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.

• Well-qualified staff will check your child's vision, hearing, growth, immunization status, skills in thinking, communication and language, large and small muscles, social/emotional development.
• An exit review includes a full report of your child's learning and growth.
• Screening appointments take up to one hour to complete.

The Albert Lea School District conducts free screenings at 
Brookside Education Center 
Please call 507-379-5176, email trisha.whelan@alschools.org or CLICK HERE to schedule your child's appointment: 

Friday, February 24 | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Friday, March 24 | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Friday, April 21 | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, May 11 | 2:30 – 6:00 p.m.

A typical ECFE class includes parent/child time with activities, stories, and parent-only discussion groups that are held at the same time as the child-only experiences. Additional services include special family events, home-visiting, and connections to other community resources.

There are classes for all ages of children, infants through five-year-olds. Classes are held during school hours and in the evening. Families may register through our office at Brookside Education Center 211 W Richway Drive, by telephone (507.379.4838), or click here.

Parents often comment on how important ECFE has been to their lives. Some of the effects reported include:

Higher self-esteem and coping
Increased recognition of a parent’s role as the child’s teacher
Better techniques to control children’s behavior
A greater sense of control over one’s life
The chance to meet other parents of young children
Increased knowledge of child development

Mission Statement:
ECFE will strengthen families and support the ability of all parents to provide the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children. ECFE will provide a comprehensive curriculum based on best practices and research on early brain development and learning.

For more information call 379-4832 or email lisa.ferns@alschools.org.

ECFE Parent Handbook

Albert Lea Prekindergarten Mission: Provide a joyful learning environment with a comprehensive curriculum based on best practices and research on early brain development and learning. We will work in partnership with families and the community to educate all individuals to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens in a global society. 

Early Childhood Education is proud to offer Pre-Kindergarten classes for children ages 3 (by September 1, 2022) through 5. Families can choose 4 or 5 days a week, as well as half-day & full-day classes.

Questions about general preschool information or classroom availability can be directed to Amber Preston. She is available by phone: 507-379-4838, by email: amber.mattson@alschools.org, or in person at the Brookside Education Center Rm 203B. 

PRE-KINDERGARTEN

BROOKSIDE EDUCATION CENTER

211 W RICHWAY DR

ALBERT LEA, MN 56007

Office Hours:  Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm

Limited preschool spots available

Our goal is to provide a safe place for children before and after preschool, on specified non-school days, snow emergency days, and during the summer. We provide an environment that encourages adventure, creativity, healthy self-concepts, respect for others, responsible behavior, and a positive attitude. WrapAround Child Care is only available to students enrolled in the pre-kindergarten preschool program.

Students enrolled in our Pre-Kindergarten classes are also eligible for child care for an additional charge.  We have WrapAround Child Care from 6:45am-5:15pm with a variety of options to fit your family's needs.