PLYMOUTH, Minn. – In an interview with Minnesota and Company at Kare11, CEO of New Horizon Academy, Chad Dunkley, shared the inspiring story of the company’s beginning and its continuous commitment to providing the highest quality early childhood education. As the largest family-owned provider of center-based childcare in the nation, New Horizon Academy has been a pillar of the Minnesota community for over 54 years.
Founded by Sue Dunkley in 1971, New Horizon Academy has deep family roots, with Chad following in his mother’s footsteps to lead the company after experiencing the profound impact of early childhood education. “I didn’t always know I would stay in our family business. It was always my dream to work for my dad’s law firm. But the moment I held my infant son in my arms, I knew there was no more important work than providing the best early education programs for young children and their families,” said Chad Dunkley.
Chad emphasized the extraordinary quality of New Horizon Academy’s classrooms, noting that nearly 100 percent of eligible schools are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)—the gold standard in early education. He also shared that most preschoolers in New Horizon Academy classrooms are already meeting or exceeding kindergarten-readiness benchmarks.
One of the key highlights of the conversation was the importance of social-emotional learning at New Horizon Academy. Chad explained that creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel connected is essential for fostering key skills such as self-discipline, emotional regulation, and resilience. These foundational skills are not only crucial for academic success, but also for building healthy relationships throughout life. New Horizon Academy’s award-winning social-emotional learning curriculum is integral to the overall growth of children, ensuring they are equipped for both life and learning.
Chad also shared why parents choose New Horizon Academy, citing the school’s exceptional outcomes, high parent satisfaction, and recognition as a top workplace. With a 98 percent parent recommendation rate and numerous community awards, New Horizon Academy continues to lead the way in early childhood education, remaining steadfast in its commitment to what is best for children and families.
As part of a special promotion, Minnesota and Company viewers can receive a 25 percent discount off the first 4 weeks of enrollment at New Horizon Academy. To take advantage of this offer and learn more about New Horizon Academy’s approach to early education, call 763-557-1111 or visit www.newhorizonacademy.net to find a location near you.
The Eagan, Minnesota New Horizon Academy is conveniently located in the Walnut Ridge neighborhood at the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Lexington Point Parkway, off Diffley Road. Our Eagan daycare opened in 1990, is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and holds a four-star rating from Minnesota Parent Aware. Our childcare center offers daycare and early learning programs for infants and toddlers, and preschool and pre-kindergarten programs that prepare children for kindergarten and life beyond! All of our childcare classrooms utilize an age-appropriate curriculum that incorporates reading, STEAM, social-emotional learning, and more. We’d love to meet your family and show you our beautiful daycare classrooms. Schedule a tour at New Horizon Academy Eagan – Lexington today!
Awards and Accolades
Enroll before 5/29/26 and receive a $1,500 tuition credit!
*Newly enrolled families or families returning after 9 months only. Not valid with any other offer. Eagan Lexington location only. Tuition credit of up to $1,500 valid for full-time enrollment only. Part-time families and families enrolled 3 days or less will receive up to a $600 tuition credit. Credit will be applied incrementally in three equal amounts at 30, 60, and 90 days of continuous enrollment—up to $500 credits for full-time families and up to $200 credits for part-time families. Account must be paid in full before any credit will be applied. Based on space availability. Family must enroll and pay registration fee by 5/29/26.
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With nearly 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, I am very passionate about the impact educators have on our community. I’ve been in a leadership role for almost six years and truly believe that the learning environments and care we provide shape a child’s educational journey. I grew up in Edina and now live in Apple Valley with my husband, two children, and our puppy. We love traveling as a family and playing board games together.
Education – AAS in Early Childhood Education
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 21+
What do you like about early childhood?
I like the difference we can make in our community through early childhood.
What makes your school unique?
Our school is extremely passionate about early childhood education!
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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
I cannot more highly recommend the Eagan New Horizon Academy. My son came home knowing his numbers and letters and was well on his way to potty training because of the school’s approach. I’m truly impressed at the support they give our family, the dedication to ensuring every child gets what they need, and the standard of care to which they hold themselves.
We have been at the Eagan New Horizon Academy for almost four years and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a safe, loving environment for their children! My now six-year-old was more than prepared to start kindergarten this year, and I believe much of his success was due to the preparation he received in preschool. My two-year-old loves her teachers and comes home chatting about playing, reading, painting, and friends. We also love Eagan’s front office staff! We always feel like our voices are heard.
New Horizon Academy in Eagan on Lexington is wonderful. The director and her team are the most caring and professional group of teachers and staff. I always feel my kids are safe, cared for, and respected. Both of my kiddos are now graduated and have thrived in elementary school thanks to NHA.
I recommend New Horizon Academy on Lexington to anyone looking for a high quality daycare in the area. The teachers and staff balance learning activities and having fun, and are very attentive and knowledgeable. The ratio of staff to children is great!
