PLYMOUTH, Minn. – (May 17, 2018) New Horizon Academy Director of Government and Community Relations, Clare Sanford, was honored at the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal 2018 Women in Business Awards Luncheon and Expo.
Each year the Business Journal recognizes the Twin Cities’ most influential women in the workforce. These women include industry-leading executives, business owners and entrepreneurs. This year, Clare was among more than 40 other prominent women in the workforce to be honored with this elite award.
In her role Clare is an advocate for making sure that each child in Minnesota has plenty of opportunities and access to high-quality early education and care. Clare also serves as a board member for the Minnesota Child Care Association, the Northside Achievement Zone and Parent Aware.
“We are so proud that Clare has been honored at the 2018 Women in Business Awards,” said Chad Dunkley, CEO of New Horizon Academy. “She is such an important asset to New Horizon Academy and the work she does makes a huge difference in the lives of children and their families.”
Our brand-new school in Crystal, Minnesota 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 West Broadway and Bass Lake Road, primarily serving families in Crystal, Robbinsdale, New Hope, North Minneapolis, and surrounding areas. 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. With national accreditation from NAEYC and NECPA, we ensure exceptional education and care for your infant, toddler, or preschooler. Schedule a tour at our new Crystal daycare center to explore our brand-new facilities and see our programs in action!
Awards and Accolades
Enroll before 7/31/26 and receive 25% off your child’s first 4 weeks!
*First-time enrollees or families returning after 9 months only. Not valid with any other offer. Crystal location only. Discount must be requested by the first day of enrollment and may only be used during the first 4 weeks. Based upon availability. Family must enroll and pay registration fee by 7/31/26.
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I moved to America from Russia 22 years ago with my parents and two sisters. I love coffee, musicals, and would like to travel to Europe one day.
Education – AA in Early Childhood
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 21+
What do you like about early childhood?
Early childhood is a very rewarding field. I love all the hugs you get from the little children. Nothing can outshine the smile of a child who just reached a special milestone.
What makes your school unique?
I’m excited for our center to open in November 2024. I think it will be a very unique and diverse school.
What is your favorite children’s book?
“If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” by Laura Numeroff
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I found my home with New Horizon Academy in December of 2022 as a toddler teacher and later continued as an early preschool teacher. My favorite part of being a teacher was planning curriculum and activities for my classrooms. I am so thrilled to be a part of the New Horizon Academy Crystal school!
Education – Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 3+
What do you like about early childhood?
I love being able to watch children reach their milestones and be part of their learning journey.
What makes your school unique?
Our school is NAEYC-accredited, and will soon also be accredited by NECPA. As a newer center, we offer many new spaces, including a sensory room and multiple classrooms for each age group.
What is your favorite children’s book?
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
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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
My favorite features of this school are the great room and the sensory room. They also offer a dedicated space for breastfeeding mothers. The abundance of toys ensures endless fun for the children, and the spacious group areas provide ideal settings for learning activities. The playground area is huge, giving children plenty of room to run and play. New Horizon Academy Crystal is a great place to enroll your children!
Our daughter has been coming here for about 6 weeks and already it’s been such an improvement from her previous center. The directors and staff are so caring and their communication is amazing! I can’t recommend New Horizon Academy Crystal enough!
I can’t say enough good things about New Horizon Academy! The staff is absolutely amazing—warm, professional, and truly dedicated to creating a nurturing and safe environment. You can tell they genuinely care about the kids and go above and beyond to make sure each child feels supported and engaged. The facility itself is clean, well-organized, and thoughtfully designed to encourage learning and play. It’s clear they put a lot of effort into maintaining a welcoming and enriching space.
We love this center! The management and teachers are wonderful. We also love that this building has an indoor gym for the kids. We get so many pictures on the app throughout the day with fun activities. We would really recommended this place.
