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Mission Statement:

Our Mission is to achieve educational excellence and to inspire a lifelong passion for learning.

Staff Directory

Early Education Center Secretary

Birth through Preschool

Mindy Trunnell

320-762-3305

Community Education Secretary

Adult, Youth and Childcare Programs

Melissa VanSickle

320-762-3310

Adult Basic Education Secretary

Basic Skills, GED and English as a Second Language

Cindy Baczkowski

320-762-3312

Community Education

General Information

320-762-3310 communityeducation@alexschools.org

Whether you are filling backpacks with school supplies, prepping for a seasonal reset, or putting your gardens to sleep, fall is the perfect time to shift gears and refocus. This season, let’s make a conscious effort to put down our phones, stop the endless scrolling, and reconnect with the vibrant community around us. Real, meaningful connection happens when we step out, learn together, and socialize in person.

Our Fall Catalog is packed with fantastic opportunities designed to get the entire family involved and engaged:

For youth, keep your students active and inspired with youth football and Shenanigans birthday parties, or check out exciting new classes including sewing, Studio Wild, Varsity Cheer Prep, just to name a few! Don’t miss our fan-favorite Mother-Son Date Night - it’s sure to be an evening to remember.

For adults, take control of your personal journey. Master a new skill like stained glass, wood bowl turning, or estate planning. Prioritize wellness with yoga, lap swim, or a nature walk. Or, join a class purely for the joy of it! Try acrylic painting, learn to make Norwegian cookies, or share a laugh at country dance lessons.

Don’t just watch the season pass by from behind a screen. Explore our incredible lineup of local enrichment classes, discover a new passion, and make lasting connections. Flip through, find your fit, and register today!

Yours in Community, Lynn Jenc

Lynn Jenc Director of Community Education Alexandria Public Schools

inside...

You’ll find fun classes for all ages, youth and adult programs, family fun events and so much more!

Education page 4

Where’s My Class?

AAHS

Alexandria Area High School 4300 Pioneer Rd SE, Alexandria

CES

Carlos Elementary School 20 N Douglas Ave, Carlos

DMS

Discovery Middle School 510 McKay Ave N, Alexandria

EEC

Early Education Center 1410 S McKay Ave, Suite 102, Alexandria

GES

Garfield Elementary School 303 Sanstead St E, Alexandria

LES

Lincoln Elementary School 1120 Lark St, Alexandria

MES

Miltona Elementary School 271 Dale Ave, Miltona

VES

Voyager Elementary School 203 Voyager Dr, Alexandria

WES

Woodland Elementary School 1410 S McKay Ave, Suite 101, Alexandria

SHEN

Shenanigans Indoor Playground 1410 S McKay Ave, Door #3, Alexandria

Alexandria Area Gymnastics Center 510 McKay Ave N, Door #28, Alexandria

Adult Basic Education 410 18th Ave E, Rm 712, Alexandria

Facility Rentals

Alexandria Public Schools welcomes the general public to use our facilities. School buildings are available for use by the community during non-school hours and are great locations for team activities, events, performances and meetings. Contact us at 320-762-3310

ECFE PROGRAMS:

You are your child’s first and most important teacher! Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes support you in this essential role with your young children from birth to age 5.

• Support your child’s healthy development through engaging activities.

• Help you discover effective parenting tips you can use immediately.

• Allow you to enjoy parent/child time including songs, activities, games, and lessons that will help your child thrive in every way.

• Give families a chance to step away from the rapid pace of today’s world and ease the stresses families face.

INFORMATION FOR YOU:

Registration for Fall season is OPEN! Registration for Winter season opens Tuesday, September 15.

Visit our website to learn more and register!

• Sibling Care is available for most classes.

• Classes are designed to be affordable for all families.

• Breastfeeding, prenatal, and parent-only classes are also available.

• Tours are available anytime - just call ahead.

• NEW! Evening hours and non-separating options!

Fall session: Aug. 31 - Nov. 25

Winter session: Nov. 30 - Feb. 25

All classes are held at the: Early Education Center 1410 S McKay Avenue, Alexandria 320-762-3305 earlylearning.alexschools.org

For more information, visit our website:

EARLY CHILDHOOD FAMILY EDUCATION

When you attend an ECFE class, you and your child will spend the first portion of class playing together with new and exciting games and toys that are developmentally appropriate and fun. After a short circle time of songs, parents will join a Parent Educator for a conversation about best-practices in parenting, while children continue fun activities with an Early Childhood Teacher.

Stay & Play Babies

This supportive and engaging class for infants 0 - 15 months is designed to help you and your baby grow together - without having to separate. Led by a certified Parent Educator, this session goes beyond a simple playgroup—it’s a space to deepen your bond while gaining insights into your baby’s rapidly changing world.

Time for Toddlers

Exploration is the toddler’s way of life between 10 and 23 months. New and fast development moves babies into toddlerhood. Parents, come with your toddler for stimulating activities and suggestions for supporting healthy development!

Classes are available on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

Early Childhood Screening

QR code to register

• When registering, select your payment amount from the sliding fee scale options.

Prime Time 2’s and 3’s and Marvelous Mixed Age

Preschoolers are engaged in the world around them in fun and sometimes challenging ways. Explore and learn together with family activities and make connections with other parents. Plus, gain ideas to guide positive behaviors, healthy habits, and a strong start to development.

Classes are available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Your child will need an Early Childhood Screening prior to beginning preschool or kindergarten in Minnesota. This free, mandatory screening is for all Minnesota children and is best done just after your child’s 3rd birthday. Screening is a simple, careful check of your young child’s speech and language, thinking skills, physical development, and social/emotional health. It is designed to ensure the healthy growth of students to be successful in any educational setting, and if needed, connect them to resources that will support their development.

Early Childhood Screening

QR code to register:

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

Choosing the right-fit preschool class is important. Contact us for tours and conversation to find the right schedule for your family.

320-762-3305 earlylearning.alexschools.org

INFORMATION FOR YOU:

2027-2028 Preschool Registration Opens Tuesday, February 16, 2027: 9:00 am

• District transportation may be availableCall 320-762-3305 for more details.

• Limited scholarships are availableApply by July 1, 2026

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

Preschool Makes A Difference

Our mission at Alexandria Public Schools Preschool is simple: To achieve educational excellence and to inspire a life-long passion for learning as we prepare your child for kindergarten and beyond. Join us as we offer an engaging and play-based experience for your preschooler to discover a love for learning in an interactive, stimulating, and academically rich environment. We welcome you to join the excitement with sensitive, responsive support from teachers and strong school-family partnerships.

What Will My Child Learn?

Programs at the Early Education Center support children and parents with a healthy start to their educational journey as they prepare their minds and bodies for their experience in kindergarten. Teachers are committed to put children’s natural curiosity to use through the exploration of problem-solving strategies, critical thinking, cause and effect relationships, prewriting and reading skills and more complex social skills. Both indoor and outdoor environments allow for learning in all developmental domains.

To register, visit our website:

PRESCHOOL 3 YEAR OLDS

*Indicates classes where preschool + childcare is available

PRESCHOOL 4 YEAR OLDS

*Indicates classes where preschool + childcare is available

PRESCHOOL AT CARLOS ELEMENTARY*

*Carlos Elementary (PreK-5th Grade) will generally operate Monday through Thursday for the 20262027 school year. However, there are a few exceptions to this schedule, which include some Fridays. Please see published calendars for exact school dates.

PRESCHOOL + CHILDCARE

YOUTH

INDEX:

Pg. 9 Arts & Crafts

Pg. 10 Cheer & Performance Arts

Pg. 11 Cooking

Pg. 12 Events & Family

Pg. 14 Online

Pg. 15 Special Interests

Pg. 16 Sports & Fitness

Pg. 18

STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Math

INFORMATION FOR YOU:

• Full class descriptions can be found at alexschools.arux.app. Click “register” to view all class information.

• The location key can be found on page 3.

• Be sure to keep your account information up-to-date so you don’t miss important notifications in case of cancellations or weather-related announcements.

• New class designation.

• Financial need-based scholarships are available to help ensure all APS students have access to our courses. Contact us at 320-762-3310 for more information.

for financially supporting youth recreation in our community!

Carlos Township, Hudson Township, City of Forada, Moe Township, Lake Mary Township, City of Alexandria, City of Carlos, Osakis Township, Miltona Township, Ida Township, LaGrand Township, Alexandria Township

ART & CRAFTS

Mini Picassos Art Class (Gr. 1-5)

Embark on a creative adventure with our Kids’ Creative Art Classes! Each session features a unique craft. Unleash imagination, colors, and shapes in a joyful journey of self-expression. Join us for a fun and artistic exploration! Craft by month October - halloween gnome, December - snowman spoon ornaments.

Instructor: Ashley Clancy

Location: WES Staff Lounge

Thursday, Oct 22, 4:00-5:00 pm, 1 Session, $20; YEOCT Thursday, Dec 17, 4:00-5:00 pm, 1 Session, $20; YEDEC

Sensory Art – Inclusive Art for Children with Disabilities (Gr. 1-5)

You asked, we listened! Join our all-new inclusive art class designed to inspire creativity through texture, color, and self-expression. This supportive environment welcomes all abilities. Caregivers must attend if needed for participation or support.

Instructor: Ashley Clancy

Location: WES Staff Lounge

Thursday, Sep 17, 4:00-5:00 pm, 1 Session, $20; YEFA3

CHEER & PERFORMANCE ARTS

Beginning Band/Orchestra Summer Music Camp (Gr. 6-8)

Introduce your student to the world of middle school music and give them a head start this fall! Led by APS music directors,our camp sharpens skills, boosts confidence, and builds lasting friendships. Location: DMS

Monday-Friday, Aug 17-Aug 21, Times Vary, 5 Sessions, $50; Band: YEDZ, Orchestra:YEHN

Camp Schedule:

Monday–Thursday: 45-minute group lessons are organized by instrument. Each instrument has two available session times—please choose either the AM or PM option.

Friday: Full rehearsal, all 11:00 am–12:00 pm, Camp Showcase 12:00–12:30 pm

Alexandria HS Cheer Prep: Pathway to Varsity (Gr 6-12)

Ever wondered what it takes to wear the Alexandria High School colors and earn your varsity letter? This clinic is your perfect starting point! Designed for athletes of all experience levels, this energetic workshop is a low-pressure way to see if high school cheerleading is the right fit for you.You will dive straight into the foundational skills required at the high school level—learning the exact motions, explosive jumps, sideline cheers, and sharp dance techniques used on game days. Instructor: Courtney Keller Location: DMS

Mondays, Oct 19-Nov 23, 5:00-6:30 pm, 6 Sessions, $60, YEFA20

Private Music/Drawing Lessons (Gr 3-Adults)

Enrich your musical and artistic skills with Steve Deitz, a retired professional voice teacher, guitarist, and visual artist. With 30+ years of experience in music and a background in visual arts, Steve offers private lessons in guitar, voice, electric bass, beginning piano, and drawing. Customize your learning with 30-minute increments and enjoy a “make-up” lesson option.

Location: AAHS Choir Room F109

Tuesdays, Sep 15-Oct 13, 3:30-4:00 pm, 5 Sessions, $140; YE1SD26-YE5SD26

Thursdays, Sep 17-Oct 22, 3:30-4:00 pm, 5 Sessions, $140; YE6SD26-YE10SD26

Tuesdays, Nov 10-Dec 8, 4:00-4:30 pm, 5 Sessions, $140; YE12SD26-YE15SD26

Thursdays, Nov 5-Dec 10, 3:30-4:00 pm, 5 Sessions, $140; YE16SD26-YE20SD2

Alexandria HS Cheer Prep: Pathway to Varsity

COOKING

Yummy Balanced Bites-Sugar & Flour Free (parent/child) Step into the snowy world of sweetness in this hand-on holiday Learn together as a family to create delicious sugar-free and flour-free recipes. Discover simple techniques, healthier ingredients, and flavorful meals while creating meaningful memories through cooking, eating, and sharing food together. Instructor: Natalie Aul, author of 30+ cookbooks and livestream host.

Location: DMS D248 FACS Kitchen

Thursday, Oct 8, 5:30-7:00 pm; 1 Session, $25 Parent/Child, $12 additional person; YEFA7

Balanced Bites-Sugar & Flour Free (parent/child)

STEM- Edible 3D Cell Models - A Journey into the Microbakery

Wonder Popcorn

EVENTS & FAMILY

Parent/Child Painting & Punch (Ages 6-Adult)

Drop the phone. Ditch the tablet. Step away from the TV! Bring your child for a relaxing afternoon of painting and punch! You and your child will paint side by side, guided through a haunted yet adorable ghost painting —no experience needed, all while sipping on some punch, and will encourage painters to add their own unique flair to their piece as you go. Escape the everyday hustle and spend meaningful time together at this cozy fall art session. Enjoy yummy punch, lots of laughs, and the joy of creating something special together to take home and remember.

Instructor: Alexandra Lasch

Location: DMS D253 Art Room

Thursday, Oct 22, 3:30-5:30 pm, 1 Session, $35 per person; YEFA10

Spooktacular Shenanigans

The Monster Mash Halloween Bash! Get ready for a hauntingly good time at Shenanigans Indoor Playground! Bring your little monsters, witches, and superheroes for an unforgettable evening of spooky fun and indoor play. Here’s what’s brewing: monster mash dance party & kid-friendly jam, the grand costume contest with a chance to win 2 FREE day passes, spooky snacks & festive treats, and unlimited playground access to burn off that sugar rush!

Location: WES Complex, Door #3

Thursday, Oct 29, 5:30-7:00 pm, $8 per child pre-registered (Pre-registration deadline: October 19th) $15 per child at the door (children under 1 year old are FREE); HP001

Reminder: Don’t forget your socks!

Shenanigans Winter Wonderland

Celebrate the magic of the season at Shenanigans! Join us for an evening filled with holiday fun! Enjoy cookie decorating, a visit with Santa, a festive photo opportunity, exciting face painting, a fun holiday craft, and so much more! Complete your passport card for a chance to win a FREE party! Bring the whole family for an unforgettable night of winter wonderland fun. This is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and capture your Christmas card photo! Parents/guardians must accompany participants.

Location: WES Complex, Door #3

Thursday, Dec 10, 5:30-7:00 pm, 1 Session, $8 per child pre-registered (Pre-registration deadline: November 30th) $15 per child at the door (children under 1 year old are FREE); S2026

Shenanigans

Parent/Child Painting & Punch

Miltona Family Fun

Son NightLumberjacks, Flannel & Flapjacks

MORE EVENTS & FAMILY OPTIONS

Mother-Son Night - Lumberjacks, Flannel & Flapjacks (Ages 3-12)

Grab your favorite plaid, dust off your boots, and get ready for a ruggedly fun evening. This event is designed for moms (or special aunts, grandmas, and mentors) and their favorite little woodsmen to bond over high-energy activities, hearty laughs, and delicious snacks. Cherish the memories with a complimentary digital photo to print and frame.

It’s bound to be a “tree-mendous” night of adventure! Friday, Nov 14, 6:00-7:30 pm; YEMSN

Early bird (now through October 13)

$29 per couple, $14 add’l child

After October 13, $39 per couple, $16 add’l child

Pumpkin Derby - Miltona Family Fun Night (All Ages)

Ready, Set, Roll! Join the Pumpkin Derby! Fun for the whole family! Craft your custom pumpkin racer and see if you have what it takes to cross the finish line first. Compete for awesome prizes, with awards given to both the Fastest Racers and the Most Creative Designs! A parent or guardian must be present. Location: MES Gym

Friday, Oct 23, 6:00-7:00 pm; YEFAPD $20 new kit, $5 with last year’s kit (no outside kits allowed)

OUTDOOR GEAR

Video Production for YouTube (Gr. 3-7) ONLINE

Create your own YouTube content! Shoot video, capture sound, and learn real filmmaking techniques. Students produce an unboxing or product review video complete with transitions, special effects, and a soundtrack. Home technical requirements are available in the online course description.

Instructor: Tech Academy Location: Online

Saturdays, Sep 19-Sep 26, 9:00-10:30 am, 2 Sessions, $59; YETA1

Video Game Design: Platformer (Gr. 3-7) ONLINE

Build your own platformer game in Construct 3, a visual coding platform that teaches real programming basics! Good keyboard and mouse skills needed. Home technical requirements are available in the online course description. Instructor: Tech Academy Location: Online

Saturday, Oct 17-Oct 24, 11 AM-12:30 pm, 2 Sessions, $59; YETA5

Virtual Reality Coding (Gr. 2-6) ONLINE

Create 3D Virtual Reality environments, characters, and games with DelightX! View your VR projects on a phone, Oculus, or Google Cardboard; just a laptop/computer needed to start. Home technical requirements are available in the online course description.

Instructor: Tech Academy Location: Online

Monday, Nov 16, 6:30-8:00 pm, 1 Session, $32; YETA7

SPECIAL INTERESTS

ACT Test Prep Course (Gr. 10-12)

Join this intensive test preparation workshop that coaches high school students to do their best on the ACT. In the five-hour ZAPS seminar, students will learn strategies for using partial knowledge to eliminate wrong choices, gain tips for improving in all four sub-tests: English, Math, Reading, Science; understand the most strategic ways to use limited testing time, take shortened practice tests that mirror the actual testing experience, reduce their test anxiety and gain confidence.

Instructor: Doorway to College Foundation

Location: AAHS B182-183

Saturday, Oct 10, 9:00 am-3:00 pm, 1 Session, $99; YEZAPSWI

SQUISHMALLOW Adventure Party (Gr.

K-5)

Bring your favorite Squishmallow (or other stuffy) and team up for a fun-filled adventure! Enjoy silly games, wild relays, tasty snacks, and awesome prizes. Every child will win prizes throughout the party, making sure the fun never stops. To make the day even more magical, Ms. B has prepared a very special gift for each participant to take home.

Instructor: Char Bzdok

Location: VES #64 Classroom

Monday, Oct 5, 3:00-4:30 pm, 1 Session, $32; YEFA12

Studio Wild Build a Brand Workshop

Build a Brand Workshop will allow participants to build their own business. They will build a marketing campaign and design letterhead, business cards, a print ad and a hat. Come with an idea or make one up on the spot. Proudly show off, in person, the brand they built with a professional marketing studio! Laptops, snacks, and water are provided.

Instructor: Tianna Ahrens

Location: TFS Marketing Studio + Consultancy

Saturday, Nov 14, 9:00-11:30 am, 1 Session, $105; YE(Gr. 3-5)

Saturday, Nov 14, 1:00-3:30 pm, 1 Session, $105; YE(Gr. 6-12)

YOUTH

SPORTS & FITNESS

Saturday NFL Flag Football Mini-League (Gr. 1-4)

This 5-week NFL Flag Football League includes a 15-minute warm-up and practice followed by a 1-hour game each Saturday, for a total of 4 games. The league features a 5-on-5 recreational, non-contact format with equitable playing time for all participants. Players receive an official NFL Flag jersey and flag belt to keep. Games are officiated by referees, with scores and standings posted weekly. Register as a team or individual; friend requests will be accommodated when possible. Parent volunteer coaches are required, and coaching resources, playbooks, training, and footballs will be provided.

Location: AAHS

NFL1 Sat Sep 12-Oct 10, 8:15-9:15 am, 5 Sessions, $75

NFL2 Sat Sep 12-Oct 10, 9:30-10:30 am, 5 sessions, $75

NFL3 Sat Sep 12-Oct 10, 10:45-11:45 am, 5 sessions, $75

NFL4 Sat Sep 12-Oct 10, 12:00-1:00 pm, 5 sessions, $75

MORE SPORTS & FITNESS OPTIONS

STEM - SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATH

FIRST Lego League - Discover (Ages 4-5)

Spark your child’s curiosity through hands-on adventures! This playful class uses LEGO® DUPLO® bricks to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in an ageappropriate way and will build early learning habits through creative building, teamwork, and problemsolving. UNEARTHED™ students will share what they know about archaeology, look at the Explore Story, and build an artifact for others to try to replicate.

Instructor: Ashley Clancy

Location: EEC Classroom D107

Mondays, Sep 14 - Oct 5, 4:00-6:00 pm, 4 Sessions, $69; YEFA17

First LEGO League (Gr. 3-5)

Imaginative thinking and teamwork build tomorrow’s innovators! Guided by adult mentors, FIRST® LEGO® League teams solve realworld challenges and build LEGO MINDSTORMS® robots. Participants develop critical thinking, teamwork, and presentation skills. Parent meeting: August 11 at 7:00 PM, DMS Room A100. Enter through Door 8. Practice dates and times will be determined by parent volunteer coaches—volunteers are needed to run the course. A discount is available for children of volunteer coaches.

Location: Discovery Middle School

Wednesdays/Mondays,

Sep 9-Nov 30, 3:30-5:30 pm, 22 Sessions, $159; YELLF1 Wednesdays/Mondays, Sep 9-Nov 30, 5:30-7:30 pm, 22 Sessions, $159; YELLF2 Wednesdays/Mondays, Sep 9-Nov 30, 3:30-5:30 pm, 22 Sessions, $159; YELLF3

Candy Corn Catapults - STEM Engineering (Gr. K-7) READY, AIM, LAUNCH!! Step into the world of ballistics and structural engineering in this high-energy, hands-on workshop. In CANDY CORN CATAPULTS, students become “Siege Engineers” as they design, build, and calibrate their very own desktop launchers. The mission? To successfully navigate the physics of flight and land a “harvest” of candy corn into a series of bubbling cauldrons. It’s a race against gravity and a test of architectural strength!

Instructor: Char Bzdok

Location: DMS D248 FACS Kitchen

Monday, Oct 5, 5:30-7:00 pm, 1 Session, $32; YEFA18

YOUTH

PARTY!

SHENANIGANS

INDOOR PLAYGROUND

Basic,Themed or Private Parties

Location: WES Complex, Door #3 1410 South McKay Ave.

ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES BOOK A PARTIES FOR ALL OCCASIONS!

GYMNASTICS CENTER

Basic,Themed Parties or LaserTag

Location: Discovery Middle School, Door #28 • 510 McKay Ave. North

Fall Fun Awaits

This fall, find your groove, spark your creativity, and connect with friends right here in the Alexandria area and surrounding communities. Alexandria Community Education is excited to offer engaging, inclusive activities designed for adults with disabilities.

Imagine:

• Celebrating with music, costumes, and laughter at our annual Halloween Dance & Costume Party.

• Creating a masterpiece in our welcoming Inclusive Art Classes.

• Enjoying a relaxing night out at Movie Nights hosted at Grand Arbor.

• Learning the fundamentals of pickleball in our Beginner Adaptive Pickleball class.

Learn more about the opportunities and sign up! Call our office at 320-762-3310 or send an email to communityeducation@alexschools.org

YOUTH

ABE FALL 2026 SCHEDULE:

Tues: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm

Tues ESL evening class: 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Wed: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thursday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

CLOSED: Oct. 15 & Nov. 24-26, 2026

Contact: 320-762-3312

Location: Alexandria Technical & Community College Campus (ATCC)

410 18th Ave. E., Rm 712, Alexandria, MN 56308

ADULT BASIC EDUCATION

Basic Academic Skills Brush Up

Basic reading, writing, and math instruction to help with workforce preparation, the driver’s license exam, North Star Digital Literacy Skills, life skills, and US citizenship.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

ESL classes for adults whose native language is not English. Learn to speak, listen, read, and write to communicate effectively in English within the community and on the job. Clases de ESL para adultos cuya lengua materna no es el inglés. Aprende a hablar, escuchar, leer y escribir para comunicarte eficazmente en inglés en la comunidad y en el trabajo.

Volunteer as an ABE Tutor

Help tutor an adult to learn English, improve math skills or prepare for the GED. Free training through Literacy Minnesota will help prepare you for this role. Interested individuals should call 320-762-3312.

Adult Basic Education (ABE) serves adults ages 17 and older who are not enrolled in secondary school and whose academic skills are below the 12th-grade level. The mission of ABE is to provide adults with educational opportunities to acquire and improve the academic skills necessary to become self-sufficient and productive members of the community.

• All classes are FREE and set up by appointment

• Flexible in-person and online day and evening schedules

• Enrollment open year-round

• Individual one-on-one assistance

General Educational Development (GED)

ABE can help you earn your General Educational Development. The GED test is a series of four subject tests in math, science, social studies and language arts a person can take to demonstrate their high school academic knowledge. Earning a GED diploma is the equivalent of a U.S. high school diploma and accepted by nearly all colleges and employers in the U.S., as well as many universities outside of the U.S.

Optional: If you like, you can turn your GED into a MN Standard Adult Diploma. The MN Standard Adult Diploma is a portfolio-based high school diploma completion program for adults that combines the GED exams, standardized assessment scores, and ABE instruction.

Preparation for College or Career

Start on the road to a degree, brush up your workplace skills, or jump into your next career path! Online career and collegefocused courses offered for Accuplacer, Pre-CNA, TEAS nursing exam prep, driver’s license exam prep, Para-Professional training/ certification, and more through our Regional Online Career Collaborative (ROCC).

FREE IN-PERSON COURSES

High School Completion (GED)

Official GED Testing

English as a Second Language

Alex/ATCC T/W/TH 10:00 am-7:00 pm

Melrose HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

Morris HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

Alex/ATCC TH/SAT Evening and Wkend times

Alex/ATCC T/W/TH 10:00 am-8:00 pm

Melrose HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

Morris HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

English as a Second Language Sauk Centre Elem. T 5:30-7:30 pm

Academic Skills Brush Up Alex/ATCC T/W/TH 10:00 am-7:00 pm

Academic Skills Brush Up

Melrose HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

Academic Skills Brush Up Morris HS W 5:00-7:30 pm

Prep for American Citizenship Test (All Sites)

FREE ONLINE COURSES

High School Completion (GED) Ongoing Year Round T 6:00-8:00 pm

English as a Second Language Ongoing Year Round T 6:00-8:00

Paced Knowledge & Content for Written Driver’s Exam

ADULTS

INDEX:

Pg. 25 Arts & Crafts

Pg. 26 Business & Technology

Pg. 27 Film Studies

Pg. 28 Food & Drink

Pg. 29 Health & Wellness

Pg. 30 Home & Garden

Pg. 30 Online Course & Professional Certifications

Pg. 31 Retirement & Beyond

Pg. 32 Special Interest

Pg. 33 Sports & Fitness

INFORMATION FOR YOU:

• Full class descriptions can be found at alexschools.arux.app. Click “register” to view all class information.

• The location key can be found on page 3.

• Some instructors will allow youth to attend their adult class if they sign up and register with a registered adult. Call our office to find out more at 320-762-3310.

• Be sure to keep your account information up-to-date so you don’t miss important notifications in case of cancellations or weather-related announcements.

• New class designation.

ART & MUSIC

Beginner Wood Bowl Turning: 2-day Comprehensive Class

This two-day beginner class will focus on developing the basic skills needed to turn a simple wooden bowl from “green” unseasoned log wood. All tools, equipment, materials and supplies will be provided; however, students are required to provide their own face shield and wear it during class.

Instructor: Steve Mullins

Location: AAHS Wood Shop

Sat/Sun Sep 19-Sep 20, 9:00 am-4:00 pm, 2 Sessions, $325 includes supplies; SM20 Sat/Sun Nov 14-Nov 15, 9:00 am-4:00 pm, 2 Sessions, $325 includes supplies; SM21

Intermediate Crochet: Harvest Gnomes

In this three-session course, intermediate makers will move beyond basics to engineer these charming autumnal gnomes. We’ll dive deep into how to create the ribbed pumpkin bodies, master color transitions for striped legs, and craft delicate accents like sunflowers and slouchy hats.

Instructor: Laura Jones

Location: DMS D253 Art Room

Thursdays, Sep 24-Oct 8, 6:30-8:00 pm, 3 Sessions, $35; LJ21

Piano Reading for Adults: From Stuck to Fluent

In this class, you’ll learn how to move beyond slow, note-by-note decoding and begin recognizing patterns, making reading feel more natural and manageable. When this shift happens, playing becomes smoother, more confident, and far less frustrating. Designed for adult beginners and returning players, this class offers a supportive, step-by-step path for anyone who wants piano reading to finally make sense.

Instructor: Barb Huffman

Location: DMS D200 Media Center

Monday, Oct 19, 5:00-6:00 pm, 1 Session, $39; BH25

MORE ARTS & MUSIC OPTIONS

to Macrame

Beginner Wood Bowl Turning: 2-day Comprehensive Class

the Joy of PaintingNo Matter Your Experience Level (Fall on the Lake)

BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY

Studio Wild Help Me Design...Anything Workshop

Have a project on your mind? Are you designing invitations, working on a website, or logo creation and you just can’t figure out how to get started [or finished]? Select any one-hour time slot during the Help Me Design… Workshop and Tianna will be available to help you on your journey. Bring a laptop or use one of theirs! Price is by the hour. A minimum of one hour must be purchased prior to attending. Additional hours can be purchased on site through your Community Education account.

Instructor: Tianna Ahrens

Location: TFS Marketing Studio + Consultancy

Wednesday, Oct 14, Hours available between 9:00 am-3:00 pm, 1 Session, $40/hr; TA21

to Social Media Marketing for Business

Studio Wild Website Workshop

A clean, clear website can change how people see your business and building one doesn’t have to be scary. You’ll learn what every modern website needs, how to design pages that make people want to stay, what to fix on your current site, and how to avoid the most common “DIY website mistakes.” This is a beginnerfriendly, judgment-free zone. No website? No problem. No business yet? Also fine. Have a site you just don’t know how to use? Just bring curiosity. We’ll supply the strategy. This is a 2-hour workshop. Laptops provided or bring your own.

Instructor: Tianna Ahrens

Location: TFS Marketing Studio + Consultancy

Wednesday, Sep 16, 5:00-7:00 pm, 1 Session, $85, TA20

MORE BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS

FILM STUDIES

FOOD & DRINK

Nordic Holiday Baking: A Two-Session Masterclass Step into the warm, aromatic world of traditional Scandinavian baking. During this beginner to intermediate two-session workshop, you will master classic Nordic treats (Krumkake, Rosettes, Sandbakkles, Hallongrottor) that have anchored holiday dessert tables for generations. Whether you are honoring your heritage or discovering these delicate pastries for the first time, you will leave with the confidence, recipes, and techniques to bake them perfectly at home. Instructor: Barbara Haacke

Location: DMS D248 FACS Kitchen

Wed/Thurs, Dec 16-17, 6:00-8:30 pm, 2 Sessions, $53; BH20

Mastering the Multi-Cooker Sep 19

Moroccan Pastilla: Morocco’s Famous Chicken Pie Sep 24

Cinnamon Crunch Bagels & Pumpkin-spice Cinnamon Rolls Sep 26

Japanese Miso Ramen from Scratch Oct 1

The Art of Carnitas & Homemade Tortillas Oct 3

Freezer Pizza & Fast “Liquid” Pizza: Easy Meal Prep for Busy Nights Oct 9

Handcrafted Tortellini Workshop Oct 10

Vietnamese Street Food Oct 22

Tried & True Bread Bowls & Soups Oct 24

Introduction to Rustic Artisan Bread Baking Oct 26

French Macarons with Salted Caramel Buttercream and Chocolate Glaze Nov 3

K-Pop Bulgogi Kimbap: Gourmet Korean Signature Rice Rolls Nov 7

Savory Galette and Apple Strudel Nov 10

The Artisan’s Table: Breads & Pastries Nov 16

Classic Homemade Pierogi & Sweet Berry Pierogi Nov 20

Art of Samosas: Scratch-made Wrappers, Flavorful Filling, & 3 Ways to Cook Nov 21

6:00-8:00 pm 4:00-6:30 pm 5:30-8:00 pm 4:00-6:30 pm 6:00-8:00 pm 4:00-6:30 pm 6:00-8:30 pm 6:00-8:00 pm 4:00-6:30 pm 6:00-8:00 pm 6:00-8:30 pm 5:30-7:30 pm 4:00-6:30 pm

MORE FOOD & DRINK

OPTIONS

Holiday Cookie Workshop: Royal Icing & Bakery Black & White Cookies

Mexican Tamales

Festive Mediterranean Mezze Charcuterie Board

Nordic Holiday Baking: A Two-Session Masterclass

Swedish Meatballs & Spaetzle (Homemade Egg Noodles)

Sweet & Savory Kolache: Czech Classics & Texas-Style Favorites

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Self-Hypnosis Workshop for Health & Wellness

Unlock the power of your own mind with this 5-session

Self-Hypnosis workshop, a practical and grounded approach to personal growth. Far from the myths of “mind control,” self-hypnosis is a natural, focused state of deep relaxation used to enhance self-awareness, improve health, and achieve your most ambitious goals.

Instructor: Carrie Renee Robatcek

Location: Marion Building

Wednesdays, Sep 30-Oct 28, 6:00-7:00 pm, 5 Sessions, $99; CR25

Chippewa Park Guided Nature Walk

Meet at Big Ole Park at 9:30 am to catch the Community Ed school bus to Chippewa Park—or drive yourself and meet us there at 10:00 am to begin the walk. Please register so we know how many people will be attending. Explorers: Brad Bonk, Carol Wenner

Location: Chippewa Park

Thursday, Oct 8, 9:30-11:45 am, 1 Session, Free; FA26

HOME & GARDEN

Craft Your Own Holiday Planter

In this hands-on course, you’ll create a stunning holiday planter to bring vibrant outdoor color and greenery to your home. Your beautiful creation will last throughout the holiday season and even into the new year. All materials are provided, so just bring your creativity!

Instructor: David Vaske

Location Miltona Greenhouse

Thursday, Nov 19, 3:00-4:30 pm, 1 Session, $59; DV112 Saturday, Nov 21, 10:00-11:30 am, 1 Session, $59; DV113

ONLINE COURSES & PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS

(in partnership with LERN) You can participate any time of day or evening; the online classroom is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There are no live “real-time” requirements or meetings. You decide when you participate. Looking for more options? Call our office at 320-762-3310.

RETIREMENT & BEYOND

4 Truths of Extended Care

If you’re thinking “it won’t happen to me” when it comes to needing help as you age, you aren’t alone. But the need for care often comes anyway. Attend this class and learn how best to prepare for the kind of care you want.

Instructor: Christopher Grieve Location: DMS D244 Classroom

Monday, Oct 12, 5:30-6:30 pm, 1 Session, $9; CG32

Estate Planning

You work hard to care for others and to take care of yourself. When you are not able to do so, who will? Learn about Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, Wills, Trusts and related advanced planning tools. Understand what exposure your estate has to taxes, long term nursing care costs, other liabilities or expenses and how to minimize that exposure. Questions are encouraged and individually addressed where possible.

Instructor: Nicholas T. Adams Location: WES Media Center

Monday, Oct 26, 6:00-7:00 pm, 1 Session, $9; NA31

Senior Housing Tour

Is a change of housing in the future for you or a loved one?. After a short informational session where you will learn about some of the housing choices in the Alexandria area, we will board a school bus and visit 2-3 senior housing sites. The bus will have wheelchair accessibility. The tour may include walking longer distances. Instructors: Douglas County Senior Services, Social Services, Horizon Public Health Location: Public Works Conference Room, 526 Willow Drive

Wednesday, Sep 23, 8:30 am-12:00 pm, 1 Session, $5; DS73

SPECIAL INTEREST

Genealogy 101: Uncover Your Family’s Unique History

Begin your family history journey with confidence! In this hands-on course, you’ll learn essential skills to start building your family tree. Discover how to organize your research, access vital records, and navigate common roadblocks. By the end, you’ll have the tools to uncover your family’s unique story. This class is being held online, interactive through Zoom.

Instructor: Mica Anders

Location: Online

Tuesday, Oct 6, 6:30-8:00

Out: Unlock Your Family Tree in a Live Genealogy Q & A

American Sign Language (ASL) - Beginner & Intermediate

Come discover a new language, connect with deaf culture, and have fun learning through conversation and hands-on practice! Instruction focuses on developing basic receptive (understanding), expressive (signing), and conversational skills using everyday vocabulary, common phrases, and introductory ASL grammar. During the first class session, everyone will meet together before choosing the level that best fits their experience and comfort with ASL. Youth participants are welcome! Children who attend should be able to read independently and must be accompanied by a parent or another participating adult.

Instructors: Kimberly Pickar and Paula Olson

Location: DMS D209 Presentation Space

Mondays, Oct 19-Nov 16, 6:15-7:45 PM, 5 Sessions, $99; KP23

SPORTS & FITNESS

REGISTER today!

Photo Consent

Alexandria Public Schools Community Education has an irrevocable and unrestricted right to use and publish photographs or videos taken for any lawful purpose. These images may be used in various media formats, including online and offline platforms, and may be shared with the public. Alexandria Public Schools Community Education, its employees, and anyone acting under its authority, is waived from any liability arising from the use of said photographs or videos. If you do not consent to this photo release, please call 320-762-3310.

Weather Cancellations

When Alexandria Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, PreK-12 and Community Education programs are canceled. All Alexandria Public School facilities are closed.

Cancellations

Sometimes you need to cancel a class. Participant initiated cancellations will result in a fee of 10% of the total registration or a minimum of $5, whichever is greater. Refunds cannot be issued after the registration deadline or within 3 business days of the class start date. If your class is canceled due to lack of enrollment you will receive a full refund.

us in transforming lives and promoting lifelong learning! Whether it’s volunteerIng in our schools, a skill to share by teaching a class, or a passion for working with individuals with special needs, there are countless opportunities for you to make a difference. Come be a part of something extraordinary!