April 2026 by 'hood Magazine

‘hood

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

Susan Wick Educator of the Year

Education Guide

Joseph ThompsonChildcare/Preschool Provider of the Year

Featured Listings Include: Registration Info, Ages, Cost, Website, Season and More

THE IMPORTANCE OF

This marks our 13th year of the Educator of the Year (EDOY) award and our 4th year honoring a Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year. Each year, I am blown away by the heartfelt nominations that come in. They are filled with stories of teachers who stay late, show up early, wipe tears, cheer the loudest, and love their students well beyond the classroom walls.

Our 2026 Educator of the Year is Susan Wick of Robert Frost Elementary. Through the nominations, it’s clear she is a steady, positive force in her school community, an educator who not only teaches the curriculum but also builds confidence, character, and connection in her students every day.

We are also proud to recognize our 2026 Preschool/Childcare Provider of the Year, Joseph Thompson from The Cubhouse at Copper Creek. Early childhood educators play such a vital role in shaping young minds, and Joseph’s passion and dedication shine brightly in the lives of the children and families he serves.

In this issue, you’ll find our 2026 Education Guide. Finding the right childcare, preschool, school, and educational extracurriculars for your child can feel daunting! We hope our guide makes it easier for your family to find the perfect fit.

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

President & Publisher

Steffanie Holtrop

605-366-1479

steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Editor

Sarah Parker

Art & Design Director

Ally Chase

Digital Media Director

Jaclyn Small

Client Relations

Jennifer Fleming admin@thehoodmagazine.com

Calendar

Abby Kyle

Circulation

Ben Graff and Laura Kattenberg

Contributing Photos

Vanessa Jo Photography

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.

‘Hood Magazine is published 7 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.

4 APR

Egg-stravaganza

The Great Plains Zoo

A day of egg hunts, animal encounters, and a scavenger hunt for the big kids! Egg-stravaganza is sponsored by the Sioux Falls Canaries baseball team.

Lace UP For Kids 5K, 10 Mile, and Bake Sale

Cherry Rock Park

The Kiwanis Club of Sioux Falls is having its annual fundraiser to support kids and youth in our community.

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

The Sioux Falls Stampede take on the Waterloo Black Hawks during Fan Appreciation Night.

Open House Saturday Archery

11 Fan Appreciation Night with the Sioux Falls Stampede

The Outdoor Campus

Head over to The Outdoor Campus for free archery! This event is open-house and does not require registration.

APR

Skate City’s Eggstravaganza

Skate City

Join us for an Easter eggstavaganza at Skate City from 12-6pm. Enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny, plus a free hot dog and drink for every skater.

17-26

Hairspray

Presented by the Premiere Playhouse

The Orpheum Theater Center

This feel-good show has great music, a wonderful message, and is put on by local performers!

22 Nate Bergatzee

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Gather up some friends or enjoy a date night out with comedian Nate Bergatzee at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.

Party for the Planet Sertoma Park

Join The Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium, The Outdoor Campus, and The Friends of the Big Sioux River for river clean-up and family-friendly activities.

APR 10

Wildly Confident Mom & Daughter Night Out The Big Red Barn

An evening for 5th–8th grade girls and their moms/mom figures to connect, build confidence, and strengthen relationshipsfeaturing guided connection moments, a HS girls panel, desserts, shopping, and craft.

APR MAY

27- 2

Meredith Willson’s THE MUSIC MAN

The Washington Pavilion

This Tony award-winning musical comedy is rolling into Sioux Falls!

APR 11

Sioux Purr Cats

Sioux Falls Convention Center

Join us for Sioux Purr Cats - a family-friendly festival for cat lovers of all ages, for a day filled with education, entertainment, and the chance to meet adorable cats.

APR 12

Concert For Kids & Families

The Washington Pavilion

The Concert For Kids & Families will delight audiences of all ages. Designed to ignite your imagination, it’s a great introduction to the orchestra. Featuring Prokofiev’s “Peter and The Wolf”!

MAY

Mother’s Day Event with ‘hood Wynn+Wonder

Join us for a special collaboration celebrating mothers in our community.

UPCOMING EVENT?

Reach out to us to have YOUR event featured in our next issue or online calendar!

For a complete list of area events, check out our online Calendar! thehoodmagazine.com/calendar

DREAMING BIG IS EASY WHEN YOU ARE PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE

College costs are high and rising. 529 plans are the only accounts specifically designed to help families set aside money for education.

THE GROWING VALUE OF HIGHER EDUCATION

The average in-state student living on-campus in the U.S. spends $27,146 for one academic year.* But, the growing value of higher education is clear.

Learning equals earnings**:

• High School Diploma: $48,360

• Bachelor’s Degree: $80,236

• Master’s Degree: $95,680

WHY SAVE WITH A 529 PLAN?

• Get a head start and take advantage of compounding!

• 529 plans offer tax-deferred growth potential.

• Tax-free withdrawals can be used on qualified expenses and a number of different educational experiences.

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.

WHY SHOULD YOU USE COLLEGEACCESS 529?

• A robust investment menu that features 24 investment portfolios from several leading money managers.

• Invest based on your personal goal, risk tolerance, and varying time horizon. You can tailor to your needs.

• As account owner, you maintain control over your 529 account, even after your beneficiary reaches legal age. 529 plans are flexible – you can change the beneficiary to another child or yourself.

Certain of the investment management firms that manage underlying mutual Funds in the Program, including Virtus Investment Advisers, LLC, 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.

* Scholarships are not a guarantee. On average, first-time undergraduates receive about $15,750 annually.

** Bureau of Labor Statistics, Earnings Rate by Educational Attainment, 2024. Data shown is median 52 week wage.

For children ages 16 or younger

how it works

Sign up for FREE on our website! birthday freebies and discounts special offers exclusive to birthday club members scan to join!

Special offers and discounts will be sent to your email 45 days prior to your child’s birthday to help plan their celebration. On the date of their birthday, coupons and/or offers from our partners will be emailed to you, redeemable for the specified time on each offer. Scan the QR code to join.

Greenlight helps kids earn, save, and spend wisely using real-life tools like a debit card, money app, and built-in ﬁnancial lessons. It’s included at no extra cost with a Voyage checking account, so you can start building smart money habits right away.

www.voyagefcu.org | Insured by NCUA

*Voyage Federal Credit Union members are eligible for the Greenlight SELECT plan at no cost when they connect their Voyage Federal Credit Union account as the Greenlight funding source for the entirety of the promotion. Subject to minimum balance requirements and identity veriﬁcation. Upgrades will result in additional fees. Upon termination of promotion, customers will be responsible for associated monthly fees. See terms for details. O er ends 9/5/2028. O er subject to change and partner participation.

The Greenlight® prepaid card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International.

Kids Learning

Small Class Sizes & Low Ratios

Our intentionally small class sizes allow teachers to truly know each child. Low studentto-teacher ratios create space for individualized instruction, meaningful relationships, and responsive support.

Personalized Learning & Nutritious Support

Our curriculum blends academics, creativity, and realworld learning while children progress at their own pace. Healthy, home-cooked meals fuel focus, energy, and overall well-being—supporting strong minds and growing bodies.

Both my wife and I are physicians, and we’re intentional about the environment in which our daughter is raised. During my wife’s pregnancy, we toured several daycare centers. While they had strengths, concerns remained—staff engagement, cleanliness, and most importantly, the provider-to-child ratio.

Whole-Child Development

We go beyond academics, prioritizing social-emotional growth, confidence, collaboration, and selfexpression in an encouraging environment.

In 2021, when we learned what Creator’s Kids was building and saw how personally invested Molly was, we took a leap of faith. Our daughter started at nine months old and is now five, still happily attending.

The home-cooked, nutritious meals, comprehensive curriculum, and engaging activities have been a true blessing. Family and friends frequently compliment our daughter’s communication skills, manners, and social development— Creator’s Kids has played a significant role in that growth.

Most telling of all, our daughter wakes up excited every morning, eager to see her teachers and friends, and proudly shares about the amazing food she enjoyed that day. For us, that enthusiasm speaks volumes.

Seeing the Difference:

One Family’s Vision Therapy Journey

When a child struggles with reading or completing schoolwork on paper, it can be frustrating for both the child and their parents, especially when the child clearly understands the material. For the Schouten family, those challenges led them to explore vision therapy at Visions Eye Care + Therapy Center, and the results have made a significant difference for their children.

Recognizing the Struggles

Theo, the Schouten family’s middle son, was the first to begin vision therapy. While he could answer questions and understood what he was learning, tasks like reading, writing in a straight line, and lining up numbers for math problems were difficult. His parents knew he was capable, but something was making it hard for him to show that knowledge on paper.

Their experience with Theo also made them reflect on some challenges their oldest son, Kobe, had experienced for years. Kobe has always loved to read, but even as a toddler, he often squinted while looking at books. Over time, he began having frequent headaches, even though yearly eye exams showed that his eyesight was “ok.”

Now their youngest son, Joey, is beginning the testing process after showing some of the same signs Theo once had: strong verbal understanding, but difficulty when reading or completing work on paper.

A Positive Experience

Throughout their time at Visions, the Schouten family found the environment welcoming and supportive. Therapists worked with the children, encouraging them and helping make the activities engaging.

Vision therapy requires commitment, but the boys found that they loved working hard for their therapists and seeing their improvement each week. They were given goals and offered incentives each week, which the boys were very motivated to meet.

Seeing the Results

After completing vision therapy, the Schouten family saw clear improvements. Theo’s relationship with reading changed significantly.

“The results are amazing. Theo likes and wants to read now,” Hannah, their mom, says. His schoolwork now reflects the abilities his parents always knew were there, and his confidence has grown along with his progress.

Kobe also experienced major improvements. He still enjoys reading as much as ever, but the physical strain he once experienced is gone. “He isn’t squinting anymore, and he isn’t getting daily headaches,” Hannah says.

Vision therapy requires time, effort, and consistency, but Hannah and Jon believe the results are worth it. “Even if we didn’t live here in Sioux Falls, we would still make the drive!” l

5 Things to Know About THE OUTDOOR CAMPUS

All of the classes are free to the public.

1 2 3 4 5

The Outdoor Campus is located in Sertoma Park, and offers a wide variety of free classes and rentals to the public. Here are five things you should know about The Outdoor Campus!

Classes are focused on getting the public outside and fit into 3 main categories: hunting, fishing, and conservation science/outdoor skills.

There are a variety of different types of classes: Community Class (they require registration), Open House Classes/Super Summer Saturdays (no registration required), Pop Up Classes (often require registration, they are classes we add after our Program Booklet is posted. They can be found listed on our social media pages).

They offer year-round volunteer opportunities for students as young as 12 years old.

Heads up Teachers, Parents, and Groups! The Outdoor Campus offers a variety of free loaner items that the public can enjoy and check out. Examples include Fishing Crates, Snowshoe Crates, and Aquatic Invasive Species Crates.

To learn more about The Outdoor Campus, sign up for FREE classes, or check-out a loaner create, visit us at gfp.sd.gov/toc-east/

Our camps are hands-on learning experiences that create memorable moments in a fun environment, resulting in wonderful opportunities for students of all ages. They fill up fast so be sure to sign up early!

WashingtonPavilion.org/SummerCamps

Education Guide

Choosing the right educational path for your child is an important decision for every family. In the Sioux Falls Area, families are fortunate to have a wide range of excellent options, from early childhood programs and preschools to private schools, enrichment programs, and specialized learning opportunities.

Our 2026 Education Guide is designed to help parents explore the many resources available in our community. Inside, you’ll find schools and programs that are dedicated to helping children learn, grow, and succeed. Whether you are searching for your child’s first classroom experience or seeking new educational opportunities, we hope this guide helps your family find the right fit!

PRESCHOOL

EmBe Education

embe.org/embe-preschool

EmBe Education is committed to fostering every child’s inherent intelligence. Our preschool programs focus on academic, social, and linguistic development. EmBe Education’s curriculum nurtures intelligence, fosters emotional growth, and builds character for lifelong success. On-site swim lessons, taekwondo, and soccer lessons are an added benefit! FullDay Preschool for children ages 3-5-years old.

lifechangelc.com

From ages 0-12, we believe children thrive when they feel secure, supported, and surrounded by truth and grace. With our Christ centered curriculum, it’s more than childcare... it’s somewhere to grow, to belong, and to be deeply loved. Come take a tour — we can’t wait to welcome you!

Graham Academy Preschool

washingtonpavilion.org/programs/grahamacademy-preschool/

Our preschool program for ages 3-5 focuses on the whole child, including social, emotional, academic, and creative learning. All of the Washington Pavilion’s unique resources are a part of our school day, making Graham Academy the ideal place for early learning.

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 kindergarten, and have the opportunity to grow socially and emotionally by applying the truths of the Christian faith.

Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools ogknights.org

The journey begins at Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools (PS-12)! 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 families of all faiths value the education we provide, visit our website. Enrollment is open!

Wings Learning Center Preschool wingsgym.com/wlc-schedule/ Wings Gymnastics has the best preschool in Sioux Falls! Wings Learning Center is a Christian based preschool, building on a foundation of nurturing of the Mind, Body, and the Spirit. Small Class sizes, and morning and afternoon class options!

The Cubhouse thecubhousedaycare.com Learn•Play•Belong. The Cubhouse provides full-day childcare and preschool programs where children learn through play, exploration, and early learning experiences. Our preschool teachers are certificated educators, and include this year’s ‘hood magazine’s Preschool Teacher of the Year.

Creator’s Academy creatorskids.com

Creator’s Academy is a micro school for grades K–5 blending technology-driven learning with hands-on discovery. Small classes foster meaningful connections and personalized growth. Students build confidence and independence while progressing at their own pace. We support whole-child development—academically, spiritually, and socially—supported by healthy nutrition fueling focus and success.

The Outdoor Campus gfp.sd.gov/toc-east

The Outdoor Campus is your connection to the outdoors! With family-focused classes in hunting, fishing, conservation, and outdoor skills, there is a class that is right for your family. Classes are offered year-round, are free to attend, and are focused on students’ learning through experience. Have fun and get outside!

Sylvan Learning Center sylvanlearning.com/locations/us/sd/ sioux-falls-tutoring/sioux-falls

Sylvan Learning of Sioux Falls helps students stay on track. Our personalized tutoring helps prevent 2–3 months of summer learning loss and supports real growth for students who may be behind in school. Build skills, boost confidence, and help your child return to class prepared and ready to succeed.

CHILDCARE

EmBe Education embe.org/childcare

At EmBe, we are dedicated to supporting your child’s growth from birth through School Age Care. Our focus is on character development and fostering your child’s inherent intelligence and physical well-being, all of which contribute to a wellrounded upbringing and Kindergarten readiness. Enrollment is open, and scholarships are available!

LifeChange Learning Center lifechangelc.com

At LCLC, we lovingly care for all children, creating a safe, joyful space for every stage- from tiny toes and first giggles to writing their name and growing independence. We strive to be your child’s second home and a source of comfort and belonging. Come tour today!

Scan to view our expanded 2026 Education Guide on our website for even more great options!

by Sarah Kurtenbach

Money Milestones: What Every Kid Should Know About Money by Age 5, 8, and 12

Did you ever take a class in elementary school called How to Be Financially Successful by 35? No? Same. Unfortunately, our kids probably won’t either. But here’s the good news: financial habits start long before Algebra 1, and they compound over time (the good ones and the “why did I buy that?” ones).

What a 5-year-old needs to understand about money is wildly different from what a 12-year-old needs. Teaching the right lesson at the right time allows money to become normal, empowering, and maybe even a little fun to talk about at dinner. Here’s the age-by-age breakdown.

5-Year-Old: Money is earned and it has categories.

Keep things simple for your 5yo. First, ensure they understand that money isn’t “a magical card that you swipe and get everything you want.” It’s connected to your hard work.

Explain that money comes from working, and when you swipe a card, money leaves your account (and unfortunately does not magically reappear).

Pay your child when they work or do chores. If they don’t do the chore, they don’t get paid!

Then divide their money into three jars: Give, Save, Spend. This teaches a powerful early truth: money has categories. Not every dollar is for candy.

Bonus: you’ve just introduced budgeting without calling it budgeting!

8-Year-Old: You have control over where you money goes, so choose wisely.

Eight is when empowerment begins.

Now they can start making real choices within those Give/Save/Spend buckets such as:

Give: Allow them to choose where they give their money, whether that’s to a church, a friend in need, or a cause they’re passionate about.

Save: Show them how much they have in their savings account. Explain that savings are used for things they want to buy in the future, such as a laptop, car, college, or (yes) even a neon scooter.

Spend: Help them set a goal for something they would like to buy. Keep a chart of how much money they earn each week until they reach that goal. Seeing your child buy something they’ve worked hard to afford is next-level!

12-Year-Old: Money decisions today shape your future

By 12, they’re ready for bigger concepts: banks, interest, and investing.

This is a great time to introduce investing. If you’re unsure how to set up an investment account, consider meeting with a financial advisor (and bring your child along)! Use a basic interest calculator to demonstrate how money grows over time, and prepare for their minds to be blown.

If they want extra cash, encourage entrepreneurship, such as babysitting, lawn care, or small side hustles.

At this age, the most important lesson is simple: money decisions today shape your future.

You may not have had a wealth-building class at 10, but with these simple steps your kids absolutely can. l

Sarah is a local mom of two who knows a thing or two about financial literacy. She is the founder of moveHER Money, where she teaches girls how to be financially savvy.

“The Bancorp is happy to support the educators and childcare providers who play a crucial role in shaping the young minds of our growing communities,” said Ryan Harris, Executive Vice President, Head of Fintech Solutions.

“Congratulations to Joseph Thompson, Susan Wick, and all the other deserving nominees this year!”

Educators and childcare providers play a critical role in a child’s development. Children build academic foundations, learn how to manage emotions, develop social skills, and gain confidence in themselves. An outstanding educator can impact a student positively

“ The nominations highlight classrooms where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to be themselves. Sanford fit was proud to provide social and emotional learning items that help support confidence, empathy, and resilience. We are honored to celebrate these winners and the meaningful impact they make every day.”

educators and childcare providers who continue to make a difference in the lives

thehoodmagazine.com read all the nominations.

Susan Wick

Blended 1st and 2nd Grade, Robert Frost Elementary

presented by

Great educators help shape the experiences that build a child’s confidence and love of learning. From teaching foundational skills to encouraging curiosity and perseverance, teachers play a vital role in helping students grow both academically and personally. At the ’hood Magazine, we are proud to recognize those educators who go above and beyond in their classrooms. Along with our sponsors, The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography, we are honored to announce our 2026 Educator of the Year, Susan Wick!

Susan Wick teaches a first and second grade blended classroom at Robert Frost Elementary. She has been an educator for 27 years, spending most of those years in 1st and 2nd grade classrooms. Susan says her path into education began with her own love of learning and the teachers who

inspired her along the way. “I was fortunate to have exceptional teachers who inspired and encouraged me to keep growing, and their influence left a lasting impression on me,” she shares. “Teaching has always felt like the profession I was meant to pursue.”

Over the years, Susan has found that some of the most rewarding moments come from watching students grow in confidence as learners. “In the primary grades, the progress students make is incredible,” she explains. “Helping students discover that they are capable, curious, and successful learners is what makes this work so meaningful.”

This year’s blended classroom has provided a special highlight. Susan loved watching first and second graders naturally build a supportive learning community together. “Students quickly realized that everyone brings different strengths to the classroom,” she says. “It’s been really special to watch students step in to help explain ideas, share strategies, and encourage each other along the way.”

When surprised with the 2026 Educator of the Year award, Susan described the recognition as both

humbling and meaningful. “Teaching is truly a team such supportive colleagues, dedicated families, and

community support for education. “When families, “Education is about building confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime,” she shares. And that dedication is exactly why we are proud to recognize Susan Wick as our 2026 Educator of the Year.

“Winning Nomination

Mrs. Susan Wick is a perfect example of a teacher that goes above and beyond for her students. This year she has been put in charge of not only teaching her usual 1st grade class, but she has been asked to teach a combined class that also includes 2nd graders. Having to teach one grade and be an exceptional teacher is one thing but to teach 2 different grades in one class, and have her students excel in everything they are learning, is just something most teachers could only hope and strive to do. She is teaching them to become kind and curious humans and showing them that they can accomplish anything they put their mind to. The love and compassion she has had for each and every one of her students is remarkable. To say that Mrs. Wick is an amazing teacher is an understatement. ”

- Aly (Mom) and Loxley

Thompson Preschool Teacher, The Cubhouse

presented by

Choosing who to partner with for your child’s early education is an important decision for families. Finding someone who not only cares for your child but intentionally helps shape their character, confidence, and independence is a true gift. Here at the ’hood Magazine, we know how vital early educators are to our community, and we are honored, along with our generous sponsors, The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography, to announce our 2026 Childcare Provider of the Year, Joseph Thompson!

Joseph teaches five-year-olds at The Cubhouse at Copper Creek and has dedicated years to early education. For him, it’s not just a career path, but a calling.

Winning Nomination

“ When my son started Jr Kindergarten at The Cubhouse, 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. Mr. Joe’s passion for teaching and caring for children is evident as he puts his heart and soul into his work..”

- Jessica (Mom), and Bennett

Joseph

Presented to Mr. Joe during the surprise was a basket filled with sensory items from Sanford fit. These items were quickly enjoyed by the kids!

He is quick to share the honor. “This award belongs to my classroom families who trust me with their children. It belongs to my coworkers who support and encourage me. And it definitely belongs to the kids, they’re the reason I get to do what I love every day.”

Joseph is passionate about helping others understand the depth of what childcare providers

“Winning Nomination

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. Joe’s lesson plans cover every subject and are always engaging for the students. 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.”

- Logan (Dad), and Arkin

every transition, every redirection, it all has meaning behind it. We’re teaching social skills, emotional regulation, problem-solving, independence, and kindness. We’re laying the groundwork for how children handle frustration, build friendships, and grow in confidence.”

That dedication and heart is exactly why we are so proud to name Joseph Thompson our 2026 Preschool/Childcare Provider of the Year.

A big thank you to all of our deserving presented by

Congratulations to all of these amazing teachers that are making a difference in the lives of our children. The heartfelt nominations blow us away every year and the team at ‘hood Magazine wanted to say THANK YOU for all that you do in in and out of the classroom. Each year we honor educators in the area, so be sure to watch for details next January so that you can nominate that special teacher in your life.

Desirae Gallagher ................ St. Lambert Elementary

Heidi Meier Inspiration

Jessica Bauer................................... Journey Harrisburg

Kristina Westhoff Tea Area Legacy

Lisa Smith.............................................. Tea Area Venture

Theresa Fischer Journey Harrisburg

Carter Larson ............................... Brandon Elementary

Nicole Martin St. Katharine Drexel

Susan Wick..................................................... Robert Frost

Brent Kramer ............................... Brandon Elementary

Chelsea VanLeur............................................ Fred Assam

Christina Berger...................................................... Liberty

Danylle Rozier Robert Bennis

Jill Flint ........................................... Brandon Elementary

Lizzy Magnuson Terry Redlin

Michelle Kieffer .............................................. Fred Assam

Whitney Weber Tea Area Legacy

Julie Samp ............................ Abiding Savior Academy

Brooke Duncan Challenge Center

Deeann Henjum.......................... Harrisburg Freedom

Jennifer Sandman ................... Harrisburg Adventure

Tory Johnson Tea Area Legacy

Irma Landry ......................................... Sonia Sotomayor

Chase Hirt Harrisburg Freedom

Erika Dewitt.......................... Abiding Savior Academy

Jessica Rasmussen Brandon Elementary

Jill Nuebel ........................................................ Fred Assam

Kari Kraayenbrink Harrisburg Horizon

Kimberly Dobson.................................John F Kennedy

Krysandra Young .........................................RF Pettigrew

Leah Williamson ............................................ Fred Assam

Maria Toscano.....................................Sonia Sotomayor

Natasha Floyd Cleveland

Rachel Haag ............................... West Central Hartford

Robyn Costello John Harris

Tara Hansen-Leinen ................................. Harvey Dunn

Tiffany Plummer Freedom

Vanessa Graning ............................... Sonia Sotomayor

Jennifer Klinkel West Central

Chelsea Leslie .................................... Tea Area Venture

Kelli Hubers ..................................Bright Steps Playcare

Brittney Ellis Bright Steps Playcare

Tarina Stroh .............................................. Central Baptist

Kelsey Zirbel Christ Lutheran Church Daycare

Darcelle Robideau ..................Compassion Childcare

Missy Koch.................... Country Kids Oasis Childcare

Theresa Senst Dakota Kids

Alyssa Jennings..................................................EmBe South

Jenna Stearns....................................Friendship Preschool

Gretchen Garry.................................... Gretchen’s Daycare

Michelle Haase................................Haase Family Daycare

Jennifer Fennicle.....Home Away From Home Daycare

Amber Abrahamson..........Hopecare Children’s Center

Kathie Caton...............................Kathie’s Inhome Daycare

Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year (cont.)

Becky Cook ............................................ Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

Ella Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

Milly Tebbe ............................................ Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

Rachel Schuerman Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

Rosella Arias .......................................... Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

Connie Koppman ................................................. Kinder Academy

Kelsey Harmon ...................................................... Kinder Academy

Avery Moss .......................................LifeChange Learning Center

Courtney Morris Little Tigers Daycare

Ashley Groskreutz ..................................... Little Wings Preschool

Jaqueline Bent Little Wings Preschool

Jena Feltman ............................................... Little Wings Preschool

Mel Wehrkamp Little Wings Preschool

Madison Waldner.................. Madison Marilyn Home Daycare

Justin Rieck MKH Childcare

Brittany Semande ..................................... Mustard Seed Daycare

Ashley Gylfe-Baird ................................O2B Kids - Dawley Farms

Jami Anderson ...................................................Once Upon A Time

Brynna Parmelee ............................................Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Callie Boomsma

Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Desirae Snodgrass ..........................................Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Lexi Sherman Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Maria Van Dyke

Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Paige Berg..........................................................Primrose Schools of Sioux Falls at Heather Ridge

Kate Boyens Sioux Falls Lutheran School

Kyleigh Vrondran ............. Snickelfritz Early Childhood Center

Montana Tsosie Snickelfritz Early Childhood Center

Stephanie Genschorck ................................................ St. Michael’s

Laura Glanville ........................................................ Sweet Sparrows

Nicole and Anthony Holtberg ............................The Play Annex

Franny LeKander ............. The Purple Crayon Learning Center

Beth Walton The Purple Crayon Learning Center

Jaclyn Small....................................................... The Sensory Studio

Joseph Thompson The Cubhouse Copper Creek

Miranda Stuckey .................... The Cubhouse Golden Gateway

Mary Kohler Wind and Willow Childcare

Scan the QR code or go to thehoodmagazine.com to read all the nominations.

Ask the

Expert

‘hood invites area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers. Want to share your expertise? Contact ‘hood at: admin@thehoodmagazine.com

SDSU Extension

Jessica Meuleners

Nutrition Field Specialist

What are some quick, healthy snacks my kids will enjoy?

Finding snacks that are both healthy and kid-approved doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. Kids like to have fun with their food. Try apple “nachos” with a peanut butter drizzle or fruit kabobs that kids can build themselves. For a more filling snack, make Greek yogurt parfaits, pair cheese and whole grain crackers, or dip pretzels in hummus. Want to encourage more veggies like carrots, cucumber slices, or snap peas? They are always more fun with a dip! And for grab-and-go days, keep string cheese, applesauce pouches, or no-sugar-added fruit cups on hand. For more snack inspiration and ideas on how to make food fun for kids, visit extension.sdstate. edu/food/nutrition!

4101 W 38th St Ste 103

Sioux Falls, SD 57106 extension.sdstate.edu

605.782.3290

Sarah Roe CNM

Why does alcohol affect me differently in perimenopause?

During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate unpredictably. Alcohol amplifies those swings by increasing estrogen levels and impairing liver detoxification.

The result? More hot flashes, mood changes, breast tenderness, and heavier cycles.

Does alcohol affect sleep and weight?

Yes. Alcohol disrupts REM sleep, raises nighttime cortisol, and destabilizes blood sugar. This can worsen night sweats, 3 a.m. waking, anxiety, and abdominal weight gain—already common in this transition.

2908 E 26th Street Sioux Falls, SD 57103

flouishbirthco.com

605.271.4170

Michelle McGuckin Center Director

Does your child groan at every book?

The trick is to make reading fun, bite-sized, and confidenceboosting. Start with topics they love—sports, animals, comics—and make it interactive: read together, talk about the story, or celebrate finishing even a few pages.

For kids who need more support, programs like Sylvan Learning create personalized reading plans that target skill gaps and build comprehension strategies. Experienced tutors make learning engaging and help children see real progress, turning frustration into confidence.

With consistent guidance and the right approach, even the most reluctant readers can improve quickly and start enjoying reading on their own.

805 S Kiwanis Sioux Falls, SD 57107

GreatZoo.org

605.357.7003

Flourish Wellness & Birth Co.

Sylvan Learning of Sioux Falls

FUN CRUISE

Saturday, May 30th 9am-2pm

Get ready for family fun this May! 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.