Building Relationships, Working Together: Speaking Up for South Dakota’s Children

A practical introduction to connecting with elected leaders, sharing your perspective, and finding common ground.

As a result of attending, participants should expect to be able to:

• Identify the elected leaders and decision makers who can help address issues affecting children and families in their communities.
• Use practical strategies to initiate conversations and build ongoing relationships with elected leaders.
• Share a clear, concise message that connects their personal or professional experience to the well-being of South Dakota’s children.
• Find common ground and work collaboratively with people across different roles, perspectives, and priorities.
• Plan meaningful engagement before, during, and after Children’s Day at the Capitol, including following up with elected leaders.

Presented by: Kayla Klein, Policy Specialist with SDAEYC

Kayla Klein has over 15 years of advocacy experience, with a background in early childhood education, nonprofit leadership, and public policy advocacy. Her experience includes leading a nonprofit child care center, directing Black Hills Reads at United Way of the Black Hills, and bringing together policymakers, educators, business leaders, and families through Early Learner South Dakota. Drawing on her experience working with elected leaders and building partnerships, Kayla offers practical guidance to help people share their experiences, find common ground, and work together for the well-being of South Dakota’s children.