Early Childhood
Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)
Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a program of Duluth Community Education, with a mission of lifelong learning. We understand that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. We partner with our parents
and families to offer the very best in early childhood and family education. Our team of parent educators and early childhood teachers offer support and
education for your child and your family. Please join us for a parent/infant class or a class for you and your on-the-move toddler.
We are eager to welcome your family and young children as an important part of our school communities.
Prenatal to Grade 3 Initiative Video: Watch this short video highlighting our programs
Welcome to ECFE- watch this short video
Registration Opens April 1st for the 23-24 School Year
Click here to register for current classes
ECFE Also Offers:
Home Visits: For families who cannot attend class or would benefit from a parent educator visiting them at home to address individual child, parent or family needs. If you have questions about home visiting, please contact our office. Visits can also be done by phone or virtually.
Child Care Provider Mentorship: In a group environment, a licensed early childhood or parent educator provides the Circle of Security Parenting series and coaching for in-home child care providers. Please contact our office if you are interested in this FREE opportunity. Spaces are limited.
The First Few Years: Led by an Early Childhood and Parent Educator with the support of a Licensed Social Worker specializing in Infant Mental Health, Public Health, nutrition experts and others. This programs assists parents who have limited support during the critical transition time between pregnancy, parenthood and the first few years of a child's life. With a small group of parents, observe your child's growth and development, and learn about your relationship with your child. This program is for parents of children during pregnancy to age 2 years. If you or a family you know would benefit from this program contact our office.
Circle of Security Parenting Course: This course is based on decades of research about how secure parent-child relationships can be supported and strengthened. Registration can be done online or by calling our office.
Community Resource HUB: Find helpful resources here to keep you and your child healthy, learning, and on a solid financial footing.
Main Office:
4316 Rice Lake Road, Suite 103
Duluth, MN 55811
Ph: 218-336-8815
Email: earlychildhood@isd709.org
Fax: 218-336-8788
Early Childhood Special Education
Early Childhood Special Education information about programming.
Help Me Grow - Refer a child, screen, or evaluate for early childhood intervention services.
Early Childhood Screening offers free developmental screenings. It is recommended children are screened during the year they turn three and it is required for kindergarten entrance. To schedule a screening appointment: Phone: 218-336-8816 or Email ecscreening@isd709.org
Screening Calendar
Schedule Screening Appointment
Duluth Preschool
If you would like to mail or drop off your application at our office, download our application below!
We focus on building social emotional skills, language and literacy, health and nutrition, physical and development for all children.
Preschool programs are located in 7 elementary schools across the city, providing high quality early childhood classroom experiences.
Parent Aware Rated - Four Stars of Excellence: We are proud to be one of the first preschool programs in the state to earn a four star rating from Minnesota Parent Aware- the highest rating possible!
Our Curriculum:
Licensed early childhood teachers provide instruction from the following resources:
- Creative Curriculum
- Second Step: social and emotional learning
- Pyramid Model: a positive behavioral intervention and a support framework that promotes social, emotional and behavioral development.
Nature Based Programming: All classrooms have access to nature play areas and outdoor gear. Children enjoy fun activities such as snow shoeing, hiking, fort building and many other great experiences! Spending time outside in all types of weather has many benefits to children.
What are the benefits of attending Duluth Preschool?
Strong Bodies: We strive to spend at least one hour outside daily. We work to ensure families have access to healthcare and balanced meals offering health and nutrition services.
Strong Minds: We implement an inquiry-based curriculum that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and communication in a play-based environment led by licensed teachers.
Strong Families: We provide advocacy, support, and education to parents and caregivers. We partner with families to celebrate strengths and reach for goals.
Duluth Preschool Provides:
- High quality early childhood experiences with licensed teachers
- Parent education, support, and parent involvement
- Full & half-day options
- A focus on health and nutrition
- Services for children with disabilities
- Assistance accessing community resources
Main Office:
4316 Rice Lake Road, Suite 103
Duluth, MN 55811
Ph: 218-336-8815
Email: earlychildhood@isd709.org
Fax: 218-336-8788