Enterprise Dispatch

Serving the communities of Dassel, Cokato, Darwin, MN, and the surrounding area

DC Early Childhood Advisory Council involves parents in education


Last spring, the ECAC helped install a Little Free Library outside the ECFE building designated to children’s book exchanges. Pictured are some of the students and staff who enjoy the donated books.

Last spring, the ECAC helped install a Little Free Library outside the ECFE building designated to children’s book exchanges. Pictured are some of the students and ECAC members who enjoy the donated books.

DASSEL, COKATO, MN – When a child heads to class for the first time, parents can experience a mixture of emotions.

Just because they may not be in the seat next to them, however, does not mean parents cannot be involved in their child’s early education. One way to do that is through DC’s Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC).

This council consists of parents who currently have or have had children in Early Childhood and Family Education (ECFE) or preschool programs. They serve as “the voice of the parents” by providing input, bringing forward concerns, and working with ECFE and preschool staff.

Council co-chair Lisa Grack stated, “The purpose of this council is to ensure the early childhood programs provide support to parents in their efforts in raising children, offer child development information and alternative parenting techniques, help relay effective communication between parents and their children, supplement the discovery and learning experiences of children, and promote positive parental attitudes through their children’s school years.”

The council’s meetings take place once a month during the school year and are often attended by a teacher or staff member of the early education programs.

“Meetings are a great learning experience for us, as parents, to understand why different activities are done, what new implements are being put to use, and different areas that are mandated by the state,” said Grack. “It is very enlightening, all the different hands in the pot that regulate ECFE.”

Read the full story in the Family Time section of the March 6 Enterprise Dispatch, or by clicking here.

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