Resources for Learners & Families

Below are resources compiled by Farmington Area Public Schools to assist families and learners.

Updated June 27, 2023


Childcare and Parenting ResourcesCommunity Partners FinanceJobs Resources FoodHealth
Mental Health housing resources Technology HelpGrief



Childcare & Parenting Resources

School Age CareKid Connection

Kid Connection school age care, provided by Farmington Community Education, is available to grades K-5 in each elementary school. Hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, including most Non-School Days and some Holidays. The program aligns with guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Health and the CDC. Staff teach and practice social distancing and health skills.

Registration Deadlines: In order to prepare for staff to student ratios, Kid Connection reserves the right to delay processing any registrations the two weeks before and one week after school begins. Start dates may be delayed according to the approval of pending registrations.  Approval of a new contract will take a minimum of one week (seven days). More detailed information is available on our website and by calling (651) 460-3200.

 

ECFE-Early Childhood Family Education  (Birth - Pre-Kindergarten)  

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a program for parents and their children during the years from birth through pre-kindergarten. 

ECFE is a relaxed and fun place to meet other families with young children, and play and learn together. We offer a wide variety of classes, including weekly classes, one time classes, drop-in classes, special events, online classes, and several special opportunities. There are day and evening options offered and many classes have sibling care for preschool siblings. Classes are affordable and your fee payment will be based on your family income.

All of our ECFE classes are led by experienced, licensed teachers who help children discover and learn about the world around them through activities and play using art, science, movement, games, and stories. Our teachers create a safe and secure learning environment where children thrive and parents receive information, friendship, and support. More information here.

 

ECFE Parenting Coaches

ECFE offers one on one coaching sessions for families at home, on site or over the phone. During your coaching session, an experienced licensed parent educator will provide answers to questions you might have about parenting, bedtime struggles, healthy eating, toilet training, tantrums, and more. 

To schedule your free private session: call 651-460-3200 or email [email protected].
 
 
Military Family Support (Free)

Farmington ECFE is available for Military families to talk to licensed Parent Educators about questions on parenting. For more information call: 651-460-3205 or 651-460-3235.

 
 
Guidance & Resources to Support At Home Learning & Discovery

Zero to Three Resources
Activity Guide 
STEM Videos  

MN Help Me Grow is an inter-agency initiative of the State of Minnesota partnering with local service agencies to provide resources about the development of young children for parents and professionals. These resources include information on developmental milestones, YouTube videos, caregiver strategies to support development, screening and evaluation, and how to talk about developmental concerns. Visit the Help Me Grow Web site for more information.
 

Community Partners

360 CommunitiesIs there a barrier to success?  Not sure what to do about it?  Contact your school-based 360 Communities, Partners for Success, Family Support Worker to talk about a plan now.

  • Financial stress (rent, utilities, car repairs)
  • Food and housing
  • Safety concerns (domestic violence, sexual assault)
  • Homework completion and attendance 
  • Home/school communication
  • Home Routines and organization
  • Resources for Physical and Mental Health
  • Pregnant and parenting teens

If you have a child in the following schools, 360 Communities Family Support Workers can support you.

— Early Learning: Anna Lubinski at 651-460-3858
— North Trail: Taunya Mastin at 651-460-1882
— Meadowview:  Anna Lubinski at 651-460-3159
— Akin Road: Morgann McCarthy at 651-460-1771
— Riverview: Morgann McCarthy at 651-460-1629
— Farmington Elementary: Taunya Mastin at 651-463-9072

If you do not have a student in one of the above schools, to speak with somebody, please call 952-985-5300 or visit our website to learn more about 360 Communities https://360communities.org/ 

Community Resource Guide for Children and Families in Dakota County

 

Dakota County Integrated Children’s Mental Health and Family Service Collaborative: Children and Family Resource Directory January 2020

 

Employment & Volunteering Resources

Minnesota Job Service - The focus of all services is to help job seekers find work and help employers find and retain qualified employees.

Minnesota Employment Center - The Minnesota Employment Center (MEC) for People Who are Deaf, Deaf & Blind, or Hard of Hearing provides comprehensive employment and job placement services.

Minnesota Unemployment Benefits - This is the official website of the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance Program, administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). LOGIN/FAQ’s

Volunteering Opportunities
Dakota County’s Volunteer website - Dakota County offers a variety of opportunities for individuals and groups wishing to share their talents and time volunteering in Dakota County.

 

Finance Resources 

Financial assistance - The following resources are available if you, your family, or someone you know needs economic assistance. Find more information about income assistance from the Department of Human Resources
.

Minnesota Unemployment Benefits - This is the official website of the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance Program, administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). 
LOGIN/FAQ’s

Energy Assistance Program - The Energy Assistance Program helps pay for home heating and water costs and furnace repairs for income-qualified households. Find more information on the Energy Assistance Program website.

Save Receipts for School Supplies!
Minnesota Revenue offers two valuable tax benefits for parents who purchase school supplies for their K-12 students, the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction. These benefits can reduce parents’ taxes to increase their refund, but is only available for those who keep their receipts. Purchases for most school supplies, field trips, and musical instruments for school band are eligible.

Most Minnesota parents qualify for the K-12 subtraction, which reduces their taxable income. Parents under certain income limits may also qualify for the K-12 credit, which can refund up to 75% of their costs – even for parents who don’t owe any taxes.
Visit the Minnesota Revenue website for details.

Educational Benefits (Free and Reduced Meal Program) - Educational Benefit applications are mailed to all families with enrolled students at the beginning of each school year. If you do not receive one, please contact food service at 651-460-3820, or email us at [email protected].

If you have mailed in an application, and have not received a response within two weeks, please call the Educational Benefits Department at 651-460-3823 to inquire about the status of your application.

If you qualify for benefits, it will begin on the date that your application is processed. We cannot retro-activate the benefits. If your student(s) qualify for the benefit, they may have a complete breakfast and a complete lunch each day. The program does not cover a la carte items, such as additional entrees, or single cartons of milk

 

Food Resources 


Farmington Food Shelf

510 Walnut Street
Farmington, MN 55024
www.360communities.org
(952) 985-5300

Rosemount Family Resource Center
14521 Cimarron Avenue West
Rosemount, MN 55068
www.360communities.org
(651)  322-5113

Lakeville -Messiah Community Food Shelf
Messiah Lutheran Church
16725 Highview Avenue
Lakeville, MN 55044
(952)  985-5300

Caring Hearts in Action

315 4th Street
Farmington, MN 55024
www.caringheartsmn.org
(651) 463-3582

Loaves and Fishes Community Meal
Every Wednesday: Free supper (to go) served 5:30-6:30 pm
Faith United Methodist Church
710 8th Street
Farmington, MN 55024
www.faithinyourheart.org
(651) 460-6110

Hunger Solutions
https://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/ 
If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance now or at any time, Hunger Solutions can help connect you with free resources in your community. 
Hunger Impact Partners
https://hungerimpactpartners.org/meals-for-kids/mobile-app/
Because government food programs for children and families are underutilized, we help connect hungry kids with nutritious meals and young families with access to healthy foods.


The Open Door Pantry

Farmington Rambling River Center, 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024
FREE FRESH & HEALTHY FOOD | 3-4:30 p.m. | 6/27, 7/18, 8/15, 9/19, 10/17, 11/21, 12/19 | Food items may vary each month, but can include: shelf stable pantry items, fresh fruit, vegetables, and dairy items. While supplies last. This distribution will be held on the south side of the Rambling River Center by the garages. Please bring reusable bags if possible!! 

To receive schedule updates, text CORN to 651-370-8095. No Appointment Required
www.theopendoorpantry.org 

Health Resources 

 

COVID-19 Testing
Minnesotans can get tested at local providers, pharmacies and clinics. The state is also continuing to make free testing accessible to all communities through its test-at-home program.
How can Minnesotans can get a COVID-19 test?

  • Order a free test through the state’s at-home testing program: COVID-19 Test at Home.
  • Find other testing options near them through the state’s Find Testing Locations map, including through local providers, pharmacies and clinics: Find Testing Locations.

Who should get tested?

According to the Minnesota Department of Health: 

  • Even if you are vaccinated, Minnesotans should get tested: 
    • if you have symptoms of the virus;
    • if you have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19;
    • if you are returning from international travel;
    • or if you have attended a large gathering or event where people are not wearing masks and are not able to stay 6 feet apart. 
  • People who are unvaccinated should test before travel (domestic or international).
  • Unvaccinated teachers, staff and students in K-12 should test weekly at a minimum or more frequently per CDC guidance

COVID-19 Vaccine
Children Ages 5 and Older:

Minnesotans looking to vaccinate their child can: 
- Visit mn.gov/vaxforkids to find clinic locations near you.  
- Check with their pediatrician, family medicine clinic or pharmacy about appointments. 
- Watch for vaccination clinics being offered at schools or other community locations around Minnesota. 

Before you go, make sure the vaccine location provides the Pfizer vaccine to 5-11-year-olds. Not all Pfizer vaccine providers will have the vials specifically packaged for 5-11 year old doses in their supply. 

Minnesotans with questions about the vaccine can also call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053. The hotline is available Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 

Adults: 
Minnesotans can Find Vaccine Locations and sign up for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies near them. If you are looking for a specific vaccine product, you can sort by product at Vaccines.gov or at Minnesota: Find a Vaccination Clinic.


 

Mental Health Resources


Associated Clinic of Psychology
: Associated Clinic of Psychology was awarded a grant by Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide school and community based therapy to students and families throughout Dakota County. All services are conducted by qualified mental health professionals and practitioners. Through the grant program, they are able to offer services to students in Dakota County regardless of insurance coverage. Services are available to be delivered at school, home, and via telehealth. If you are interested in this service for your child please contact your child’s building school counselor. 


Dakota County Children’s Mental Health: Are you interested in additional support and services regarding your child’s mental health? Some children are eligible for ongoing case management from a children’s mental health case management social worker at no cost. Please see Dakota County Children’s Mental Health for more information and how to make a referral. If you have questions about this service or would like assistance in making the referral please contact your child’s building school counselor or District Family Resource Coordinator. 


Dakota County Children’s Mental Health Brochure - English

Dakota County Children’s Mental Health Brochure - Spanish

Dakota County Children’s Mental Health Brochure - Somali 


Dakota County Mental Health Resource Directory for Children in Dakota County - English

Dakota County Mental Health Resource Directory for Children in Dakota County - Spanish

 

Housing Resources

Singles, Youth, and Families: Dakota County residents may call the Housing Crisis Line at 651-554-5751 if they need:
— Emergency shelter due to homelessness or feeling domestic violence
— Information on community housing resources and referrals

Emergency Financial Assistance: short-term assistance (usually a one-time payment) for people experiencing a financial hardship such as an eviction or utility shutoff.
— Apply at ApplyMN or call 651-554-5611 for more information

Legal Assistance:
— HomeLine provides free legal help for renters. Call 612-728-5767
— Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS) offers free legal help to low-income and senior citizen (60+) clients. Call 1-888-575-2954
Eviction Prevention: — Dakota County residents who are experiencing a short-term financial hardship with an eviction or utility shut-off can take actions outlined here to apply for financial assistance. Due to COVID-19 services and programs are changing rapidly. Please contact agencies directly to determine the availability of their individual programs.
Energy Assistance Program - The Energy Assistance Program helps pay for home heating and water costs and furnace repairs for income-qualified households. Find more information on the Energy Assistance Program website.
McKinney-Vento
Know Your Rights (English)
Know Your Rights (Spanish)

 

Technology Resources

Click here for iPad Repair Help.

For help with your iPad or other technology questions that might be able to be solved by phone while off campus, please call our student and family tech helpline during normal school hours: 651-463-5090.

Dakota County Libraries
WiFi signals have been expanded to cover the parking lots at all Dakota County Library locations. Use of computers and other resources are available by through Dakota County Libraries.

Dakota County Library now offers Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks to provide free internet access at home or on the go. To check one out, visit the catalog to place a hold on a Wi-Fi hotspot or Wi-Fi hotspot and Chromebook kit. You can also drop by any Dakota County Library location to pick one up while supplies are available. Each can be checked out for 6 weeks. Individuals will need a Dakota County Library Card to reserve and check one out — registering for a library card can be easily completed in-person or online.

To use a Wi-Fi hotspot, individuals will use their own phone, tablet, laptop or other device to connect to a hotspot and access the internet. Or, they can check out both a Wi-Fi hotspot and Chromebook and use the Chromebook to connect to the hotspot. 


Reduced Cost Internet Programs 

Some internet service providers in our area offer internet access at a reduced cost to qualifying families. If interested, please review the following resources to learn more about the programs and qualifications:
— Spectrum Internet Assist
— Frontier Lifeline Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides eligible households a discount of up to $30 per month off their internet bills (or up to $75 per month for households living on Tribal lands), as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 off an eligible connected device like a laptop, desktop computer or tablet. In many cases, households can get high-speed internet without paying a dime by choosing a fully covered internet plan. 

This announcement serves as a reminder that a household is eligible to participate in the ACP if a child in the household receives free or reduced-price school meals. Therefore, under the ACP rules, every household with a child attending a school participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program is eligible for ACP benefits.

Households can learn more and apply for the ACP at GetInternet.gov

While this reminder is specific to schools that are participating in CEP, additional information about eligibility for CEP discount benefits can be found in the School Outreach Toolkit PDF (English) and School Outreach Toolkit PDF (Spanish). The toolkit provides information about ways households can qualify for the ACP, including through an individual student’s participation in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program providing free or reduced-price meals; through a household member’s participation in a wide range of other federal assistance programs like Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and many others; or based on the household’s income (up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level).