Codington Connects: Strengthening Community Through Early Learning and Local Engagement
- Steve Jurrens
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a recent interview with News Broadcaster Steve Jurrens on Northeast Radio SD, Sara Foust of Codington Connects and Audrey Rider from SDSU Extension discussed the vital role of early childhood education and community support systems in Watertown. Codington Connects, now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is actively working with over 45 local partners to address critical needs in the area, ranging from child care capacity to economic development.
Focus on the “Early Learner”
Audrey Rider, who serves as the Early Childhood Field Specialist for SDSU Extension, highlighted the “Early Learner South Dakota” initiative. This program focuses on high-quality education and professional development for child care providers across the state.
“It really brings a holistic approach to what early learning really is and the need for that,” Rider stated during the interview. “It also affects a lot of the economy of our town. If we don’t have quality child care, we don’t have people going to work.”
Codington Connects is currently collecting data through a Child Care Survey to understand better the community’s needs regarding child care capacity, affordability, and quality. The survey is open to all families and child care providers through February 20, 2026, to reach at least 300 responses.
Upcoming Events and Fundraisers
To support these initiatives, Codington Connects is hosting several community events:
· Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: This family-friendly fundraiser will take place at Second Street Station on February 19, 20, and 21, 2026. Tickets are $40 and include a three-course meal and entertainment. Tickets for Friday night are selling quickly, and residents are encouraged to purchase them soon.
· Summer Splash: Mark your calendars for May 28, 2026. This event brings families to downtown Watertown for activities focused on early learning and community engagement.
How to Get Involved
Residents, businesses, and child care providers are encouraged to stay connected and participate in the ongoing survey:
· Official Website: CodingtonConnects.com
· Facebook: Facebook.com/CodingtonConnects
· SDSU Extension: Extension.sdstate.edu
For those attending the Watertown Winter Farm Show, Rider will be available at the SDSU Extension booth to answer questions and provide more information about the programs.
