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Administrator’s Corner by Pam Anfinson

Spring has arrived, and registration with the Albert Lea Area Schools is in full swing! The Minnesota Department of Education and the Division of Early Learning Services have moved away from using the term “readiness,” which often places unnecessary pressure on children to “be ready for school.” Instead, we need to focus on the Successful Learner Equation, which recognizes that children are always learning. It’s important that adults and systems support them at every step of their learning journey. The words and actions of educators and the community are key in creating a positive and supportive environment for children’s growth.

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This equation highlights the collective effort required to ensure that children thrive in their learning journey. It emphasizes that success is not just the responsibility of the child, but a shared responsibility among families, educators, communities and the state systems to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all learners within our schools.

Early childhood screening is important for your child’s continued learning and readiness for future school success. The state of Minnesota requires a check of vision, hearing and developmental growth. The ideal age for screening is between 3 and 4 years old. The Albert Lea school district conducts free screenings at Brookside Education Center.

Pre-K programs for 3 and 4 year olds are offered with the Albert Lea Area Schools, providing high-quality programming that supports the whole child. It’s essential to focus on all areas of development, especially social-emotional growth, to build a strong foundation for children’s future learning and success.

Enroll for screening and Pre-K through our Early Learning office at Brookside Education Center, by phone at 507-379-4831, or online at www.alschools.org.

In Minnesota, children are eligible for kindergarten if they are 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 of the year they plan to enter kindergarten. While enrollment is ultimately a family’s choice, any child who meets this age requirement is eligible and should be encouraged to enroll in kindergarten. All incoming kindergarteners are encouraged to complete early childhood screening if they haven’t done so already. Families may request an enrollment packet or fill out the online forms. If you have any enrollment related questions, including open-enrollment, please contact Dani Bryant at 507-379-4806 or visit the Brookside Education Center. We’re here to help you with any questions you may have!

Pam Anfinson is the director of Early Learning for Albert Lea Area Schools.