By Amy Baskin

Director of Communications and Community Education

Albert Einstein said, “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.”

Community education provides classes from birth through end of life to allow for intellectual growth throughout life. We offer opportunities for young families to learn and grow through hands on activities igniting the flame of education, inquiry and creativity. We provide opportunities for elementary and middle school students to experience ideas, activities and concepts for the first time or to expand their knowledge in areas of interest. We present opportunities for adults to learn new skills in art, technology, gardening, self-care, health and wellness and culinary arts. We provide trips and travel to places near and far.

Community education began in the state of Minnesota in 1969 through legislation that opened schools to the community outside of the school day. It is based on the fundamental values of lifelong learning and community and citizen involvement. Today, Community education in Minnesota exists as a comprehensive statewide delivery system utilizing all 342 school districts to provide programs for community members of all ages, including school readiness, Adult Basic Education, Out-of-School Time learning for youth, Early Childhood and Family Education, Adults with Disabilities and Adult Enrichment.

The new Community education program guide was distributed on Tuesday through the Mower County Shopper. Additional copies can be found throughout the community, online at www.austin.k12.mn.us/clc or at the Community Learning Center. This program guide lists a variety of classes for all ages and interest levels. We encourage you to look through and sign up for something that interests you.

Henry Ford said, “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” Community education is proud to keep the community young through learning opportunities for all.