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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, April 11, 2016
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Minnesota Department of Education awards Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation Grant for Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment initiative OWATONNA, MN, February 29, 2016 - Minnesota’s Department of Education (MDE) has awarded the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations a total of $180,000 to carry out a Pre-K to Grade 3 Alignment Initiative. Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) will use its $30,000 allocation to work with a minimum of 10 school districts providing outreach, technical assistance, training and financial incentives for districts to expand their Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment efforts. The Pre-K to Grade 3 Alignment Initiative arose from observations by The McKnight Foundation, the Minnesota Initiative Foundations, and the MDE that school districts have been making progress in Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment
work; however, lack of funding streams make it challenging for them to make it a priority. “With SMIF’s strong relationships within the region and some additional dollars to support Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment work, we hope to provide strategies, resources and tools to help our Greater Minnesota school districts enhance their Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment work,” said Teri Steckelberg, SMIF’s Early Childhood Director. “The goal of this initiative is to bridge the communication gap so that our Pre-K work is truly a foundation that can be successfully built upon in the early elementary years.” The Minnesota Initiative Foundations were selected to administer these funds given their years of experience help-
ing communities bolster their early childhood efforts through their Early Childcare Initiatives (ECI). Collectively, over 90 Greater Minnesota communities have been through the ECI process, which brings together a cross-sector of early child care professionals to strengthen the communities early childhood resource network and work collaboratively to solve identified areas of concern. “Since 2003, SMIF alone has led 21 Early Childhood Initiatives in our region,” said SMIF Vice President of Early Childhood, Rae Jean Hansen. “We just launched our 22nd ECI in New Prague last month. These community-led groups have tackled issues from lack of pre-k transportation to better integrating new immigrant families
into the pre-k system. We’re happy that the Pre-K to Grade 3 Alignment Initiative will build upon our ECI work and other early childhood development investments for long-term success of our region’s kids.” SMIF will administer its funds through small scholarships to school districts in the 20 counties of south central and southeastern Minnesota for Pre-K to Grade 3 alignment projects. SMIF also plans to host a training conference to help communities address their own communication gaps and align their Pre-K to Grade 3 programs. All scholarships and trainings are partially funded through the Minnesota Department of Education using federal funding, CFDA 84.412A, Race to the Top.
Bond between grandparents and grandkids benefits both What used to be the "golden years" of life for seniors is now turning into any opportunity to spend even more time with their youngest family members. Nowadays, a growing number of grandparents are called on to provide child care for their grandkids, many of whom are growing up in two-income
households. Others are helping to raise grandkids while providing financial assistance for adult children who may not be able to live on their own. This trend has been corroborated in a few recent studies. Information from the Pew Research Center showed 7.7 million children in the United States
were living in the same household as one of their grandparents in 2011. A University of Chicago analysis of a decade of data based on interviews with 13,614 grandparents, ages 50 and older, found that 61% of grandparents provided at least 50 hours of care for their grandchildren during any given year between 1998 and
2008. And an April 2012 study for the MetLife Mature Market Institute and the nonprofit Generations United, an intergenerational policy group, found that 74% of respondents provided weekly child care or babysitting service for grandkids. Grandparents often cite helping their own children finan-
To learn more about the Minnesota Initiative Foundations, visit www.greaterminnesota.net. For more information on SMIF’s role in the Pre-K to Grade 3 Alignment Initiative, contact Rae Jean Hansen at raejeanh@smifoundation.org or (507) 455-3215. About Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), a donorsupported foundation, invests for economic growth in 20 Minnesota counties. The Foundation has provided more than $55 million in grants and loans within the region during the past 30 years. SMIF’s key interests include early childhood and economic development. To learn more about our work and mission, visit www. smifoundation.org. cially as well as staying in touch with grandchildren as motivating factors behind providing care. According to Generations United, staying in touch with grandkids can give seniors a feeling of self-worth and improve their overall health. When spending so much time together, grandparents may develop special relationships with their grandchildren, who may See GRANDPARENTS Page 6
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Fillmore Central early childhood programs provide a great start! By Angi Kaase Community Education Director Fillmore Central’s Community Education offers a variety of programs for families with children age birth to five years of age. The mission of our early childhood programs is providing children with successful starts through healthy, nurturing, learning environments. School Readiness Fillmore Central’s School Readiness program has a 4-Star Parent Aware Rating. This is the highest possible rating. Parent Aware Star ratings help parents find programs that go above and beyond to prepare children for school and life. The one-to fourstar rating system measures best practices identified by research that help children succeed. Fillmore Central offers a preschool experience to students that are 3-5 years of age. The 3/4 year olds have two options: Monday/Wednesday sessions from 8:15-10:15 or 10:15-12:15 or Tuesday/Thursday sessions from 8:15-10:15. We offer three classes for the 4/5 year olds on Monday, Wednesdays, and Friday; two sessions in the morning from 8:15-11:15 and an afternoon session from 12:10-3:10. This year we have expanded to offer a PreK Plus program on Tuesdays & Thursdays for those students who need that extra boost before entering Kindergar-
ten. Transportation is offered for all of our preschool classes. Our primary goal is to welcome students to the school setting and help them feel comfortable in a classroom when they enter kindergarten. Playtime is an essential part of our program. Playtime provides many opportunities for students to grow in conversation skills, imagination, social skills, as well as fine and gross motor skills. We have structured activities that focus on a standard from our curriculum, Splash Into Pre-K by Houghton Mifflin. Activities are usually hands-on and cover a wide range of abilities including cutting, writing, coloring, role playing, retelling stories, and learning colors, shapes and letters. Pre-literacy skills are also an important component of our 4/5 school readiness program. Much of the year revolves around early literacy and helping students move on to the next step. Throughout the school year, we focus on number and letter identification and beginning letter sounds, writing our letters. Letter knowledge is not the only piece to the early literacy puzzle; rhyming is a big part of being able to increase awareness in different sounds in language too. Special education students are fully integrated into our classrooms allowing friendships
to form and differences to be accepted. We are so excited to have a new addition in January to our School Readiness Program; Action 100!!! While many of our students are at the “Read to Me” stage, we also have several that are ready to read to us and we need to be able to challenge these students and encourage their love of reading. To continue to challenge their little minds, through the help of the Harmony and Preston Area Community Foundations, Fillmore Central School Readiness has been able to purchase and offer Action 100 to our preschool students. Kids who are exposed to reading are much more likely to choose books over video games, TV, and other forms of entertainment as they grow older. Staff in School Readiness includes: 4/5 Lead Teachers Tonya Keim and Jessica Marzolf, 3/4 Lead Teacher Tara Corson, 4/5 Classroom Assistants Angie Haugerud and Amanda Heibel, 3/4 Classroom Assistant Charlene Mensink. ECSE Staff includes Connie Berg, Paula Birch, and Janeen Wingert. ECFE (Early Childhood Family Education) ECFE exists to strengthen families through the education and support of all parents in providing the best possible environments for the healthy growth
and development of their children. ECFE is geared toward birth to age 5. We conduct sessions that include parent and child time, parent time, child time, educational material, and special family events. • Parent and Child Time. During this time children have the opportunity to play and learn new friends. During this time children have the opportunity to play and learn with new friends. You and your child will take home projects you make together. • Parent Time. Sharing parenting skills and ideas with other parents is done at this time. Gather new and up-todate information on topics that relate to your child’s development. Meet other parents from the area, and form a support network. • Child Time. Each week we have a healthy snack, and a circle time with songs, stories, and activities that coincide with the preschool program at Fillmore Central. • Educational Materials. We have a lending library loaded with books for parents and hands-on activities for children. We have music, books, toys, and more! • Special Family Events. ECFE offers play dates, open gym, and special activities geared toward
Fillmore Central Schools One Block At A Time SAC School Age Care
Daycare Learning Center
2 Star Parent Aware
School Rediness -Preschool4 Star Parent Aware
ECFE Early Childhood Family Education Adult Enrichment Classes & Events
ECSE
Early Childhood Special Education
YES Youth Enrichment Studies
Summer Recreation
One Block At A Time Day Care Learning Center
2 Star Parent Aware Rated. 5 leveled daycare rooms provided for children 6 weeks - preschool age. Our instructors are professional and friendly.
families with young children. In the 2013-14 school year ECFE On-The-Go was incorporated. ECFE On-The-Go brings educational materials into your daycare to spend time with the kids. Staff includes: Child Educator Heather Stockdale, Parent Educator Amanda Heibel, and Classroom Assistants Charlene Mensink. One Block At A Time Daycare The mission of One Block At A Time Daycare is to provide children with successful starts through healthy, nurturing learning environments. Currently, 2 Star Parent Aware Rated, the staff and program are working hard to receive the 4 Star rating. Care is provided for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age. The hours of operation are Monday - Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. One Block At A Time Daycare offers five different rooms; an infant room, a transition room, a toddler room, 3/4 preschool room and a 4/5 preschool room to allow the care and developmentally appropriate activities for each age group. One Block at a Time uses the Mother Goose Curriculum; with such a well-designed childcare environment, kids of all ages are able to inspire curiosity and enhance their learning. Drop-ins are accepted with 24 hours’ notice pending we have room availability. See FILLMORE CENTRAL Page 4
Fillmore Central Community Education
One Block At A Time
Mission: to provide children with successful starts through healthy, nurturing, learning environments.
SAC- School Age Care
Before and after school care for children grades K & up. This program offers professional group care during non-school hours for all children attending school. New this summer, Young Leaders Program through SAC
School Readiness
4 Star Parent Aware Rating. 3-4 year Old class 4-5 Year Old Class *Staff go above and beyond to prepage your children for school and life. Now Featuring Action 100 reading program.
ECSE-Early Childhood Special Education
Page 3
For children ages 3-7 with special needs. This program will help strengthen educational expectations and accountability for children with disabilities and bridge the gap between what children with disabilities learn and what is required in regular curriculum.
ECFE-Early Childhood Family Education
To strengthen families through the education and support of all parents in providing the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children.
YES-Youth Enrichment Studies
YES supports development of social, mental, physical, and creative abilities of schoolage youth. We provide structured, fun youth programs that are designed to promote youth leadership development and help improve academic performance in many youth.
Summer Recreation
Our Summer Rec. program offers on-site activities, games, and sporting events, plus special field trips. This is a combined program for both Harmony & Preston.
Adult Classes & Events
Quality classes for an adult audience. Our instructors are professional and friendly.
Fillmore Central Schools, Preston, MN • 507-765-3809 For more information, contact Angi Kaase, Community Education Director. angi.kaase@isd2198.k12.mn.us
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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FILLMORE CENTRAL Continued from Page 3
All staff are state licensed certified and CPR/First Aid certified. Staff Includes: Daycare Director, Nissa Knapp, Room Lead Teachers Julie Pickett, Melanie Kath, Katie James, Mary Fredrickson, JoEllen Hamann, and April Royel. Room Aides include Ellie Skaggs, Amber Richardson, Joan Rojas, Shira Witte, Genny Hanson, and Sharon Wissing. SAC (School Age Childcare) SAC is designed to provide a safe and supervised environment for school aged children. SAC offers a variety of activities to channel children’s energies into positive growing experiences and will focus on the following goals for your child: • To develop new friendships and work together in cooperative group situations. • To gain respect for themselves, others and property. • To develop self-confidence. • To provide a safe, caring, trusting, and relaxed environment conducive to fun and adventure. • To provide trained, caring and respectful staff who understands the importance of a stable setting that meets the developmental needs of children. Staff includes SAC Director Janeen Wingert, SAC Co-Director Jessica Marzolf, Lead teacher Amanda Heibel, and room aides Emilee Fishbaugher, and Matthew Gregg. More staff will be on board during the summer months.
Monday, April 11, 2016
Community Education seeks to improve the quality of life by providing lifelong learning opportunities for all members of the community. Lifelong learning is based on the belief that people are learners at every age and are entitled to pursue educational opportunities that are meaningful to them. We believe that Community Education fosters the learning process in a variety of places and under a variety of conditions. It provides planned learning experiences and activities intended to meet the needs of individuals, families, and the community. By participating in Community Education programs, community members can develop new skills, pursue intellectual and physical interests, and develop a positive self-image. Fillmore Central Community Education also offers enrichment classes for both youth and adults and heads up the Summer Rec programs. Through these programs our goal is to improve the quality of life by providing lifelong learning opportunities for all members of the community. Lifelong learning is based on the belief that people are learners at every age and are entitled to pursue educational opportunities that are meaningful to them. For more information on any of our programs, please contact Angi Kaase, Community Education Director, at (507) 765-3809 or email at mailto:angi.kaase@ isd2198.k12.mn.us.
Fun ways to be a fit family Obesity is a global epidemic affecting people of all ages. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of Americans are considered obese, while Statistics Canada notes about 25% of Canadians are obese. Being overweight or obese has been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer, and children who are overweight are likely to be overweight or obese adults. While eating a diet that is low in fat and high in wholegrain fiber, vegetables and lean proteins is important, exercise remains one of the key factors in maintaining a healthy weight. However, many adults and children simply do not get enough exercise during the day. An active lifestyle is often hampered by the prevalence of digital devices or sedentary jobs that encourage more screen time than fitness time. But there are ways for the entire family to get fit. Exercising together is not just a great way for families to get healthy, but also a great opportunity to spend time together. The following are a handful of ways families can work together to incorporate more exercise into their daily lives. • Tackle chores. Yes, tasks around the house can count as exercise. Working together not only gets you moving but also
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cuts down on the time it takes to tackle tasks around the house. Mowing the lawn, vacuuming the rugs, sweeping the floor -all of these activities can get the heart pumping. Make it fun by setting chores to music or competing against one another to see who gets their task done first or the best. • Compete in the pool. Swimming is a low-impact activity that works many muscles in the body. Taking a dip in the pool can be both relaxing and beneficial to your health. Compete with family members to make the most of the time spent in the water. Host relay swimming races, see how long each member of the family can tread water or create any other competitions that keep everyone in the pool moving. • Create an outdoor obstacle course. Set up a series of obstacles in your yard and host your own triathlon. You can jump through tires, climb through tubes and scale trees. Make it fun by having adults try to ride tricycles or pair up an adult with a child for
sack races. The opportunities for fun are only hampered by your imagination. • Go for family bicycle rides. Traverse your neighborhood or blaze new trails by riding bikes together. Young children can be strapped into trailers that are pulled behind the bike or ride in seats attached to the bike itself. This gives everyone a chance to enjoy the great outdoors and hone their cycling skills. • Go hiking. Hiking is another fun family activity that also happens to make for great exercise. Choose a trail that may not be level and push everyone's endurance to the test. • Stroll the beach.Walking or running on sand offers more resistance than walking on pavement. Take a stroll at the seaside. Break up the walk by collecting shells or stopping by the water to observe marine wildlife. • Hit the dance floor. If you've been invited to a wedding or a Sweet 16 party, cut a rug and take advantage of the DJ and dance floor. When enjoying yourselves, you probably won't even realize how much you're exercising.
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a birthday, anniversary or congratulate a loved one with a happy ad in the Fillmore County Journal! Email your ad and a photo to ads@fillmorecountyjournal.com and we’ll add the artwork! Fillmore County Journal P.O. Box 493 Preston, MN 55965
Ad deadline is Wednesday Noon for the next Monday’s edition.
“Stab” encourages parents to get outdoors and spend quality time with their children. Ronald Schreier
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, April 11, 2016
Mabel – Canton Early Childhood Decreasing family screen time programs Smartphones and tablets interfere with a person's ability appear to have staying power. to focus and negatively affect a
The Mabel-Canton ECFE program offers several Family Fun Night events during the month where parents and children come and interact together. Some of our most popular events have been Pajama Night at the library, Pizza and Gym Night, Fieldtrip to the fire station, Scarecrow Night, Dad and Me Building Night and also our Christmas Party and Egg Hunt. We also offer a Friday morning playgroup twice a month where parents and daycare providers are welcomed to come into the early childhood classroom with their children and interact, make a craft and enjoy circle, story and snack. Schedule of upcoming ECFE events: • Wednesday, April 13 ~ Week of the Young Child Event – Farm Frolics Puppet Show - 6 p.m. • Monday, April 25 ~ Dad & Me Building Night – 6 p.m. • Friday playgroup dates (9:3011 a.m.): April 22 and May 13 School Readiness We are proud to be a Minnesota Parent Aware Program. We
currently offer a Kindergarten Readiness (4/5 year olds) where the students meet either two or three times a week. Our Kindergarten Readiness Programs uses the SRA Imagine It reading series and we also visit the school library once a week. We also offer a preschool class twice a week in the morning for 3/4 year olds. Registration for the 2016-2017 school year will be offered first to the currently enrolled students and then new students and their families are encouraged to attend an open house/registration night which will be held on Monday, May 2 between 5-6:30 p.m. in the early childhood classroom. There is a non-refundable registration fee due at the time of registration. For more information about these programs please check out our school website at www. mabelcanton.k12.mn.us, contact the school office at (507) 4935423 or the Early Childhood Coordinator Amy Hoscheit at (507) 493-5423 ext 127 or email ahoscheit@mabelcanton.org.
The Pew Research Center confirms that smartphone penetration has surpassed the 50% mark among mobile subscribers. Many others are routinely using tablets to access books, television shows, movies, and magazines. In multi-screen homes, televisions are still king. According to a 2012 Nielsen report, the average American over the age of two spends more than 34 hours a week, or more than 4 hours per day, watching live television. Those findings should raise an eyebrow, as health experts warn that excessive screen time can be hazardous to one's health. A sedentary lifestyle spent in front of computers and video game consoles contributes to poor health. Of the leading industrialized countries, the United States has the highest obesity statistics, and Canada is not far behind. Obesity can impact cholesterol, cardiovascular health, risk for type 2 diabetes, and risk for stroke. Excessive screen time can lead to sleep and eating disorders,
person's performance at school or work. Getting a family active and reducing time spent in front of a screen can have profound effects, and reducing screen time doesn't have to be difficult. • Gradually implement changes. Families immersed in electronic devices can cut down on screen time slowly and over the course of several weeks rather than tuning out cold turkey. Start by reducing time spent watching television or playing video games by one hour per week, and gradually reduce time spent devoted to such activities in the ensuing weeks. • Hide devices. The mantra, "out of sight, out of mind" can work with respect to digital devices. If tablets or smartphones are tucked away, family members may feel less inclined to reach for them at any given time. Just as you wouldn't stock your pantry full of fattening foods while trying to lose weight, don't make digital devices readily available throughout the day. • Keep televisions out of the
The Fillmore County Journal www.fillmorecountyjournal.com
Page 5
bedroom. Children who have televisions in their bedrooms tend to watch an additional 90 minutes of programming per day than those who do not have televisions in their room. Keep the television in a shared area of the house so that time spent watching the TV can be monitored and adjusted. • Establish guidelines. Set firm limits on how much screen time will be allowed per day and stick with it. Adults can lead by example. • Plan more family activities. Boredom can easily give way to time spent fooling around on the Internet or channel surfing. Parents should have a cache of ideas at the ready that promote active family time. Neighborhood walks or tossing around a baseball in the yard are enjoyable activities that cut back on time spent being sedentary. Encourage indoor activities, such as puzzles or board games, if the weather is not cooperating. • Be steadfast. Do not throw in the towel too soon. Families should stand their ground when attempting to decrease their screen time in favor of healthier activities.
A special section to show support for this national celebration of young children.
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, April 11, 2016
The Official Legal Newspaper for Fillmore County
Chatfield Community Preschool – play to learn
GRANDPARENTS Continued from Page 2
benefit from the knowledge and wisdom offered by their elders. The following are some lessons grandparents can share with youngsters. • Empathy: By sharing stories of how things were when they
Photos submitted
The preschool experience has changed rather dramatically in the past ten years. What used to be considered an opportunity for socialization is now seen as a necessary step in the preparation for kindergarten. Preschool programs are now expected to provide opportunities for children to practice and develop skills in literacy, mathematics, and social studies. Children are learning shapes, numbers, letters, counting, and rhyming. They are constantly expanding their vocabulary. They are learning about their community and the world around them. At the same time, children are practicing selfregulation – taking turns, problem solving, and functioning as part of a community. Let’s not forget that they also are getting hands on experience in self-care, such as getting ready to go outside, getting their folders in their backpacks, cleaning up, learning the arrival routine, and more. Preschoolers have a BIG job.
They accomplish the goals by doing what they do best – PLAYING AND HAVING FUN! Teachers use intentional play to teach all the necessary concepts and tasks. Yes, there are art projects and writing centers. But there is also dramatic play, blocks and trucks, games and puzzles, small world items such as doll houses and fire stations, gym time, and many other creative play opportunities. Music, stories, and activities at circle time introduce children to concepts and themes. It’s also a great time to learn to listen and follow instructions. The preschool experience at Chatfield Community Preschool is successful because the foundation of the curriculum is the relationship between the teaching staff and the children. Teachers are listening, sharing, conversing, and laughing with children on a regular basis. It is truly a joy to watch the positive interactions that occur on a daily basis. Chatfield Community Preschool strives to create an experience that is available to all chil-
dren. Classes are offered for two age levels: 3 & 4 Year Olds (3 by Sept. 1, 2016) and 4 & 5 Year Olds (4 by Sept. 1, 2016). Full Day and morning only classes are available for both age groups. Children who are enrolled in the older class may ride the school bus, with a bus buddy, to and from school. School-age care is available for both age groups in the mornings (6-8 a.m.) and in the afternoons (2:45 p.m.) Early Learning Scholarships are available to families with financial need. Eligible families receive a significant scholarship to cover the cost of tuition. When registering, indicate that you would like a scholarship application. Applications will be mailed in June. Information and registration forms are available on the Community Education page of the school website (www.chatfield. k12.mn.us). Online registration is also available by going to the Online Store found on the homepage. If you have any questions, contact Director LuAnn Klevan at 867-4210 x. 5022 or lklevan@chatfield.k12.mn.us.
were younger, when opportunities may have been more scarce, grandparents can help teach grandchildren empathy. Grandchildren may learn to be grateful for the things they have and the people around them, rather than taking what they have for granted. • Family history: Grandparents
can tell grandchildren about family members, including youngsters' own parents, and shed light on the generations that came before them. Looking through photos or watching old movies can provide the avenue by which to start conversations about family history and give children opportunities to ask questions.
• Interests: Children may be excited about learning new skills or hobbies taught to them by their grandparents. Anything from gardening to woodworking can be shared. • Respect: Children who grow up respecting their grandparents may have an increased tendency to respect authority figures out-
side their homes, which may help kids grow up to be more courteous and kind. Grandchildren also offer benefits to their grandparents. Companionship, new experiences and conversation can help keep grandparents' minds sharp and bodies active well into their golden years.
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Monday, April 11, 2016
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Page 7
Head Start works together with families to build bright futures Semcac Head Start is rated a 4 Star High Quality Program by Parent Aware. For over 49 years,
Head Start has partnered with parents to support their role as the primary decision makers for
Photo submitted
birth-five years. A trained educator comes to families’ homes weekly to work with children their children. Children develop ming. and parents. Then, every two skills that prepare them to enter • Head Start conducts an weeks, a center-socialization is annual community needs assess- offered to provide parents and kindergarten with confidence. ment to learn what the current children time for connecting Why is Head Start unique? greatest needs are in the with others. • Medical, Dental, Nutrition and and additional comprehensive area to meet the needs of the Head Start recognizes that services are offered for the well- most at-risk children and fami- parents are their child’s first being of the child & family; lies. and most important teachers. promoting healthy living for the Semcac Head Start provides Parents are encouraged to be responsive and flexible program- involved in Head Start activities. whole family. • We offer support for healthy ming at no cost to qualifying Staff works with parents to help parent-child relationships, families. Our Preston Center children progress and help the including support for the par- offers services with a six-hour day family meet their goals. ents and guardians to strengthen M-TH in a preschool setting. For more information, or for Our child-centered curriculum, an application for Head Start, the family and achieve goals. • Family members can vol- The Creative Curriculum, incor- visit the Semcac Contact Center unteer and be involved in the porates the latest research and in Preston or cal l(507) 765best practices, taking the needs 2761 or check out our website program decisions. • Teachers have a full set of of every type of learner into at www.semcac.org. Our focus credentials related to child and account. Activities take place in is to serve families with limited family development. They are a licensed classroom, located in income based on federal guidethe elementary school. well qualified and licensed. lines. All interested families are * Head Start provides nutri- We also offer a home-based encouraged to apply. Staff will tious snacks & meals for chil- option to reach families expect- work with each family to deterdren as part of our program- ing a baby and/or with children mine eligibility.
How to raise kids who grow up giving The message of giving has reached new levels in recent years. While charitable endeavors have long been the center of many local community groups' outreach efforts, social media has made charitable efforts as popular as ever, with millions taking part in exercises such as the Ice Bucket Challenge and other ventures meant to raise awareness for charitable
causes. Charitable giving is a family tradition in many households. Many parents find that the earlier they introduce their children to charitable giving and volunteering, the more likely their kids are to embrace these efforts, both immediately and into adulthood. Parents can impart lessons to their youngsters about the impor-
tance of giving during the end of the year, when many charities raise their public profiles, or when newsworthy events, such as devastating storms, draw attention to the less fortunate. Nancy Phillips, founder and president of DollarSmart Kids Enterprises, Inc., says it's been scientifically proven that giving increases self-esteem and
self-confidence. Children who learn that they can help others will soon realize they have the power to make a difference. Recognizing that they can make a big change is a very empowering discovery for kids. Here's how parents can foster a love of giving. • Choose age-appropriate tasks. Young children do not have a lot of money, so try to find charitable tasks that allow them to donate their time and skills. Kids can help
make cookies for bake sales or participate in food drives in front of grocery stores for certain charities. • Let children choose the beneficiary of their efforts. Children may have their own ideas about who they want to help. Let kids choose because they're more likely to get behind the effort if they feel their input is valued. • Lead by example. Don't See GROW UP GIVING Page 9
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Page 8
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, April 11, 2016
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 households each week.
Free storytelling Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation expanding quality event for all child care program with new grant Good Earth Village will be hosting an intimate evening of community and humanity on Tuesday, April 19, from 6-8 p.m. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. The local camp and retreat center invites all ages to join them for storytelling done similar to The Moth podcast. Appetizers will be served, and live music provided by Ryan Lee in their beautiful log lodge overlooking the valley. “Regular people from all walks of life will share stories of ‘The Kingdom Revealed’ in their personal lives. We look forward to having you join us for this new event,” says Dianna Parks, Executive Director. This event is designed for adults with FREE childcare available with RSVP. RSVP at: http://goodearthvillage.org/storytelling/. Good Earth Village is located at 25303 Old Town Drive, Spring Valley, MN 55975.
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Mardag Foundation grant to support trainings in Rice County
OWATONNA, MN - Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) received a second grant from Mardag Foundation to help more children become better prepared for kindergarten. After successfully launching its Quality Child Care Program (QCCP) in 2013, this grant will help SMIF expand the program to Rice County, although providers from other counties are welcome and encouraged to attend. SMIF’s goal is to continue to expand and increase the number of Parent Aware-rated, licensed family providers so they can provide quality programming, ensuring more children are ready for kindergarten. The program gives providers opportunities close to home: group trainings, one-onone mentoring, and curriculum to support improved quality ratings. Through scholarships made possible by this grant, these opportunities are available at no-cost to providers. The state average for child care providers who participate in Parent Aware is 10%, while nearly 30% of providers who participated in QCCP in the four counties where SMIF held
trainings last year. “The Mardag Foundation is committed to creating building blocks that set Minnesota children on the path to successful and productive lives,” said Jerry Timian, a program officer at Mardag Foundation. “Studies show that by 2018, at least 70% of all jobs in Minnesota will require some training beyond high school,” Timian said. “That is 2.1 million Minnesota jobs that will require skilled workers, and we know that the foundation for those skills is laid in preschool.” Parent Aware is run by the state, and it identifies and rates child care programs that go beyond state licensing requirements. As with hotel or restaurant ratings, it has a fourstar rating system. The more stars, the higher the quality - of knowledge, learning environment, and use of best practices. Independent analysis has found that Parent Aware-rated programs effectively prepare children to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Other funders of QCCP include the Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® of Minnesota
Early Years are learning years with Houston Elementary
Foundation, Medica Foundation, and Otto Bremer Foundation, helping SMIF offer the program in 12 counties thus far and five new counties added this year, including Rice. SMIF will continue to work with Child Care Aware Southern by Families First of Minnesota, First Children’s Finance, and other local early childhood partners to implement the program. “After a great first couple of years, we’ve established QCCP as a key component in helping southern Minnesota child care providers engage with Parent Aware,” said Rae Jean Hansen, Vice President of Early Childhood at SMIF. “With over 2,000 licensed child care providers in our region, there continues to be a need to expand QCCP. Ultimately, we strongly believe QCCP is helping to make more children better equipped to enter kindergarten.” About Mardag Foundation Established in 1969, the Mardag Foundation is the legacy of Agnes Ober. The Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations that enhance quality of life, inspire learning, revitalize communities and build capacity for the arts across the state of
Minnesota. Agnes’ passion lives on through the work of her descendants who serve on the Foundation’s board. The Foundation is an affiliate of Minnesota Philanthropy Partners. Learn more at mardag.org and mnpartners.org. About Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), a donorsupported foundation, invests for economic growth in 20 Minnesota counties. The Foundation has provided more than $50 million in grants and loans within the region during the past 29 years. SMIF’s key interests include early childhood and economic development. To learn more about our work and mission, visit www. smifoundation.org.
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136 St. Anthony Street, Preston P 507.765.2151 • F 507.765.2468
Houston ECFE is the Place to Bee…. ECFE recognizes that a parent is the most important teacher a child will ever have! We are here to support you. If you are parenting a child ages birth to 5 years, then this program is for you! Upcoming Events: April 18 -Puppets Show by WSU students May 2 - Kids Carnival May 16 - Picnic, Potluck, & Party at the Park
Contact Community Ed to register at 507-896-5323 Opt. 2
Houston Preschool Join us for our 2016-2017 registration night on May 3 from 3:30-6:00 p.m. at the preschool building! Meet the teachers, check out the room, and receive a free book to take home. Applications received prior to July 1, 2016 will receive the early bird registration fee. Houston Preschool is a 4-Star Parent Aware Program for children three, four, & five years old.
Get Ready for Kindergarten with the KinderConnection Program!
Picture identification:
Top box - At the ECFE “Caddies and Daddies” event, the boys and girls made a caddie to take home. In the picture: (back row) Dustin Seekamp with daughter Keahna, Cardy Lewison with grandson Dalton, (front row) Delane Frauenkron with daughters Clarie and Caidence, Dan Kildahl with grandson Easton, and Steve Skifton with daughter Natalie. Middle box - (with blocks from left to right) Caleb Frye, Dawson Geiwitz, Carter Davis, Hayden Langen The afternoon preschool children learned about their town and then made their own town. Students are from left to right: Caidence Frauenkron, Eliana Nelson, Jonah Withington, Memphis Meyer, Caleb Frye, Emily Baumann, Delana Stampka, Natalie Skifton, Henry Werner, Bentley Beech, and Toni Luedtke. Bottom Box - Arora Sherry and Bentley Beech
When: April 26 & 27 Time: 3:30p.m. – 5:00p.m. Where: Elementary School Kindergarten rooms Cost: Free!! During these sessions children attending kindergarten in the fall of 2016 will spend time with Kindergarten teachers, Mrs. Grupe and Mrs. Weisbrod, to learn what it is like to be in Kindergarten. There will be story time, snack time, activities, music & fun! Children will receive a free book at the end of each session. Contact Community Ed to register at 507-‐896-‐5323 Opt. 2
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Kingsland early childhood Have you ever looked inside the preschool rooms of Kingsland? You will see smiling faces, children learning, and friendships growing. Preschoolers are given opportunities to build social and academic skills through rhyming, counting, sorting, letter and number identification and much more. Children at Kingsland also learn through play. Young children learn from playing, problem solving, questioning, and experimenting. Our preschool teachers use play and other instructional techniques to teach children about the world. For example, they use storytelling and rhyming games to teach language and vocabulary. They may help improve children’s social skills by having them work together to build a neighborhood in a sandbox or teach math by having children count when building with blocks. Children are given opportunities to learn though specific activities that serve an educational purpose. Kingsland a great place for our littlest Knights to grow and build a foundation for their future. Mrs. Anna Krahn, our 4-5 all day pre-kindergarten teacher, will prepare children for kindergarten by introducing concepts they will explore further in kindergarten and elementary school. In her classroom, she will work with children in groups or one on one, depending on the needs of children and the subject matter. All of our programs, including Miss Klarissa Schoppers, our 4-5 half-day teacher, and Ms. Joan Blackburn, our 3-4 half-day teacher, will plan and carry out a curriculum that targets different areas of child development, such
as language, motor, and social skills. Each individual class will organize activities so children can learn about the world, explore interests, and develop talents. At Kingsland, we also develop schedules and routines to ensure children have enough physical activity, rest, and playtime. The staff at Kingsland know how to watch for signs of emotional or developmental problems in children and bring problems to the attention of parents for early intervention. Kingsland offers a 3- to 4-year-old half-day program, a 4- to 5-year-old half-day program, and an all day 4-5 program for those in preparation for kindergarten. All of our programs offer Monday through Friday, Monday/Wednesday/ Friday or Tuesday/Thursday to fit their needs. In addition to our experienced teachers we are able to say that we have wonderful paraprofessionals in our room that help make it all happen. Mrs. Ronda Anderson, Mrs. Debby Westphal, and Mrs. Becky Oakland have worked very hard giving our preschools the very best experience and education while working sideby-side with our teaching staff. Our preschool program has 86 children this year! Kingsland has developed a strong program and has dedicated teachers and parents. We would like to thank our families for being involved in not only our program, but in your child’s education. For your convenience, Kingsland has on-site childcare to make the transition to and from school easier for your children. School Age Childcare (SACC) is on-site for children
Monday, April 11, 2016 beginning at age 3 to those that are potty trained. The preschool program and SACC work together on transitioning our earliest learners from daycare to preschool. Parents can drop off their child in the morning and feel at ease knowing their child will get to preschool without hesitation. Learning for our 3- to 5-year-olds doesn’t only happen in the preschool room, but also while they are in SACC as Kingsland’s preschool and SACC programs offer the same curriculum so the learning never ends. Our SACC program is set up as a drop-in childcare program where you only pay for the time you are here. SACC charges $2.75 per hour and there is no minimum hours required. SACC is open year round 5:30 a.m.-6 p.m., including nonschool days during the school year. The cost of our preschool program is determined by the program and days you choose. We have been fortunate enough to keep the cost of preschool and SACC programs the same rate ($2.75 per hour). We also offer scholarship dollars to those that qualify. If a family qualifies for free or reduced lunch rates or county assistance, they could be granted a scholarship into our preschool program. Kingsland also offers an ECFE (Early Childhood Family Education) program run by Mrs. Angela Waters. Kingsland ECFE offers parent and early childhood education for families with children between birth to age 5. ECFE is based on the idea
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
that the family provides a child’s first and most important learning environment where parents are a child’s most significant teachers. ECFE works to strengthen families and enhance the ability of all parents to provide the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children. Kingsland ECFE offers two parent/child classes every Tuesday from 4:15-5:45 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. Class begins with parent/child interaction and developmentally appropriate opportunities to explore. Parents will then separate into the parent room for topic discussions. Children continue to explore in the ECFE/PreK room with our Early Childhood teacher, Mrs. Kelly Opseth. Parents and children end together with a brief circle time of songs and rhymes
in the ECFE/PreK room. Also join us Tuesday afternoons for the free family open gym for birth-5 (older siblings welcome) in the Kingsland Café from 3:15 to 4 p.m. Families are also given the opportunity to participate in a free courtyard exploration class from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. on Thursdays. Children get the opportunity to explore nature up close though art, story walks, and free play. If you have a child that is age 3 to 5 and would like more information on our preschool program, we would love to hear from you! It is never too late to start your child on their educational path. For more information please contact: Mrs. Becky Bicknese, Community Education Director; Phone: (507) 3467276 ext. 4100; or bicknese. becky@kingsland2137.org.
GROW UP GIVING
box. Make it a family tradition that members of the household will donate an item they receive or a small amount of money to the box each month. At the end of the year, the family can deliver those funds and gifts to a charity of choice. • Talk about giving at dinner. Make philanthropy a regular part of family conversation. Discuss the plight of the less fortunate with your children, focusing on the value of volunteering and helping others. Children can learn to be generous and give to others at an early age, and those that do are more likely to grow into charitable adults.
Continued from Page 7
just pay lip service to the idea of being charitable. Provide a good example by getting involved yourself. Make sure the entire family gets involved with the effort of giving. • Let children see where their efforts are going. Writing a check is a rather unceremonious way of giving that may not resonate with young children. But if they can see food being delivered to the hungry or pet supplies going to an animal shelter, they can see the fruits of their efforts paying off. • Create a giving account or
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, April 11, 2016
Rushford-Peterson offers many early childhood opportunities Rushford-Peterson Community Education offers many opportunities for early childhood aged children and their families. Our Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes are open to birth to 5-year-olds. Parents and children attend the themed classes together. Classes meet on Tuesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m. and Friday mornings from 9-10:15 a.m. Along with offering classes, ECFE also sponsors events the whole family can attend together, as well as events that highlight
and celebrate special family relationships! This school year, families have already enjoyed Math Wizards, Little Elves’ Workshop (held in Peterson), ECFE Open Gym, and Reading Wizards. Upcoming Special Events for this spring include the annual Daddy/ Daughter Dance on May 1 from 1-3 p.m. R-P Community Education proudly offers the Lille By Preschool program to our community. Three-, four-, and fiveyear-old children attend classes
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 households each week.
independently from their parents. Lille By (pronounced “Lilla Bee”) is a Norwegian name that means “Little Town”. Our preschool is an inclusive program. Lille By Preschool is currently accepting preschool registrations for the 201617 school year! Please contact the Community Education office for more information. ECFE Special Event information and Lille By Preschool information is included in the ECFE/School Readiness newsletters mailed approximately once a month during the school year to our mailing list. Events are also advertised on our website at www.r-pschools.com under the “Community Ed” tab on the top of the homepage.
St. Johns hosting preschool and kindergarten open house April 25 St. Johns Lutheran School in Wykoff will be hosting their preschool and kindergarten open house Monday, April 25, from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. St. Johns provides students with a strong foundation in academic skills, social abilities, and moral values that they will take with them the rest of their lives. In today’s world, a quality education is very important in helping our children succeed in the future. St. Johns is blessed with a talented and dedicated staff that is able to work with each
child at the level they are at. Along with loving and caring teachers, St. Johns has tremendous parent involvement which helps provide a wonderful learning experience for each child. Not only is it important that we provide our children with a strong academic education, it is even more important that we are able to help our children grow in their faith. Through the work of the Holy Spirit we are able to provide for them a foundation See ST. JOHNS Page 11
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in Christ that they will take with them the rest of their lives. St. Johns preschool and kindergarten programs are designed to help students grow socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, and spiritually in an atmosphere where your child will feel acceptance and love. Some of St. Johns early childhood goals and objectives include providing an environment that fosters growth in gross and fine motor development at developmentally age-appropriate levels for each child, as well as providing an environment that fosters growth in language, math,
science, and sensory skills. They will also provide an opportunity for each child to develop a positive self-image, and positive growth in relationship with peers, adults, and other children. Students will be instructed in developing vocabulary, speaking in sentences, using verbal expressions, following simple directions, as well as expressing ideas, feelings, and experiences through stories and art. St. Johns Lutheran School is open to all children beginning at age three. Registration forms for preschool, as well as kindergarten or any other grade, are available upon request. Registration is now open, and will continue until classes fill. All forms must be com-
Monday, April 11, 2016 pleted and submitted to the school office with the first month’s tuition payment of $80.00 in order to guarantee enrollment in preschool. Preschool days are on Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Kindergarten through eigth grade meets Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. If you would like more information, or would like to pick up registration materials, please feel free to contact the school office at (507) 352-4671, or you may also visit the school website at www.stjohns-wykoff.org. The Christ-centered education that children receive at St. Johns allows children to recognize and develop those talents and abilities that God has blessed them with.
Preschool & Kindergarten Round-up Monday, April 25 6:00 – 7:30 PM www.stjohns-wykoff.org 245 South Line Street, Wykoff, MN 55990 (507) 352-4671, Email stjhnsch@hmtel.com St. Johns Lutheran School’s mission is to help parents meet the spiritual, academic, and physical needs of their children by providing a Christ-centered learning environment which emphasizes personal Christian growth, academic excellence, and service to God and the community. St. Johns Lutheran School is supported by St. John Lutheran Church, 245 Line St. S., Wykoff, MN 55990
Fillmore County Licensed Daycare Directory Carmen’s Daycare........................................507-259-8105 13811 Hwy. 52 SE, Chatfield, MN Crystal Hindt Dols.......................................507-346-9869 601 Warren Ave, Spring Valley, MN Joell Brand, Family Child Care...................507-864-2549 502 E. North St., Rushford, MN Julie Howard, Rainbow Daycare.................507-346-1000 525 N. Pleasant Ave, Spring Valley, MN Kristin’s Sunshine Child Care......................507-450-1082 27266 Sievers Dr., Rushford, MN Lori Batzel, Family Child Care.....................507-951-1644 722 Twiford St. SW, Chatfield, MN Nicole Schriever’s Child Care......................507-272-4457 30875 County 22, Harmony, MN Tanny’s Tots, Tanny Mayer Family Child Care....507-886-2951 378 7th Ave SE, Harmony, MN Tina Kerns Daycare....................................507-743-8349 101 First St. Canton, MN
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Children who graduate from St. Johns have a strong foundation in their faith and academics that will guide them the rest of their lives. If you would like to meet the teach-
Page 11
ers and visit the classrooms please make sure to attend the Open House on April 25, or call and make an appointment to see what is so special at St. Johns.
Photo submitted