May 30,2024

Let's Hear From You

It is so important that advocates be involved at every level of discussion that can impact their experiences and make sure their voices are heard. Over the years, South Dakota Parent Connection has met so many wonderful advocates and self-advocates and wants to make these types of experiences available. Below are some national and local opportunities for the many individuals who are passionate about advocating for improvements. Learn more about the most recent ways to get involved below and visit our website for a full list of opportunities.

South Dakota Parent Involvement Survey is given to all SD families with children receiving special education and related services. This is your opportunity to provide CONFIDENTIAL input about your local school district's special education program! Survey data will be summarized for the school district and the SD Department of Education to improve services for children and families in your school and across South Dakota. If you have already completed this survey on paper or online, thank you! If you have not completed this survey yet, please use this LINK before May 31, 2024.

Supporting Families Community of Practice Meetings for self-advocates, family members, support coordinators, providers, early intervention and health care providers, family groups, teachers, community partners, and state/county staff are invited to attend to share your expertise and ideas of how supports can be enhanced for individuals and families. These meetings will be held in person at two locations
June 6, 2024 in Aberdeen
June 12, 2024 in Sturgis

Family Voices is holding focus groups with families, young adults, and healthcare professionals to learn more about what youth and families need to feel engaged in healthcare transformation for children and young adults with special healthcare needs.
Family Focus Group
Young Adult Focus Group
Healthcare Professionals Focus Group

The American Academy of Pediatrics is seeking parents/caregivers of children with health conditions, present at birth to participate in an expert workgroup. If you are interested in learning more or participating, access additional information HERE.

South Dakota Department of Health needs your input by taking the Maternal Child Health Needs Assessment Survey to help them improve their services. Complete a short survey to help us understand and address the health needs of women, children, and youth including those with special health care needs, and their families. Use this LINK to learn more.

Summer Camp Transition Services

Check out the services to help students with disabilities prepare for a job or find paid work experience. Contact the individuals listed below to learn more about the camps in your area.

Hand Picked

At South Dakota Parent Connection, parents and professionals contact us to help answer questions they have. Here are some resources picked out by our staff to help answer some of the more commonly asked questions.

Upcoming Opportunities

Here are some educational opportunities offered by South Dakota Parent Connection and other organizations that help support South Dakota families. A complete list of events can be found on our website at ww.sdparent.org or Facebook page.

June 1, 2024 Autism Walk: Attend this inclusive community event that is free and open to the public. Lots of entertainment for the whole family, door prizes, community resources, and scholarship drawings.

June 4, 5, 6, 2024 Health Equity Summer Institute: Be inspired to learn about social justice for families, equitable youth suicide prevention strategies, and more from these dynamic speakers at this virtual event!

June 6, 2024 Supporting Families Community of Practice Meeting: (Aberdeen) Self-advocates, family members, support coordinators, providers, early intervention and health care providers, family groups, teachers, community partners, and state/county staff are invited to attend and share your expertise and ideas of how supports can be enhanced for individuals and families.

June 12, 2024 Supporting Families Community of Practice Meeting: (Sturgis) Self-advocates, family members, support coordinators, providers, early intervention and health care providers, family groups, teachers, community partners, and state/county staff are invited to attend to share your expertise and ideas of how supports can be enhanced for individuals and families.

July 10 - 11, 2024 Transition Summer Institute 2024: The Transition Summer Institute provides high school special educators and directors valuable information regarding the topic of transition to adulthood for students with disabilities.

Office Hours: 9:00 - 5:00 CT

Monday - Thursday

Friday by Appointment

Call Us: (800) 640-4553

In-Person: By Appointment

Email Us: sdpc@sdparent.org

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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, $93,175; 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 US Department of Education, HRSA, HHS or the Federal Government.