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Laurentian Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)

Classes and Activities for You and Your Child

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a Community Education program that recognizes parents and caregivers as a child’s first and most important teachers. We partner with parents and families to provide high-quality early childhood and family education experiences that support children’s learning, growth, and development. Through engaging classes, parent education, family activities, and community connections, ECFE helps strengthen families while fostering positive relationships and lifelong learning. Together, we create a strong foundation for children’s success at home, in school, and beyond.

We are eager to welcome your family and young children as an important part of our school community.

Every class includes:

  • Activities where parents and children learn together
  • Time for children to learn and interact with one another
  • Parent education time with a licensed parent educator

2026-2027 ECFE Schedule at Laurentian Elementary

  • FALL KICK-OFF EVENT – “READY, SET, GO”: SEPTEMBER 25, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM. This is a great time to meet the teacher, tour the classroom, and learn more about our early childhood programs.
  • ECFE CLASSES BEGIN THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 29.
  • 2026-2027 ECFE Registration Packet
DAY TIME CLASS AGES
Friday 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Play and Learn Birth – 5 years
Friday 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Play and Learn Birth – 5 years

ECFE Fall Calendar

ECFE Class Descriptions & Opportunities

  • Baby Class

    Location: Parkview Elementary

    TUESDAYS 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
    9/29, 10/6, 11/17, 12/1, 1/5, 1/12, 2/23, 3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 5/4

    FREE class designed for babies. Our baby class is designed for infants and their caregivers to learn, play, and grow together during these important years . This class providers a warm and welcoming environment where babies can explore new experiences while parents and caregivers connect with one another. In addition to interactive activities, caregivers have the opportunity to participate in parent discussions focused on child development, parenting topics and the joys and challenges of raising young children. These conversations provide support, resources, and a chance to share experiences with other families.

  • Bright Beginnings

    Location: Parkview Elementary

    THURSDAYS 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

    This mixed age class is designed to help children build important social skills as they learn how to make friends, share, take turns, communicate and work together with others. Through play, hands-on activities, stories, and exploration, children will gain confidence while discovering the joy of learning. Parent education will include information on developmental, age-related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents.

  • Play and Learn

    Location: Laurentian Elementary

    FRIDAYS 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM & 10:30 – 12:00 PM

    The Play and Learn class offers young children a fun and engaging environment where they can learn through play, exploration and movement. This class combines classroom learning experiences with active playland time to support the development of the whole child. The class will provide children with opportunities to discover new skills, make new friends, and develop a love of learning in a safe, nurturing environment. Parent group time includes information on developmental age related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents.

  • Specialty Class

    Location: Parkview Elementary

    TUESDAYS 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

    Cost: $50/Special

    • COOKING WITH KIDS FALL SPECIAL
      Young chefs will enjoy mixing, prepping, and cooking food.
      10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10
    • MESSY CONCOCTIONS & GYM WINTER SPECIAL
      1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/16
    • GARDENING SPRING SPECIAL
      4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27
  • Toddler Time (Gradual Separation)

    Location: Parkview Elementary

    WEDNESDAYS 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

    Your toddler’s road to independence has begun. Enjoy time playing with your toddler in a safe and educational environment. Children will have time to play with peers and enjoy activities in all areas of development, while parents engage in a discussion led by a licensed Parent Educator. The parent group includes information on develop- mental and age-related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents. We realize separation from toddlers can be difficult. One-year-old classes will begin a gradual separation when each group is ready.

  • Child Care Provider Mentorship

    For licensed childcare providers who would like a visit from a early childhood educator once a month. The educator will provide an hour long lesson to children and materials for the child care provider. If you would like to be part of this program, please contact our office.

  • Early Childhood Screening

    Free early childhood screenings will be held at Laurentian and Parkview Elementary. Email laura.johnson@rrps.org for an appointment.

    Children 3 1/2 years of age and older are eligible for screening. Early childhood screening is an enrollment requirement for kindergarten and PreK.

  • Family, Friend and Neighbor

    Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Care Provider sessions are designed for the important people who help care for young children, including grandparents, relatives, family friends, neighbors, and older siblings. These FREE gatherings provide opportunities to connect with other care providers, learn helpful caregiving strategies, and discover ways to support children’s learning and development through play. Participants will enjoy engaging activities with the children in their care while building skills, sharing experiences, and creating meaningful connections. Care providers also receive FREE books, project supplies, and valuable resources to use at home. Sessions are designed for care providers to attend with the children they care for, making learning and play a fun experience for everyone.

  • Home Visits

    Home Visits provide personalized support for families who would benefit from additional guidance from a Parent Educator. During a home visit, families can discuss individual child development, parenting questions, family concerns, or specific challenges in a comfortable and familiar setting. Parent Educators offer information, resources, and practical strategies tailored to each family’s unique needs. Home visits are designed to strengthen family relationships, support children’s healthy development, and connect families with helpful community resources when needed. Visits can also be done by phone or virtually.

  • Tuition

    Tuition is based on a sliding fee scale with payment plans and fee assistance available upon request (per semester):

      • $80,000+    $100
      • $60,000-79,999    $75
      • $45,000-59,999    $50
      • $25,000-44,999    $25
      • UNDER $25,000    $5

    *Additional children 50% off original fee.

Rock Ridge Public Schools Since 2020

Rock Ridge Public Schools combines the communities of Eveleth, Gilbert, and Virginia into a progressive school district embracing an academy style high school to provide students with a real world learning environment.

District Office

1405 Progress Parkway
Virginia, MN 55792

(218) 735-3500
Fax: 218-744-4381
info@rrps.org