Our Staff.
The SDAEYC staff is dedicated to supporting early childhood professionals and advocating for high-quality early learning experiences across South Dakota. Our team works collaboratively to advance the organization’s mission through leadership, advocacy, and communication.
Lisa Parry, M.Ed.
Executive Director
Kevin Nelson
Director of Outreach & Impact
Dr. Janessa Bixel, Ed.D.
Rapid City TriShare Coordinator
Kayla Klein
Policy & Advocacy Specialist (Consultant)
Together, the SDAEYC staff works to elevate the profession, support early educators, and advocate for policies that benefit young children and families throughout South Dakota.
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Executive Director – Provides strategic leadership and overall management of SDAEYC, ensuring the organization's programs, professional development opportunities for educators and caregivers, advocacy efforts, and operations align with its mission and goals. The Executive Director works closely with the board, staff, and community partners to strengthen early childhood education across the state.
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Director of Outreach & Impact - Advances SDAEYC’s mission by leading advocacy efforts, guiding Early Learner Communities through technical assistance and evaluation, and representing the organization in key statewide and national policy and professional settings. The role also oversees strategic communications, supports committees and community partners, and ensures consistent outreach, reporting, and engagement to strengthen South Dakota’s early learning systems
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Rapid City TriShare Coordinator - Builds and manages partnerships among child care providers, employers, and families to expand access to affordable child care through the TriShare cost-sharing model. The coordinator leads program implementation and participant support while strengthening local workforce and early childhood systems through collaborative partnerships.
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Policy & Advocacy Specialist - Provides legislative expertise and strategic guidance to advance SDAEYC’s early childhood policy priorities by mentoring advocates, collaborating with partners, analyzing and tracking legislation, and representing the organization throughout the legislative process. The role also develops clear advocacy materials, supports task forces and committees, and ensures SDAEYC leadership is informed through regular updates and legislative briefings