Early Childhood Education Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Community Partnerships at Iowa Lakes

March 25, 2026

When it comes to career preparation, some of the most impactful learning happens beyond the classroom. At Iowa Lakes Community College, hands-on experiences and community partnerships play a key role in helping students build the skills they need for future careers.

For more than a decade, the Iowa Lakes Early Childhood Education (ECE) program has partnered with local schools and organizations in Emmetsburg, Iowa, to host an annual Family Night event. This long-standing collaboration brings together families, educators, and college students for an evening focused on learning, play, and connection.

Real-World Learning in Early Childhood Education

Iowa Lakes Early Childhood Education students don’t just learn about child development—they actively apply it.

“We truly want to engage family members with their children when they attend Family Night by showing how we can support children’s growth—socially, academically, and through fine and gross motor development—while encouraging creativity through play and interaction,” said SueAnne Dietering, Readiness Kindergarten Teacher at West Elementary in Emmetsburg.

As part of their sophomore-level Home School & Community Relations course, students take full ownership of planning the event. Responsibilities include:

  • Selecting a theme
  • Designing hands-on learning activities
  • Organizing materials and prizes
  • Coordinating event logistics

This project-based approach gives students valuable experience in lesson planning, event coordination, and family engagement—key components of a successful career in early childhood education.

Building Skills Through Hands-On Experience

“Participating in an event like Family Night allows our Iowa Lakes students to gain firsthand experience in the planning process,” said Melissa Regelstad, Professor and Program Coordinator. “They develop teamwork, creativity, and organizational skills while seeing the impact of strong relationships between home, school, and community.”

On the night of the event, students lead activity stations and interact directly with children and families. These real-world interactions help students strengthen:

  • Communication skills
  • Classroom management techniques
  • Student engagement strategies
  • Confidence in working with young learners

By guiding children through creative and educational activities, Iowa Lakes students gain practical experience that prepares them for careers in teaching, childcare, and early childhood development.

Strengthening Community Connections

Family Night is more than just an event—it’s a reflection of the strong partnerships between Iowa Lakes Community College and the Emmetsburg community.

For families, it provides a fun and meaningful opportunity to engage in their child’s learning. For students, it offers a hands-on experience that connects classroom knowledge to real-world application.

This collaboration highlights the value of community colleges in creating opportunities that benefit both students and the communities they serve.

Start Your Career in Early Childhood Education

At Iowa Lakes, you won’t just learn—you’ll gain real-world experience that prepares you for success.

If you’re passionate about working with children and making a difference in your community, the Early Childhood Education program at Iowa Lakes can help you build the skills, confidence, and experience you need.

Explore the Early Childhood Education program and take the first step toward your future. Get to IT at Iowa Lakes today.

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