chosen mission, and they have the flexibility to select a curriculum that enriches their ideal learning environment.

Sioux Falls, SD pelicanschoolsf.com

605-201-3455

Visions Eye Care + Therapy Center

Ashley Gentrup, OD Developmental Optometrist

House & Aquarium

Colton Eckstrand Biologist

How can Vision Therapy help my child who is struggling in school?

There are 17 skills needed for proper vision and learning. The most common struggle we diagnose and treat is challenges with tracking the eyes from left to right. When the eyes jump around, students struggle to keep their place and may skip words when reading. Writing and reading comprehension is difficult. By improving how the eyes track, visual input and performance improve.

Another struggle we commonly see is challenges with visual processing. Our eyes and brain need to catch small differences, remember, find details among distractors, and recognize when things are the same as what we see. By enhancing visual processing, understanding what we see improves.

Both are critical for learning!

What is happening in the hoop house on the zoo campus?

The hoop house next to the pollinator garden is being used to raise tawny skipper caterpillars. This is what our pots of grass are doing inside the hoop house. These pots each house up to five caterpillars from right after they hatch to right before they enter a pupa. These pupae will then be allowed to emerge in the hoop house as adult butterflies. We hope to raise skippers from eggs to caterpillars to adults.

After we prove we can raise the tawnies, we will begin to make plans to raise Dakota Skippers. The end goal is to help raise Dakotas, an endangered species of butterfly native to South Dakota, with the intention of reintroducing them into the wild.

6205 S. Minnesota Ave.

Sioux Falls, SD 57108

sdvisions.com

605-271-7100

805 S. Kiwanis

Sioux Falls, SD 57104

GreatZoo.org

605-367-7003

A SIMPLE SCREENING FOR TYPE 1 DIABETES AND CELIAC

Sanford Health would like to invite your child to participate in a screening research study. Through Sanford PLEDGE, we hope to identify children at higher risk of developing type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease and intervene early to prevent serious illness.

Your child may qualify to join the study if they:

Are ages 0-5 or ages 9-16

Do not have T1D

Receive

Children ages 6-17 who have a sibling with T1D or T1D antibodies may also join the study.

Ask your provider or care team about the PLEDGE screening study. Visit sanfordhealth.org/PLEDGE or call (877) 878-4825 to join the free study or learn more about PLEDGE.