Photo submitted by Marcy Drew

Recap of Children's Day at the Capitol

"This was my first time attending Children’s Day at the Capitol. It was a great experience to be part of. We met & talked with legislators to share information about critical issues facing early childhood care & education programs. We also learned more about how these challenges are directly impacting children, families and workforce development across our state. It was exciting to see and learn about the other programs that attended and their efforts to support children & families as well. I would strongly encourage others to participate too. I look forward to participating again & further involvement in these advocacy efforts for all communities in South Dakota!" 

-Kristine Bjorum

"What a great Children’s Day at the Capitol. 

We had a total of 13 early learning organizations represented at the capitol with Secretary Gill opening the day. The Department of Social Services presented about their new program, Stronger Families. 

We were honored by the turnout and look forward to coming back next year." 

-Kayla Klein

"Children’s Day at the Capital was a great opportunity for me to do my part in ensuring that early learning conversations become a priority for our state leaders. I enjoyed sharing my passion with my local legislators and getting a first hand look at the other people and groups advocating along side me."

-Nicole Weiss

SDPB continues to refine and improve resources for early learners in South Dakota by focusing on the four area of Early Learning Resources, Professional Development, Quality Programing, and Interactive Games and Activities.

Please watch the short video for more information!

SDPB at Children's Day at the Capitol

SDPB Team

Capitol interns love Elmo

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Kayla's response to Governor Noem's unemployment success claims

According to Kayla Klein, "Governor Noem's budget address of $100 million for child care was somewhat unclear regarding childcare availability in South Dakota."

The Custer Area Early Learning Community is currently working on a community survey about the availability of child care in Custer County. Surveys will be distributed to parents through the schools, the Custer YMCA, the Chamber of Commerce Trade Fair, the Kindergarten Roundup, and other community opportunities. The group is seeking input from parents on how they find child care and their opinion of the quality of childcare which they can locate. Custer Area Early Learning Community plans to use the survey results in conversations with local decision-makers on the next steps toward accessible, affordable quality childcare in the area.

Shared by: Rose Kor