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Gina Blake- Director |
Hello! My name is Gina Blake. I am a mother of 3 adult sons, a wife of a retired Army enlisted man, a food dispenser for a cat and a “Newfie”, an Early Childhood teacher and the Director at Apple Tree North. The hierarchy of the titles isn't that important because they all play a role in my everyday life which is full and busy and that is how it should be. My background is not in administration but I was able to manage a household budget on an Army salary. I have a B.S. degree in Natural Science and hold teaching certification in Early Childhood. Over the years, I have found that many of the theories of teaching young children are the same practices to be used when dealing with adults. Have you ever seen the poster, "Everything I ever needed to know I learned in kindergarten."? Well it's true. If we are kind, considerate, take turns, share and hold onto someone's hand, our day will go well and so will our life. The best part of my day at Apple Tree is the hugs and the good bye waves sent my way in the evening. Each day I make a point to connect with the children in our care because I don't want to be the person they see only when they are "in trouble." There are books, balls, and a Beta in the office so children enjoy dropping in to say "Hi." My goal in life is to make a difference, a difference in a life of a child. As a Director, the possibility is always there and I try to remember that as decisions are made for our Center. |
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Kristy Buxengard- Assistant Director |
My name is Kristy Buxengard and I am the Assistant Director here at Apple Tree Children's Center North. I have been working at Apple Tree Children's Centers since May 2005, and I have worked in the child care field since 1996. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology and recently have completed my Child Development Associate (CDA). I am married and have three beautiful children Anna, Gracie and Jakob. In my past-time I enjoy watching my children participate in soccer, hockey, softball, and basketball. I also enjoy cheering on my home team, the Minnesota Vikings!
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Jere Carda- Assistant Director |
Hello my name is Jere Carda. I am the Assistant Director of Apple Tree Children's Center and have been with company since 1990. I worked as a lead teacher in the two and three year old rooms, as Assistant Director, and Director. I have obtained my CDA degree. I find that working with children is a very rewarding experience, watching them learn and grow. I am married and have two married sons and four grandchildren. |
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Lori Braley- Assistant Director |
My name is Lori Braley and I have been with Apple Tree Children's Centers since 1992. I began my career at Apple Tree South as a teacher in the three year old classroom and they will always be my first love. When Apple Tree North opened in 1997 I came up to teach the four year olds and eventually took the position of Assistant Director. I have often said that a career in child care is not just a job, it is an adventure, one I thoroughly enjoy. Apple Tree has become a home to me, a place where I have grown up and now help others to grow as well, both the children and the teachers. In addition to being Assistant Director, I am a mother to Victoria and Elizabeth who have taught me the meaning of the word patience and wife to Steve, who keeps me grounded. |
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LOCATION
NORTH
605.332.5581
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