The State of South Dakota participates in a federal program called the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities. In South Dakota the program is called Birth to 3 Connections, and is administered by the Department of Education.
South Dakota CARES receives funding to facilitate the program from the Department of Education. With the funding Service Coordinator’s provide developmental screens, act as a liaison between families, school districts and therapists by coordinating evaluations, meetings and therapy services if needed. Service Coordinators also assist families in advocating for their children and can provide information for outside resources.
Pierre - 605-224-5879
cmoit-mitchell@southdakotacares.org
Hello, my name is CJ and I love children. I travel within the counties of Haakon, Stanley, Sully, Hughes, Hyde and Lyman screening children to determine their developmental level, coordinate therapy services and provide resources to families. The first 3 years are critical to a child's learning process. I act as an advocate for these children and their families. I can honestly say that working with the families and their children is my dream job.
Brookings - 605-556-0067
skrusemark@southdakotacares.org
I provide screenings and coordinate services for families in Miner, Moody, Lake, Brookings, counties. I enjoy working with families and school districts to assure children are receiving needed services. I also help families find resources that may be helpful. I have worked with the Birth to Three Program since October of 2005.
Watertown - 605-753-5450
kbradberry@southdakotacares.org
My Name is Kelly and I am a Service Coordinator for South Dakota Cares Birth to 3 Connections. An important part of my job is to help families find resources and services that meet their needs. What I enjoy most about my job is having the opportunity to get to know families and their children. I have seen families grow in their ability to advocate for themselves and their children and I love to see the progress their children make through the services they receive. The Counties that I serve are Roberts, Day, Marshall, Codington, Clark, Hamlin and Duel.