Faribault Community Schools

Faribault Public Schools is committed to creating schools where every student is known, supported, challenged, and championed. Through the Community School strategy, our schools become centers of connection, learning, opportunity, and belonging for students, families, and the broader community.

Faribault Public Schools is committed to the Community School strategy as a comprehensive, equity-driven approach to student success. This strategy intentionally organizes school staff, family members, community partners, and students around a shared vision of academic achievement, wellbeing, belonging, and opportunity.

Each school is not just a place for instruction - it is a hub for care, relationships, learning, and support.

Who: Faribault Public Schools students entering Grade 1 to Grade 8 for the 2026-2027 school year

What: STEAM will be a six-week camp oriented summer program focused on developing students’ skills in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. All programming is offered at no-cost and includes breakfast and lunch.

When: June 22 - July 30, 2026

Monday – Thursday

8:00 am – 3:00 pm

Where: Grades 1 – 4 at Lincoln Elementary

Grades 5 – 8 at Faribault High School

Every staff member is doing so much more than teaching or helping a student learn—you are building relationships, creating spaces where students feel like they belong, and making sure they are seen, supported, challenged, and championed. You are often the first to notice when a student needs extra support, and because of that, you help connect them to the right people and resources.

The way you build connections with students and families is a huge part of what makes this work successful. When you create welcoming, inclusive classrooms and bring students’ identities and experiences into your teaching, you are strengthening the bridge between school and community.

You are also a big part of what makes our schools true hubs of connection. Whether it is attending school sporting events, encouraging student involvement, or collaborating with community partners, you help extend learning and opportunity beyond the classroom.

You are a critical part of the Community School strategy, and because of you, our schools are places where students and families feel connected, supported, and valued.

Our I Love to Read Month initiative was a tremendous success, with strong participation from both Early Childhood and Kindergarten classrooms. Throughout the month, students engaged in a variety of literacy-focused activities designed to build excitement around reading and foster a love of books at an early age. As a culminating celebration, many classrooms hosted group popcorn parties, creating a fun and memorable experience for students to come together and celebrate their reading efforts.

During these celebrations, students were also able to select and take home books to continue building their personal libraries. The excitement was evident as students eagerly chose their books and shared their enthusiasm with peers and staff. Opportunities like this not only promote literacy development, but also help strengthen positive associations with reading both at school and at home. We are incredibly grateful for the support that made this initiative possible and look forward to continuing - and growing - this tradition in the coming years.

Falcons Beyond

Falcons Beyond programming continues to provide engaging, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity in our youngest learners. We recently concluded our Weather Wonders unit, where students explored different types of weather and gained a deeper understanding of how weather patterns influence the changing seasons. Through interactive activities and discussions, students were able to make meaningful connections between their learning and the world around them.

In April, students will begin the Ready, Set, Bloom! unit, which focuses on the plant life cycle, environmental stewardship, and the role of insects and bugs in our ecosystem. This unit will provide opportunities for students to explore nature, ask questions, and develop an appreciation for the environment through engaging, age-appropriate experiences. Falcons Beyond remains committed to creating enriching opportunities that support both academic growth and a sense of wonder in learning.

Welcome Center & NEST Resource Space:

• Open and available to support families
• Provides clothing, hygiene items, school supplies, and other essential resources
• If an item is not available, families are encouraged to reach out for assistance

Community School Update:

Attendance Matters

Student attendance remains a key priority at Jefferson Elementary. We are intentionally fostering a culture that values daily attendance through engaging classroom incentives and school-wide recognition. Our "Class of the Month" initiative has proven to be both motivating and impactful, with students demonstrating increased pride and ownership in their attendance. We appreciate the partnership between families and staff in ensuring children arrive at school on time and are prepared to learn each day.

Strengthening the Role of the Community School Coordinator

The role of the Community School Coordinator continues to expand as a vital part of our leadership structure. Amber James, our Jefferson Community School Coordinator, participates in all school leadership meetings, ensuring that community partnerships, family engagement, and student support systems are represented in decision-making processes. This collaboration strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive support for students and families.

Positive School Environment

Our staff remains committed to cultivating a safe, inclusive, and respectful school environment. We continue to reinforce clear expectations related to behavior, responsibility, and communication, ensuring that all students feel supported and positioned for success throughout the school day.

Staff Collaboration and Growth

Our team is actively engaged in ongoing collaboration to strengthen instructional practices and student support systems. Through continuous reflection and shared learning, staff are identifying effective strategies while also targeting areas for growth to better meet the diverse needs of our students.

After-School Opportunities and Building Student Voice and Creativity

We continue to provide a range of after-school enrichment opportunities that align with student interests, while maintaining a strong focus on high-quality instruction during the school day. Additionally, we are prioritizing opportunities for students to develop their voice and creativity. Through writing, the arts, and project-based learning experiences, students are encouraged to express their ideas, think critically, and take ownership of their learning.

Dental Clinic Opportunity

Lincoln Elementary will be partnering with Healthfinders Collaborative to offer an on-site dental clinic for students on April 15th. This opportunity is designed to increase access to essential dental care and support the overall health and well-being of our students, helping to remove barriers that may prevent families from accessing these services.

Families interested in having their child participate must complete the registration process online at schoolhealth.healthfindersmn.org. Please note that there are two required forms that must be completed in order for your child to receive services. It is important to ensure that both forms are fully submitted prior to the clinic date.

We encourage families to take advantage of this convenient and valuable service. If you have any questions or need assistance with the registration process, please feel free to reach out to the school for support.

Save the Date: Family Game Night

Lincoln Community School is excited to host a Family Game Night on April 30th! This engaging event, Count, Create, Celebrate!, will provide families with a fun and interactive opportunity to learn and play together while strengthening important math and literacy skills.

Throughout the evening, families will have the chance to participate in a variety of hands-on activities designed for all ages. Game stations will focus on areas such as problem-solving, estimation, building, and creative story writing. In addition, guest readers will be present to share stories and help foster a love of reading within out school community.

This event is designed to bring families together in a welcoming environment while reinforcing the connection between learning at school and at home. We look forward to seeing our Lincoln families come together for an evening of fun, creativity, and learning.

Spring Theater Productions

Our spring play, Too Many Ghosts, will be performed April 2-3, showcasing the hard work and talent of our student performers and theater staff. In addition, the Theater Department is expanding opportunities for student involvement by introducing a third production this year through Falcons Beyond. This new offering, A Night at the Movies, will begin rehearsals in April and feature a variety-show format that highlights a wide range of student talents. Falcons Beyond performances are free and open to the public, providing an accessible opportunity for families and community members to engage with and celebrate our students' creativity.

5th Grade Welcome Night

FMS is excited to host a 5th Grade Welcome Night on April 9th at 5:00 PM. This event is designed to support a smooth and informed transition for incoming students and their families. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about core academic classes and exploratory offerings, as well as extracurricular activities and athletic programs available at FMS. In addition, staff will provide an overview of important school systems, including Schoology, Infinite Campus, and student iPad use. Families will also receive information about school policies, expectations, and the various supports in place to ensure student success. We look forward to welcoming our future Falcons and helping families feel confident and prepared for the transition to middle school.

Planning for the Future

FMS has already begun planning for the upcoming school year with a strong focus on strengthening partnerships between the school, families, and the broader community. As we develop our 2026-2027 Site Improvement Plan (SIP), we are intentionally aligning our work with key Community School practices, particularly Rigorous, Community-Connected Classroom Instruction and Powerful Student, Family, and Community Engagement. These priorities will guide our efforts to create meaningful learning experiences and deepen connections that support student success.

In the coming months, families and community members are encouraged to watch for opportunities to get involved in the planning process and school activities for next year. Your voice and partnership are essential to this work. If you have ideas, questions, or would like to become more involved, please feel free to contact Ryan Prichard at rprichard@faribault.k12.mn.us

Year Two Momentum

Now in the second year of implementing the Community School strategy, the Faribault Area Learning Center (FALC) continues to build strong momentum in supporting both students and families. Over the past year, systems and relationships have been established that are now allowing for deeper, more intentional work. Staff and partners are building on this strong foundation to enhance programming, increase access to resources, and ensure students feel supported both academically and socially.

Deepening the Strategy

This year's focus is centered on strengthening and expanding the impact of the work. Efforts include deepening partnerships with community organizations, increasing access to targeted student supports, and intentionally elevating student and family voice in planning and decision-making. By prioritizing these areas, FALC is working to ensure that supports are not only available, but also meaningful, relevant, and responsive to the needs of the school community.

Ongoing Commitment to Students and Families

Through continued collaboration with staff, families, and community partners, FALC remains committed to creating a more connected, inclusive, and responsive learning environment. This work is grounded in a whole-child approach, recognizing the importance of addressing academic, social, and emotional needs. By aligning resources and strengthening relationships, FALC is focused on ensuring that every student has the opportunity, support, and encouragement needed to succeed.

Speed & Strength Registration NOW OPEN!

Registration for Speed & Strength is now open! This opportunity is available to students in grades 6-12 and uses the same registration process as Service Learning Projects. We encourage students to take advantage of this great way to stay active and build strength.

We truly need your help in promoting opportunities like Speed & Strength and Service Learning. Please share these with the students you work with and take a moment to encourage them to get involved. These opportunities are incredibly important for student growth, connection, and success, and your support in spreading the word makes a big difference.

Register Here

Tech Hub Available for Staff Use

Our Tech Hub is open during the school day for staff to utilize with students! The space offers a variety of creative tools including a 3-D printer, Cricut machine, drawing pads, a sewing machine, computers, and so much more!

Staff can sign up to use the Tech Hub HERE

Spring Break Happenings!

Faribault High School had Open Gyms all week from 12-3 and were excited to see friendly faces join us to stay active! A huge shout out to the custodial staff and support staff to keep our buildings open during breaks!

Success Story & Community Impact

We are grateful to continue supporting our students through generous community partnerships. Before winter break, we were able to provide blankets and 2 gift cards to 75 students who could use some extra support. These items were thoughtfully distributed with the help of our social workers, FACES, and RISE mentors. Some were delivered to elementary and middle school students as well.

Thank you to our continued partnership with 4th Ave Methodist Church, we have been able to offer this support to students for several years. Opportunities like this make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students, and we are incredibly thankful to be part of such a caring and supportive community.

Inclusive Opportunities for All Students

We strive to provide opportunities that meet the interests and needs of all students. Whether it's athletics, volunteering, STEAM, or creative outlets through the Tech Hub, our goal is to ensure every student has a place to connect and grow.

If there is a program, activity, or opportunity you would like to see, please don't hesitate to reach out. We value your input and are always looking for ways to better support our students and school community.

The Little Falcons Extracurricular Program is preparing for an active and engaging spring season, with a variety of opportunities designed to keep students involved, learning, and connected beyond the school day. We are excited to announce that two of our most anticipated sessions - Dance and Competitive Swimming - will begin the week of April 6th. These programs provide students with opportunities to build skills, stay active, and develop confidence in a fun and supportive environment.

Looking ahead, registration will soon open for our late April and May sessions. Upcoming offerings will include Track and Field, Volleyball, Swimming Lessons, and Football, providing a wide range of options to meet diverse student interests and abilities. These programs not only promote physical activity, but also emphasize teamwork, perseverance, and positive social connections among peers.

Families are encouraged to watch for informational flyers that will be sent home with students in the coming weeks, which will include details on registration, schedules, and program expectations. In the meantime, up-to-date information about Little Falcons programming and other community-based after-school opportunities can be found at www.littlefalcons.org

If you have any questions or would like additional information about Little Falcons or other enrichment opportunities, please feel free to reach out directly. We look forward to another excited season of learning, growth, and participation for our students.

There will be a field trip on April 24th to the Rice County Historical Society and the Faribault Woolen Mills.

You can sign your child up by scanning the QR code below, or by visiting https://forms.gle/ghLWPXXSJFAiiNZF9

If you have a financial need, just go to the Community Action Center and ask for assistance. You will not need to provide proof of income. No stigma. No shame. Just connecting you with positive programming in our community! There are some amazing opportunities in our community such as the Paradise Center for the Arts, private music lessons, dance classes, etc

To further support students and families, we have created a shared resource document for staff that includes community resources, volunteer opportunities, and additional support services. This tool serves as a quick-reference guide to help connect students and families with needed services and enrichment opportunities.

Explore our annual reports to learn how Community Schools are making a lasting impact in Faribault.