The staff at One Block at a Time Child Care Center has a trusting, supportive and positive relationship throughout the center. We believe that quality childcare is dependent on education, experience and staff that are committed to working with children and their families. We take pride in hiring the best qualified personnel. Everyone at One Block at a Time works together to ensure each day is a success.

JoAnne Peterson – Infant Room Aide

Hello My Name Is JoAnne; the kids call me Jo and JoJo. I am returning to this wonderful daycare as the infant aide, after a rough year and pregnancy. I missed the kiddos and can’t wait to get to know them again. I was here for about a year and then I got sick and had to step away. I am so happy to be back. I am Happily Married to my best friend. We have two wonderful children: our son Wesley whose 10 years old and our newest addition, our daughter Whila whose 8 months old. I am hoping to get the training done someday so I can work as a lead teacher. I really enjoy watching children as they learn and grow. I am looking forward to getting to know all the kiddos. Thank you for having me back. I’m so excited to be back.

Sheila Lecy – Transition Room Lead

Hi, I am Sheila Lecy! I moved to the Harmony area in 2015 with my husband and 2 daughters. Prior to moving to the area, I had my own in-home daycare for 10 years. I loved my job and decided I still wanted to continue working with children when we moved. When I started at OBAAT I was an aide in the 3/4 Preschool room and after a few years of doing that pursued my Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). After receiving that I became the Lead Teacher in the Transition Room. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family and going camping, fishing, and playing bean bags. I have enjoyed my years here at OBAAT. I love watching the kids grow and develop. It is also very nice to still see them once they start school and see how much they have grown, changed, and matured. A benefit to working at a childcare center at a school district! The children here are why I get up every day and come to work. Seeing their smiles and getting their big hugs. Nothing is better or can beat that.

 Sashia Sharpton – 3/4 Room Lead

Hey, grown-ups! My name is Sashia Sharpton, and I am the lead teacher in the 3/4 room here at One Block at a Time. Prior to my current position, I have also worked as a lead in the toddler room, an aide in the toddler room as well as the 3/4 Pre-School room here at OBAAT. As of April 2021, I am currently in the process of obtaining my CDA (Child Development Associate Credential). I live in Preston, MN with my son Killian (6 years old) and our two German Shepherds, Marley, and Manolo, as well as our two cats, Samuel L. Catson and Blackie. Our favorite things to do as a family are play board games, watch new and interesting movies, listen to music, and dance, and take nature walks to search for what my son would call ‘cool things’. I absolutely love working at OBAAT and feel honored to be able to come here every day and spend time as well as teach and spend time with your kiddos! I have an open-door policy between myself and all of you when it comes to communication, participation, etc., so please never hesitate to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, ideas, or anything like that! And I hope that when we live in a COVID-free world, the toddlers and myself can look forward to spending some one-on-one time with the amazing grown-ups that you all are!

 Sheri Heidenwirth – Toddler Room Aide

Hi, I am Sheri Heidenwirth! I moved to Harmony in 2016 with my husband Matt, my son Peyton and our puggle Jack. Hobbies of mine are spending time with family, traveling, baking, reading, concerts, cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and shopping for stuff I don’t need.  

Katie Reistroffer – Center Float

Hi, my name is Katie Reistroffer. I moved to Preston in 2021 with my fiance Nick and our two kids; Sophie and Logan. I started working for the SAC program in July 2023 and have enjoyed working with and getting to know the kids. I will be helping in the daycare during the school year and looking forward to getting to know the younger kids as well! In my free time I love to spend time with my kids. We enjoy reading, playing board games, watching movies together, and playing with our pets. We have 2 dogs; Ty and Lady and two cats; George and Blackie. Prior to this I have worked in retail management. I’m excited to start this new journey in child care! It’s so fun to watch kids grow and learn new things and I look forward to getting to know all the kids!!

McKenzie Dachel – Float Aide
Hi, I am McKenzie Dachel! I just graduated from UW-River Falls and moved down to LeRoy, MN. I live with my boyfriend Dakota and our two cats Missy and Nova. I previously worked at a daycare in Wisconsin for 4 years. I enjoy riding horse, baking, fishing, and gardening in my free time!

Diane Strahl – Center Sub

My name is Diane Strahl. I live in Preston with my husband, Tom. We have two children, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. I had retired after many years of full-time employment. But after a year of retirement, I decided it was not for me so I decided part time employment would be something I would try, and I really enjoy it! Since I love being around children, I find working in the daycare setting very fulfilling. In my free time I love gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with our family.

Abbi Dahley – 3/4 Aide

Hi my name is Abbigail (Abbi) Dahley I’m 19 years old. I just started as the new Teacher Aid in the 3/4 room. I enjoy spending time with my dad in the woods on the side by side, spending time with my friends and my boyfriend and doing hair. I can not wait to get to know all of your kiddos!

 April Royet – Transition Room Aide

Hi, my name is April and have worked at One Block at a Time for nine years. I live in Lanesboro. In my free time I enjoy movies, books, drawing and a few other hobbies.

I enjoy coming to work and seeing the children. I especially love the stories they share; about what they have seen, done, imagined or their favorite subject.

Courtney Sivesind – Toddler Room Lead
Hello my name is Courtney Sivesind. I am the lead teacher in the toddler room.  My family and I moved to Canton in September of 2022. My family consists of my husband (Kyle), my 3 sons (Ayden, Thatcher and Kolston) and our two dogs (Frank and Kabota). I have 5+ previous experience working in a childcare setting. Some of my hobbies include camping, traveling, gardening and spending time with family. I very excited to meet you all and start building a connection with you and your kiddos!

Genny Hanson – 4/5 Room Aide

Hi my name is Genny Hanson. I have worked at OBAAT in the 4/5 room and an occasional float since September 2012. I live just one block from the school in Preston which allows me to walk to work each day! I have two adult sons; one lives in Cresco, IA and the other lives in Claremont, MN. I also have four grandsons ages 25, 17, 16 & 15. In my free time I enjoy watching TV and going to my “home place” to mow lawn in the summer. Some of my favorite things are flowers, evergreen and lilac scents, candy, Hershey’s chocolate, Mountain Dew, salads, and pizza. I am an “earthy” person and like blues, browns, and basic black colors. My favorite music is 50’s and country.
Working at OBAAT gives me a reason to get up in the morning. The kids keep me young. I love their innocent questions which brings a smile to my face as they are learning. It gives me a sense of eagerness. It is rewarding because I know a lot of these kid’s parents and grandparents so when they tell me a story, I can relate to what they are talking about. I hope I am making a little different in their day! You just have to love ‘em

The staff at One Block at a Time Child Care Center has a trusting, supportive and positive relationship throughout the center. We believe that quality childcare is dependent on education, experience and staff that are committed to working with children and their families. We take pride in hiring the best qualified personnel. Everyone at One Block at a Time works together to ensure each day is a success.

Kelly Doherty – Infant Room Aide

Hi, my name is Kelly Doherty. I am an aide in the infant room. My husband and I were owner/operator of B&B Bowl in Preston for 20 years. Our son Shane graduated in 2008 from Fillmore Central. He joined the US Navy after graduation. He was stationed in San Diego, CA where he met his wife Tonya. They now have 2 boys; Dillon (5) and Owen (3).
I started working at OBAAT about six years ago. I started out as an aide in the toddler room. Prior to that I was the float aide and the infant room aide.
I thought I wanted to retire last year, but that wasn’t for me. So I am Back!!!
Working here makes you feel good to help and watch these little people learn & grow! This just warms my heart!
In my spare time I golf, hang out with my friends and family. Bob and I winter in Texas. Life keeps us busy! 

Sheila Lecy – Transition Room Lead

Hi, I am Sheila Lecy! I moved to the Harmony area in 2015 with my husband and 2 daughters. Prior to moving to the area, I had my own in-home daycare for 10 years. I loved my job and decided I still wanted to continue working with children when we moved. When I started at OBAAT I was an aide in the 3/4 Preschool room and after a few years of doing that pursued my Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). After receiving that I became the Lead Teacher in the Transition Room. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family and going camping, fishing, and playing bean bags. I have enjoyed my years here at OBAAT. I love watching the kids grow and develop. It is also very nice to still see them once they start school and see how much they have grown, changed, and matured. A benefit to working at a childcare center at a school district! The children here are why I get up every day and come to work. Seeing their smiles and getting their big hugs. Nothing is better or can beat that.

 Sashia Sharpton – 3/4 Room Lead

Hey, grown-ups! My name is Sashia Sharpton, and I am the lead teacher in the 3/4 room here at One Block at a Time. Prior to my current position, I have also worked as a lead in the toddler room, an aide in the toddler room as well as the 3/4 Pre-School room here at OBAAT. As of April 2021, I am currently in the process of obtaining my CDA (Child Development Associate Credential). I live in Preston, MN with my son Killian (6 years old) and our two German Shepherds, Marley, and Manolo, as well as our two cats, Samuel L. Catson and Blackie. Our favorite things to do as a family are play board games, watch new and interesting movies, listen to music, and dance, and take nature walks to search for what my son would call ‘cool things’. I absolutely love working at OBAAT and feel honored to be able to come here every day and spend time as well as teach and spend time with your kiddos! I have an open-door policy between myself and all of you when it comes to communication, participation, etc., so please never hesitate to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, ideas, or anything like that! And I hope that when we live in a COVID-free world, the toddlers and myself can look forward to spending some one-on-one time with the amazing grown-ups that you all are!

 Sheri Heidenwirth – Toddler Room Aide

Hi, I am Sheri Heidenwirth! I moved to Harmony in 2016 with my husband Matt, my son Peyton and our puggle Jack. Hobbies of mine are spending time with family, traveling, baking, reading, concerts, cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and shopping for stuff I don’t need.  

Katie Reistroffer – Center Float

Hi, my name is Katie Reistroffer. I moved to Preston in 2021 with my fiance Nick and our two kids; Sophie and Logan. I started working for the SAC program in July 2023 and have enjoyed working with and getting to know the kids. I will be helping in the daycare during the school year and looking forward to getting to know the younger kids as well! In my free time I love to spend time with my kids. We enjoy reading, playing board games, watching movies together, and playing with our pets. We have 2 dogs; Ty and Lady and two cats; George and Blackie. Prior to this I have worked in retail management. I’m excited to start this new journey in child care! It’s so fun to watch kids grow and learn new things and I look forward to getting to know all the kids!!

McKenzie Dachel – Float Aide
Hi, I am McKenzie Dachel! I just graduated from UW-River Falls and moved down to LeRoy, MN. I live with my boyfriend Dakota and our two cats Missy and Nova. I previously worked at a daycare in Wisconsin for 4 years. I enjoy riding horse, baking, fishing, and gardening in my free time!

Diane Strahl – Center Sub

My name is Diane Strahl. I live in Preston with my husband, Tom. We have two children, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. I had retired after many years of full-time employment. But after a year of retirement, I decided it was not for me so I decided part time employment would be something I would try, and I really enjoy it! Since I love being around children, I find working in the daycare setting very fulfilling. In my free time I love gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with our family.

Abbi Dahley – 3/4 Aide

Hi my name is Abbigail (Abbi) Dahley I’m 19 years old. I just started as the new Teacher Aid in the 3/4 room. I enjoy spending time with my dad in the woods on the side by side, spending time with my friends and my boyfriend and doing hair. I can not wait to get to know all of your kiddos!

 April Royet – Transition Room Aide

Hi, my name is April and have worked at One Block at a Time for nine years. I live in Lanesboro. In my free time I enjoy movies, books, drawing and a few other hobbies.

I enjoy coming to work and seeing the children. I especially love the stories they share; about what they have seen, done, imagined or their favorite subject.

Courtney Sivesind – Toddler Room Lead
Hello my name is Courtney Sivesind. I am the lead teacher in the toddler room.  My family and I moved to Canton in September of 2022. My family consists of my husband (Kyle), my 3 sons (Ayden, Thatcher and Kolston) and our two dogs (Frank and Kabota). I have 5+ previous experience working in a childcare setting. Some of my hobbies include camping, traveling, gardening and spending time with family. I very excited to meet you all and start building a connection with you and your kiddos!

Genny Hanson – 4/5 Room Aide

Hi my name is Genny Hanson. I have worked at OBAAT in the 4/5 room and an occasional float since September 2012. I live just one block from the school in Preston which allows me to walk to work each day! I have two adult sons; one lives in Cresco, IA and the other lives in Claremont, MN. I also have four grandsons ages 25, 17, 16 & 15. In my free time I enjoy watching TV and going to my “home place” to mow lawn in the summer. Some of my favorite things are flowers, evergreen and lilac scents, candy, Hershey’s chocolate, Mountain Dew, salads, and pizza. I am an “earthy” person and like blues, browns, and basic black colors. My favorite music is 50’s and country.
Working at OBAAT gives me a reason to get up in the morning. The kids keep me young. I love their innocent questions which brings a smile to my face as they are learning. It gives me a sense of eagerness. It is rewarding because I know a lot of these kid’s parents and grandparents so when they tell me a story, I can relate to what they are talking about. I hope I am making a little different in their day! You just have to love ‘em

ONE BLOCK AT A TIME DAYCARE – LOCATED AT FILLMORE CENTRAL ELEMENTARY
PHONE: 765-3809

EXT. 1142  Daycare Director – Karen Skretta
EXT. 1190 Preschool Room (4-5 yrs.) – Katie Reistroffer & Genny Hanson
EXT. 1140 Preschool Room (3-4 yrs.) – Sashia Sharpton & Abbi Dahley
EXT. 1198 for Toddler Room (18 mos.-3 yrs.) Courtney Sivesind & Sheri Heidenwirth
EXT. 1197 for Transition Room (12 mos – 18 mos) – Sheila Lecy
EXT. 1143 for Infant Room (6 wks. – 12 mos.) – April Royet
Lead Float – Gena Tarrence
Aide Float – McKenzie Dachel
Subs – Diane Strahl

Contact: Angi Kaase

Safety & Security – Our Top Priority

Providing a safe, secure environment is our number one priority.  It’s as simple as that.  We make every effort to keep your child safe, happy, and healthy.

There are procedures and standards that are strictly enforced:

• Secure building and classrooms.  Every entrance is equipped with an electronic lock.  All parents must buzz into our building and be allowed in through staff.
• Visitor Precautions.  Photo ID is required from all unfamiliar visitors.  A visitor listed as authorized to pick up a child must still show photo ID if they are not familiar to the daycare staff.
• Equipment Safety.  One of our many precautions is “non-tippable,” child sized tables.  Regular monitoring ensures equipment is in good working order.

Contact: Karen Skretta
507.765.3844
karen.skretta@isd2198.k12.mn.us

Nutrition – Healthy Choices for Growing Kids

Menus include a variety of foods which meet daily nutritional needs adn satisfy licensing requirements.  When substitutions are necessary, we’ll maintain the nutritional content of the overall menu and post updates so you know what’s been served.

• Table setting
• Food serving
• Cleaning up

One Block At A Time will be CLOSED on the following days

Presidents Day – February 19*, 2023
Good Friday – March 29, 2024
Memorial Day – May 27, 2024
Juneteenth – June 19, 2024
Independence Day – July 4 & 5, 2024
Cleaning & maintenance – August 12-16, 2024
Labor Day – September 2, 2024
Thanksgiving & the Friday after – November 23 – 25, 2022
Christmas – December 25 & 26, 2023
New Year’s 2023/24 – January 1, 2023

Infant Room Daily Schedule

Sanitation Policies
Infant Room

1. Infant Diets

a. Each infants diet will be determined by the infants Parent. We must obtain and have available written directory instructions
from the parent of the child and have them revised as needed.

b. We must have the infants feeding schedule available in the food preparation area. Must be revised as needed and checked monthly.

c. We will offer the child formula or milk and nutritionally adequate solids in prescribed quantities at specific time intervals.

d. Label each child’s bottle, sippy cup, etc.

e. Refrigerator must be between 33 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and checked weekly.

2. Cleaning

a. Wash food preparation areas before and after use with soap and water or disinfecting solution.

b. Wash all high chairs with soap and water or disinfecting solution before and after meals.

c. Wash all infant’s hands after diaper change and before and after meals (wipes may be used).

d. Wash cribs and playpens with disinfecting solution when child used a different crib than usual.

e. Spray toys after they are mouthed with disinfecting solution and air dry.

f. All equipment and toys should be washed as needed or once a week.

g. Always keep diaper pail covered and empty twice daily. Use clear plastic bags.

3. Staff

a. Use proper hand washing techniques before meals, before and after diaper changing and whenever in contact with bodily fluids.

b. Tie long hair back during food preparation.

c. Use separate burp cloths for each child.

d. Keep clean and dirty laundry separate.

Infant Fire Drills
Infant Room

Infants will be placed in cribs designed for fire drills. a maximum of four infants per crib will be maintained. Cribs will be moved to a designated safe area.

Safety Policies for Infants

Sleeping Policies for Infants
Infant Room

Infant Nap Policy

Naps and rest periods are provided. Parents are consulted at the time of enrollment regarding their child’s sleeping patterns and behavior. A record of the child’s sleeping pattern will be maintained by the program on a daily basis.

Nap Procedures

a. Each infant will be provided with a separate crib for sleeping and resting.
b. Infants will be placed on a waterproof mattress that is covered with a fitted sheet.
c. All babies will be placed on their backs to reduce Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
d. Some children may cry before they go to sleep. In these cases, parents are to be consulted and any changes in the child’s sleep instructions should be noted.
e. Caregiver’s must never put a child in a crib while the infant is feeding on a bottle.

Feeding
Infant Room

Infant diets are determined by their parents or their primary health care provider. Breast milk, formula, or milk and solid foods will be fed by a staff member in prescribed quantities and at specific time intervals. From twelve to twenty-four months of age, infants are required to be served whole milk unless otherwise instructed by a physician. Written diet instructions for infants are to be provided by the parents. Drinking water will be offered to infants throughout the day.

Bottle Feeding

Toddler Daily Schedule

Arrival – 8:00 ~ Free Play
8:00 – 8:15 ~ Clean-up, Bathroom, Wash
8:15 – 8:45 ~ Breakfast
8:45 – 9:15 ~ Free Play
9:15 – 10:00 ~ Clean-up, Circle Time, Art
10:00 – 10:30 ~ Teacher Directed Play
10:30 – 11:00 ~ Free Play, Walk, Outside Play
11 :00- 11:15 ~ Clean-up, Bathroom, Wash
11:15 – 12:00 ~ Lunch
12:00 – 12:45 ~ Free Play
12:45 – 1:15 ~ CLean-up, Bathroom
1:15 – 3:00 ~ Nap/ Rest Time
3:00 – 3:15 ~ Bathroom, Wash
3:15 – 3:45 ~ Snack
3:45 – 4:15 ~ Teacher Directed Play
4:15 – Departure ~ Free Play

* Schedule May Change*

Preschool Daily Schedule

Arrival- 8:00 ~ Free Play

8:00 – 8:15 ~ Clean-up and Wash

8:15 – 8:45 ~ Breakfast

8:45 – 9:15 ~ Circle Time

9:15 – 10:00 ~ Story, Flannel board, Art

10:00 – 11:15 ~ Walk, Free Play, Outside

11:15 – 11:30 ~ Clean-up and Wash

11:30 – 12:15 ~ Lunch

12:15 – 1:00 ~ Free Play, Outside

1:00 – 3:00 ~ Nap/Rest Time

3:00 – 3;15 ~ Clean-up and Wash

3:15 – 3:30 ~ Snack

3:30 – 6:00 ~ Free Play, Outside

** Schedule May change **

Early Childhood Family Education Program:

• Geared to target family learning and playing from birth-5 years of age 
• Families spend special time together and explore hands-on activities such as painting, finger plays, and songs.
• Parents also have an opportunity to network with the Early Childhood Educator as well as other parents.
• Parenting ideas, skills, and concerns are shared by all.
• Emphasis on parenting and early education is a preventative measure that will have a positive influence on the future.

If you have any questions please call Tonya Keim, ECFE coordinator, or Heather Stockdale, ECFE co-coordinator at (507)765-3843

The Early Childhood Special Education Program:

• For those students, ages 3-7, that need special assistance and early training for developmental delay, 
• Offers a nurturing and caring program at Fillmore Central elem.
• This program allows early support for both the family and the  child to focus on the specific needs that a child may have.

If you have any questions please call Connie Berg, ECSE coordinator, at (507)765-3843.

• Application