The Family Child Care (FCC) program hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies on October 14 and 16, 2025, to celebrate the licensing of three new FCC providers: Courtney Baker, Taylor Manderle, and Kristina Garcia.
Colonel Zeigler, Commander of the 5th Mission Support Group, presented each provider with a framed FCC license and participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony held in front of their homes. The events recognized the providers’ dedication to supporting military families through quality in-home child care.
The addition of these three new providers strengthens the FCC program’s ability to meet the growing child care needs of the Minot Air Force Base community.
Courtney Baker
My name is Courtney Baker, and I grew up on a small dairy farm in North Central Pennsylvania. I met my husband in high school. We got married after graduating and moved to Alaska where my husband was stationed. Shortly after our one year anniversary we welcomed a beautiful baby girl. I am finishing up my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education this spring. We have lived in North Dakota since January. I am excited to get the opportunity to put my teaching skills to use and care for your children.
Kristina Garcia
Hi, I’m Kristina Garcia, and this is my first year being a child care provider, and I couldn’t be happier to start this journey. My husband and I have been at Minot Air Force Base for almost two years now. We both proudly serve in the military—he’s Active Duty, and I’m in the Reserves. Together, we have three daughters—Madison, Lillian, and Jordyn—and are excited to welcome baby number four soon! Our family also includes three dogs: Tessa(retired K9), Callie, and Hazel. We love spending time outdoors and exploring everything Minot has to offer. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Rhode Island College and am currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Dakota College of Bottineau
Taylor Manderle
My name is Taylor Manderle, and I’m a preschool FCC provider on base. I grew up in North Dakota and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Minot State University. I have three years of experience working in both a childcare center and a school. I’m passionate about teaching and love helping children grow socially, emotionally, and academically. In our class, we’re like a family, and I truly love what I get to do every day.
