New School-Age Program Puts Pressure on Mitchell Childcare Providers

A new after-school program in the Mitchell School District is stirring debate among local childcare providers. Launching in the 2025–26 school year, the KERNELS Program will offer free academic support and enrichment for elementary students from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m., funded by a private grant.

By Christal Blue July 7, 2025 8:13 am

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MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) A new after-school program in the Mitchell School District is raising concerns for local childcare providers. The KERNELS Program, launching with the 2025–26 school year, will offer free academic support and enrichment for elementary students from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m., thanks to private grant funding. While the district says the program isn’t meant to replace daycare, childcare center owner Kayla Lux fears it could pull families away from her business, Little Learners. According to the Mitchell Republic, Lux recently expanded her facility to meet growing demand and says she relies on client fees to stay afloat. With competition from a free, school-based option, Lux is exploring changes, like launching 24/7 care and boosting marketing. City and chamber officials say more collaboration is needed to solve the area’s growing childcare needs. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.

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