Court Improvement Program
Foster Care Training/Qualification
An overview of the foster care qualification and training process. Presented by Jennifer Mueller, SD Department of Social Services and Alex Van Voorhis, Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment.
Child and Family Services Review: Program Improvement Planning
Child and Family Services Reviews (CFSRs) are a joint federal-state initiative led by the Children’s Bureau to assess and improve state child welfare systems. Presented by Ashley Asmus, SD Department of Social Services.
Utilizing Native American Lakota Culture to Heal and Examine Social Determinants of Tribal Health and Persevering Through Unsolved Trauma
his session will provide a personal and professional perspective of utilizing Lakota culture and education to heal, ensuring a better future for generations to come. Presented by Damon Leader Charge, University of South Dakota.
The Role of the Child’s Attorney in Child Welfare Cases
Information on the role of the child's attorney in child welfare cases. Presented by Cassidy Stalley, Nooney & Solay.
Understanding the Landscape of Family Support Services
Information on support services for families offered by the Helpline Center including childcare search, substance use care coordination, 211, 988, and suicide loss and aftercare. Presented by Shauna Batcheller, Helpline Center.
Legislative Update
A recap of the 2025 Legislative Session to include insights on the activity and key policies affecting child protection, prevention, and family well-being. Presented by Senator Tim Reed
Independent Living Services for Youth in Foster Care
An in-depth overview of the Department of Social Services/Child Protection Independent Living Program. Presented by Tanya Septka, Independent Living Program Specialist, Department of Social Services.
Understanding the Impact of Maltreatment on Child Development
Exploration of the impact of stressors experienced during infancy, childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. Presented by Kelly Bass, University of South Dakota.
Identifying and Managing Common Mental Health Disorders in Maltreated Children
Equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills to recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions commonly found in maltreated children. Presented by Nikki Eining, University of South Dakota.
Understanding Trauma’s Impact on the Brain and De-Escalation Techniques
This presentation will describe how traumatic and adverse childhood experiences shape the brain in ways that can lead to increases in aggressive and volatile behaviors. De-escalation techniques for working with angry or dysregulated youth will be provided. Presented by BreAnne Danzi, Ph.D., University of South Dakota.
