PLYMOUTH, Minn. – New Horizon Academy, family-owned and operated child care provider, has opened its third Iowa school located at 8650 NW 62nd Avenue in Johnston. The new school in Johnston joins two other Iowa locations, as well as locations in Colorado, Idaho, and Minnesota.
New Horizon Academy, who has been serving families since 1971, provides highly trained teachers, a proven curriculum, and safe and secure facilities, all aimed at supporting children’s self-esteem and preparing them for kindergarten and beyond. New Horizon Academy is a nationally recognized high-quality early learning provider with all of its eligible schools accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the gold standard in its industry. New Horizon Academy’s mission is to provide the best child development on the planet.
Teachers will care for and educate more than 170 children between the ages of 6 weeks and 10 years between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The new school features safe, well-equipped, and age-appropriate classrooms that are thoughtfully designed to enhance learning through play. The school will also feature safe and unique outdoor play spaces for the children to enjoy.
“We believe that every child deserves the best care and early education,” said Chad Dunkley, CEO of New Horizon Academy. “We are thrilled to be able to provide the families of Iowa with our high-quality child care and early education programs.”
For more information, call 515-348-4028 or visit www.NewHorizonAcademy.net.
Our brand-new school in West Des Moines, Iowa is now open for enrollment! Since opening in November 2024, our dedicated teachers and early childhood professionals have been committed to providing high-quality daycare and preschool programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. We are conveniently located off I-80 and Jordan Creek Parkway, doubling as a corporate-sponsored childcare location on the ITA Group campus. We offer quality childcare, preschool, and early learning programs to ITA Group employees and the public. Each of our childcare programs is designed to nurture and prepare children for kindergarten, by using a comprehensive curriculum that incorporates STEAM, reading, social-emotional learning, motor development, and more. We are actively pursuing NAEYC accreditation, which requires a minimum of one year in operation. In the meantime, our school is committed to ensuring that our infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-k programs align with the highest standards of quality and care. Schedule a tour at our new West Des Moines daycare center to explore our brand-new facilities and see our 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. West Des Moines ITA Group 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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I graduated from Iowa State University and had the amazing opportunity to work at the Children’s Lab School on campus there. I have worked as an infant and toddler teacher for most of my early childhood education career. Before working at New Horizon Academy, I was a Childcare Evaluation and Coaching Specialist in St. Louis, Missouri. When I am not working with kids, you can find me spending time with family and friends, reading, cooking and playing with my cats.
Education – B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 7+
What do you like about early childhood?
My favorite thing about early childhood is that it’s one of the only jobs where play and hugs are not only encouraged but required!
What makes your school unique?
My school is unique because we have a lot of families that work upstairs for ITA Group so we get to do lots of fun family events. The parents are always visiting and getting to know the other students and teachers in their child’s class.
What is your favorite children’s book?
“Stellaluna” by Janell Cannon
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I have worked in childcare for over 10 years and have a passion for early childhood education. I have worked with non-profits like Save the Children Action Network to advocate for young children and their educators. I am currently working towards my master’s in early childhood education. I have two beautiful children of my own, who are the foundation for my love of childcare and my commitment to supporting the development of young learners.
Education – Child Development Associate (CDA) in Early Childhood Education
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 10+
What do you like about early childhood?
I enjoy watching children develop and begin to show the first glimpses of their personalities.
What makes your school unique?
We offer high-quality education along with enriching enhancements.
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 New Horizon Academy! Our experience has been nothing short of exceptional. Our 5-year-old son is excited to come to work with me, and I love having the flexibility to pop in for lunch anytime. The communication from the staff is fantastic—they keep us in the loop with updates and photos throughout the day, which not only helps us stay connected but also sparks conversations at home. His teachers have been such a blessing and he’s learning so much—it’s clear to see how happy and engaged he is. It’s truly a place where he is thriving, and we are so grateful for all that they do!
We absolutely love New Horizon Academy! The teachers, directors, and staff are not only incredibly caring and attentive but also genuinely invested in our daughter’s development. With the great communication technology they provide, we feel like we aren’t missing out on what our daughter is learning and experiencing each day. We feel completely at ease knowing our daughter is in such a safe, nurturing environment. Our family wholeheartedly recommends this daycare to any parent looking for a reliable and supportive center!
I couldn’t be more thrilled with New Horizon Academy! The brand-new building is not only beautiful, but also thoughtfully designed with every detail in mind. The staff is incredibly caring, attentive, and always communicative. With their great staff to child ratio, they truly strive to make my child’s experience the best it can be, and it’s clear that they love what they do. I especially appreciate the technology they use to keep me updated throughout the day on what my child is doing – it brings me peace of mind knowing they’re being well cared for. The educational programming is fantastic, and I love that they prioritize fresh air and outdoor walks for my little one, even at such a young age. It’s clear that they focus on the well-being of every child, and I feel confident that my baby is in great hands.
Having on-site childcare has been a wonderful benefit to our family! The facility is outstanding, with amazing teachers, and I enjoy receiving updates throughout the day. The convenience of popping in for lunch or a quick visit is an added bonus, and our son loves ‘going to work’ with mom.
