November 2025

Attention Parents

Do you ever feel tired, overwhelmed, or just want to talk with others who understand what it’s like to raise a child with a disability? You’re not alone. South Dakota Parent Connection wants to know how we can best support parents like you — and we’d love to hear your ideas!

Many parents have shared that they want a safe and friendly place to learn, share, and support each other. We are gathering ideas from families of children and young adults with disabilities across the state to see what kind of virtual group would be most helpful. Our goal is to make it easy for parents to join from anywhere in South Dakota, right from the comfort of their own home.

Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts to help us build a caring space where

families can learn, connect, and lift each other up!

Harvest Hangouts

The South Dakota Department of Human Services’ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) invites individuals with disabilities, families, and community members to come together for a Harvest Hangout this fall! These free, informal gatherings are a chance to meet the DDD team, self-advocates, and other families from your area.

Whether you have questions, ideas to share, or simply want to connect with others who care about building stronger communities, the Harvest Hangout is the perfect place to start. Stop by anytime during the event to chat, listen, and enjoy the company of others in a welcoming, relaxed environment.

Event Dates

Mitchell: Monday, November 17 | 6–8 PM

Sioux Falls: Tuesday, November 18 | 6–8 PM

Spearfish: Wednesday, November 19 | 6–8 PM

Please use this LINK or scan the QR code to let the team know you plan to attend.

Nominate 2026 SpEd Staff of the Year

The Department of Education’s Office (DoE) of Special Education Programs is now accepting nominations for the 2026 SpEd Staff of the Year. Parents and guardians can nominate a special education professional who has made a big difference for their child and has worked in their job for three or more years.

You may nominate:

• SpEd teachers or SpEd directors
• Speech-language pathologists
• Occupational or physical therapists
• School psychologists
• Paraprofessionals

The winner will be announced at the South Dakota SpEd Conference in Sioux Falls on March 4, 2026.

Deadline: Nominations are due January 9, 2026 Questions? Contact Stacy Holzbauer at the DoE

2026 Marketplace Health Insurance

It’s time to sign up for 2026 health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace! The Marketplace helps individuals and families find quality health coverage at a price that fits their budget. Plans cover things like doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, and more.

Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026. During this time, you can:

• Apply for a new plan if you don’t already have health insurance.
• Renew your current plan or make changes to your coverage.
• See if you qualify for financial help to lower your monthly costs or reduce what you pay when you get care.

Even if you already have insurance, it’s a good idea to review your plan each year. Prices and coverage can change, and you might find a better option. For healthcare coverage starting January 1, 2026, registration must be completed by December 15, 2025. The final deadline for completing the enrollment is January 15, 2026, for healthcare coverage beginning February 1, 2026.

To learn more or start your application, visit HealthCare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 for free help in English or Spanish. Local help may also be available through community health centers or navigator programs.

Don’t wait—enroll by January 15, 2026, to make sure you and your family are covered for the year!

Upcoming Events

See Where South Dakota Parent Connection Will Be!

Check out these upcoming events where our staff will be sharing information and resources to South Dakota families and those who support them. These opportunities provide valuable information, resources, and support for families across the state. To see where we’ll be next, check out our website or following us on Facebook. See you there!

November 20, 2025: Catch the College Wave, Rapid City: Brought to you by Transition Services Liaison Project, this is a fun, half-day event for high school students with disabilities who are thinking about college or technical school. Students will hear from current college students with disabilities, learn about entrance and eligibility requirements, and find out how to get the accommodations they need to be successful. They’ll also have a chance to practice self-advocacy and communication skills to help them prepare for life after high school. Stop by and visit with South Dakota Parent Connection staff to learn about our resources.

South Dakota Parent Connection offices will be closed the following days:

• November 27 & 28, 2025
• December 25, 2025
• January 1, 2026

This e-publication was developed under grants from the U.S. Department of Education Project Grant H328M2000666 and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Grant H328M140021, Family to Family Health Information Center, $96,750; and approximately 5% financed with non-governmental resources. The contents should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by U.S. Department of Education, HRSA, HHS, or the Federal Government.