South Dakota Parent Information Center
U.S. Department of Education
Office of Innovation and Improvement
Parent Information and Resource Center Program  

The Parent Information and Resource Center (PIRC) Program was originally authorized under GOALS 2000 for the purpose of supporting parents in the development and education of their children. The PIRC Program was incorporated in the reauthorization of the ESEA and can be found in Title V-Part D of the No Child Left Behind Act. The West River Foundation has been the grantee for the South Dakota Parent Resource Network and administers the program through a management subcontract with the Black Hills Special Services Cooperative.

The South Dakota Parent Resource Network provides a varied array of direct training and information resources designed to support parents in their active and effective involvement in their children’s education. There is little debate about the importance of parent involvement in the education of their children, however, effective parental involvement goes beyond volunteering at school and participation in parent teacher conferences. While these measures of involvement are not insignificant, a parent’s real impact in their children’s success occurs at home. Promoting positive attitudes and beliefs about education, providing structure, teaching appropriate behavior, assisting with homework, providing opportunities to learn, and supporting healthy decisions are important roles that parents play in their children’s education. Most parents require information and training to fulfill their critical and complex role. The South Dakota Parent Resource Network provides a single point of access for all parents to receive the information and resources necessary to be active partners in their children’s education.

Since the passage of the No Child Left Behind Act, the role of the South Dakota Parent Resource Network has become even more critical. In collaboration with the SD Department of Education, the SDPRN has expanded its information and training opportunities in response to the new requirements of schools under No Child Left Behind. Through regional training for school personnel and parents, print and electronic information and action planning at the local level, SDPRN activities result in a greater understanding of standards and assessment, school accountability, and the role of parents under NCLB. We are convinced that mobilizing the energies and resources of families towards improved academic achievement of their children will have significant impact on the ability of schools to achieve adequate yearly progress as required by NCLB.