Community Education offers programs for students of all ages

Charlotte County Community Education offers a staggering variety of courses for all those interested, ranging from citizenship and English language classes to watercolors and yoga.

Four terms of classes -- spring, summer, fall and winter -- run for eight to 10 weeks. Although some classes are offered every term, others change according to requests and suggestions from the community. The program is administered through the Charlotte County Public School system.

Free classes are offered in the following areas.

• Adult Literacy -- open to students 16 years or older to improve basic reading, writing and math skills
• English for Speakers of Other Languages -- a foundations class for students with no knowledge of English. There also are more advanced classes
• Adult Handicapped -- self care, daily living skills, recreation, cooking basic knowledge, social skills and communication for mentally and physically handicapped adults
• Life Skills for Senior Adult Learners -- lifelong learning, intellectual stimulation and current events for residents of Englewood and Port Charlotte nursing homes
• Citizenship -- American history and government and preparation for the U.S. citizenship exam

In addition to the community service classes, community education offers between 50 and 100 courses in a wide range of subjects, at a cost between $15 and $50 per term.

Hands-on computer classes from Windows '95 to basic word processing to Internet use and desktop publishing are offered each term.

Other classes vary as students request them and instructors to teach become available. They are open to interested students of all ages.

A sampling of a schedule includes:

• Varying levels of instruction in Italian, French, Spanish, sign language and German
• Angel Power
• Genealogy
• Tennis
• Aquarobics
• Ballroom dance
• Calligraphy
• Growing Old Wisely

During the summertime, classes especially for children are offered in subjects including language, arts and crafts and exercises.

Schedules are distributed before the start of each term in the Sun Herald and at area grocery stores and community centers.

Each class requires at least 12 students to cover its cost. Registration is at the first class session each fall.

For more information, contact Community Education staffers at their office in the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall, or call (941) 255-0422, (941) 625-6155, or 1-800-637-6755.

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