Plymouth, MN June 21, 2018—New Horizon Academy has been named one of the Top 150 Workplaces in Minnesota by the Star Tribune. A complete list of those selected is available at StarTribune.com/topworkplaces2018 and will also be published in the Star Tribune Top Workplaces special section on Sunday, June 24.
Produced by the same team that compiles the 27-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 71,000 employees at Minnesota public, private and nonprofit organizations.
The rankings in the Star Tribune Top 150 Workplaces are based on survey information collected by Energage, formerly WorkplaceDynamics, an independent company specializing in employee engagement and retention.
New Horizon Academy was ranked 22 on the large company list.
“New Horizon Academy is honored to be selected as one of the Top 150 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 150 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 2,400 companies were invited to participate. Rankings were composite scores calculated purely on the basis of employee responses.
Welcome to our brand-new daycare and early learning center located at the Cottingham & Butler headquarters in downtown Dubuque, Iowa! Our school opened in June 2025 and has since been serving Cottingham & Butler employees as well as the Dubuque community with quality childcare and education. Located conveniently off West 8th and Locust Street, near Washington Park, learning programs are available for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, including infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-kindergarten options. Each classroom utilizes a comprehensive curriculum incorporating STEAM, reading, social-emotional learning, motor development, school readiness, and more. Our school is in the process of obtaining NAEYC accreditation and is committed to meeting and exceeding the highest standards of education and care for your child. We invite you to come see for yourself! Schedule a tour at our Dubuque daycare center today to explore our brand-new classrooms and facilities, meet our dedicated teachers, and experience the safe and nurturing environment we provide for young children.
Awards and Accolades
I have been working in childcare for over 20 years – from nannying to preschool teaching to owning my own day care! But my favorite childcare role has been being a mom to my 3 children.
Education – Truman College
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 23+
What do you like about early childhood?
It is fascinating to me that 80% of a child’s brain is developed in the first 5 years. The way I see it, working in early childhood is the most impactful way to positively influence our future leaders as we teach them the basics of relationship building, problem-solving skills and building healthy relationships!
What is your favorite children’s book?
“Amelia Bedelia” by Peggy Parish
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I have over ten years of experience in Early Childhood Education and have worked as a Director for several years in Wisconsin. Starting out as an Assistant Teacher, I worked my way up to a Director role. Through this experience, I was able to experience and understand each position and how they all play key roles in providing a nurturing environment for children!
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 11+
What do you like about early childhood?
I love that you are able to see children reach developmental milestones at such an early age! From walking, talking, writing their names, and so much more!
What makes your school unique?
The building itself is so unique! Our STEAM room is also such an awesome feature where teachers are able to utilize that space to do STEAM projects and offer a great learning environment specifically focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Mathematics!
What is your favorite children’s book?
“Are You My Mother?” by P.D. Eastman
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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
New Horizon Academy is head and shoulders above other daycares in the area. Between the facilities, the staff, the food quality, and the overall experience, there is too many good things to share. I will say this: my child has never been happier. Every day, I receive countless pictures of her getting the best care from her teachers, laughing and playing with her friends, and enjoying everything the facilities have to offer, from outdoor equipment to unique indoor activities that keep her engaged, active, and learning. New Horizon Academy is, hands down, the best daycare in Dubuque.
We’ve had a wonderful experience with New Horizon Academy! Our son has truly grown since starting here. The staff has been incredibly supportive, especially with potty training. We also love how many STEM activities they offer, which keep him engaged and curious. It’s clear they care deeply about each child’s development. Overall, it’s a fantastic place to send your children — nurturing, educational, and fun!
I love NHA! The level of care that my infant receives, from the teachers to the facility itself, is truly amazing. I get constant updates through the app with photos, and we stay connected about any milestones or new ways my son is expressing himself. They work with me to adjust feedings or schedules as needed, and whenever something comes up, they always keep me informed. I cannot say enough good things about the quality of care provided!
As a grandmother of 9 and a great-grandmother of 2, it is vital and imperative that my loved ones receive the care they deserve. New Horizon Academy is dedicated to providing quality care and love, two of the most important influences on my grandchildren’s future. New Horizon Academy has truly put the “care” back in daycare, setting a standard that is hard to match elsewhere. Thank you, New Horizon Academy!
