76 Results
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Little Cardinals Tuesday School Session 2Early Childhood Family EducationLearn and play with your little one each Tuesday! The day starts in our gym with bikes, playground equipment, and a climbing wall. Next we will head to our early childhood classroom for time to engage with age appropriate activities, art and sensory play. While children continue their play, parents go to the adjoining room for learning, support and fun. The session ends with a circle time.2026 Summer -
Little Explorers BoxEarly Childhood Family EducationEnjoy ECFE at home! Each month we will have a themed box with a book, art activities, science and so much more! This fall we will be exploring some favorite books as our themes. Everything will be included so all activities can be completed. After registering, arrangements will be made to pick up the box at Jefferson Learning Center. Winter Box: Sparking Snow Spring Box: Garden Crawlers2026 Winter
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Messy MagicEarly Childhood Family EducationGet ready for an hour of creativity, laughter, and MESSY fun! Art meets science and if there is a mess even better. Projects, circle time and literacy are all part of the day.2026 Winter -
Middle SchoolBuilding
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Mike Lynch's Minnesota StarwatchEnrichmentMake the stars your old friends as we watch the great celestial show in the skies over Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center! We’ll use large visual telescopes, among the largest mobile telescopes in Minnesota, for close-up views of Jupiter, Venus, star clusters, galaxies, and more. New nearly light pollution-proof astronomical photographic telescopes will also display live images of really distant celestial treasures in amazing color! Get to know constellations likeThe Big Bear, Orion the Hunter, Gemini the Twins, and others. Great constellation mythological stories will also be featured. Participants will receive a great handout package of star maps, constellation charts, as well as websites and app recommendations. Mike Lynch is a retired WCCO Radio meteorologist and has been hosting star watch parties and teaching astronomy classes for more than 50 years! He also writes a weekly stargazing column for the St. Paul Pioneer Press and is the author of the book “Stars, a Month by Month Tour of the Constellations.” Star Watch will be held at Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center. Please park in the gravel lot below the main building and walk up the hill for the program; those with limited mobility are welcome to park in one of the few spots next to the main building. No cancellations/refunds after March 23.2026 Winter -
Misinformation, Disinformation, and the Freedom of SpeechEnrichmentHow do we manage and preserve “freedom of speech" amid the current epidemic of misinformation and disinformation? Review the First Amendment in the context of digital media, assaults on truth, facts, and science, and the notion of ‘alternative facts’. Presentation and discussion with newspaper journalist and author Forrest Peterson.2026 Winter
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Mrs. B's Mad LabEnrichmentStep into Mrs. B's "Mad Lab" where curiosity fizzes and creativity explodes! In this high-energy, hands-on class, young scientists will dive into the exciting world of chemistry with Mrs. B as their guide. Using everyday household items like baking soda, vinegar, milk, and food coloring, kids will create amazing experiments that pop, foam, and fizz before their eyes. It’s messy, magical, and full of discovery—the perfect mix of learning and fun! All supplies and a snack are provided—just bring your curiosity and a love for science!2026 Winter -
Multi-Age 3's & 4's at Jefferson Learning Center2026-2027 Willmar Preschool RegistrationPreschool registration will open on March 4, 2026 at 7:30 a.m. Willmar Public Schools Preschool Willmar Public Schools Preschool serves children ages 3–5 and provides a high-quality, inclusion-based program intentionally designed to prepare every child for Kindergarten success. All 3-year-olds must be 3 years old on or before September 1, 2026. All 4-year-olds must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2026. Our preschool program follows the district calendar and is led by highly qualified, Minnesota-licensed teachers and trained paraprofessionals. We use state-approved curriculum and standards to guide instruction and ensure children are building the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning. Our Mission & Approach At Willmar Public Schools Preschool, we believe early learning lays the foundation for future success. We are committed to: Building strong partnerships with families and the community Valuing diversity and inclusion in every classroom Creating safe, welcoming environments where all children belong Providing hands-on, play-based learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity Through developmentally appropriate instruction, intentional teaching practices, and individualized support, we nurture the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. We believe every child deserves a strong start. Our goal is for each preschooler to enter Kindergarten confident, capable, curious, and fully prepared to thrive. Please note that completing registration does not guarantee placement. A $25 non-refundable registration fee is required at the time of registration. If you are unable to pay this fee, you may register in person at Jefferson Learning Center, and the fee will be waived. If your child is currently receiving services through an IEP with the district, you do not need to complete the registration process. Please contact us if you have any questions, we look forward to welcoming your family!2026-2027 Preschool (Multi-age Classes 3's and 4's) Jefferson Learning Center (8:30-11:30) Mon-Fri 2026-2027 Willmar Preschool Registration Site -
My Grand and Me!Early Childhood Family EducationInvite your grandma, grandpa or another special senior to join you for an hour of play and fun. There will be time in the gym, a special snack, playtime in the classroom, and a special art project to make.2026 Summer -
Nature PlayEarly Childhood Family EducationWe’re going on a nature adventure! Each week will be a different park in the Willmar area. We will explore nature using all of our senses. Art, Music, Science and Movement learning domains will be explored. Dress comfortably for the weather as all sessions will be outdoors. The first location will be Ramblewood park, the next locations are TBD.2026 Summer -
Newborn Coffee HourA FREE class that meets weekly on Tuesday throughout the year at Jefferson Learning Center from 11:30-12:30. No registration is necessary.Category -
OnlineBuilding
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Prairie Woods ELCCategory -
Private Swim LessonsWillmar Community Education offers private or semi-private swimming instruction for all ages and ability levels. These lessons are 25 minutes in length and geared toward specific goals of each student.Category -
QPRHealth & WellnessQPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer- 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. Just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help. Come and learn to recognize a crisis and the warning signs that someone may be contemplating suicide and how you can provide hope and help. QPR is included in SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidenced-based Programs and Practices. CEUs available for health and school professionals.2026 Winter -
Roosevelt ElementaryCardinal PlaceOur mission is to provide a safe, caring, and fun environment for children that meets social, physical, and emotional needs through a variety of experiences and activities. We will encourage children to make positive choices while promoting self-awareness, fostering creativity, and providing leadership opportunities. We offer homework help, crafts, activities, organized physical activities, outside time, social opportunities, computer lab, science experiments, cooking projects, and so much more! Once a month, we collaborate with 4-H/University of Minnesota Extension to offer a fun alternative to our regular programming. We are open holiday breaks, during late starts and early releases, and on days when school is cancelled. All non-school days must be registered for separately. Refunds will not be given for pre-registered non school days. Your child will need to bring a home lunch. Morning and afternoon snack is provided. School Year Pricing (Price based on number of days) 1 day/week 2 days/week 3 days/week 4 days/week 5 days/week Morning $8.25 $16.50 $24.75 $33.00 $38.50 Afternoon $10.75 $21.50 $32.25 $43.00 $51.00 Non School Day $40.50 per day Drop in rate: $10.00 before school, $15.00 after school Summer Pricing (Price based on number of days) 1 day/week 2 days/week 3 days/week 4 days/week 5 days/week Full Day Rate—$40.50/day Drop in rate: $45.00/day $40.50 $81.00 $121.50 $162.00 $202.50 Summer School Rate—$25/day $25.00 $50.00 $75.00 $100.00 **A membership fee of $25.00 needs to be submitted with your registration form to guarantee a spot in Cardinal Place. Cardinal Place will submit vouchers to Kandiyohi County if you qualify for assistance. County co-payments are due bi-weekly on Thursday of the current county billing period. You will be considered self pay until we receive your contract. Family Handbook2025-2026 School Year CP Site -
Roosevelt Elementary SchoolBuilding
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STEM - Exploding Paint Bomb Art!EnrichmentGet ready to mix science with splatter! In this high-energy, hands-on class, students will explore the colorful connection between chemistry and creativity. Using safe, guided experiments, young scientists will discover how chemical reactions and pressure dynamics work—all while creating vibrant, one-of-a-kind paint explosions that transform into abstract art masterpieces. Perfect for curious minds who love to get messy and think outside the box, this class is equal parts science, creativity, and fun. All materials are provided—just bring your imagination and a sense of adventure!2026 Winter -
Senior High SchoolBuilding
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Stacy's Nursery Plant Exploration!Early Childhood Family EducationMeet us at the Nursery for plant exploration. What plants are in a vegetable or flower garden? What trees are in an orchard? The children will end by planting their own pot.2026 Summer -
Summer 2026Cardinal PlaceOur mission is to provide a safe, caring, and fun environment for children that meets social, physical, and emotional needs through a variety of experiences and activities. We will encourage children to make positive choices while promoting self-awareness, fostering creativity, and providing leadership opportunities. We offer homework help, crafts, activities, organized physical activities, outside time, social opportunities, computer lab, science experiments, cooking projects, and so much more! Once a month, we collaborate with 4-H/University of Minnesota Extension to offer a fun alternative to our regular programming. We are open holiday breaks, during late starts and early releases, and on days when school is cancelled. All non-school days must be registered for separately. Refunds will not be given for pre-registered non school days. Your child will need to bring a home lunch. Morning and afternoon snack is provided. School Year Pricing (Price based on number of days) 1 day/week 2 days/week 3 days/week 4 days/week 5 days/week Morning $8.25 $16.50 $24.75 $33.00 $38.50 Afternoon $10.75 $21.50 $32.25 $43.00 $51.00 Non School Day $40.50 per day Drop in rate: $10.00 before school, $15.00 after school Summer Pricing (Price based on number of days) 1 day/week 2 days/week 3 days/week 4 days/week 5 days/week Full Day Rate—$40.50/day Drop in rate: $45.00/day $40.50 $81.00 $121.50 $162.00 $202.50 Summer School Rate—$25/day $25.00 $50.00 $75.00 $100.00 **A membership fee of $25.00 needs to be submitted with your registration form to guarantee a spot in Cardinal Place. Cardinal Place will submit vouchers to Kandiyohi County if you qualify for assistance. County co-payments are due bi-weekly on Thursday of the current county billing period. You will be considered self pay until we receive your contract. Family HandbookSummer 2026 CP Site -
Swim LessonsWinter Mini session Adult + Child: ages 1-4 (child with parent/guardian) The purpose of this sesion is to provide a confidence-building experience while guiding adults in helping their child explore the aquatic environment through water play. Swim diapers are required in the pool for any children that are not yet potty trained. A parent, guardian, or household member (at least 15 years old) must accompany the child in the water. W26-SWIM-MINI-AD+CH Beginner- Introductory: ages 4+ Children will participate in a structured lesson with an emphasis on having a fun and fearless experience. They work on getting face wet, basic float techniques, rolling from front to back, and more. Safety skills include asking permission before entering the water and using a lifejacket. No prior swimming lessons required. W26-SWIM-MINI-BEG:INTRO Beginner- Confident: ages 4+ Students will work on the fundamentals of using a combined arm/leg motion and learn to achieve independent floats. The desired outcome is for the student to be comfortable with less instructor assistance. Safety skills include calling for help, throwing assists, and treading water. Prerequisite: Must be comfortable putting face in the water while doing assisted front float. W26-SWIM-MINI-BEG:CONF Beginner- Advanced: ages 5+ Students are practicing the front and back stroke, working toward swimming with face in the water and without assistance. Safety skills include treading water and survival float. Prerequisite: Independent front and back float. W26-SWIM-MINI-BEG:ADV Lap Swim: ages 15+ W26-SWIM-MINI-LAP Open Swim An adult MUST be IN THE WATER with children under 12 at all times. US Coast Guard approved flotation devices are encouraged, inflatable toys are not allowed. Diving well is not open during open swim. W26-SWIM-MINI-OPEN Unsure of your child's swimming skill? Let us help you determine the appropriate swim level for your child in our program. Please call 320-231-8492 for more information. Registering for a wait listed class does not guarantee you a spot. Our swim lessons are held at the Willmar Middle School pool. The pool will open 10 minutes prior to the lesson No food or glass in pool area Swimwear is required, no street clothes in the pool Swim diapers are required for all swimmers who are incontinent or not yet potty trained No swim masks that cover the nose or nose plugs, goggles that cover the eyes only are fine We reserve the right to adjust the length of classes, combine classes, or cancel classes with low enrollment Cancellations at least 5 business days prior to the first class will receive program refund less a $10 processing fee Cancellations fewer than 5 business days prior to the start will receive a refund for half the class cost less a $10 processing fee AquaTots: ages 1-4 (with parent/guardian) The purpose of this class is to provide a confidence-building experience while guiding adults in helping their child explore the aquatic environment through water play. Swim diapers are required in the pool for any children that are not yet potty trained. A parent, guardian, or household member (at least 15 years old) must accompany the child in the water. Tadpole: ages 4+ This class introduces a child to a structured lesson with an emphasis on having a fun and fearless experience. They work on getting face wet, basic float techniques, rolling from front to back, and more. Safety skills include asking permission before entering the water and using a lifejacket. No prior swimming lessons required. Octopus: ages 4+ Students will work on the fundamentals of the front and back stroke using a combined arm/leg motion and learn to achieve independent floats. The desired outcome is for the student to be comfortable with less instructor assistance. Safety skills include calling for help, throwing assists, and treading water. Prerequisite: Must be comfortable putting face in the water while doing assisted front float. Jellyfish: ages 5+ Students continue to work on the front and back stroke, working toward swimming 10 yards with face in the water and without assistance. Safety skills include treading water and survival float. Prerequisite: Independent front and back float. Seal: ages 5+ Students will work on freestyle and backstroke with an emphasis on rotary breathing, body roll, and arm extension. Safety skills include using a lifejacket. Prerequisite: Be able to swim 10 yards independently with face in the water (no doggy paddle). Sea Otter: ages 6+ Students continue to refine freestyle and backstroke for the full length of pool and butterfly is introduced. Safety skills include learning how to help others in an emergency. Swordfish: ages 6+ Students continue to refine freestyle, backstroke, and butterfly. The breaststroke, open and closed turns are introduced. Safety skills include water safety concepts, treading water, and survival float. Unsure of your child's swimming skill? Let us help you determine the appropriate swim level for your child in our program. Please call 320-231-8492 for more information. Registering for a wait listed class does not guarantee you a spot. Our swim lessons are held at the Willmar Senior High School pool. Cancellations at least 5 business days prior to the first class will receive program refund less a $10 processing fee. Cancellations fewer than 5 business days prior to the start will receive a refund for half the class cost less a $10 processing fee. We reserve the right to adjust the length of classes, combine classes, or cancel classes with low enrollment. The pool will open 10 minutes prior to the lesson. no food in pool area participants should wear a swimsuit no swim masks that cover the nose or nose plugs, goggles that cover the eyes only are fineCategory
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Tiny Tots Session 2Early Childhood Family EducationJoin other families and toddlers in a safe environment for fun! Enjoy activities, songs, take-home keepsakes and movement games together with your child. Our focus will be on bonding with your child, discussing development and alleviating parent concerns.2026 Summer -
Starting SoonVanventure!EnrichmentJoin us for a small group adventure! Our winter outings are taking us to the the following locations: February 13- Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Spring Flower Show and Como Conservatory Winter Flower Show March 20- Como Conservatory Spring Flower Show and Wayne's Greenhouse Conservatory March 21- Gertens Spring Greenhouse tour and Bachman's Flower Show March 26- Glacial Ridge Growers tour March 28- History Theatre for a performance of Hungry Like the Wolf (more information below) April 10- Galleria Edina for Fleurs de Villes FLORA featuring fresh floral installations and spring couture in bloom April 18- the Minnesota History Center including a North Star Voices presentation on carousels April 30- Sidekick Theatre for lunch and a performance of Birthday Candles (more information below) History Theatre Hungry Like the Wolf is a hilarious, fast-paced comedy blending history with heart, centered on Minnesota’s trailblazing Willmar Eight. Uncover their daring 1977 strike, women’s battle for labor rights, and director Lee Grant’s compelling story – all punctuated by ‘80s pop culture and a fierce Duran Duran obsession. It’s a vibrant coming-of-age tale that uses humor, a game show, music, and fellowship to explore how we can envision and build a better tomorrow. Sidekick Theatre The lunch menu is: creamy chicken breast, served with roasted red potatoes, glazed carrots, coleslaw, dinner rolls, and assorted dessert. About Birthday Candles: this charming new play, recently on Broadway, will warm the soul. The ingredients for the cake are simple: eggs, butter, sugar, salt. Look closer, though, and you’ll see the essence of life itself. Every year, Ernestine bakes a cake and celebrates with her family on her birthday — a delicious ritual that unfolds onstage across 90 years of birthdays. We meet Ernestine and the people who sweeten her life every year on this day as she grows from 17 to 107 years old. Through glimpses of Ernestine’s life as the years go by, Birthday Candles tenderly explores motherhood, family, love, loss and finding your place in the universe.2026 Winter