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From the Desk of Rick Lahn A Message from the Superintendent As the weather begins to turn cooler and the days get shorter, it is a sure sign that the start of school is right around the corner. Throughout the summer, faculty and staff have been busy preparing for an exciting year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our hard working custodial staff for all they have done to make certain our buildings are clean, safe and ready for the new school year. Their efforts are truly appreciated. Throughout my time as your Superintendent of Schools, I have learned that Morris Area is truly an amazing place. The community is clearly supportive of our students and that makes all the difference. I look forward to working together with our school board to ensure that every child attending the Morris Area School system receives a world class educational experience.
As you are aware, our school district will be asking voters to approve a capital referendum on November 7th for much needed renovations to Morris Area High School. Our High School turns fifty this year and major systems are in critical need of replacement and renovation. Among them are fresh water piping, sewage piping electrical systems, science casework, locker room facilities and the high school theatre. In addition, our bus garage repair facility is beyond its useful life and our building needs additional space for a much needed fitness classroom. In total, 95% of project costs will go directly to renovating existing spaces that will ensure Morris Area High School will serve the needs of the community for decades to come. We invite you to attend one of our scheduled community forums shown below to ask questions and learn more about our proposed project.
Community Forum Events to be held at the Morris High School Auditorium:
September 25 at 7:00 p.m. October 9 at 7:00 p.m. October 11 at 5:00 p.m.
District Wide Open House
We welcome all community residents to visit our schools and learn more about the exciting opportunities available for our students. Thursday, August 24 5:00—8:00 p.m.
Should you have any questions or concerns, never hesitate to contact us. By working together, we can achieve our vision of becoming the finest school district in western Minnesota! Warm Regards, Rick Lahn, Superintendent
JMC Message Center
Keeping parents informed and involved helps to assure student safety and improve student success. With today’s on-the-go lifestyles, it has become more difficult for schools to reach families quickly and effectively. This is why Morris Area School decided to implement JMC Message Center. JMC Message Center is an essential tool for notification and communication. Within minutes of an emergency, school officials can use Instant Alert to deliver a single, clear message to the students’ parents or guardians by telephone, cell phone, e-mail, or text in any combination. The system can also be used to notify you of a school closing due to inclement weather. It’s an equally effective way to keep you informed of everyday activities, such as event times and locations as well as schedule changes. The system is Internet based and allows each family to maintain a secure, password protected online profile. You can log into your profile at any time to update your contact information. To do this, go to the school website www.morris.k12.mn.us and click on Parent Portal in the Important Links section. Log in using your JMC Parent Portal username and ID. Add any email or cell phone number and click on the boxes under Important Messaging Information. Maintaining the accuracy of your profile will increase the ability of the school to keep you informed. The system is ready for you at any time. We encourage all of you to take advantage of this opportunity, as we will be utilizing this system for most of our school-tohome communication. If you do not have access to a computer, please feel free to come to the school to use our facilities.
2017—2018 Bus Information
We do a “Bus Safety Program” the first week of school that all students participate in. In the classroom and on the bus we discuss the rules for waiting at the bus stops, riding the bus and the dangers surrounding the bus. There are also bus safety reminders included with the bus route information. Bus route information will be mailed to families at the end of August. Rural routes are listed under the parent’s name, by bus number, and by driver’s name. The times of pickup may have to be adjusted the first week of school. You will be notified of changes. Students on rural routes are picked up at the end of his/her driveway. Please notify the bus garage if your child won’t be riding the morning route. City stops are listed by street names and the students are picked up in groups. Pick the stop nearest to your home. Please bring your child to the bus stop before school starts so they are familiar with the stop location and how to get home from there. All students should be at their designated stop five minutes before their designated times so the bus is not late for the rest of the stops on the route. The time that is listed on the route is the time the bus will leave the designated stop.
ATTENTION MOTORISTS: Never drive by a school bus with red flashing lights and an extended stop arm whether meeting or following a school bus. The flashing yellow lights tell you the bus is preparing to stop. When the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended you must stop 20 feet from the bus in any direction. These signals show that children are getting on or off the school bus. Motorists must not move their vehicle until the driver shuts off the red lights and the stop arm. These laws exist to protect children getting on and off the bus and to protect you from a tragedy. Unfortunately every school year we have multiple school bus stop arm violations in Morris. Violation of these laws can result in a citation and fines. School bus drivers must report passing vehicles to the police department. Thank you for helping keep our children safe. Please call the Bus Garage with any questions or concerns, (320) 589-3932, Deann Recker.
2017—2018 School Lunch Information
The cafeteria is a place where students can meet before and after school to visit and relax. We like to call this the commons area. Our lunch line has two main menu lines, a Fun & Fit line, and the ala carte line. Students will have the option of choosing to have the menued lines or the ala carte line and pay with lunch account funds. Parents will have to fill out the Student Charging Form to allow students to charge more than a breakfast or lunch. The sack lunch program is also available. Parents of students may order sack lunches for their children. Our breakfast programs starts serving at 7:45 a.m. daily and at 9:45 a.m. on two hour late days. We also offer a Second Chance Breakfast for students in grades 7—12 at 10:08 a.m. We will continue to use the finger scanner instead of pin numbers for student identification for meals. If parents or students choose to, they can also type in their lunch number. Parents will still be able to check their family accounts the same as last year by going to the school website. BREAKFAST
Grades K-12—$1.25 Adults—$1.95 Reduced Price—Free
LUNCH
Grades K-6—$2.20 Grades 7-12—$2.25 Adults—$3.75 Reduced Price—Free
MILK
SNACK PROGRAM
Full Year—$43.00
Full Year—$65.00
Half Year—$21.50
Half Year—$32.50
Lactose reduced milk is available upon written request to all students.
This program is offered during milk break time when snacks will be delivered to the classrooms.
Meal funds unused at the end of the school year will be credited to the next school year. If a family moves from the district or the last child in the family graduates, refunds for the credited amount will be given. Parents can pay for meals online from our website or at any office using their debit or credit card. There is no charge to parents for using rSchoolToday. Applications for free and reduced lunches are mailed to each home at the beginning of the school year. If you don’t receive one you may pick one up at the District Office or Elementary Principal’s Office. If your family did not qualify for free or reduced lunches at the beginning of the year, but your financial status changes part way through the year, you may reapply at any time. Please help support our school lunch and breakfast program by applying for free and reduced meals. Even if you don’t think you will qualify, just applying can help the budget and your application is totally confidential. Thank you for your support. We are looking forward to another good year.
MORRIS AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION Through our children and the Morris Area Public Schools Foundation, we can make a difference today in the world of tomorrow. For more information and donations go to www.morris.k12.mn.us and click on the MAHS Foundation Link.
Morris Area Elementary A Message from the Elementary Principal The Morris Area School District is excited to welcome you back for the 2017-2018 school year. The faculty and staff are once again busy preparing the school and classrooms for an inspiring time of learning and growth. As I begin my 23rd year in education, I am excited as I have ever been to begin the school year. While we take the work we do here at MAES very seriously, I would like to take a moment and share how proud I am of our staff for their relentless pursuit of student achievement and success. Student success is the goal of all staff members at Morris Area Schools. We are committed to seeing every child reach their full potential and assure you we will do everything in our means to make that happen. We ask for your support and participation in this effort by sending your child to school every day, encouraging him/her to read on a regular basis, and to carefully monitor homework and progress. Research clearly shows the most significant factor influencing student success is FAMILY. Working together gives us the greatest chance for a meaningful year!
Each fall, staff and students at Morris Area Elementary embrace a new theme. We were looking ‘Beyond You’ in 2014, came together with the concept of ‘WE > me’ in 2015, and showed that ‘OUR Kids Deserve It!’ in 2016. The theme for the 2017-2018 school year is ‘Together Everyone Achieves More at MAES!’ We will work as a TEAM to help all students at MAES reach their fullest potential.
INVEST IN OUR YOUTH
MAES will continue the “Invest in our Youth” campaign for 20172018. This SINGLE* fundraising event replaces the time consuming practice of collecting fees or participating in other fundraisers as a way to pay for events/items such as a trip to the zoo, skiing, assignment books, the overnight class trip, music and PE supplies, or numerous other “extras” which enhance the educational experience for our students. This program – in which 100% of the funds directly benefit students – we ask each family to ‘sell’ one share ($40) for each child enrolled in K-6. While the ‘official’ kick-off for this event will occur in October, families or friends may contribute at any time by sending cash or check directly to the school or going online: Go to the Morris Area Schools web site: www.morris.k12.mn.us Click on the “Donate to Morris Area Schools” link Enter the “Donation Info” Under “Apply donation to:” choose Universal Complete information as needed (address, payment option, etc.) In the “Additional Information/Comments” type: Invest in Our Youth Click on, Submit You will have an opportunity to purchase your share(s) at the open house on August 24. *Activities conducted outside the school day(Comm. Ed.) and elective classes such as band may still request payments. Also, please know that other organizations, not affiliated with the school, may still ask students to fundraise. In addition, you are still responsible for school lunch, milk, and snack break payments, should you choose to participate.
TITLE I
Title I is a federally funded program through the Elementary & Secondary Act (ESEA) designed to provide support to students who are performing below grade level in reading and/or math. The goal is to emphasize high academic standards in an effort to help students succeed in the classroom and reach grade level performance. How are parents/guardians involved? Parents are invited to attend the school’s annual Family Fun Night held in May. Parents, staff and students may participate in the development and carrying out of a family involvement plan that spells out the goals and shared responsibilities of the child, school and parents for student success. Parents are encouraged to participate in Title I meetings and learning opportunities. Parent's Right to Know At the beginning of each school year, school districts must notify parents of children attending Title I schools that they can request information regarding their children's teachers. In addition, if students are taught by a teacher who is not highly qualified the parents of students in Title I schools must be notified, in a timely manner, if their child has been assigned to, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who is not highly qualified. Please know that ALL Morris Area Elementary teachers are highly qualified. We are excited that you are taking the time to support your child’s learning through Title 1 services.
ASSESSMENTS
In addition to statewide assessments, students will take the FASTBridge reading fluency test and the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) three times a year, during fall, winter, and spring. Information gained from these tests will help us to analyze program effectiveness, predict proficiency on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, differentiate instruction to reach all learners, and allocate resources where they are most needed.
READING CORPS CONTINUES
Students in grades K-3 will continue to benefit from the Minnesota Reading Corps program during the 17-18 school year. This is the ninth year of the program and it has been a tremendous boost for students. Reading Corps is a statewide initiative to have every child be a successful reader by the end of third grade.
NEW MAES LICENSED STAFF Jessica Balog Special Education Teacher Kacie Partridge 5th grade teacher
Morris Area High School A Message from the High School Principal On behalf of our staff at Morris Area High School, I am happy to welcome you to the 2017-2018 school year. I am looking forward to working with parents, students, and community members in the Morris Area School District. The entire staff has been busy getting ready to make this another successful school year. We are looking forward to a productive partnership with you to ensure our students can achieve their highest potential.
NEW TEACHERS
In the high school we have one new faculty member and two familiar faces returning. Ms. Erin Biron will be a new member of the Agriculture department. She is a recent graduate of the University of Connecticut and we are very excited to welcome her to the Tiger family.
Ms. Sarah Moulton will be returning for the 2017-2018 school year. Ms. Moulton has filled many different roles within the district over the last couple of years and will be joining the English department this year. We are also welcoming back Ms. Nancy Grotjohn. Ms. Grotjohn has spent many years in the district as a Family and Consumer Science teacher and as paraeducator. Ms. Grotjohn will be teaching Family and Consumer Science this year. We are excited to have these experienced and talented educators back in the district.
TECHNOLOGY
We are continuing to expand our one-to-one initiative for our students. There has been a lot of hard work and planning this past summer to continue to improve technology in the district. As part of the 1:World technology initiative, all fifth and ninth grade students will be issued a Chromebook computer for use at home and in the classroom during the 2017-2018 school year. With the devices that were issued last year, every student in 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grades will have their own Chromebook computer.
COUNSELOR’S CORNER
Parents and community members interested in sharing their college and career choices with the 8th grade PACS class please contact Jennifer Rustad at 320-585-2207 or jrustad@morris.k12.mn.us.
2017—2018 OFFICIAL NOTICES
NOTICE CONCERNING USE OF PEST CONTROL MATERIALS
For the “Parents Right to Know Act”, (M.S.123B.575, Subdivisions 1- 14) A state law went into effect in 2000 that requires schools to inform parents and guardians if they apply certain pesticides on school property. Schools that apply these pesticides are required to maintain an estimated schedule of pesticide applications, and to make the schedule available for review or copying at the school office. State law also requires that you be told that the long-term health effects on children from the application of such pesticides or the class of chemicals to which they belong may not be fully understood. If you would like to be notified prior to pesticide applications made on days other than those specified in the estimated schedule (excluding emergency applications), please contact the Head of Buildings & Grounds at 320-589-4400.
MORRIS AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNUAL ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION APPENDIX VIII
In accordance with federal regulations, Morris Area School District has an asbestos management plan documenting the location and condition of all known or assumed asbestos containing building materials (ACBM) in the high school and elementary buildings. Every six months, an accredited inspector visually inspects the condition of the ACBM. The management plan is available for public inspection at each building during normal business hours. Please contact the Head of Buildings & Grounds at 320-589-4400 with any questions as he is the designated person responsible for maintaining the asbestos management plan for the district.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY NOTIFICATION APPENDIX IX
The Morris Area School District advocates a healthy school environment in which the surroundings contribute to an environment conducive to learning for students, and productivity for teachers and staff. To help accomplish this, we have implemented an IAQ Management Plan using guidelines provided by the Minnesota Department of Education, and the “Tools for Schools” document developed by the U.S. EPA. The Head of Buildings & Grounds is the IAQ Coordinator for the Morris Area School District. He is trained and certified by the Minnesota Department of Health to fulfill this position. All issues concerning indoor air quality should be brought to his attention, by calling 320-589-4400.
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Elementary Gymnastics MACA Coaching Staff Grades K—5
Anyone new signing up, please sign up for Rollers. On the first day of class, the staff will determine a level that is best for your child.
Rollers
Grades K—2
This level is for the beginner who has little or no experience. Students will learn basic floor and beam skills and will also have the chance to use the springboard. They will be learning cartwheels, backbends and touch on round offs and walkovers. 8 Sessions—$40 ($35 if registered before November 25) November 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 3:45—4:35 p.m. MAHS Practice Gym COURSE NO. 1600A
Tumblers Grades 2—5
This level is designed for those who have had previous experience in gymnastics and who are ready to perfect old skills and learn new ones. Students will have a chance to use the vault, as well as the floor and beam apparatus. They will perfect their round offs and work on back walkovers with light spot and begin back handsprings. 8 Sessions—$40 ($35 if registered before November 25) November 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 4:45—5:35 p.m. MAHS Practice Gym COURSE NO. 1600B
Tiny Tots
Michele Hickman Ages 18 months —3 Years Parent/Child Class
This class is a great opportunity for children and parents to interact in a fun and unique setting while allowing the little gymnasts to explore the world around them. We will work on walking across the floor beams, swinging on the small bars, rolling around the floor, and learning to balance while jumping on the trampoline.
4 Sessions—$24 ($19 if registered before October 31) Tuesdays, November 7—28 9:00—9:45 a.m. MAHS Practice Gym COURSE NO. 1694
Tiny Tumblers Michele Hickman Ages 3—5 (Preschool)
This class is designed to introduce basic gymnastics skills, gross and fine motor skills, hand-eye and foot-eye coordination, balance, and creative movement. We will jump, run, roll, and bounce! Come play in a stress free class with a high dosage of fun and energy. 4 Sessions—$24 ($19 if registered before November 1) Wednesdays, November 8—29 6:00—6:45 p.m. MAHS Practice Gym COURSE NO. 1693
Pre-Team Gymnastics MACA Coaching Staff Grades K—6 + Placement by Staff
These pre-team classes are aimed at providing the progressing gymnast more challenging skills. Focus lies in the continual improvement of skill achievement such as true vaulting with the table, a kip on bars, and both front and back handsprings on floor. Putting skills into sequences also becomes a new objective for the athlete.
Aerials + Twisters
8 Sessions—$64 ($59 if registered before November 26) November 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 27, 30 6:00—7:30 p.m. MAHS Practice Gym COURSE NO. 1653A
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Español Para Niños Maria Aguilar Grades 4—9
This program will expose the students to basic Spanish within a span of 7 weeks. The students will be learning simple sentences, colors, and more through singing songs, playing games, and having fun! ¡Vamos a Hablar Espanol! 7 Sessions—$34 ($29 if registered before September 1) Tuesdays, September 5, 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17 5:00—6:00 p.m. Pod D Room A124 COURSE NO. 2603
Late Start Wednesdays Michele Hickman Grades K—6
On 2 hour late start days, students are invited to hang out before school starts. Activities include: going outside, gym time, games, and homework time. Children may have breakfast—it will be charged to their lunch account. Please pre-register through the MACE office, online (www.morris.k12.mn.us), or call Michele at 320-585-2231. 8:00—10:00 a.m. Elementary Cafeteria $5 per child/per time
September 20—COURSE NO. 1499A November 15—COURSE NO. 1499C December 13—COURSE NO. 1499D
Let’s Lego Erik Zinke Grades K—6
Cars, boats, houses, and more! You can build it all while using our extravagant Legos Express collection. Each class is a fun, enriching experience, building new projects each session. 4 Sessions—$14 ($9 if registered before September 19) Tuesday/Thursday September 26, 28, October 3, 5 3:30—4:30 p.m. MAES Cafeteria COURSE NO. 1466
Bricks 4 Kidz: Spectacular Sports Kathy Lahr, Bricks 4 Kidz Director Grades K—6
Explore sports ranging from gymnastics to biking, mini-golf to airplane acrobatics! This unit is a great way to get “sporty” kids building and get LEGO® fans interested in sports. Some lessons focus on the importance of physical fitness and different aspects of fitness, such as stamina and strength. Other lessons describe the mechanics of the sport, such as the physics involved in golf and the components of a stationary bike. But the best part for the students is the way the models move and the fun they have playing with them after they’re built - hitting a plastic golf ball with the mini-golf model, watching the gymnast spin around the bar and seeing the tiny airplanes spin around and around on the air show model. Maybe they’ll be inspired to try a new sport, or build a model of their favorite sport! 3 Sessions—$40 ($35 if registered before October 9) Monday and Tuesday, October 16 and 17 3:30—4:30 p.m. MAES Cafeteria
Grades K-3—COURSE NO. 1468 Grades 4-6—COURSE NO. 1469
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Men’s League Basketball
PADI Open Water SCUBA
Games will be played at the Morris Area Elementary School or the Morris Area High School. Games will be played on Wednesday nights, November 8—February 28. This includes a single elimination tournament with a consolation bracket to end the year. Games will begin at 7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., or 9:00 p.m. All games will be refereed by paid officials. Game basketballs will be provided.
Michael Knorr, Professional Scuba Institute, Inc.
Wednesday Evenings November 8, 15, 29, December 6, 13, 20 January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, February 7, 21, 28 14 Weeks—$489 per team COURSE NO. 2906
Registration forms and fees are due by Wednesday, October 25. Registration packets are available online or in the MACE office.
Open Gym Basketball
The Morris Area Elementary Gym (Tiger Center) will be open for two hours on Sunday evenings for basketball. Those interested in shooting hoops or playing pickup games are invited to attend. Teams will be selected from those attending. The $15 covers the entire program, or pay $2 at the door.
Sunday Evenings (Players and Athletes of all Ages) November 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10, 17 January 7, 14, 21, 28, February 11, 18, 25 *No Open Gym on February 4 March 4, 11 $15—COURSE NO. 2911 6:00—8:00 p.m. MAES Gym (Tiger Center)
Women’s Volleyball League
Whether you want to explore the fresh water lakes of Minnesota or travel to exotic dive destinations around the world, this is where the excitement begins! This course is for the beginning diver who would like to get a PADI Open Water Diving Certification. To become certified, students must complete a total of four open water dives (PADI Open Water Diver) within 12 months. An additional cost applies. Contact Professional Scuba Institute, Inc. (701-238-3483) to have materials sent out as soon as you register. The manual must be read and a video watched prior to the weekend of the class.
Matches will be played at the Morris Elementary School or the Morris Area High School. Games will be played on Wednesday nights. High school students (grades 10—12) who are not participating on a varsity team are allowed to play in this league. Maximum of two students on one team. Saturday, December 2 8:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 3 Regular League Play: September 13—November 8 8:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. League Tourney Dates: November 15, 29, December 6 Competitive Division A formal, follow the rules setting. $139—COURSE NO. 2902 MAES Gym
Recreation Division A relaxed, informal environment. $139—COURSE NO. 2903 MAES Gym
Registration deadline: Wednesday, September 6
Regional Fitness Center
COURSE NO. 2700—$280.50—Includes all class/pool training, use of all necessary equipment, complete student kit (PADI Open Water Manual, PADI Log Book, PADI Electronic Dive Planner), and the priority mail shipping cost of $5.50. $100 of the course fee + shipping is non-refundable and includes all materials.
Sunday Night Co-Ed Volleyball Open Gym Supervisor: Jarrid Jergenson
The Morris Area High School Main Gym will be open Sunday evenings for pickup games of co-ed volleyball. Those interested are invited to show up as often as you can. Teams will be selected from those attending. The $12 covers the entire program, or pay $2 at the door.
Sunday Evenings October 29, November 5, 12, 19, 26 December 3, 10, 17, January 7, 14, 21, 28 5:00—7:00 p.m. MAHS Gym $12—COURSE NO. 2704
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Explore S’More
For ages 3, 4, and 5 (and potty trained)
Let’s Move!
Does your child like to move it, move it? This class will let them join the wonderful world of movement and coordination. Your child will gain basic skills and familiarity with fun, healthy, motor activities that are important for every child’s overall growth and development! This class will involve exploring both inside and outside movement environments and activities. 4 Classes—$30 —COURSE NO. 4310 Mondays, September 18th—October 9th 12:00—3:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Loose Parts—Exploring Sound!
Use loose parts to spark children's creativity and innovation. Loose parts are man-made or naturally found, bought, or upcycled materials that children can move, manipulate, control, and change within their play. Children joining this class will use loose parts to create music, movement, and sound while improving listening skills.
4 Classes—$30—COURSE NO. 4311 Fridays, September 22—October 13 12:00—3:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Discovery Time
Your child will step into learning the minute they enter the classroom. The opportunity to grow and develop will be provided through sensory play, social interactions, learning centers, and creative arts. Join this class to explore, create, and of course discover the joys of learning. 4 Classes—$30—COURSE NO. 4312 Mondays, October 16—November 6 12:00—3:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Marvelous Mixed Age Class
For children ages 0—5 and parents Separating Class (child and caregiver separate for half of the class)
Children and their parents are invited to spend time playing together while they learn. Each class will include learning stations, circle time, and a child-only class experience. During this time, children stay and play with the Early Childhood Teacher and assistant while parents go to meet with a Parent Educator to discuss topics helpful for raising young children. Classes will include informal parent discussion on topics determined by parent needs/interests and teacher suggestions.
9 Classes—$36—COURSE NO. 6405 $12 each additional child—COURSE NO. 6405A Mondays, September 25—November 20 9:00—10:30 a.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
The Five Love Languages of Children A book study class for parents with children birth to 3rd grade
Does your child speak a different language? Sometimes they wager for your attention, and other times they ignore you completely. Sometimes they are filled with gratitude and affection, and other times they seem totally indifferent. Attitude. Behavior. Development. Everything depends on the love relationship between you and your child. When children feel loved, they do their best. But how can you make sure your child feels loved? 5 Classes—$15 per family Tuesday, September 19 —October 17 COURSE NO. 6406 6:00—7:30 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
ECFE’s Fall Nature Walks
Enjoy the great outdoors with your family by joining ECFE’s Fall Nature Walk class. Two classes will be spent enjoying the Outdoor Learning Environment (OLE) and two will be spent exploring two nearby natural location —the Scandia Woods Environmental Learning Lab better known as SWELL and West Central Experiment Gardens. 4 Classes—$15 per family—COURSE NO. 6407 Fridays, September 22—October 12 9:00—10:15 a.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Little Bakers
Who doesn’t love to eat so let’s use food to teach important skills to students? Gathering the ingredients and necessary cooking tools fosters organizational skills. Making a recipe teaches the ability of following directions. Measuring ingredients reinforces math facts and promotes fine motor development. Science is incorporated throughout the class as we experiment with food! Learning is achieved in the most delicious ways! 4 Classes—$30—COURSE NO. 4313 Mondays, November 13—December 4 12:00—3:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Loose Parts—Exploring Design & Art! Use loose parts to spark children's creativity and innovation. Loose parts are man-made or naturally found, bought, or upcycled materials that children can move, manipulate, control, and change within their play. Children joining this class will use loose parts to create art pieces for the sake of creation and fun. Sensory experiences and messy fun will be an essential component of this class. 4 Classes—$30—COURSE NO. 4314 Fridays, November 17 —December 15 No Class—November 24 12:00—3:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Spooktacular Halloween Party Friday, October 27 5:30—7:30 p.m. MAES Gymnasium
There will be Halloween games, prizes, crafts, face painting, inflatables, a haunted house, and more! Look for flyers and more details as this special day approaches!
Kids in the Kitchen Birth to Grade 3
It’s kids cooking night! Come spend one or two evenings cooking supper together with your children. There will be an opportunity to measure, mix, stir, and bake to make food to share family style. Join us for fun, food, and fellowship! The entire family is welcome to attend! Join 1 or both of the classes 2 Class—$8 a family per class Monday, September 18—COURSE NO. 6401 Tuesday, November 14 —COURSE NO. 6402 5:00—6:30 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Pumpkin Pampering & Pizza Birth to Grade 3
Bring your own pumpkins and join ECFE staff as we get together for supper and an evening of Halloween fun! You can prepare your pumpkins by painting and /or carving them for Halloween. There will be some carving tools available but please bring them if you have your own. Pizza and beverages will be available for all participants. 1 Class—$8 per family Tuesday, October 24—COURSE NO. 6403 5:30—7:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Holiday Crafts, Cards, & Cookies Birth to Grade 3
Non-separating Class (child and caregiver together for entire class)
Come join us for a special holiday class with your child. Along with holiday memories, we’ll be making crafts, cards, and cookies to share with your family and friends. We will also have a circle time with familiar holiday songs. Older siblings are welcome to attend! 1 Class—$5 per family—COURSE NO. 6404 Tuesday, December 12 6:00—7:00 p.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
ECFE Family Playtimes
Non-separating Class (child and caregiver together for entire class)
Bring the entire family and meet other parents/children, enjoy time playing and creating with your kids, and more! Special themes each week as follows: Physical Activity/Gym Time: September 28 and November 16 Science Fun and Exploration: October 5 and 26 Creative Arts & Sensory Fun: October 12 and November 2
No registration or fee—come when you can! 6 Classes —Thursday Evening September 28 —November 16 No class on October 19 and November 9 6:00—7:30 p.m. MAEC ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Resilience
Free Film Screening & Panel Discussion
A Documentary Film That Gives Insight and Hope. Resilience is a onehour documentary that illustrates the impacts of chronic stress on children’s brains. Toxic stress endured in childhood is now understood to be among the leading causes of everything from cancer and heart disease to substance abuse and depression. Join us to learn how we can collectively make real and lasting change in the lives of the children and families in our community! Panel discussion to follow with local experts. Thursday, September 21 6:30—8:00 p.m. Morris Area Elementary Concert Hall
Drop in and Play
For families with children birth—age 5 Non-separating Class (child and caregiver together for entire class)
This is the perfect class to come and experience fun activities with other parents and children. Participants will enjoy a variety of learning experiences and a circle time of songs and movement. Activities will include creative art, science, movement, reading, sensory play and more! An early childhood educator will be available to help you guide your children’s activities. A parent educator will be available to discuss any parenting concerns or answer questions during the time when you and your child are playing together.
4 Classes—$8—COURSE NO. 6408 $2 for each additional sibling—COURSE NO. 6408A Wednesdays, October 18—November 8 9:00—10:15 a.m. MAES Room A114—Pod C
4 Classes—$8—COURSE NO. 6409 $2 for each additional sibling—COURSE NO. 6409A Fridays, November 17 —December 15 No class November 24 9:00—10:15 a.m. MAES ECFE Rooms—Pod A
Child Care Provider Child Classes Monday, December 18 9:15—10:45 a.m.
The class is free, but space is limited, so register early! You must provide your own transportation to and from class. You will receive a 1 hour Training Certificate for providers attending. Call Diane Strobel to register, 320-585-2237.
Labor Delivery and Beyond
Expecting a Baby? This class will provide information about stages of labor, labor techniques, comfort measures, fetal development, child development, parenting , infant/child CPR, and more. Call Diane Strobel for registration information, 320-585-2237.
Upcoming Class
September 11—October 2
September 11 and 18 SCMC Multi-Purpose Room, Lower Level September 25 and October 2 MAES ECFE Pod A
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Monday
Fall 2017 ECFE Classes
Tuesday
Wednesday
Resilience The Biology of Stress & The Science of Hope
Marvelous Mixed Age Class
9 Classes—$36 COURSE NO. 6405 Mondays, September 25—November 20 9:00—10:30 a.m.
Let’s Move!
4 Classes—$30 COURSE NO. 4310 Mondays, September 18—October 9 12:00—3:00 p.m.
Discovery Time
4 Classes—$30 COURSE NO. 4312 Mondays, October 16—November 6 12:00—3:00 p.m.
Little Bakers
4 Classes—$30 COURSE NO. 4313 Mondays, November 13—December 4 12:00—3:00 p.m.
The Five Love Languages of Children 5 Classes - $15 per family COURSE NO. 6406 Tuesdays September 19—October 17 6:00—7:30 p.m.
Pumpkin Pampering & Pizza Tuesday, October 24 $8 per family COURSE NO. 6403 5:00—6:30 p.m.
Kids in the Kitchen
4 Classes—$8 Wednesdays October 18—November 8 9:00—10:15 a.m. COURSE NO. 6408 $2 each additional child COURSE NO. 6408A
Family Playtimes
Thursday Evenings September 28—November 16 No class October 19 and November 9 6:00—7:30 p.m.
Special Theme Nights
Gym Time September 28 and November 16
Tuesday, December 12 $5 per family COURSE NO. 6404 6:00—7:00 p.m.
Creative Arts October 12 and November 2
Holiday Crafts, Cards, & Cookies
Early Childhood Screening Parents of 3 to 4 year old children
Drop In &Play
Documentary film gives insight and hope Free Film Screening & Panel Discussion Thursday, September 21 6:30—8:00 p.m. Morris Area Elementary Concert Hall
Tuesday, November 14—$8 COURSE NO. 6402 5:00—6:30 p.m.
Kids in the Kitchen
Monday, September 18—$8 COURSE NO. 6401 5:00—6:30 p.m.
Thursday
Early Childhood Screening is a quick and simple check of how children are developing between the ages of 3 to 4 years. It identifies, at an early stage, possible learning or health concerns so that children can get the help they need before starting school. Early Childhood Screening is not an IQ test or a kindergarten entrance exam, although Morris Area Pre-Kindergarten classes require that screening be done within 90 days of program entry and it is required by state law for children before they can begin in kindergarten. Early Childhood Screening only needs to be completed once. Screening is a free review of your child’s vision, hearing, height, weight, overall development, and immunization records. For the Morris Area schools, children are screened at Horizon Public Health by a nurse. Watch for an information packet in the mail shortly after your child turns three-and-a-half years of age. If you do not receive a packet, call the Public Health office at 320-208-6672 to set up the day and time for your child’s screening. For more information contact Diane Strobel at 320-585-2237 or dstrobel@morris.k12.mn.us or Horizon Public Health at 320-208-6672.
The School Census You matter to us!
The school census is a list of students from birth to school age. It is used to inform parents about opportunities that their child needs to be ready to enter school when they turn five years of age. Notifications for events and programs such as early childhood screening, prekindergarten opportunities, special events, family nights, kindergarten registration, etc. will be mailed to families based on the census data.
If you have just had a new baby, recently moved into the school district, have recently changed your address, or want to make sure your children are on the birth to 5 census, please contact Diane Strobel by calling 585-2237 or email her at dstrobel@morris.k12.mn.us with updates to ensure you receive the necessary information!
Science Fun October 5 and 26
Friday Fall Nature Walk
4 Classes—$15 per family COURSE NO. 6407 Fridays, September 22—October 13 9:00—10:15 a.m.
Drop In &Play
4 Classes—$8 COURSE NO. 6409 $2 each additional child COURSE NO. 6409A Fridays, November 17—December 15 No class on November 24 9:00—10:15 a.m.
Loose Parts—Exploring Sound! 4 Classes—$30 COURSE NO. 4311 September 22—October 13 12:00—3:00 p.m.
Loose Parts—Exploring Design & Art 4 Classes—$25 COURSE NO. 4314 Fridays, November 17—December 15 No class November 24 12:00—3:00 p.m.
WANTED Parents Interested In Serving On The ECFE/Pre-K Advisory Council Do you want to get involved in your child(ren)’s education? We are looking for interested parents to join the ECFE/Pre-K advisory council. The ECFE/Pre-K Advisory Council meets 3 times a year to discuss programming, legislative issues, special event planning, fundraising, and more. Free child care is provided during the meetings. For more information or to volunteer, call Diane Strobel 5852237 or e-mail dstrobel@morris.k12.mn.us
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Morris Area Community Education
School District 2769
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