Project Enrich is a South Dakota State Improvement Grant which will help create new systems for teaching and learning in our state.
We accept the challenge of recreating learning environments for teachers and children so that all can achieve high and reach appropriate developmental milestones.

Project ENRICH funds will develop an infrastructure to provide professional development activities to teachers and early intervention providers.
Increased achievement for children and youth with disabilities is the primary focus of the grant.

ENRICH Goals:

• Create a system for coordinating and enriching the professional development of school personnel, early intervention providers, mentors, volunteers, parents, and others connected with the life and learning of children and young adults with disabilities.
• Improve the learning opportunities and achievement of children with disabilities.
• Increase meaningful collaboration and linkages with other state and federal school improvement efforts as well as other agencies, services, and resources existing primarily for the good of children with disabilities.

ESA 2 is one of five regional programs that are the agents of growth and development for Project ENRICH. A Project Management Team at the state level will provide the guidance. In addition, service agencies, higher education, public and private schools, parents, teachers, pre-schools, and early intervention programs will collaborate in the development of the project. Regional program coordinators will share experiences and best practices with special education peers throughout the state, nation and world.

An outside evaluator will be hired to ascertain a results-based evaluation system. Process and product evaluation will drive the system in the creation of knowledge and practices that enrich the lives and the learning of all children and youth, their teachers and their families.

This effort is consistent and aligns with the auspices of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and preexisting Title I efforts for comprehensive school reform and increased academic achievement for all students.