An Early Learning Community has begun in the Custer area. The group formed under the auspices of Early Learners South Dakota and is part of a national effort to ensure that all children have access to high-quality early learning experiences and environments to create a solid foundation for lifelong success.

Early Learner Custer is organized and operated by a steering committee consisting of representatives from the Custer School District, the Custer Ministerial Alliance, the City of Custer and Monument Health. 

Committee Members 
Nora Smolinsky- Custer School District 
Shannon Witt- Custer Ministerial Alliance 
Jeanne Fischer- Custer City Liaison
Jennifer White- Monument Health Representative 

Our current objectives are to collect information from a community assessment using the Early Learner SD Community Assessment tool based on the National League of Cities Early Learning Community Action Guide (ELCAT), as well as compiling information from area businesses, organizations and providers to organize into an area resource guide for families of children 0-8 in our community.