Little Dippers Learning Center is embarking on a new chapter under the leadership of Kally Deymonaz, a seasoned educator passionate about early childhood learning. As the center’s new administrator, she brings over two decades of teaching experience, a master’s degree in curriculum instruction and a reading specialist endorsement. Deymonaz says her mission is to transform Little Dippers into a stable, professional and community-supported learning center while maintaining a fun, nurturing atmosphere for Skagway’s youngest residents.

“I started teaching kindergarten in 2004 and loved it,” Deymonaz said. “Found that it wasn’t like a job to me; it was a passion.”

Deymonaz’s path to Skagway began with a love of teaching that dates back to her childhood. After earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Arizona State University, she continued her studies at Northern Arizona University, where she obtained her master’s degree and reading specialist endorsement. This specialized training allowed her to focus on one of her greatest joys –  teaching kids to read.

“It is very intriguing to me and a lot of fun to teach little ones how to read. Especially when that little light bulb comes on, and a kid can read a sentence or read a book themselves,” Deymonaz said. “Just the joy and the pride that they get from that achievement.”

After years of teaching kindergarten and first grade in Bisbee, Arizona, Deymonaz and her husband Mike, who works for Homeland Security, sought a new adventure. Skagway’s natural beauty and close-knit community offered the perfect fit.

“I’m loving the change in temperature, the change in the environment, the change in the animals and the architecture,” Deymonaz said.

Deymonaz aims to create a play-based learning environment that supports each child’s unique development.

“My philosophy is that every child is an individual and they grow at their own rate and at their own time, and it’s our job as early educators to foster that and to encourage them in their learning,” Deymonaz said.

Safety is another priority. Deymonaz has implemented childproof locks, improved security measures and plans to install cameras and additional lighting on the playground.

“I’m also working on increasing our security here,” Deymonaz said. “Cameras and door locks, just a whole bunch of things to try to make sure that things are running smoothly.”

Deymonaz is also focused on professionalizing the learning center, addressing past challenges and ensuring Little Dippers has a stable and dedicated team.

“So what I’m working towards is making Little Dippers a stable learning center,” Deymonaz said. “What I’m trying to do is hire year-round, full-time teachers that are qualified and dedicated … that are going to be invested in Dippers and love children.”

For Deymonaz, parents are an essential part of the equation. She maintains an open-door policy and communicates regularly through online apps and a monthly newsletter.

“I have an open door. I believe that it takes a village and that we are a team,” Deymonaz said. “Anytime that a parent has a concern, they’re welcome to email me, come and talk to me – set up a meeting.”

Deymonaz’s personal approach extends to every aspect of her work. As an empty nester, she feels privileged to care for Skagway’s children and has a message for Skagway’s parents.

“I just want them to know that I will treat their child the way that I want my child to be treated,” Deymonaz said.

That personal touch even includes her commitment to transportation. Deymonaz converted her minivan to safely transport children, complete with proper restraints.

“It’s just funny because now it says Little Dippers on the side and my husband jokes that he’s never going to drive it again,” Deymonaz said.

As she settles into her new role, Deymonaz is eager to build connections and become a part of Skagway’s history.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity and a wonderful community up here, and I am thoroughly, thoroughly enjoying it,” Deymonaz said.

Deymonaz said that Little Dippers will accept children from six months up to five years old. The timing of her arrival is fortuitous for Skagway families. At the end of December, Little Dippers Learning Center will be the only childcare facility in town.