Apple Tree Children’s Centers to close all locations
Dec. 14. 2023
Apple Tree Children’s Centers plans to close all four of its Sioux Falls locations in less than one month.
Parents were notified late today that the centers will close as of Jan. 11.
Apple Tree has been in business in Sioux Falls since 1981. Its centers are located throughout the city and serve children from infancy through fifth grade.
One message sent to parents read:
“We are thankful and blessed by the amazing caregivers, managers and support staff that have worked so hard. We want to thank you for entrusting us with the care of your children over the years. We will do our best to keep staff until the end but may become short staffed.”
Official notice from owner Randall Stewart will be received tomorrow, it said.
According to its website, Apple Tree grew from a one-room preschool in Sioux Falls that used the Montessori Learning Method to a four-location business that served 800 children.
Founder Dee Stewart died last year at age 94. Her husband, Gordon, was the founder of Hair by Stewart’s.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire CEO Stacy Jones called the closure “truly disheartening” for the community.
“The profound impact of their absence will be felt by many families who have relied on their services and dedicated staff who have poured their hearts into our community,” she said in a statement.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire will do whatever we can to support Apple Tree families and staff members, and encourage them to reach out to us – we have openings in our programs and can take on more staff. We are saddened for Apple Tree’s owner, their staff, and the Apple Tree families. And we are frustrated that the childcare crisis continues to deepen. It is time the community recognizes this crisis and starts taking action.”
