ABOUT US
Bruning Early Education Nonprofit, Inc. (BEEN) is a nonprofit organization committed to the operation and sustainability of Kinder Academy, Bruning’s only childcare facility. Our board oversees business operations and fundraising, while our dedicated staff ensures excellence in care, education, and nutrition. We strive to maintain and expand our services to meet the growing needs of our community.
OUR HISTORY
Kinder Academy opened in 2019 as a for-profit childcare center.
The economic impact of COVID-19 and other challenges led to a community-driven effort to preserve this critical resource. In 2023, Kinder Academy transitioned into a nonprofit, supported by local businesses and foundations. This transition has strengthened our ability to provide quality education while ensuring the long-term sustainability of childcare in Bruning.
In November 2023, the Bruning school district funded the outdoor area landscaping. They purchased $14,000 of landscaping mulch to update the play area for the Kinder kids.
In November 2024, Kinder Academy launched a fundraising effort to renovate an existing garage into a recreational space for preschool-age students with support from the Childcare Tax Credit program and the Thayer County Big Give.
In December 2024, we met with Wilkins ADP to begin planning a much-needed upgrade to the current child care facility.
In the spring of 2025, fundraising was completed and the board voted to move forward with the garage project. The garage project will be completed in July 2025 and will be transformed into a recreational room for the preschool age students. The fundraising included donations from the Childcare Tax Credit, Thayer County Big Give, and local grants. GEN2 Contracting was hired to complete this project, with the help from Belle Prairie Electric LLC.
Existing Facility Tour
This video tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at our current facility and the incredible care happening every day at Kinder Academy. You’ll see our kitchen and lunchroom, the infant room, two toddler classrooms, and our preschool space. You’ll also get a glimpse of the director’s office, our outdoor play area, and the newly completed recreation room.
We invite you to explore where learning, laughter, and growth happen daily, and see why expanding this space is so important for our children and community.
BOARD MEMBERS
Adam Bruning
President
Elizabeth Workentine
Vice President
Cathy Otto
Secretary
Heather Ramsey
Treasurer
Sarah Krehnke
Director
Kelly Lampe
Director
Kassi Krupicka
Director
Lichelle Houchin
Director
