In Sarah Volkens’ second grade classroom at Waukee’s Eason Elementary, students learn through hands-on discovery enhanced by technology. “She has an amazing talent for inspiring her students to learn the material in different ways,” said Cindy Clements, a parent of one of Volkens’ former students.
Volkens, who is in her seventh year at Eason, draws her inspiration from the small moments of breakthrough she observes on a daily basis among her students. “Any time they relate something we’re talking about to something they’ve previously learned—then you know they’re making that connection,” she said.
There’s a lot of material to cover in the second grade curriculum—from math and science to reading and social studies—and Volkens tries to keep things interesting for her students while still challenging them. In keeping with her attention to each child’s individual learning style, Volkens said she particularly enjoys teaching math because she’s able to see the many different ways her students solve the same problem.
Technology plays an important role in her teaching methods, as well. “I like to incorporate as much technology as I can, because it’s a big part of their lives,” said Volkens. In social studies, the second graders use kid-friendly websites to research the cultures of other countries. During individual learning time, students work in “discovery stations” where they can take apart old laptops or scan QR codes to play videos related to certain topics.
Volkens’ teaching style encourages her students to grow personally, as well. “I saw so much confidence in her students,” said Clements. “Whether they wanted to participate in the talent show, give a report in front of the class, or just share a story, she always made them feel comfortable.”
When she’s not with her second graders, Volkens enjoys spending time with her husband, Mike, and their infant son, Jackson. Even with the busy schedule of a teacher and mother, Volkens also finds time to go fishing and attend Iowa State football games with her family.
Another act of service will likely be heard before it’s seen. Club members will be ringing bells next to red kettles to collect change for the Salvation Army. Beginning in November and running through Christmas Eve, with the exception of Sundays and Thanksgiving Day, expect to hear the bells ringing outside of the
Despite the potential for competition, the two owners have been very supportive of one another. According to Scheid, Cindy Lane, owner of the Valley Junction location, has owned her boutique for 18 years. Lane was the very first franchise owner and continues to be a top-selling franchisee in the company. And luckily for Scheid, Lane has become a mentor to her. “She reached out to me when she found out we were bringing a store into the Waukee area,” says Scheid. “I have been lucky to work with Cindy over the last few months, learning from her buying experience and business expertise.”
The location itself is also a product of Scheid’s creative flair; she describes the space as “raw elegance,” with a combination of mixed metals, distressed woods, and raw material. “It has an industrial feel,” she says. After the store opens, Scheid and her staff will offer the opportunity for Ladies Nights in the beautiful new space. They’ll host events after-hours and make the space available to more intimate groups. Each host will get $50 off her purchase, and she and all of her friends will get 25% off the purchase of one item. Scheid and her staff will provide beverages, as well as a cheese and crackers. “It’s the perfect way to throw a party – there’s no housekeeping, and no charge or minimum,” she explained. For information on sales, promotions, events, and the grand opening, follow Mainstream Boutique on Facebook. 
“We’ve had great support from the West Des Moines campus,” said Quaid. Members from that location came and supported the launch and the grand opening, during which over 1,100 people visited the campus.