Following a decision not to appeal the suspension of her license to operate Busy Bee Learning Academy, owner Tonya Newbound has opted to lease the property, building, and all equipment to Growing Minds Preschool, which is in the process of securing a license from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Growing Minds Preschool owner Danielle Rhoads of Hermann confirmed the lease agreement, noting Newbound will not be involved in the daycare business.

This is Rhoads’ first foray into licensed daycare. “I have only handled private care needs for my own family (siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews) and family friends,” said Rhoads, who was also a licensed foster parent. “However, as my own family has grown, my husband and I have been discussing the possibility of opening a center. The only drawback had been finding a capable building without a massive investment in redesign. When I was made aware of the vacancy, I decided to move forward with the venture. I am hoping to fill the need in the community.”

Newbound said she will continue to care for six children until the transition, after which she plans to walk away from the field of daycare. 

Currently, no criminal charges are pending against Newbound regarding DESE’s allegations that she and her “staff administered unknown medications to children in your care to calm them at naptime.”