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
My name is Darby, and I have been working in early childcare for over 10 years. I have grown from a teacher to an assistant director to a center director, and I have loved the whole process. I love learning from my peers, but most of all, from the children who come to our school and brighten our days!
Education – Kirkwood Community College
Years of Early Childhood Education Experience: 10+
What do you like about early childhood?
I love being a part of creating a safe and loving environment for children, knowing that we are giving them a safe space to be themselves and learn and grow.
What makes your school unique?
Our school features smaller classrooms, a mothers room for nursing moms, a walking trail, and a nice large great room!
What is your favorite children’s book?
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein
4
4
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: 6+
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
1
1
“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.
