Alexandria Public Schools Community Education

Here’s a facelift you can do at home. Acupressure is an ancient Eastern healing method that works with the energy that flows through your body. Stimulating facial acupressure points can help erase years from your face naturally, bring a healthy glow to your skin; increase muscle tone; decrease puffiness and eye bags; reduce lines and prevent new lines from forming; even decrease headaches, relieve eye strain, soothe nerves and increase relaxation. Learn how to make your skin as healthy as possible from the inside out. This class is being held online, interactive through Zoom. You can choose to enable your camera and audio, or just view the live content. More information will be sent before class. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Acupressure is an ancient healing art and self-help tool. It can offer great relief with no side effects and help you feel your best. Along with the specific points to help relieve stress, insomnia, anxiety, irritability and even weight gain, learn the Nine Master Pressure Points which are the most helpful and most frequently prescribed to help and assist every system in your body. This class is being held online, interactive through Zoom. You can choose to enable your camera and audio, or just view the live content. More information will be sent before class. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Have you ever wanted to compose music, but were unsure of how or where to start? Or perhaps you would like to learn to read or study music more in-depth? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you have come to the right place! In this online class you will learn about the basics of written music, fundamental musical concepts, and compositional secrets and techniques in order to create your own songs! The entire course consists of FIVE weekly sessions, with each week covering different compositional techniques. Each session will take place over Zoom, and the class will be using a FREE online compositional software called “Flat”. Students will learn how to use the software in addition to musical content covered throughout the entire course. The course will provide ample opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences and other compositions, and support fellow composers on their musical journey. Welcome!

It’s never too late to learn how to play the piano, and there is never a bad time to revisit your faithful instrument after a long break. In this online course students will be treated with an approachable method for playing the piano, whether it be for the first time or if one is aching to return to playing. Though the course will heavily rely on material in a method book, the instructor will be sure to supplement this information with practical performance and theoretical knowledge. Each participant will need a copy of “Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book 1” for this course. The group will provide ample opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences and, and support fellow musicians on their journey. Welcome!

This advanced dog obedience class will teach you how to control your dog off leash. It will build on the basic commands of heel, sit, stay and come and will add a command for lay down and will teach a dog to recall and come to heel. This class is only for dogs who attended our basic obedience course and only for those dogs that are doing very well with basic obedience while on a leash. Week 1: Recap of Basic Obedience and evaluation of the dogs Week 2: Heeling and sitting off lead Week 3: Down and stay off lead Week 4: Recall and trouble-shooting for all the above commands. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

What do you say when you disagree with someone? Avoiding the situation or showing up too aggressively often creates even more tension. In this three-session course, you will learn important tools to approach conversations with clarity, compassion, and curiosity. Curiosity plays a key role in creating connection. Asking questions with a sincere desire to understand and listening to learn makes a huge difference. When someone feels acknowledged and understood, the person feels more open to create ideas for resolving issues. It is important to also be curious with ourselves. Identifying what we feel and need shows self-compassion and helps us be clearer with ourselves and others (even if we don't share our feelings). Learn how to apply these skills to those big (and the seemingly little) disputes and show up as your best self. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Prior to the class, you will receive an email from the instructor with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and Sherry will lead you through the class from the comfort of your own home! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Perimenopause starts around the age of 35 for most women and can last 10-15 years. Common symptoms include fatigue, migraines, weight gain, water retention, depression, sleep disturbances, joint aches, hot flashes, anger flashes, migraines, fibroids, exaggerated PMS and more. Once you understand exactly what is causing all the troublesome symptoms, they are much easier to correct. We'll discuss how to get hormone levels measured - blood test vs. saliva test and what to do with the results; traditional HRT vs. bio-identical; acupressure points to assist in symptom relief and nutritional musts. You'll leave with multiple tools and techniques for restoring health and well-being. This class is being held online, interactive through Zoom. You can choose to enable your camera and audio, or just view the live content. More information will be sent before class. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Plant it, build it, modify it and they will come….the birds, bees, and butterflies that is. Come learn about how to attract more pollinators and songbirds to your backyards by making some simple changes and additions. Participants will be able to schedule one-on-one virtual conferencing to work on their specific property after the initial class. Participants will receive an informational folder full of great publications, and several door prizes will be given away from local plant specialists. An email invitation will be sent with the link to the meeting prior to the presentation date. You will be able to interact live with the instructor during the online presentation to answer any of your questions.

Why are bees important? Globally there are more honey bees than other types of bee and pollinating insects, so it is the world's most important pollinator of food crops. Dr. Struthers will discuss collecting honey, pollination, life cycle, interesting instincts and characteristics, how bees organize their society and how to get a beehive started. You will have a chance to taste honey samples. He will also give you an annual schedule of the when, what and why of hive care.

Brioche knitting is a style that creates deep, cushy, textured ribs. This simple cowl is a great introduction to 2-color brioche. The bands of garter between brioche sections create nice resting points. This class is 2 sessions. In the first session you will be introduced to brioche knitting and get started on the cowl. In the second session we’ll continue working and get a brief introduction to increasing and decreasing in brioche. Participants should be experienced knitters comfortable with cast on, bind off, knit, purl. Join us online! Prior to the class, you will receive an email from the instructor with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and Deb will lead you through the class from the comfort of your own home! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

In this cook-along, meal prep class you will prepare 3 different types of burgers for your freezer that you can then cook anytime. You’ll receive recipes for Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burgers, Juicy Italian Turkey Burgers and Pork & Potato Chip Burgers, as well as several bonus side dish recipes. Jane has many ideas for substitutions, so if you have any food allergies or aversions, just ask! Our goal for this class is to prepare 18 burgers for the freezer, with lots of tips and kitchen hacks for making your burgers amazing! Join us online! Prior to the class, you will receive an email from the instructor with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and Jane will lead you through the class from the comfort of your own home! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

At the heart of every conflict is a basic need. In personal relationships, it may be a need for connection and support, while in more formal relationships, it often involves clarity and respect. Yet, people often do not talk about the real issues, or do so in a way that creates further disconnection, confusion, or disrespect. In Compassionate Communication, you will learn the basic tools for Non-Violent Communication (NVC) that helps you make requests with clarity and compassion.

This skill-building class is designed for learning a variety of crochet stitches and is suitable for novice crocheters. On the 4th Tuesday of each month we will learn a stitch technique and use it to create a crochet square. At the end of the year you will have 12 blocks (or more if you decide to make additional) that will be joined together to make a knitted throw or baby/lap blanket. Skills include: Crochet Rib, Half Double Crochet, Working in the Round, Rice Stitch, V-Stitch, Spike Stitch, Seed Stitch, Shell Stitch, Flame Stitch and more. Classes will be recorded so you can watch to reinforce and to catch up for a missed class. Participants should be comfortable with chain, single crochet and double crochet. Materials Needed: Worsted weight yarn, Baby Size 24”x36” 3 Colors: 195 yards color A, 360 yards color B, 170 yards color C Throw Size 42”x57” 4 Colors: 410 yards color A, 520 yards color B, 640 yards color C, 595 yards color D [Note: If you want to make more blocks or use more colors you may want to buy additional yarn.] Size I (5.5mm) Crochet Hook - you can go up or down to get a fabric you like Tapestry Needle Locking Stitch Markers Skill Builder Crochet Blanket pattern by Edie Eckman (included) Join us online! Prior to the class, you will receive an email from the instructor with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and Deb will lead you through the class from the comfort of your own home! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Create a modern and fresh craft project that will enhance your home! The art project for each month will have a seasonal or home décor theme. All materials are provided along with step-by-step instructions! Feel creative on your own schedule and be surprised at the quality and fun that arrives at your door!! (Photo is an example of kit possibility only). Registration closes by noon on the 1st of the month.

This is a basic obedience course that will be held outdoors for dogs 12 weeks of age and older. The commands covered will be Heel, Sit, Stay, Come and No. But more importantly, it will teach you about dog behavior and training basics so you can continue with your training long after this class is over. The first class is for you only, no need to bring your dog. Your dog will join you for the last four classes. Class size is limited, so register today! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Seeing more Electric Vehicles (EVs) on the road and in the news? You will learn how to separate fact from myth when it comes to owning an EV. You will learn about what current and future EV’s are available and how to calculate ownership and fuel saving compared to your current vehicle. Common questions like, public charging, cold weather driving, maintenance, and battery technology will be covered in the class. Come and see some of the current EVs in person! Class size is limited, so register today! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Everyone has a story. What are your ancestors’ stories? This is a course for people who have already collected some family history material and want to organize, enhance and share it with others.Learn how to transform the raw data of genealogy into a colorful tale that your family can enjoy for years to come.We will arrange the information you have into a timeline, add context and interest with maps, photographs and other background material, and then transform the dates and places and people into a wonderful story. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Upon registering, you will receive a link to access the class. Simply click the link on the days and time of class and Susan will lead you through the class from the comfort of your own home! NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Whether you are challenged by lack of garden space, or want vegetables within an easy reach, most food plants can be grown in containers as easily as decorative plants. Learn about the benefits and best practices of growing vegetables and other food plants in containers instead of planting them in the ground. Join us online! This class will be held online and taught by a Hennepin County Master Gardner. You will receive a link before the class begins. This class is held in partnership with multiple Community Education Programs. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Take the mystery our of growing, harvesting and storing herbs. Learn how these easy to grow plants can be used in landscaping to add variety and attract pollinators, as well as in cooking, home decorating and more! Join us online! This class will be held online and taught by a Hennepin County Master Gardner. You will receive a link to access the class. This class is held in partnership with multiple Community Education Programs. NOTE: We are using a "Register Now, Pay Later" procedure. You are registering for the class and your credit/debit card or checking account will be charged 3 days prior to the class start date. You will be notified if this class is cancelled.

Alexandria Public Schools Community Education is partnering with Douglas County Historical Society, The Runestone Museum, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum to present History At Home "A Woman's Place" August 5 - "Theresa Hicks: Mother of Alexandria" - Meet Theresa Hicks, the woman who laid many of the foundations of Alexandria while deaf, partially blind, widowed, and managing her own family in the quickly growing village of Alexandria, Minnesota. DCHS will reveal the interesting life of Mrs. Hicks, whose early commitment to making Alexandria a place for families is still very evident today. August 19 - "Women on the Frontier" - Often left out of official documentation, women have nearly always made up 50% or more of the population in the territory we call Minnesota. Using diaries, letters and other firsthand accounts, we will focus mainly on European female life in rural Minnesota in the 1800s. August 26 - "Female Racers of the 20th Century" - Women have been revving engines since motor racing began. Cars, planes, and boats are great equalizers when it comes for the thirst for speed. Women like Joe Carstairs and Delphine Dodge lived unconventional lives for their time, but made their mark on history. Legacy of the Lakes Museum will take a look at some of the pioneering women who made an impact on motorboat racing and the lives they lived. You may register for the 3-Session Series or an individual session within this series. If you are a member of any of the partnering museums listed below, please note that you have a reduced individual session price available. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and enjoy from the comfort of your own home!

Alexandria Public Schools Community Education is partnering with Douglas County Historical Society, The Runestone Museum, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum to present History At Home "Everything 4-H" April 8 - "The Minnesota Mr. Rogers: TA 'Dad' Erickson" - Maybe you’ve seen his name on fairground buildings or in local history books - but who is TA “Dad” Erickson? From humble farming roots growing up near Nelson, MN to the Father of Minnesota 4-H, called “Dad” by thousands of children, join DCHS as we share the story of this “Minnesota Mr. Rogers.” April 15 - "Farming the Heartland: From Promise to Perseverance" - Minnesota was a world leader in agriculture in the late 1800s. Join the Runestone Museum as we take a step back in time and discover how and why certain farming practices changed the landscape forever. April 22 - "Growing Green: 4-H in Douglas County - Past, Present, Future" - Come along with Jodi Hintzen, Extension Educator 4-H Youth Development, Douglas County, as we explore the history of 4-H in Douglas County, where Minnesota 4-H began and as we explore the role of T.A. 'Dad' Erickson in the development of 4-H in Douglas County. You may register for the 3-Session Series or an individual session within this series. If you are a member of any of the partnering museums listed below, please note that you have a reduced individual session price available. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and enjoy from the comfort of your own home!

Alexandria Public Schools Community Education is partnering with Douglas County Historical Society, The Runestone Museum, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum to present History At Home "Exploring History" June 10 - "Viking Navigation" - No sunstone, a mythical tool that guided Viking seafaring, has ever been found on or near a Viking shipwreck, causing most historians to dismiss the idea of the sunstone as fiction. But others believe it’s possible that these crystals did guide Viking voyages. Learn more about sunstones and Viking navigation with the Legacy of the Lakes Museum. June 17 - "Shopping Past & Present - Frontier Goods to War Rationing" - Did you know that yearly newspaper subscriptions were $1.50 a year in 1898? That in 1924, ham in Alexandria was 14 cents a pound? And that one whole chicken fed 80 students school lunch in 1940? Explore the history, services and prices local General Stores have been providing people for generations. June 24 - "Finding Your Family History" - DNA? Genealogy websites? Oral histories? Memoirs? If you’re interested in discovering or recording your family’s history, but don’t know where to start, this is the class for you! DCHS wants to help you get the tools you need to explore your family’s history. This class assumes no prior knowledge and is meant to introduce participants to the vocabulary, resources, and strategies they may encounter as they begin their family history journey. You may register for the 3-Session Series or an individual session within this series. If you are a member of any of the partnering museums listed below, please note that you have a reduced individual session price available. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and enjoy from the comfort of your own home!

Alexandria Public Schools Community Education is partnering with Douglas County Historical Society, The Runestone Museum, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum to present History At Home "Local Legends" May 6 - "Gar Wood" - Inventor of the hydraulic lift and the first man to go over 100 mph on water, Gar Wood is an American icon. Known for his motorboat racing and Gar Wood boats, Wood began his boat career working on a ferry with his father on Lake Osakis. Join the Legacy of the Lakes Museum as we go through the life and successes of local legend Garfield Arthur Wood. May 13 - "Phil Noonan: Bridging East and West Alexandria" - You’ve probably heard the name “Noonan” around Douglas County. There’s Noonan Park, with its pond named “Lake Phil-Up.” There’s the Noonan Addition, a set of homes on the eastern side of Alexandria. How much do you know about the man behind the name? Discover your local history alongside DCHS as we explore how Phil Noonan’s response to evolving industry, the Depression, and his own philanthropic projects changed the shape of Alexandria. May 20 - "Biography of the One Room Schoolhouse" - What was it like to walk to school with your teacher, eat a syrup pail lunch, have a desk mate or haul water to the schoolhouse from the neighboring farm? Find out with a deep dive into the history of the 1885 Moe Township Schoolhouse that is now located at the Runestone Museum. You may register for the 3-Session Series or an individual session within this series. If you are a member of any of the partnering museums listed below, please note that you have a reduced individual session price available. Join us online! This class will be held using the online platform, Zoom. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom invitation to access the class. Simply click the link on the day and time of the class and enjoy from the comfort of your own home!