It's been an emotional roller coaster for Sioux Empire families. Late last week, Sioux Falls parents were left scrambling to find daycare services for their children after Apple Tree Children's Centers announced they would be suspending all operations by January 12th. But Christmas came early for everyone with Apple Tree Children's Centers!

Apple Tree Children’s Centers sent an email to Sioux Falls area parents on Sunday night saying its west daycare center will remain open!

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Our news partners at Dakota News Now are reporting that the "former Executive Director Pete Nelson agreed to take over the financial responsibility of the daycare center."  In a previous story, the daycare was planning to close all four of its locations due to staff shortages, inflation impacts, and occupancy costs that have contributed to financial losses too large to sustain as a business.

It truly is a Christmas miracle for families and staff, especially since the childcare industry in Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota has been under so much stress.

Dakota News Now has provided extensive coverage with the latest information about the Apple Tree Children’s Centers. This includes reactions from Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken, organizations like EmBe and the Boys & Girls Club of the Sioux Empire who are willing to help parents with childcare needs, and families searching for new daycare options. Updates with the Apple Tree Children’s Centers, statements, and organizations who are willing to lend a helping hand can be found here.

The strength and resilience of this community are why I believe the west campus for Apple Tree Children's Centers will remain open. Thank you to Pete Nelson and everyone involved for making this happen for families and staff at the Apple Tree Children's Centers!

Source: Dakota News Now

10 Highest Paying Jobs in Sioux Falls That Don't Require a Degree

These days, workers are in high demand, and there are plenty of great-paying jobs right here in Sioux Falls if you know where to look.

You won't need a Bachelor's, Associate's, or any type of College Degree for these high-dollar jobs.

These high-paying gigs are just the tip of the iceberg. To see the full list of the top 50 from Stacker, click here.

Gallery Credit: Andy Gott

The 10 Largest Occupations in Sioux Falls

Where do people in Sioux Falls work? If this was fifty years ago the average Sioux Fallsian worked in some industrial, meat packing, or farm-related position. Sioux Falls has also been the major regional medical center for decades.

Customer service and other retail-related jobs have always been a part of the Sioux Empire's economy. But in recent years those industries have become major employers.

If you live in Sioux Falls, there's a pretty good chance you work one of these jobs. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the top 10 largest occupations in Sioux Falls (as of 2022).

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns

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