STURGIS, SD (5/3/2016) – A groundbreaking ceremony for Discovery Kids University was held Tuesday, May 3rd, at 10:00 a.m. at the site located off Exit 32 at the corner of Old Stone Road and Starline Drive, Sturgis. The public met representatives from Discovery Kids University and learned more about this exciting new child care service for area families.
Iverson Construction will build the custom designed 6,000 sq. ft. facility and 5,000 sq. ft. outdoor play area located on a 1+ acre parcel. Discovery Kids University plans to open in August 2016. They will offer South Dakota child care licensed services including pre-k programming and after-school care. They will be able to accommodate up to 120 children and families and will offer extended hours Monday – Friday, 5:00 am – 7:30 pm. Discovery Kids University will employ 20-25 full time and 10 part time certified staff.
Discovery Kids University desires to be a resource center for the entire family on both an educational and artistic level. Offering more than just care, their programs will branch into tutoring, music, family advocacy and wellness classes. Student and family resources will include an on-site family and child therapist, as well as, classes and events designed to encourage strong community and family relationships.
Sturgis Mayor Mark Carstensen states, “The City Council and I are tremendously excited to welcome this first-class child care provider to our community. Discovery Kids University will ensure that families have high quality options which will only enhance Sturgis’ already high quality of life for every family at every stage of life.”
With the phenomenal growth in housing and jobs, additional child care services have been identified as a critical need for Sturgis. Over the past two years, the Sturgis Economic Development Corp (SEDC) and the City of Sturgis have been working consistently to establish a State-licensed child care center of this size.
SEDC President Pat Kurtenbach adds, “In meeting with several area employers, it was readily apparent that more child care services were needed to support their recruitment and retention efforts. Also, we want to make sure that we are doing all we can to support the substantial investment by developers in new housing. Adding the type of child care services offered by Discovery Kids University will insure Sturgis continues to encourage growth and offer a family-oriented lifestyle. We heartily welcome Discovery Kids University to Sturgis.”
