BCSD Spring 2023 Continuing Education - Bethlehem Central School District

PLEASE NOTE: Registration deadline has been extended to Feb. 24, 2023.

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

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 (the registration deadline has been extended to Feb. 24):

Registrations will be accepted by mail through Feb. 24, or
Drop off your registration at the High School Counseling Center by February 24, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Registration received after Friday, February 24 will not be accepted. For both methods, please use the registration form provided (on the back page of this 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 April 7-14, 2023. 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.

How to Register

Registration Information

Registration by mail should be received by Friday, Feb 24, 2023 or could be dropped off at the high school.
Registration received after Friday, Feb. 24 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.

Course Descriptions

Adult Learn to Swim

Location: Middle School Pool
Instructor: Banas
Length: 10 weeks
Date: March 13
Day & Time: Mondays, 7:00-8:00p
Fee: $70

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. 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 April 10, May 15, and May 29.

Ballroom Dancing I

Location: Eagle Elementary Gym
Instructor: Pietropaoli
Length: 8 weeks
Starting date: March 6
Day & time: Mondays, 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. No class April 10.

Ballroom Dancing I I

Location: Eagle Elementary Gym
Instructor: Pietropaoli
Length: 8 weeks
Starting date: March 7
Day & time: Tuesdays, 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. No class April 11.

Barre Sculpt

Location: Glenmont Elementary Gym
Instructor: Halvorsen
Length: 6 weeks
Date: February 27
Day & time: Mondays, 6:45-7:30p
Fee: $45

This fun class is a blend of ballet and strength conditioning that creates a challenging workout. This is a sculpting workout for the entire body, using small isometric movements to create lean, dense musculature and movement control. All levels are welcome and modifications are provided when needed Please bring a yoga mat to first class. Limit of 30 students. No class April 3 or April 10.

Book Folding (Beginner and Intermediate)

Location: High School – Room D138
Instructor: Oldrich
Length: 4 weeks
Date: March 13
Day & Time: Mondays, 7:00-8:30p
Fee: $30

Looking for a new hobby? Book folding is easy to learn, has no startup costs, and is eco-friendly. In this class, you will discover the art of book folding, feel the joy that comes with making beautiful book sculptures to decorate your home or office, and give as gifts. This class is for the beginner and intermediate folders. Please come to the first class with a hardcover book that has at least 401 pages. Limit of 15 students.

Cake Decorating

Location: High School – Room D124
Instructors: Connors
Length: 2 weeks
Dates: April 4 and April 18
Day & Time: Thursdays, 6:30-8:00p
Fee: $20 (plus $30 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. Please bring a $15 materials fee to both classes. Limit of 15 students.

Cooking – Learn to Make Baklava

Location: High School – Room D124
Instructors: Khalife
Length: One night only
Date: April 26
Day & Time: Wednesday, 6:30-8:30p
Fee: $20 (plus $15 materials fee)

In this hands-on class, you will learn how to make Baklava from scratch, and get to take your own batch home. This dessert is very popular in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Robert Khalife grew up in Lebanon and has been making Baklava for over 30 years to the delight of his family and friends. Please bring a $15 materials fee to the class. No senior exemptions. Limit of 10 students per class.

Cooking – Lebanese Cuisine

Location: High School – Room D124
Instructor: Khalife
Length: One night only
Date: March 29
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, Fattoush, Spinach pies and Meat pies). Please bring a $10 materials fee to the class. No senior exemptions. Limit of 15 students.

Design Your Perfect Wardrobe

Location: High School – Room D132
Instructor: Carlton
Length: One night only
Date: Wednesday, April 26
Time: 7:00-8:30p
Fee: $20

Do you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear? This one evening workshop will address a number of topics that will help you develop your perfect wardrobe. We will cover: lies we tell ourselves; identifying your style personality; creating a capsule wardrobe; recreating inspirational looks; incorporating trends; style hacks and shopping tips & tricks. Bottom line, this workshop is all about how to make you feel great about what you wear! Kathy Carlton is a lifelong clothes fan, wardrobe coach and personal shopper. She has worked with women of all ages to find their style groove without sacrificing comfort or budget. Limit of 25 students.

Downsizing Made Simple

Location: High School – Room D134
Instructor: Sher, Stone and Halvorsen
Length: One night only
Date: Thursday, March 23
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. Limit of 30 students.

Estate Planning – Taking the Mystery Out – An Attorney’s Perspective

Location: High School – Room D132
Instructor: Richard A. Fuerst, Esq.
Length: One night only
Date: Wednesday, April 5
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 Fuerst, experienced local attorney and workshop facilitator, will sensitively consider all your estate planning questions in this interactive workshop. Limit of 25 students.

Find the Right College at the Right Price

Location: High School – Room D130
Instructor: Dr. Skarlis
Length: One night only
Date: Wednesday, March 15
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 classes available from:

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

Guided Meditation

Location: High School Library Media Center
Instructor: Ramkumar
Length: 6 weeks
Starting date: March 15
Day & time: Wednesdays, 7:00–8:00p
Fee: $50

Are you looking to improve your life, have more energy and be relaxed? Join Janaki Ramkumar for guided meditation sessions that are proven to rejuvenate and recharge you. There is absolutely no experience necessary, no special clothes or ability required. This guided meditation only requires you to relax. We will be starting the session with a spiritual story and we will continue with the guided meditation. Tune your mind off for a few minutes and this program will give you more energy, relaxation, productivity, and concentration. Limit of 20 students. No class April 12.

Important Battles in American History

Location High School – Room D210
Instructor: Wilson
Length: 5 weeks
Starting Date: March 7
Day & Time: Tuesdays, 6:15-8:00p
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: Wolfe vs Montcalm, The Crossing (Trenton), Seven Pines, Lee’s Lieutenants, I like Ike! Limit of 25 students.

Knitting

Location: High School – Room D136
Instructor: Loux
Length: 8 weeks
Starting date: March 13
Day & time: Mondays, 7:00-8:30p
Fee: $50

Learn how to knit and purl. With just these 2 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 (3 oz.) of WORSTED weight acrylic yarn (light, solid colors such as white, beige, pink) and size 6 or 7 straight needles to the first class for practice. Limit of 15 students. No class April 10.

Mastering Your DLSR Camera – Part 1 (NEW)

Location: High School – Room D136
Instructor: Luther
Length: 8 weeks
Starting date: March 6
Day & time: Thursdays, 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 April 13.

Medicare Made Clear

Location: High School D112
Instructor: Yuhasz
Length: One night only
Date: Tuesday, March 13
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: March 14
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. No class April 11.

Pastel Painting

Location: High School Room D125
Instructor: Somaio
Length: 8 weeks
Starting Date: March 16
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 April 11.

PiYo

Location: High School Library Media Center
Instructor: Stanco
Length: 8 weeks
Starting date: March 15
Day & Time: Wednesdays, 4:15-5:15p
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. No class on April 12.

Quilting 101 (NEW)

Location: High School D134
Instructor: Kirkman
Length: 6 weeks
Starting date: March 9
Day & Time: Thursdays, 7:00-8:30p
Fee: $40 (plus $20 materials fee)

Have you always wanted to learn how to quilt, or has it been a while and you want to brush up on the basics, then quilting 101 is for you! You will learn the basics of quilting including getting to know your machine, cutting blocks, piecing, quilting and finishing. By the end of the class you will have created a mini quilt from start to finish and be ready to tackle your first large quilt! Class requirements: must bring your own machine and have a basic knowledge of sewing. Please bring a $20 materials fee to the first class. Limit of 12 students. No senior exemptions. No class April 6 or April 13.

SAT Review: Critical Reading & Writing Subtests

Location: High School – Room D105
Instructor: Leach
Length: 4 classes
Dates: March 28, April 4, April 18, April 25
Time: 7:00-9:00p
Fee: $120 plus book listed below

This class will prepare students to take the Verbal section of the SAT offered in the spring of 2023. The course will be completed right before the May 6th SAT exam. For the first class, students must have the 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. No class April 11.

SAT Review: Math

Location: High School – Room E205
Instructor: Corson
Length: 4 classes
Dates: March 31, April 21, April 28, May 5
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 May 6th 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. No class April 7 and April 14.

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention (NEW)

Location: Glenmont Elementary Gym
Instructor: Holman
Length: 8 weeks
Dates: March 15
Day & time: Wednesday,s, 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 20 students. No class April 12.

Tap for Fun and Fitness (Beginner & Intermediate)

Location: High School Cafeteria or outside Room D142
Instructor: Feldman
Length: 8 weeks
Starting Date: March 14
Day & Time: Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30p
Fee: $45

This class will be easy enough for beginners and challenging enough for experienced tappers. Come and work on keeping fit while enjoying the fun and sounds of tap dancing. Basic steps as well as combinations and new steps will be taught. Dance your way to good health! Need tap shoes? Go to allaboutdance.com. Limit of 30 students. No Class April 11.

Watercolor Workshop I

Location: High School Room D125
Instructor: Somaio
Length: 8 weeks
Starting Date: March 13
Day & Time: Mondays, 6:30-8:30p
Fee: $75

Students with basic watercolor experience, intermediate and advanced levels are welcome. Through expressive interpretation of still life, landscape and figurative subjects, students will practice watercolor techniques including transparent wash, dry brush-on, wet-on-wet and resist while discovering their own artistic voice. A variety of painting styles will be explored. Students will also work on independent projects in discussion with the instructor. Limit of 20 students. No class April 10.

Woodworking (Beginning)

Location: High School Room F107
Instructor: Shannon
Length: 8 weeks
Starting Date: March 15
Day & Time: Wednesdays, 6:30-9:00p
Fee: $80

Acquaint yourself with woodworking through basic instruction in the use of hand and power tools. Activities will center on students’ projects of their choice. A small fee may be required for miscellaneous supplies and students must provide all materials for their projects, including: lumber, glue, sandpaper, etc. Intermediate students are welcome. Please, no skilled craftsmen wanting to use equipment for advanced sawing or planing. No senior exemptions. Limit of 12 students. No class on April 12.

Writing Workshop

Location: High School – Room D120
Instructor: Higgins
Length: 8 weeks
Starting Date: March 13
Day & Time: Mondays, 6:30-8:30p
Fee: $60

So you’ve always wanted to write a book or you’ve always written something— stories, letters, a journal? Perhaps there is a story you’ve always wanted to tell? This eight-week workshop offers a supportive environment for your writing, with practical exercises and strategies to inspire and improve your work. Participants will be encouraged to set realistic writing goals, explore strategies for meeting them, and work on a project with opportunities to share work. Taught by Ellen Higgins, Ph.D., a professional writer, editor, and teacher. Limit of 15 students. No senior exemptions. No class April 10.

Yoga

Location: Hamagrael Elementary Gym
Instructor: Adams
Length: 10 weeks
Starting date: March 15
Day & time: Wednesdays, 6:45-8:00p
Fee: $60

This class will focus on the development of body awareness and alignment, flexibility and strength training through the practice of the physical poses of Yoga known as Asanas. Tone and strengthen your muscles, ligaments, joints and nerves. Support and maintain the smooth functioning and health of all of the body’s systems. Dress in comfortable clothes that allow stretching and bring a yoga mat and blanket. Please refrain from eating a heavy meal two hours prior to class. Limit of 40 students. No class on April 12.

Zumba “Ditch the Workout. Join the Party!”

Location: Elsmere Elementary Gym
Instructor: Jaime-Benitez
Length: 10 weeks
Starting date:
- Session I – Monday, March 13
- Session II – Wednesday, March 15
Day & Time: Mondays OR Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30p
Please indicate which session you are choosing on the registration form.
Fee: $50

Zumba is the most popular workout in the fitness world today! You have undoubtedly been hearing about Zumba around town, and in the media. It’s time for you to enjoy your cardio workout to international music! Zumba fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-tofollow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. Our goal is simple: We want you to want to work out, to love working out, and to get hooked. Zumba® Fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life! You will love it! Limit of 50 students for each class. No class on April 10 and April 12.

Contact Information

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

Kate Burkart – Spring Director
kburkart@bethlehemschools.org

Scott Carlton – Fall Director
scarlton@bethlehemschools.org

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