Will legislators address what some say is a “daycare crisis” in South Dakota? (Audio)

December 15, 2023
Mike Tanner

WATERTOWN, S.D.–Daycare will likely be an issue that comes up in some form during the upcoming South Dakota legislative session.

Affordability and availability of daycare has been an issue for some working parents for some time now.

Governor Kristi Noem was asked about it during an interview with KWAT News this week….

Governor Noem says there’s been one ask, particularly from Democrat lawmakers, that she’s just not willing to do….

The governor says South Dakota has one of the highest percentages of working moms in the nation, and one of the fastest growing incomes among working parents as well.

Meanwhile, Apple Tree Children’s Center confirmed Thursday night that daycare centers in the Sioux Falls area will be closing by January 12th, 2024.

The letter points to staff shortages, inflation impacts, and occupancy costs that have resulted in financial losses as reasons for the closures.

Apple Tree Children’s Centers operates four locations in Sioux Falls and serves children ranging in age from infant to the 5th grade.

The preschool and daycare operation first opened in the city in 1981.