All information below, along with the Fall 2023 BCSD Continuing Education registration form, can be viewed or downloaded here [PDF]

BCSD Fall Continuing Ed Schedule at a Glance/Registration Form only [PDF]

Fall 2023 HILL class information is available on the HILL Website.

Registration for HILL classes must be done through the organization’s website.

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General Information

Course Fees

Continuing Education course fees vary as outlined in course descriptions. Regardless of base cost, non-residents must add $10 per course. Payment—in the form of a check or money order—must be submitted at the time of registration. Each registration must be for ONE course, for ONE person, with ONE check for that specific course. PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH. In certain courses a limited number of free registrations will be made available to senior citizens (62 and older) who have a Bethlehem Central Senior Citizens Pass (available at the high school main office, 700 Delaware Ave, Delmar). Seniors must include a copy of their senior citizens pass with their registration form to receive the exemption. One exemption per semester, per person is allowed. Classes must have sufficient paid registrations for senior exemptions to be granted. Fees for materials and supplies should not be included with the course fee when you register but should be paid to the instructor when class meets.

Eligibility

Courses are open to all persons ages 21 or over, with the exception of SAT review courses and the Five-Hour Driver course. For courses accommodating a limited number of students, Bethlehem Central residents will have preference.

Registration

Registration must be made in advance.

To register :

• Mail your registration before Friday, September 8, or
• Drop off your registration at the High School Counseling Center by September 8 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Registration received after Friday, September 8 will not be accepted.

 For both methods, please use the registration form provided (on the back page of the brochure). Please use separate checks for each class. Your check will not be deposited until classes start. You will NOT receive confirmation of registration. You will be notified only if the class is cancelled or if class limits have been exceeded. In both cases, your check will be returned.

Class Times and Locations

Most Continuing Education courses meet once a week, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and last up to 10 weeks. Exceptions are noted within course descriptions. Please check the schedule of classes in which you are interested.

Most classes are held at Bethlehem High School, 700 Delaware Ave. Delmar, but some classes are held in other buildings. Note class locations in course descriptions.

Refunds

Refunds will be given if withdrawal from a class occurs before the start of the first class. Refunds will not be given for missed class sessions.

Cancellations and Rescheduled Classes

The Continuing Education Office may cancel courses with fewer than 12 registrants, since those courses may not meet expenses. In addition, we reserve the right to cancel/ reschedule classes due to unforeseen situations. Classes will not be held when school is not in session. Notification of cancellations due to weather will be given via local broadcast stations and the district website. You can also sign up to have school cancellations sent to you via e-mail through the district’s School Messenger system.

No classes will be held  Sept. 15, Oct. 9, Nov. 10, or Nov. 22-24. There may be other dates when a specific class does not meet. Please see course listings. In most cases, class time lost due to weather cancellations will be made up at the end of the course.

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How to Register

Registration Information

• Registration by mail should be received by Friday, September 8, 2023 or could be dropped off at the high school.
• Registration received after Friday, September 8 will not be accepted.

Registration information can be found here [PDF]

If you are unable to access the PDF, please contact the BCSD Communications Office at 518-439-3650.

Registration forms and checks should be mailed to :

BCSD Continuing Education
Bethlehem Central High School
700 Delaware Ave.
Delmar, NY 12054.

Please use separate checks for each class. Your check will not be deposited until your classes start. You will NOT receive confirmation of registration. You will be notified only if the class is cancelled or if class limits have been exceeded. In either case, your check will be shredded.

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Course Descriptions

Adult Learn to Swim 

• Location: Middle School Pool
• Instructor: Banas/McGaughan
• Length: 10 weeks
• Date: October 4
• Day & Time: Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00p
• Fee: $140

This will be an introduction to swimming for non swimmers. The course will focus on conquering your fear of the water and becoming confident in and around the water. This is not a class for individuals who are comfortable swimming in water over their head. Please note, the pool does not have stairs to enter or exit the pool, however, there is a ladder or a lift, so please plan accordingly. Limit of 12 students. No class November 22.

Ballroom Dancing I 

• Location: Elsmere Elementary Gym
• Instructor: Pietropaoli
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting date: October 17
• Day & time: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30p
• Fee: $70 per couple

Get out and have some fun learning to dance. Beginner Ballroom Dance Class will teach basics in Waltz, Fox Trot, Rumba, Jitterbug and Swing. Please no sneakers or rubber soled shoes. Partner necessary. Limit of 20 couples.

Ballroom Dancing II

• Location: Elsmere Elementary Gym
• Instructor: Pietropaoli
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting date: October 16
• Day & time: Mondays, 6:30-7:30p
• Fee: $70 per couple

Keep up your dancing lessons in this Intermediate Ballroom Dance Class. This includes a review of what you learned in Ballroom I and more plus Cha Cha, Tango, Meringue and Mambo. Please no sneakers or rubber soled shoes. Partner necessary. Limit of 20 couples. 

Cake Decorating

• Location: High School – Room D124
• Instructor: Connors
• Length: 2 weeks
• Date:  October 10 and October 17
• Day & time: Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
• Fee: $20 (plus $15 materials fee)

Learn a variety of techniques to make beautiful and fun cakes and cupcakes in this sweet course. Each week, we’ll cover new topics starting simple with how to fill and decorate with a piping bag to more advanced skills like chocolate work and candy decorations. Instructor will provide all supplies and each week participants will take home cupcakes that they decorated. About your Instructor: Tara Connors opened Bash Parties in 2013, which hosts activity based events, including a cupcake decorating themed party. Limit of 15 students. Please bring $15 materials fee to class.

Cooking – Lebanese Cuisine I

• Location: High School – Room D124
• Instructor: Khalife
• Length: One night only
• Date: October 25
• Day & Time: Wednesday, 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $20 (plus $10 materials fee)

In this hands-on class, you will learn how to make and will sample several Lebanese dishes (e.g. Tabbouleh, Kibbeh, Spinach pies and Meat pies). Limit of 12 students. Please bring $10 materials fee to class. No senior exemptions.

Cooking – Lebanese Cuisine II

• Location: High School – Room D124
• Instructor: Khalife
• Length: One night only
• Date: November 15
• Day & Time: Wednesday, 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $20 (plus $10 materials fee)

In this hands-on class, you will learn how to make and will sample several Lebanese dishes (e.g. Shawarma, spinach pie in filo dough, Fattoush, meat pies in filo dough). Limit of 12 students. Please bring $10 materials fee to class. No senior exemptions.

*NEW CLASS!*
Creative Writing – Poetry

• Location: High School- Room D136
• Instructor: Sukhonos
• Length: 6 weeks
• Date: October 12
• Day & time: Thursdays, 6:00-7:30p
• Fee: $50

In this versatile workshop, we will write poems based on a short prompt, share our writing, get feedback, and read short poems together. We will focus on descriptive language, metaphors, and appeals to the five senses; finding surprising ways of using language in this workshop will be useful beyond this class and help you with writing in all areas of your life. At the end of the six week class, you should come away with a small portfolio of published poems. I am a published poet from New York City and I am happy to bring perspective while learning from others! Limit of 25 students.

Crochet

• Location: High School – Room D127
• Instructor: Cooper
• Length: 6 weeks
• Date: October 10
• Day & Time: Tuesdays, 6:00-8:00p
• Fee: $45

This class will teach you the basics of crochet, as well as provide the opportunity to brush up on skills. We will learn how to read a crochet pattern and explore a variety of possible projects. Beginners – please bring crochet hook, I, J or K and a skein of light-colored acrylic worsted weight yarn. Experienced crocheters – just bring whatever you are currently working on. Limit of 15 students. No class on October 24.

Estate Planning-Taking the Mystery Out

• Location: High School – Room D132
• Instructors: Richard A. Fuerst, Esq.
• Length: One night only
• Date: Wednesday, October 15
• Time: 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $20

Want to take the mystery out of wills, health care proxies, powers of attorney and trusts? If you have an interest in carefully planning for your future and for the future of your loved ones, we promise to explain the ins and outs of these important estate planning strategies – in simple, non-legal terms. For instance, regardless of your health, you can learn the advantage of having a health care proxy and/or living will. You’ll also learn why thoughtful planning will benefit you and your family as we discuss – based on the latest legal and government changes — nursing home and Medicaid considerations, as well as avenues open in order to reduce wealth transfer taxation. Richard A. Fuerst, experienced local attorney and workshop facilitator, will sensitively consider all your estate planning questions in this interactive workshop. Limit of 25 students.

Downsizing Made Simple

• Location: High School – Room D134
• Instructor: Sher, Stone, Halvorsen and Fortin
• Length: One night only
• Date: Thursday, October 19
• Time: 7:00-8:30p
• Fee: $15

Downsizing is challenging. That’s why you need to have a plan. You’ve raised your kids in the big house and now it’s time for something more manageable. You want less maintenance, and freedom to travel and enjoy experiences with your family and grandkids. We can help with that! We’ll walk you through the process one step at a time and make sure that when we’re done, you’re ready to move on to the next amazing chapter of your life. We’ll cover maximizing the sale price for your home, understanding the everchanging market, making minor updates, decluttering, and where to donate. Presented by Nina Sher, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Hunt Real Estate and retired BCSD teacher; Judi Stone, Interior Designer with Take2Artworks; and Liz Halvorsen, Professional Organizer with Mess to Bliss; and Lisa Fortin of Homestead Funding. Limit of 30 students.

Find the Right College at the Right Price

• Location: High School – Room D130
• Instructor: Dr. Skarlis
• Length: One night only
• Date: Wednesday, September 27
• Time: 6:30– 8:30p
• Fee: $15

This workshop is for parents of high school sophomores and juniors. Dr. Dean Skarlis of The College Advisor of New York will outline the steps you need to find a best-fit college. Some of the topics he will cover are: The top five factors colleges expect to see in applicants; the financial aid process and strategies to reduce college costs; rankings/schmankings: understanding why “fit” is critical; SAT/ ACT strategy; how to make the most of college visits; writing the essay…and more. The information and handouts you will take home from this presentation will help you in your child’s college search. Limit of 28 students.

Five-Hour Driver Prelicense Class – Online Options

Online classes available from:

• Bell’s Driving Schoolhttps://bellsdriving. com/five-hour-defensive-driving-class/
• New York State Safety Councilhttps:// www.newyorksafetycouncil.com/5-hour-pre-licensing/
• National Traffic Safety Institute, Inc.https://ntsi.com/new-york/5hr-pre-licensing/

Important Battles in American History

• Location High School – Room D210
• Instructor: Wilson
• Length: 5 weeks
• Starting Date:  September 27
• Day & Time: Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30p
• Fee: $45

American military history is one of tragedy and triumph, sacrifice and courage. There have been many battles fought, not all of which were victories. But despite the outcome, each battle has proven to add another layer to the rich history that is shared by all Americans. With so many battles to choose from, this workshop will focus on a handful of battles that dramatically impacted American history. The battles we will cover are as follows: Benedict Arnold: Traitor or Scorned? Zachary Taylor: Luck or Skill at Buena Vista? Grant, the Butcher? Franklin, the Pickett’s Charge of the West. Why Black Jack? Limit of 25 students.

Knitting

• Location: High School – Room D136
• Instructor: Loux
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting date: October 2
• Day & time: Mondays, 7:00-8:30p
• Fee: $50

Learn how to knit and purl. With just these two stitches you can create endless designs. Learn to cast on stitches and bind them off at the end of your work. You will find this relaxing, creative class fun whether you knit for yourself or for someone else. Beginners will finish a small project: dishcloth, hat, scarf, or cowl. Intermediate knitters are welcome to brush up on their knitting skills and tackle a more advanced project: a felted bag, socks, or mittens. Bring a small amount of WORSTED WEIGHT (size 4) yarn (light solid colors such as weight, beige, pink) and size 6 or 7 straight needles to the first class to practice. Limit of 15 students. No class on October 9.

Looking Fabulous at Any Age

• Location: High School – Room D136
• Instructor: Boyd
• Length: One night only
• Date: Wednesday, October 4
• Time: 6:00-8:00p
• Fee: $15

In this class you will learn how to dress in the most flattering colors and styles for your body type and preferences, five ways to look younger, and to build a wardrobe with a plan that almost everything coordinates according to your lifestyle and needs. Jill Valerie Boyd, owner and chief stylist at Ageless Iconic Style, is renowned for the creativity, originality, sophistication, and elegance with which she dresses her clients. As an aesthetician she has taught classes on skin care and makeup. Jill’s core skill is helping both men and women to look and feel absolutely radiant in all stages of life. Limit of 12 students.

*NEW CLASS*
Mastering Your DLSR Camera – Part  One 

• Location: High School – Room D138
• Instructor: Luther
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting date: October 2
• Day & time: Mondays, 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $50

Get out of the auto mode and get the most out of your DSLR Camera! This course is for photographers with little or no experience with today’s digital cameras. We will start with the basics and find out how, when and where to change the settings on your DSLR. Along the way, you will receive tips on composition and discuss what makes a great photograph. Later we will learn to stop action, blue motion, and purposefully create crisp or blurred backgrounds in your photographs (shutter speed, aperture and manual modes). You will discover the possibilities of your camera through these advanced exposure modes. We will also talk about the basic flash photography and other camera accessories. Most importantly… bring your questions to class! Limit of 25 students. No class October 9.

Medicare Made Clear

• Location: High School D112
• Instructor: Yuhasz
• Length: One night only
• Date: Thursday, November 9
• Time: 6:00–8:00p
• Fee: $10

Whether you are approaching Medicare age, are already on Medicare, or a caregiver who assists parents or elderly relatives, finding the right Medicare coverage can be difficult. Having proper knowledge is essential for picking the right Medicare plan. At this workshop, you will learn all about Medicare basics, its parts, premiums, deductibles, how and when to apply and the qualifications for available assistance programs. Mary Yuhasz will be presenting from Mosaic Wealth Strategies Group, Ltd. Limit of 25 students.

Oil Painting

• Location: High School Room D125
• Instructor: Somaio
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting Date: October 3
• Day & Time: Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $75

This painting workshop is suitable for any level. Bring your own supplies and project ideas if you like. A materials list will be handed out the first night for those new to oils. Still life, photo references, discussions, and demonstration of oil painting techniques will be available weekly. Learn more about color mixing, traditional layering, and brushwork. New and returning students are welcome. Limit of 20 students.

Pastel Painting

• Location: High School Room D125
• Instructor: Somaio
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting Date: October 5
• Day & Time: Thursdays, 6:30-8:30p
• Fee: $75

Pastel painting combines the joy of drawing and painting in a way no other medium does. In this class we will explore different techniques and materials so students can create unique, personal, and exciting artwork. We will cover the basics of strokes, work on a variety of surfaces and pay attention to composition, value control and other painting fundamentals. It is open to artists of any level. A materials list and paper package order form will be provided on the first night. Limit of 20 students. No class on November 23.

PiYo 

• Location: High School Library Media Center
• Instructor: Stanco
• Length: 8 weeks
• Starting date: September 27
• Day & Time: Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00p
• Fee: $50

Piyo is a fusion of Yoga and Pilates. This class will be taught by a certified Yoga instructor and draw upon various styles of yoga to build a practice with Pilates. Piyo techniques allow you to build a strong, lean, and flexible body while cultivating mental well-being. Bring a mat and a bottle of water to this class and wear comfortable clothing. All levels of fitness are encouraged to attend. Limit of 25 students. 

SAT Review: Critical Reading & Writing Subtests

• Location: High School – Room D207
• Instructor: Sharp
• Length: 4 classes
• Dates: September 14, 21, 28, and October 4.
• Day & Time:  Thursdays, 3:15-5:15p
• Fee: $120 plus book listed below

This class will prepare students to take the Verbal section of the SAT offered in the fall of 2023. The course will be completed right before the October 7 SAT exam. For the first class, students must have the Princeton Review – 10 Practice Tests for the SAT, 2023: Extra Prep to Help Achieve an Excellent Score (College Test Preparation). Available on Amazon. Limit of 25 students. 

SAT Review: Math

• Location: High School – Room E205
• Instructor: Corson
• Length: 4 classes
• Dates:  September 15, 22, 29 and October 6
• Day & time: Fridays, 3:00-5:00p
• Fee: $120 plus book listed below

This course will review formulas, problems and concepts for the Mathematics portion of the SAT for students who plan to take the exam this spring. The course will be completed right before the October 7 SAT exam. Princeton Review – 10 Practice Tests for the SAT, 2022: Extra Prep to Help Achieve an Excellent Score (2021). Available on Amazon. Limit of 25 students.

Skincare, Hair Color and Makeup

• Location: High School – Room D136
• Instructor: Boyd
• Length: One night only
• Date: October 17
• Day & Time: Wednesday, 6:00 -8:00 p.m.
• Fee: $15

In this class you will learn how to care for your skin type – what you need to know to keep your skin vibrant and healthy; what makeup products and colors are best for you; and hair color choices or deciding to go grey. Jill Valerie Boyd, owner and chief stylist at Ageless Iconic Style, is renowned for the creativity, originality, sophistication, and elegance with which she dresses her clients. As an aesthetician, she has taught classes on skin care and makeup. Jill’s core skill is helping both men and women look and feel absolutely radiant in all stages of life. Limit of 12 students.

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention

• Location: Glenmont Elementary Cafeteria
• Instructor: Holman
• Length: 8 weeks
• Dates:  October 4
• Day & time: Wednesdays, 6:15-7:15p
• Fee: $55

Come and experience the gentle energy of Tai Chi in a safe and friendly environment. This class we will focus on TC-A which is known to increase balance, decrease falling, improve flexibility and promote overall well-being. Taught by Melody Holman who is a certified instructor, she has found Tai Chi to be transformative and would like to share this knowledge with others. Limit of 15 students. No class on November 22.

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Contact Information

Karen Ballard – Registrar
(518) 439-4921 ext. 2965
kballard@bethlehemschools.org

Kate Burkart – Fall Director
kburkart@bethlehemschools.org

Scott Carlton – Spring Director
scarlton@bethlehemschools.org

For assistance during the registration period, please call the number above or use the listed email addresses.