Nokomis
Before and after school program
Nokomis Heights Lutheran Church
Welcome to our Nokomis site! We create Spanish immersion classrooms with diverse perspectives with our team of Bilingual leaders and coordinators, many are native Spanish speakers from different backgrounds and countries around the world.
We strive to make learning fun and accessible to all! This site welcomes students from all Minneapolis public schools, as well as surrounding private schools in the area. Emerson, Hale and Green Central being the most popular. We want to welcome and bring together native Spanish speaking students as well as those learning Spanish as a second language, and create a community where we can learn from one another. We strive to embody our slogan: two languages, many cultures and one amazing place.
What we offer at Nokomis
Our Program
Our program runs year-round and is divided into four sessions: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. Registration deadlines are listed on our flyers and news updates—but if you missed the deadline, don’t worry! Reach out and we’ll do our best to find a spot if space allows.
Cultural exploration is at the heart of what we do. Our diverse and passionate team brings a wide range of lived and educational experiences that enrich our programming every day. From backgrounds in archaeology and anthropology to business and education, our staff creatively incorporate their knowledge into activities that are fun and enriching. Kids engage with traditional games from around the world, dive into stories and art from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Indigenous communities, and celebrate Latin American festivities through music, dance, and delicious foods. These experiences not only broaden worldviews but also help children build appreciation for their own identities and the beauty in our differences!
At our Nokomis site, we offer after-school care along with a variety of one-hour enrichment classes Monday through Friday. These classes can be registered separately and are open to all, whether or not your child is enrolled in the full after-school program.
Our classes are designed to be safe, engaging spaces where children can discover their talents, grow in confidence, and develop both personal values and new skills. In cooking, students learn practical life skills while exploring the art of food. Taekwondo teaches discipline, patience, and responsibility. Art classes give kids a chance to express themselves creatively while learning how to repurpose materials into something meaningful and beautiful.
After School Program
2:00 - 6:00PM Monday - Friday
Our after-school program kicks off with snack and conversation time in the cafeteria—a chance for students to unwind and connect. Afterward, we split into grade-level groups and start the afternoon with a movement game to get bodies moving and energy flowing, followed by homework help and academic support. Our schedule changes daily and might include creative arts, STEM challenges, group games, and more—all within a vibrant Spanish immersion environment that celebrates language and culture.
By 4:00 PM, students from surrounding schools like Our Lady of Peace and Hale join us, either through pick-up or bus drop-off. Once everyone has arrived, students split into two groups: those heading to enrichment classes and those participating in a planned activity with our staff. Each day wraps up with a calming activity, helping students transition into the evening.
Classes
4:15 - 5:15 PM Monday - Friday
Classes vary based on the season and interests of everyone. Our repeating sessions have been cooking, taekwondo, art and theater. We’ve explored chess, dancing, ballet, STEM and even manicures for kids and artisanal soap making. Fill in the online Nokomis registration form and check the box for enrichment classes to register!
Empowering the next generation
Discover our enrichment classes throughout the school year
Registrations Now Open
Summer Camp
During June and July, BLC offers several weeks of all-day camps at Nokomis Heights on Mondays through Fridays. Camp activities include art and crafts, physical activities, reading time, Lego building, outdoor activities and more. Each Friday the students go on a field trip: past field trips have included water park visits, Como Zoo, and nature programs. Students can register for as many weeks as they are interested in.
Learn about our programs during no school days
Care during academic breaks
We will be open for non-school days during the academic year for full day care or days we call “Release days”. These days are themed and will have a routine similar to our Summer camp, that is in line with the theme. We’ve had pajama day, music day, animals and more!
Release day dates (no school day care):
October 3 & 16.
November 5
December 13
January 24
February 14
February 28
March 31
April 1, 2, 3
We are not open for MEA break, spring break (only some dates), or winter break.
Learn more about our summer camp! Hosted at our Nokomis site, during June – August we offer camp you may register on a week by week basis. Weekly field trips, swimming, trips to the park and cooking!
Little Workers
Early Spanish Literacy Program Preschool
Now accepting Open Registration/ flexible schedule
