OPENHOUSE SEPTEMBER3 (seepage4)
REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST1
Classes open to everyone in the FM Metro
Families of our Youngest Learners: Welcome to Moorhead Area Public Schools!
For many families, our Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) and Preschool programs are the first steps into the school system. These early experiences lay the foundation for lifelong learning, and we’re proud to offer programs that truly support both children and their families from the very beginning.
What sets our ECFE classes apart is the combination of quality educators, individualized learning, and a warm, welcoming environment where every child is known and valued. Our flexible class options are thoughtfully designed to meet the diverse needs and schedules of today’s families, making it easier than ever to find a program that fits.
At the heart of everything we do is the belief that parents are our most important partners. We’re honored to walk alongside you and your child, and we look forward to building a strong, lasting connection with your family. Moorhead ECFE would like to welcome you to our program and looks forward to meeting you and your child.
Joelle Hofer Director of Early Learning
Register For Class
• Register online at www.moorheadschools.org/CE.
• If you have questions, please call 218-284-3400.
• We will continue to take registrations if there are available openings in the class, and the cost will be prorated.
Age Requirements
Your child must be the required age for the class by the first day of the class. State funding requires that only children ages birth through kindergarten entry may participate in our program.
Class Fees
Class fees are indicated with each description and are payable upon registration. All families are welcome. Families that live in the Moorhead School District receive a discounted rate, indicated by ($)*. Fee is per family except where noted. If you need financial assistance and live in the Moorhead Area Public School District, please call (218)284-3400 for scholarship information.
Cancellations
Weather-Related Cancellations
Check online at www.moorheadschools.org or listen to the radio or television to receive the latest update on any storm-related cancellations or late starting time for classes.
Cancellation Policy
Unless otherwise specified, if you have to cancel, we can give a full refund only if you notify the Community Education Office at least 48 hours prior to the first class meeting. Refunds after a class has begun will be given only in extreme circumstances. In the unlikely event your class is canceled, we will give a full refund.
Moorhead Early Childhood Family Education is designed to strengthen families through the education and support of all parents/caregivers to provide the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children.
Community Education
Vista Center for Education 2777 34th St. S., Moorhead
218-284-3400
Family Connections
EPC120A, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Family Connections
EPC118A, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/8 - 5/18, 30 classes
Family Connections
EPC120B, pg. 4
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Family Connections
EPC120C, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Family Connections
EPC120D, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Family Connections for Homeschooling Families
EPC185A, pg. 7
11:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Baby Beginnings
EPC176A, pg. 10
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
9/8 - 12/15, 12 classes
Fall/Winter Classes Calendar View
Family Connections
EPC118B, pg. 4
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
9/9 - 5/19, 32 classes
Family Connections
EPC120E, pg. 4
8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
9/9 - 12/16, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC120F, pg. 4
9:15 - 11:15 a.m.
9/9 - 12/16, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC118C, pg. 4
10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.
9/9 - 5/19, 32 classes
Family Connections
EPC120G, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
9/9 - 12/16, 13 classes
Family Connections
Full STEAM Ahead
EPC136A, pg. 8
12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
9/9 - 12/16, 13 classes
Toddler Time 2.0
EPC71A, pg. 8
8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC120H, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC120J, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Family Connections
Fabulous 4's & 5's
EPC72A, pg. 8
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Open Play
Multiple Options, pg. 10
12:45 - 1:45 p.m.
Multiple Dates, 1 class
Family Connections
Thriving w/Multiples
EPC152A, pg. 8
12:45 - 2:15 p.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Family Connections Afternoon Odyssey
EPC126A, pg. 7
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
9/10 - 12/17, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC118D, pg. 4
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
9/11 - 5/21, 32 classes
Family Connections
EPC120K, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/11 - 12/18, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC118E, pg. 4
9:15 - 11:15 a.m.
9/11 - 5/21, 32 classes
Family Connections
Infant & Toddlers
EPC177A, pg. 8
10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
9/11 - 12/18, 13 classes
Family Connections
EPC120M, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
9/11 - 12/18, 13 classes
Family Connections Fabulous 4's & 5's
EPC72B, pg. 8
12:15 - 2:15 p.m.
9/11 - 12/18, 13 classes
Family Connections Growing Together
EPC178A, pg. 7
8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
9/12 - 12/19, 12 classes
Family Connections
EPC120N, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/12 - 12/19, 12 classes
Family Connections
EPC120P, pg. 4
9:30 - 11:15 s.m.
9/12 - 12/19, 12 classes
Family Connections Curious Kids, Confident Parents
EPC179A, pg. 8
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
9/12 - 12/19, 12 classes
BIPOC Family Connections
Multiple Options, pg. 7
9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
9/13, 10/11, 11/8, 12/13, 1 class
Family Connections Classes
(birth - kindergarten entry)
Family Connections is a class designed for parents and their young ones to bond, play and learn together. Engage in interactive activities, circle time, music, and more, fostering early childhood development while creating lasting memories. In the second hour, parents will separate (if desired) to discuss topics of interest with each other and a parent educator. Children enjoy a snack and play time with a licensed early childhood educator. You know your child best. If your child is not ready to separate, you can stay with your child the entire class.
Year-round
12 classes, 9/8 - 12/15
No Monday classes 10/16, 11/10, 11/24
EPC120A - 8:30-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 102, $144 ($120)*
EPC120B - 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Vista Room 105, $168 ($144)*
EPC120C - 10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Vista Room 102, $144 ($120)*
EPC120D - 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Vista Room 104, $144 ($120)*
13 classes, 9/10 - 12/17
No Wednesday classes 10/15, 11/26
EPC120H - 8:30-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 104, $156 ($130)*
EPC120J - 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Vista Room 104, $156 ($130)*
13 classes, 9/9 - 12/16
No Tuesday classes 10/14, 11/25
EPC120E - 8:15-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
EPC120F - 9:15-11:15 a.m.
Vista Room 104, $182 ($156)*
EPC120G - 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
Open House
13 classes, 9/11 - 12/18
No Thursday classes 10/16, 11/27
EPC120K - 8:30-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 104, $156 ($130)*
EPC120M - 10:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Vista Room 104, $156 ($130)*
12 classes, 9/12 - 12/19
No Friday classes 9/26, 10/17, 11/28
EPC120N - 8:30-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 104, $144 ($120)*
EPC120P - 9:15-11:15 a.m.
Vista Room 102, $168 ($144)*
Monday
30 classes, 9/8 - 5/18
No Monday classes 10/13, 11/10, 11/24, 12/22, 12/29, 2/16, 3/16
EPC118A - 8:30 a.m-10:15 a.m.
Vista Room 104, $360 ($300)*
Tuesday
32 classes, 9/9 - 5/19
No Tuesday classes 10/14, 11/25, 12/23, 12/30, 3/17
EPC118B - 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Vista Room 105, $448 ($384)*
EPC118C - 10:15 a.m-12:15 p.m.
Vista Room 105, $448 ($384)*
Thursday 32 classes, 9/11 - 5/21
No Thursday classes 10/16, 11/27, 12/25, 1/1, 3/19
EPC118D - 8:00-10:00 a.m.
Vista Room 102, $448 ($384)*
EPC118E - 9:15-11:15 a.m. Vista Room 105, $448 ($384)*
More family connections classes on pg. 7 & 8
Our Back-to-School Open House is an exciting opportunity for families to kick off the new school year together. This open house is the perfect chance to ask questions, ease any first-day jitters, and ensure a smooth start to the school year. Join us for a fun and informative event where parents and children can:
• Meet the ECFE staff
• Explore the classrooms
• Connect with other families
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our ECFE family!
Wednesday, September 3
4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
MEET OUR STAFF
What Does a Typical ECFE Class Include?
Parent and Child Interaction Time: A licensed early childhood teacher provides developmentally appropriate activities for parents and children to explore together. The teachers will provide a safe and secure learning environment that includes art, movement, stories, music, games, and activities.
Parent Education Time - Parents and caregivers participate in a discussion led by a licensed Parent Educator. This time provides support, builds connections, and shares information on a variety of parenting topics.
Children’s Activity Time - While the parents are in Parent Education Time, the children will enjoy time with a licensed early childhood teacher exploring and learning through play. They will work on gaining independence and practicing social skills while using their imagination and curiosity to discover and learn.
Vanessa Warling Parent Educator
Jen Krause Parent Educator
Nancy Fix-Shelton Early Childhood Teacher
Shanna Fischer Early Childhood Teacher
Rachel Stalberger Early Childhood Teacher
Randi Zimney Administrative Assistant
Jen Smith Paraprofessional
Dani Wright Parent Educator
Early Childhood Screening
Early Childhood Screening is a FREE opportunity for children to participate in a health and developmental screening after their 3rd birthday. State law requires screening for all children prior to entering kindergarten. Screening may detect possible health or learning concerns that can result in help and support before kindergarten entry.
Does my child need to be screened? It's best to be screened by age 3, but state law requires all childreen to be screened before kindergarten entry.
How do I schedule a screening? Scan the code below or call 218-284-3800 to schedule your child's screening today!
More Family Connections
Homeschool Families
Homeschooling doesn’t mean going it alone! This class is designed for homeschooling parents of young children who want to build both early learning foundations and meaningful social connections. Each session combines playful, developmentally appropriate activities for children with opportunities for parents to share ideas, ask questions, and build community.
EPC178A - 13 Mondays, 9/8 - 12/15, 11:45 a.m - 1:45 p.m.
No class 10/13, 11/10, 11/24
Vista Room 105, $182 ($156)*
Growing Together
Young children learn best through play—and this class brings learning to life through hands-on, joyful experiences! Designed for children and their caregivers, Growing Together offers a rich, engaging environment where exploration, creativity, and connection come first.
EPC178A - 12 Fridays, 9/12 - 12/19, 8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
No class 9/26, 10/17, 11/28
Vista Room 105, $168 ($144)*
Afternoon Odyssey (birth - age 8)
Embark on an Afternoon Odyssey as we dive into a world of imagination and adventure. We will explore through creative storytelling, interactive games, and fun activities. Join us and unleash your child's imagination.
EPC126A - 13 Wednesdays, 9/10-12/17, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
No class 10/15, 11/26
Vista Room 105, $156 ($130)*
BIPOC Family Connections
Designed for families with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) children, ages birth through 3rd grade, join us for this culturally-affirming early learning experience. Come together to play, explore, and connect with other families in our community. In the second hour of class, parents will separate (if desired) to discuss topics of interest with each other and a parent educator, while their children continue to play and explore in the Early Learning classrooms.
EPC180A - 9/13, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Vista Room 102, $24 ($19)*
EPC180B - 10/11, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Vista Room 102, $24 ($19)*
EPC180C - 11/8, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Vista Room 102, $24 ($19)*
EPC180D - 12/13, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Vista Room 102, $24 ($19)*
More Family Connections Classes (continued)
Infant & Toddlers (Birth - 3 years)
Do you have a baby or a toddler? Join our class to have fun with others, exploring and learning while connecting with other parents experiencing the baby and toddler stage along with you! You know your child best. If your child is not ready to separate at Parenting Time, you are welcome to stay with your child the entire class.
EPC177A
13 Thursdays, 9/11 - 12/18, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
No class 10/16, 11/27
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
Thriving with Multiples – Early Learning Strategies for Parents of More than One Child (Birth - 8 years)
Parenting multiple young children can be both joyful and overwhelming. This engaging and supportive class is designed specifically for parents and caregivers of two or more children under the age of eight. Together, we'll explore effective early learning strategies that work in real-life, multichild households.
EPC152A
13 Wednesdays, 9/10 - 12/17, 12:45 - 2:15 p.m.
No class 10/16, 11/27
Vista Room 105, $156 ($130)*
Toddler Time 2.0
The perfect place for you and your little explorer to learn and play together. Designed for toddlers aged 1-3, our interactive sessions are filled with activities, music, and play that will spark curiosity and foster development. Have older siblings? Bring them with you and they will go with their own teacher for more learning fun. Come join us for a fun-filled adventure where every moment is a cherished memory in the making.
EPC71A
13 Wednesdays, 9/10 - 12/17, 8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
No class 10/15, 11/26
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
Curious Kids, Confident Parents
This class is designed for families seeking to cultivate harmony and happiness in their daily lives. This class offers a supportive space for parents and children to explore practical strategies for reducing stress, fostering communication, and nurturing positive relationships. Through engaging activities and open discussions, families will discover how to navigate challenges with resilience, decrease the drama of discipline, and build healthy parentchild relationships.
EPC179A
12 Fridays, 9/12 - 12/19, 10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
No class 9/26, 10/17, 11/28
Vista Room 102, $168 ($144)*
Fabulous 4's & 5's
Join us for a joyful and engaging early childhood class designed for 4 and 5-year-old children and their parents or caregivers! Let us support your child as they put their natural curiosity to use to discover problem-solving strategies and cause-and-effect relationships.
EPC72A
13 Wednesdays, 9/10 - 12/17, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
No class 10/15, 11/26
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
EPC72B
13 Thursdays, 9/11 - 12/18, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
No class 10/16, 11/27
Vista Room 102, $182 ($156)*
Full STEAM Ahead (3 - 5 years)
This class is tailored for families with preschoolers and has an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to help foster your child's critical thinking and creativity. Join us for a hands-on journey of discovery where young minds can explore the wonders of science in a fun and interactive way.
EPC177A
13 Tuesdays, 9/9 - 12/16, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
No class 10/14, 11/25
Vista Room 105, $182 ($156)*
Help Me Grow
Help Me Grow provides resources to help families understand developmental milestones and identify potential concerns.This helps families take the lead in seeking additional support or referring their child for a comprehensive, confidential screening or evaluation at no cost. You can learn more about Help Me Grow at helpmegrowmn.org.
Additional Classes
Baby Beginnings
This class is designed especially for new babies and their caregivers. Join us for a nurturing and supportive environment where you and your little one can bond, explore, and grow together. Whether it's through music, movement, or sensory play, every moment in this class is an opportunity to deepen the special bond between you and your baby. Come join us and embark on this beautiful journey of parenthood!
EPC176A - 12 Mondays
9/8 - 12/16, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. No class 10/13, 11/10, 11/24 Vista Room 102, $120 ($96)*
Open Play
Enjoy free play in the classroom and gym with your child, Come and check out ECFE if you haven’t been here before or if you are an ECFE family come and enjoy some extra play time with your child. $5 per session per child. EPC137A
EPC137N 12/10 12:45 - 1:45 p.m. Vista Room 102
EPC137P 12/17 12:45 - 1:45 p.m. Vista Room
Parent/Caregiver Coaching & Family Support
(Ages Birth-High School)
Children don't come with instructions, and parenting does not have a manual. Family Education is a statesupported program within school districts and you, as a parent/caregiver, can meet individually with a licensed Parent Educator to discuss and strategize ways to support your individual family.
Meet by phone, email, or virtually using Google Meet, at your home, at school, or at community locations. Whether it's the toddler or the teenage years, we can all use a little support!
Scan the QR code to complete the interest form. For questions and to schedule an appointment with a home visitor, call 218-284-3400.
Independent School District 152
Early Childhood Family Education
Community Education 2777 34th St. S. Moorhead, MN 56560
Parenting Press
Published two times a year by Early Childhood Family Education, a Community Education program of Moorhead Area Public Schools
Joelle Hofer Director of Early Learning
Brenda Richman Executive Director of Community Engagement & Public Relations
Brandon Lunak Superintendent
