FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 3, 2019
Department of Social Services announces David Kurt as new Children’s Division Director
Jefferson City, MO—On Thursday, the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) announced David Kurt as the new Director of the Children’s Division (CD). “David Kurt is a dynamic leader with the drive, vision, and determination to make Missouri a national leader in transforming child welfare and I am thrilled he will continue the Children’s Division’s pursuit of excellence,” said Steve Corsi, Director, Department of Social Services. “The Department of Social Services is working harder than ever to improve the safety and wellbeing of children and to strengthen Missouri families. David will propel Children’s Division even further and I know he will truly inspire all Children’s Division team members.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity and I am very excited to begin this journey together with the outstanding Children’s Division workers who are making a difference in the lives of Missouri Children,” said David Kurt, Director, Children’s Division. “Every hour of the day CD workers are out there saving lives. I will ensure they have the tools and support they need and will work to remove barriers which may impede their efforts to keep kids safe. I look forward to getting out and meeting Children’s Division staff and all our child welfare partners in the communities they serve across Missouri and learning about their work, the families they serve, resources, challenges, and ideas on how to improve child welfare in Missouri.”
Kurt is a devoted public servant and has spent nearly 20 years of his career serving the State of Kansas, most recently as the Interim IV-D Director of the Child Support Enforcement Program and as a Regional Director for the Department for Children and Families. Kurt has focused his efforts on breaking the cycle of poverty and providing services that strengthen families and contribute to the safety and wellbeing of children. His diverse experience across human services aligns well with Governor Parson’s vision to work collaboratively across departments to serve the needs of Missourians. Kurt’s scope and depth of knowledge will enable him to seek innovative solutions which will help Children’s Division achieve and sustain safer and healthier futures for children and their families.
The Children’s Division administers child welfare services and works in partnership with families, communities, the courts and other governmental entities to ensure the safety, permanency, and wellbeing of Missouri Children.###