STEP Forest Lake Area Schools

Bridge Academy of Early Learning stands as a beacon of support for children in Northern Minnesota, dedicated to fostering the growth and development of young learners, particularly those with diverse needs. Serving children from infancy through early childhood, the school specializes in accommodating various developmental challenges, including language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The academy employs a comprehensive approach to education, utilizing an enriched curriculum that includes resources from esteemed publishers like Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and specialized programs such as Handwriting Without Tears and High Touch High Tech. Daily communication is a cornerstone of Bridge Academy's philosophy, ensuring that parents are well-informed about their child's experiences through the innovative Tadpoles application. This tool provides vital updates on daily activities, eating, diapering, and sleeping schedules, fostering a seamless connection between home and school. What truly sets Bridge Academy apart is its commitment to maintaining a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention that nurtures each child's unique potential. The school's strong emphasis on family partnerships and its engaging community events further enrich the educational experience, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking exceptional early learning opportunities for their children.

Lake Area Discovery Center is a distinguished early childhood education provider dedicated to nurturing the potential of children from infancy through age five. With a mission centered on fostering holistic development, the center serves a diverse range of students, including those with unique learning needs, such as language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners. The center employs a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes nine key learning areas, ensuring that each child receives a well-rounded educational experience. What sets Lake Area Discovery Center apart is its commitment to maintaining low student-teacher ratios, which allows for personalized attention and tailored support for each child. The center also prides itself on strong family partnerships, engaging parents in their children's educational journeys through community events and resources. With 18 locations across the Twin Cities metro area and over two decades of experience in early childhood education, Lake Area Discovery Center continues to create enriching environments where children can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically while building a foundation for lifelong success.

Forest Lake Area Community School is the alternative high school option in Forest Lake Area Schools, serving students in grades 9 to 12 from Forest Lake and nearby communities such as Hugo, Lino Lakes, Wyoming, Scandia, Columbus and East Bethel. Our daily advisory, Ranger Time, is where staff work with students on individual learning plans, goals and college and career planning. Support is built into the building. Our team includes a school counselor and a school psychologist, we follow 504 and IEP accommodations, and therapists and counselors provide mental health resources on site. Through a partnership with Canvas Health, our Therapeutic Education Program serves students whose mental health needs get in the way of school, pairing licensed educators with mental health professionals on individualized plans. Students are referred by their school and must meet eligibility requirements. A PBIS framework guides school climate. Students can recover credits, take PSEO college courses, attend summer school and look for internships. Electives include Studio Art and 3D art with ceramics, hand-built pottery and weaving, plus agriculture courses such as Culinary Science, where students can earn ServSafe certification, and Agricultural Economics with FFA leadership training.