Adult Enrichment
Community Education is tied to the concept of the “lighted schoolhouse” that is based on the need to have school buildings provide services beyond the school day. Through Adult Enrichment, anyone can have a chance to be a lifelong learner!
Professional Network
ACE (Adult Community Educators) is the networking committee of those involved with Adult Enrichment. Please contact Michelle Hubbard to be added to the groups email list.
2024 Meeting Dates:
Adulthood is a time that can feel stressful but through participation in classes based on interests, hobbies, or life skills, anyone can find a connection to others, to learning, and to themselves.
Types of Classes Offered
Non-credit programs were developed which would provide opportunities for adults to gain new skills and knowledge while building strong connections and empowering the community. Common categories of classes include:
Create
Arts & Crafts
Discover New Things
Hobbies & Languages
Eat Well
Food & Nutrition
Feel the Beat
Music & Dance
Feel Great
Health & Wellness
Get Tech Smart
Computers & Digital Technology
Grow Your Garden
Plants & Vegetables
Manage Your Money
Finances
Move Your Body
Fitness
Renew Your Home
Real Estate and Renovations
Times of Classes/Events
Classes are typically offered in the evenings with some daytime offerings as well. They often are single session opportunities, although some topics lend themselves to multiple sessions. Weekend events are occasionally scheduled for topics needing a full day of content or that offer a mix of classes all in one day.
Special Events
Offering larger special events for adults or a broader audience of families is common as well. Whether it’s partnering with other coordinators to offer a Daddy Daughter Dance, a free pork chop community dinner, a TEDx event, or a district wellness challenge; the sky’s the limit for creative ways to offer programming that meets community needs. Adult Enrichment coordinators are urged to stay relevant by engaging with new populations in their communities, inviting participants to focus groups, looking for fresh ways to package or deliver content, build partnerships with local businesses and organizations, and make a space for those with new ideas to share. Seeking innovative ways to bring education to the community is a key to successful programming.
Instructor Qualifications
Unlike traditional educational programs, Adult Enrichment instructors do not need a teaching license nor specific background to be hired. The beauty of this approach is that it makes the program accessible to people who might never have the opportunity to teach. Instructors are sought out for their expertise, years of experience, and desire to teach what they are passionate about. Local people give the gift of their knowledge and expertise to neighbors in their community. Coordinators are free to hire others in nearby communities, across the state, or even national experts to add to their lineup.
Membership
Become a member to get access to amazing resources and grow your community education program!
Leadership & Governance
MCEA Leadership is focused on leading lifelong learning throughout Minnesota.
Professional Development
Grow your knowledge, expand your horizons and connect with others through various sessions!
Contact Us
We want to hear from you! Get in touch to start your journey with MCEA.