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Community Education summer programs engage learners of all ages

Community Education summer programs engage learners of all ages

This summer, more than 6,000 students of all ages engaged in Community Education’s summer programming across the district at multiple school locations. 

Summer highlights included: 

Children and adults playing outside during ECFE class.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) held four weeks of learning, connection and family fun during the month of July. Families participated in classes such as Birth to Five, Community Connections, Nature Play, Baby Yoga, Baby Playtime and ECFE at the Parks. Community Education staff also shared information about program opportunities with families. ECFE home visiting continued throughout the summer, providing personalized support to families based on their needs.

Group of students performing musical for family and friends

Camp ROCKS! Mini Camps wrap up Aug. 6 after eight weeks of hands-on learning and fun at Rice Lake Elementary School. Students ages three and a half through high school explored new interests, made friends and learned new skills through a variety of camps. More than 2,200 students came in during the course of the eight week program. 

two students smiling at camera outside on school grounds during picnic.

Camp ROCKS! Academic Adventures wrapped up July 30 with 785 elementary students participating in academic and enrichment activities such as reading, math, art and science while enjoying special guests, kickball, BINGO, picnics, popsicles, a pajama movie day and more. 

students participating in a variety of table top activities during summer programs

Game On and OMG middle school programs at NVMS and OMS concluded July 23 after five weeks of academics and afternoon enrichment. Nearly 350 middle school students participated in sports, cooking, games and art before celebrating with a trip to Bunker Beach Water Park. 

Two students smiling at camera during Wheels Day at Woodland Elementary School

Summer Kidstop school-age childcare has served more than 1,460 students at four elementary schools with choice-based activities, field trips, enrichment mini camps and plenty of fun. The program runs through Friday, Aug. 21. Students have enjoyed theme days, talent shows and field trips to places such as Loveable Llamas, Cascade Bay, Valleyfair, Shoreview Community Park, the Minnesota Zoo and more. 

Teacher sitting at desk looking at computer while teaching online class

Adult Basic Education (ABE) partnered with the Nutrition Services department with a focus on preparing adults for a food safety certification exam that can help them advance their careers. 

“Nutrition Department is proud of the four Nutrition team members who completed the prep class for Food Protection Manager. Thanks to a strong partnership with Osseo Area Schools ABE, this fully funded program combined ServSafe instructions with targeted English language practice,” said Irfan Chaundhry, assistant director of Nutrition Services. 

ABE instructor Alison Kranz led students through the online class with curriculum and materials such as kitchen manager responsibilities, food safety and ways to help food handlers keep food safe.

“These classes are an excellent opportunity for adult learners to prepare for exams and certificates that help them get jobs, keep jobs and move up in their jobs,” said Krantz. 

“It is collaboration like this that shows what is possible when we invest in our people. We feel that it has empowered the staff that attended the class to master some key industry concepts and will also pave the way for promotional opportunities in future,” said Irfan Chaundhry, assistant director of Nutrition Services.

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