District highlights Birth-to-3 early-intervention program; serves about 110 children, staff says

The Sioux Falls School District on June 9 described its Birth-to-3 early-intervention services, telling the board the program provides free, family-focused in-home support for children from birth to age 3 with developmental delays.

Elizabeth Jane Gary, who spoke to the board about Birth-to-3, said the services are personalized and research‑based, and can include speech‑language support, occupational therapy, physical therapy, cognitive‑development strategies and caregiver coaching. “Parents and caregivers again are the child's most important teachers and by empowering them early we give children the best chance to reach their full potential,” Gary said.

Gary told board members the program served “just over 100” children last year and that current caseloads ebb and flow; she said the program’s roster is “right at 110” at the time of the meeting. She outlined staff counts: five teachers, three occupational therapists, three physical therapists and one full‑time speech‑language pathologist.

The program uses Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) tailored to each child; services are provided in the family’s home at no cost and children are reevaluated at age 3 to determine eligibility for services through pre‑K or other district programs. Gary said referrals come from families, pediatricians, daycare providers and other sources and that staff work closely with families and childcare providers to plan transitions.

A family testimonial included in the district presentation praised Birth‑to‑3 staff for helping a child reduce reliance on a walker and increase independence. The board thanked Gary and program staff for the work.