Access to affordable, high quality childcare remains one of the most pressing challenges facing rural South Dakota. Families in small towns often struggle to find reliable early learning and afterschool options, placing stress on parents, employers, and local economies. Recognizing the growing need, SDSU Extension stepped forward as a neutral, statewide convener to help communities identify solutions and expand local childcare capacity.
A Collaborative Statewide Effort
With support from a seed grant, SDSU Extension brought together a multi disciplinary workgroup to support communities seeking practical, sustainable childcare solutions. Between October and November 2024, Extension specialists facilitated rural childcare roundtables in Lead/Deadwood, Webster, and Beresford—later collaborating with Doland as project needs shifted. These sessions brought together parents, business owners, educators, and community leaders to discuss local needs and map out actionable next steps.
Following the roundtables, Extension provided ongoing technical assistance, coordination, and resource support to help each community transform conversation into progress.
Community Impacts Across South Dakota
Lead/Deadwood
A needs assessment survey with 59 responses confirmed strong demand for after-school and summer programming. With guidance from the South Dakota Afterschool Network, the community opened a new afterschool program at Deadwood Elementary in September 2025, now serving more than 15 children.
Webster
Local engagement efforts helped direct grant funds toward architectural planning and curriculum development for a new childcare center. An existing afterschool program also enhanced its offerings by updating learning materials.
Doland (originally Beresford project funds)
When progress slowed in Beresford, remaining grant funds were reallocated to Doland Community Daycare. The program used the support to purchase updated educational and outdoor equipment and to develop a sustainability plan in collaboration with city officials.
Benefits for Families and Communities
Across these communities, rural families now have increased access to safe, enriching environments that support child development and give working parents much needed stability. Early learning programs gained updated resources, while after school programs improved materials and expanded opportunities for young people. Stakeholders consistently shared that Extension’s facilitation, structure, and statewide perspective helped move ideas into action.
Strengthening Rural South Dakota
Quality childcare supports workforce participation, encourages families to remain in or relocate to rural areas, and strengthens local economies. Through this project, SDSU Extension helped communities build childcare systems that contribute to long term economic resilience, stronger schools, and thriving small town life. The outcomes in Lead/Deadwood, Webster, and Doland demonstrate the power of local collaboration supported by Extension’s research based guidance.
This survey report draws on data from childcare providers across the state to provide insights into how these issues affect South Dakota’s families, their economic stability, and the broader community. By exploring these dimensions, the report seeks to identify opportunities to better the current childcare crisis facing South Dakotans.
