Plymouth, MN June 16, 2019—New Horizon Academy has been named one of the Top Workplaces in Minnesota by the Star Tribune. A complete list of those selected is available at StarTribune.com/topworkplaces2019 and will also be published in the Star Tribune Top Workplaces special section on Sunday, June 16.
Produced by the same team that compiles the 28-year-old Star Tribune 100 report of the best-performing public companies in Minnesota, Top Workplaces recognizes the most progressive companies in Minnesota based on employee opinions measuring engagement, organizational health and satisfaction. The analysis included responses from over 140,000 employees at Minnesota public, private and nonprofit organizations.
The results of the Star Tribune Top Workplaces are based on survey information collected by Energage, an independent company specializing in employee engagement and retention.
“New Horizon Academy is honored to be selected as one of Top Workplaces in Minnesota,” said Chief Executive Officer, Chad Dunkley. “It is a testament to the company’s values of respect, integrity, excellence, innovation, leadership, and teamwork. We are proud of our teachers and it is a privilege to provide a workplace that allows them to grow and thrive, and enjoy coming to work. Our teachers do the world’s most important work, and we are excited to continue our growth and success with our most valuable assets – our people.”
Star Tribune Publisher Michael J. Klingensmith said, “The companies in the Star Tribune Top Workplaces deserve high praise for creating the very best work environments in the state of Minnesota. My congratulations to each of these exceptional companies.”
New Horizon Academy is a family-owned and operated company that has been providing high quality care and education to young children for more than 45 years. While focusing on developing a healthy sense of self in each child, New Horizon Academy also strives to provide your child with the necessary skills to succeed not only in school, but in life.
To qualify for the Star Tribune Top Workplaces, a company must have more than 50 employees in Minnesota. Over 2,000 companies were invited to participate. Rankings were composite scores calculated purely on the basis of employee responses.
Explore our brand-new daycare, preschool, and pre-kindergarten programs in Ankeny, Iowa! We opened our doors in February 2025 to children and families in Ankeny and surrounding areas. Conveniently located off US 69 and NW 36th Street near Rock Creek Elementary, enrollment is available for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Each of our infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-kindergarten classrooms utilizes a research-based curriculum that helps students build social-emotional, cognitive, language, and motor skills while integrating STEAM concepts to nurture innovation and exploration. While we are currently undergoing NAEYC accreditation, which requires us to be open for at least one year, we remain dedicated to providing the highest standards of education and care for young children. We can’t wait for you to check out New Horizon Academy Ankeny! Schedule a tour today to meet our dedicated teachers and staff, see our brand-new classrooms and facilities, and witness high-quality early education programs in action!
Awards and Accolades
Enroll before 6/26/26 and receive a 25% off your child’s first 12 weeks!
*Newly enrolled families only. Ankeny location only. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Not valid for summer-only enrollment. Offer must be requested by the first day of enrollment and may only be used during the first twelve weeks. Must pay registration fee in full and start attending by 6/26/26. Account must be paid in full at all times, or promotion will become invalid. Based on availability.
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My husband and I share a home with our three children and two dogs. When I’m not fulfilling my role as “Mrs. Baker” at work, I’m living the busy mom life with our kids, enjoying watching them grow into their independent selves and cheering them on at their activities. I love shopping, decorating, cooking, and I’m a frequent flier to Nashville, TN.
Education – University of Northern Iowa
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 16+
What do you like about early childhood?
Working in the field of early childhood is incredibly rewarding. You get to see the lightbulbs go off in their little minds when they make connections. You get to be a part of their milestones—big and small, mental and physical—and contribute to something so important for families. The best part is that, even though it’s a significant role, it can still be silly and fun!
What makes your school unique?
We are one of the few New Horizon Academy schools in Iowa with a mother’s room. We are located in the northern part of Ankeny, with easy access from surrounding towns. Our school has welcoming staff and brand-new equipment, ready to support children’s growth and development!
What is your favorite children’s book?
“When Sophie Gets Angry – Really, Really Angry…” by Molly Bang
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I am a busy mom of four living my husband, four children, two cats, and a dog! When I’m not at NHA, I am supporting my four children at all of their events. I enjoy baking, camping, and supporting Ava’s Way Foundation in honor of brave my niece, Ava Hutchinson who is forever 11.
I cared for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers for almost a decade in my in-home childcare until eventually becoming a preschool teacher. Caring for children has always been so rewarding to me as it is such an important role and an honor to be trusted to do so. Plus, who doesn’t love some good baby snuggles?
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 17+
What do you like about early childhood?
I love seeing the excitement when a new skill is learned. The children are so excited to grow and learn. It’s the best feeling when you see them light up after conquering something new.
What makes your school unique?
The positivity is 100%. All our staff strives for good vibes and a positive environment.
What is your favorite children’s book?
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein
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“It’s a great opportunity for people who are creative and love to be lifelong learners.”
Jessi G., Senior Conscious Discipline Specialist
“I’ve built so many relationships with families and children at New Horizon Academy.”
Emilia S., Teacher
“All decisions are made to benefit the children, employees, or parents.”
Kami T., District Manager
“New Horizon Academy pays for your education!”
Tracey D., Assistant Director
We absolutely love this daycare! From the start, everyone has been so kind, caring, and welcoming. What really makes me happy is how much my 3 year old has blossomed. He was at a different daycare for several months and never opened up there, but within days at New Horizon Academy, he’s like a new kid!… chatting about his friends and teacher, excited to go every morning, and even asking if he can go on his off days. It makes my heart so happy to see him thriving. The whole place just has a great vibe— organized and professional, but still relaxed and comfortable for both kids and parents. I feel totally at ease dropping my kids off every day, and that peace of mind is everything. I couldn’t be more thankful!
If you are considering New Horizon Academy, you’ve found the right place! We were SO nervous to send our 2 year old to daycare for the first time, but New Horizon Academy in Ankeny has exceeded our expectations! All of the staff here are so kind and take amazing care of the kids.
I highly recommend New Horizon Academy! My son is in the toddler class, and he is absolutely thriving. He loves his teachers, who are very hands-on with him. They send updates on the app frequently, so I get to see what he is doing throughout the day—and when I see pictures of him playing and smiling, I know I chose the right place for him. He also comes home saying new words every day, and it lights up my face. NHA is beyond amazing!
We could not be happier with New Horizon Academy Ankeny! My children are absolutely in love with their teachers. The building is beautiful, and we love the great room. My 3-year-old is finally trying new foods again, as their menu offers more than just “kid food” and meals are provided in a low-stress, no-pressure environment. The directors are so dedicated to their school, staff, and kids.
