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Our Story: A Legacy of Love and Learning:
A Legacy of Love and Learning: The Story Behind King's Kids Academy
The journey of Dennis and Tanya Cook in early childhood education began over three decades ago, rooted in a deep passion for nurturing young minds. Tanya’s heart for childcare was first woven into the community during her 14 years at "Capitoland Children Center"in Madison, Wisconsin, where she played an instrumental role in shaping, growing, and guiding the center.
The journey of Dennis and Tanya Cook in early childhood education began over three decades ago, rooted in a deep passion for nurturing young minds. Tanya’s heart for childcare was first woven into the community during her 14 years at "Capitoland Children Center"in Madison, Wisconsin, where she played an instrumental role in shaping, growing, and guiding the center.
In time, Dennis and Tanya felt called by the Spirit toward a new chapter. That calling led them to Verona, where they purchased a building right next to the Verona Post Office. Alongside their partners and dear friends, Mike and Janice Schraufnagel, they embarked on a brand-new adventure.The center soon earned its memorable name through a moment of sweet childhood logic.
Mike and Janice’s oldest son, Donny, would regularly ask his parents if they were heading to "Tanya’s Big House" or the "Little House." The name stuck, and "Tanya’s Big House" quickly became a beloved staple in the community. For the next 14 years, Dennis, Tanya, Mike, and Janice poured their lives into caring for local children—building an enduring community grounded in trust, faith, and unconditional love.
When a friend mentioned a nearby, vacant building that had previously operated as a childcare center, Dennis and Tanya were inspired to take a look. At the same time, Mike and Janice were ready to transition into a new chapter of their own.
Embracing the opportunity with open hearts, Dennis and Tanya stepped forward to found King’s Kids Academy.Within the first two years of starting this new venture, they proudly passed the torch of "Tanya’s Big House" to one of their very own dedicated team members, Sarah Feren, who continues that legacy today as Hometown Preschool.
Today, King’s Kids Academy stands on a 30-year foundation of devotion to children and families—continuing the same mission of providing a safe, loving home away from home.