05/06/2026
Next up in our People Behind Sandrock Ranch series is Makena — and tomorrow she turns 21 years old! 🎉
Makena works for the Scales Mound School District, where she cares for and teaches one- and two-year-olds. Anyone who knows Makena knows working with kids comes naturally to her. She has always had a special connection with children, so it was no surprise when she chose a career in childcare. She absolutely adores her kids and is incredibly dedicated to them every day.
Around the farm, Makena jumps in wherever she’s needed. She’s a big help during roundups and when working cattle, helping get cattle in, working around the chute, and keeping track of numbers when calves are being processed. Last weekend she was in charge of recording calf numbers while we worked calves through the chute.
Makena is usually our “last resort” phone call when we need an extra hand — not because she doesn’t want to help, but because she keeps a very busy schedule. And somehow, she still shows up when we need her.
Over the years, Makena was also instrumental in helping watch and entertain Piper while the rest of us were busy working cattle or handling situations where little kids probably didn’t need to be in the middle of the chaos. Piper has grown up with Makena by her side her entire life, and the bond between those two is pretty special.
Makena may not be here every day, but she’s always been an important part of the Sandrock Ranch crew — dependable, caring, and always willing to step in and help when needed.
