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The COVID pandemic has been blamed for leaving behind a legacy of negative long term individual health issues  but also, perhaps we are seeing a dampening effect on certain community connections. 

For years we were avoiding gathering in large groups and crowded institutions were to be avoided.    The North Branch School Board last week (Jesse LaValla absent) briefly explored a theory questioning if covid might be partially behind students presenting unique challenges,  and/or affecting public participation numbers. 

During Community Education Director Erica Bjerktevedt’s annual update for last year’s programming, she remarked how especially pre-school enrollments leave her   wondering where all the families are.

Even with population growth and housing booming in the North Branch area the numbers for Early Childhood education and community education definitely have room to grow.

Yet, some specific Community Ed sponsored activities ARE seeing good participation.  For instance the Arts Fest November 18 had 4,000 attendees. But the district needs to do more to make the public aware of what’s available and why the programs are here, the Board was told.

District 138 Director of Teaching & Learning David Treichel emphasized that getting youngsters into early Childhood Family Education or ECFE and the before or after-school care (Youth Connections) are THE most effective  for increasing academic successes.  Goal number one in the strategic plan for the district calls for all children to be “ready to start kindergarten” and Treichel said learning launches from this.

Data that track  graduation rates and reading proficiency, or even how many students are doing career planning, measure when youth get on a good path early, Treichel explained.

Bjerktevedt added that Community Education will strive to look into offering programming for times and dates when families are able to take advantage of their schedules.  

The Board was advised a priority is to increase relationships ...and regular communication efforts between Youth Connections Program and the families of enrolled children based on what the district learns through its parent survey feedback.

Board member Sarah Grovender suggested improving ease of participation, and it would be nice if there are community classes for families that could be more of a “drop in” structure or that require less up front commitment and advance planning.  

Bjerktevedt said the Community Education team is also in the midst of a recruiting effort within the community in search of potential instructors who are proficient in skills,   crafts and/or athletics, and or helpers to provide sports events and activities.

The phone for Community Education is 651-674-1025.  

There is a website form to fill out if you want to become a volunteer in any school or program.  At the main site www.isd138.org, go to the menu, find ‘Volunteer’, fill out lines on form, and check the community ed box.

Schools in Minnesota are required to do background checks on volunteers, which are good for two years. 

Enrolling in

 Kindergarten?

For next year 2024-2025 incoming kindergarteners the district starts early— watch for postcard info mailers in January.  

Parent information night is February 1 and online registration opens.  

Invitations to a “Taste  of Kindergarten” are being sent out as of February 5.  The event is March 4. Grandparents get a chance to visit and learn more at an open house for grandparents February 8.

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