Get Cooking with Community Education
Food is something special that connects us across cultures, generations, and experiences. Expanding your culinary knowledge with new recipes and techniques is a great way to grow your understanding of food, as well as your ability to enjoy it with friends and family. Learning how to cook new foods at home is also a great way to establish and maintain healthy eating habits.
At District 214 Community Education, we offer exciting culinary classes in which expert instructors share the tips, tricks, and delights of their food knowledge.
Benefits of taking culinary classes
Some people can find cooking intimidating, especially when it comes to learning special cooking techniques or trying new recipes. Ethnic food preparation can also feel overwhelming if the new cuisine is not what you are used to. And what if you are a person who doesn’t feel at home in your kitchen on a daily basis—would culinary classes help? The answer to all these concerns is yes. Culinary classes are for everyone, whether you are looking to discover new techniques, curious to try new recipes, or want to feel at home in your own kitchen.
Learning to cook at home is also good for your health, as you can use higher quality ingredients and prepare them to fit your unique tastes and needs. When you are the chef, you can cater to your dietary needs, and feel proud of what you’ve accomplished as you eat the fruits of your labors. Culinary classes are a fun and delicious way to grow as a home cook.
Join our Community Education culinary classes and enjoy:
Making new friends. Shared interests or goals are a great way to meet new people who can become lifelong friends.
Learning healthier ways to cook and eat. Feeling confident and capable in your cooking abilities opens the door to a future of cooking healthy, delicious meals for yourself and your family. (And it’s never too late to learn.)
Impressing family and friends. Surprise your family and friends by showing off new cooking skills and techniques that you can develop by taking culinary classes. Whether you’ve never “cooked a day in your life,” or you want to surprise them with a new recipe, culinary classes are a fun way to impress the people around you. Cooking a fine meal for your loved ones also creates more opportunities for great fellowship and memories to be made around your table.
Discovering a new favorite dish or passion. Your new favorite dish may be one you have never tasted before. You might also discover that you love cooking and baking and want to explore more even after your class has ended.
Embracing your heritage. Perhaps you have always loved the cuisine or recipes that come from your ethnic heritage, but you have never learned how to make them for yourself. There’s no time like the present to start learning.
Exploring new cultures. Food is a language spoken by every culture. Enjoy embracing new experiences and perspectives when you learn how to cook recipes and use techniques from other cultures.
The sky’s the limit for the benefits and enjoyment you can experience by taking culinary classes.
Get cooking with District 214 Community Education culinary classes. Winter classes begin January 8, 2024 and registration is now open. Sign up for classes with District 214 Community Education today.
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Age is Just a Number: Classes for Seniors at D214 Community Education
You never outgrow learning, and continually learning new things is a great way to keep your mind, body, and social life active. Whether you are a working professional or a retiree, Community Education classes can be an excellent way to continue your pursuit of new skills and experiences. At District 214, we offer Community Education classes that cover a wide range of subjects, skills, and hobbies right here in the comfort of your community.
The benefits of Community Education classes
There are many physical, mental, and emotional benefits to taking classes. When you sign up for Community Education classes you can:
Learn new skills. The National Institute on Aging recommends trying new hobbies, taking classes, and learning new skills as a way to keep your mind healthier and enjoy your life more. Those who stay mentally engaged with activities live fuller, healthier lives and enjoy their days more.
Make new friends. Retirement is not a time for being alone; it’s the perfect time to meet new people and build relationships, which can keep you connected in ways that improve your health. Social contact in a fun, engaging environment like Community Education classes can make it easier for you to meet people with shared interests and lifestyles.
Support your community. Being involved with your community and enjoying the classes provided by local educators is a great way to stay connected with those around you. When you take classes or attend local events, you are engaging with your community and stimulating your local economy.
Stay active. Physical activity is one of the most important parts of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. At District 214 Community Education, we offer a wide variety of classes that engage you in physical activity—everything from dance to pickleball!
See or experience new places. Whether you are learning a new language, or joining one of District 214’s travel expeditions, we have many opportunities for you to dip your toes into a new experience or culture that can expand your horizons and enrich your life.
Class sampling
We offer a wide variety of classes in multiple subjects, from baking to personal finance—with District 214 Community Education the world is your oyster. We offer classes in:
Spanish (multiple levels)
Polish (multiple levels)
Italian
Sign Language
Dance
Music and Theater
Needlework and Crafts
Visual Arts
Band instruments
Orchestra instruments
Other (such as voice)
Pickleball
Badminton
Yoga
Martial arts
Deep stretching and more
Baking
Meal preparation
Ethnic food preparation
Travel (Community Education Travel)
Day trips
Theater trips
Extended national tours
Extended international tours
These are just the beginning, as there are many more options! Check out our class list today to see what sparks your interest.
Seniors aged 62 or older who live within the boundaries of District 214 are eligible for a free District 214 Community Education Gold Card Club membership. Gold Card Club members are entitled to register for most Community Education classes at a 15 percent discount. They can also attend many musical and dramatic performances at District high schools free of charge.
A Gold Card newsletter is typically sent to members three times per year in the fall, winter, and spring. The newsletter includes the high school performances that are free as well as additional programs available to members.
It’s never too late to learn something new or have a new experience. At District 214 Community Education, we work hard to create great learning opportunities for you to grow, connect, and enjoy. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about their fields, and our class attendees are enjoying their experiences.
Adventure awaits—time to try something new! Winter classes begin January 8, 2024 and registration is now open. Sign up for classes with District 214 Community Education today.
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
How Community Education Can Help You Navigate College and Career Readiness
Today’s students must prepare for a complex world with jobs that might not even exist yet. Students need to be ready to handle the ever-changing career and workplace landscape that they are entering. Some of the most valuable skills they can build include personal communication and collaboration with others.
At District 214 Community Education, we offer a College and Career Ready class that is designed to help adults prepare to enter college courses or the fast-moving career and job world.
Skills necessary to prepare for college and career
When it comes to preparing for academic success, students older than age 25 may be overlooked. Our students are eager to learn the skills they need to be successful in their futures, and our classes are geared toward adult learners.
Preparing students for college or a career is not just about academics; it also includes learning communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and many other valuable skills that empower them to be successful on campus and in the workplace. Skills students should learn about and build include:
Soft skills (also called interpersonal skills)
Critical thinking
Teamwork
Prioritization
Goal setting
Soft skills include communication, respect, work ethic, conflict resolution, and much more. Taking the long view, building soft skills has lifelong value, as your student can adapt these skills to any environment they will encounter in their studies and during their career. In fact, research shows that 89 percent of hiring failures result from poor soft skills, while excellent soft skills foster teamwork and good communication with peers, bosses, or clients. Building soft skills also enhances students’ ability to build trust with managers and boosts their potential for career advancement.
Critical thinking will help students make wise decisions for their life or career, as well as help them problem-solve when facing the many challenges in life. Employers place a high value on employees who can apply critical thinking to their jobs (think about the mentality of broaching a problem with a proposed solution, and what a difference this can make).
Teamwork is a vital skill in today’s workplace, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic brought changes to work culture and introduced remote working, hybrid work schedules. Learning to collaborate virtually will have many benefits for students, today and in the future.
Learning prioritization, time management and order of importance is a skill students will apply over and over. Future employers will highly value the ability to prioritize tasks and get them done efficiently and on time.
Goal setting is an important part of achieving success for personal and professional goals. Learning how to create a goal, map out a plan, and then commit to achieving it will give your student the tools they need to be successful in any environment. This ability will also help them stay accountable to their goals when they face obstacles or challenges.
How Community Education classes can help
Learning the above skills in the setting provided by our College and Career Ready class will give students a chance to practice what they are learning under the guidance of experienced teachers. In our classes, we teach:
Math, reading, and writing improvement
A variety of on-the-job valued work skills
Critical thinking
Information technology applications
Career management
Resume development
Soft skills
Teamwork
How to give a presentation
Students will also hear from guest speakers who are professionals in their chosen fields. Our goal is to prepare all class participants to be college-ready and create the foundation for success in the future workplace.
Preparation now is vital to future success—at District 214 we are ready to help you prepare for college or a career.
Spring 2024 class information will be released in December. Classes will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays and will last 13 weeks. Check back in December for more detailed class information!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Why Individual Music Lessons are Beneficial for Your Student
“One of the most beautiful things we can give our child is music education.” — Gloria Estefan
Music is a great source of joy, and learning music and getting better is a positive experience for any student. Whether or not your student ends up being a professional musician, music education is a journey that brings great rewards.
The benefits of individual music lessons
Learning to play in a group setting has its benefits, but a group class experience cannot offer what individual music lessons can.
Grow their listening skills. Individual music lessons provide an atmosphere in which your student can develop their musical listening skills in a focused environment. They will get a chance to tune their ear to hear their music as well as their instructor. This will be beneficial for them as a soloist or as a part of an ensemble.
Build confidence. It’s easy to get lost in a group of musicians and the most confident players are often the ones that stand out. Individual music lessons provide a chance for your student to build their confidence away from the pressures of a group, allowing them to play confidently and shine.
Develop self-discipline. Group practice sessions are built-in when your student is a part of an ensemble or an orchestra, but with individual music lessons, your student will get a chance to develop their self-discipline and motivation for their own music learning—a skill that will help them in all of life, not just in music.
Practice perseverance and patience. Music is not a skill learned overnight; it takes time, perseverance, and patience. Over the course of many individual music lessons, your student will get a chance to exercise all of these things, as well as learn to celebrate the progress made by consistent learning and practice.
Exercise creative thinking. Music is a key part of developing the right brain, the part of the brain in charge of emotion, creativity, intuition, and social awareness. Individual music lessons help your child develop their creativity and develop new ways of thinking. Individual music lessons also open the door to exploring different styles and even other cultures and their history.
Research has shown the positive impacts of music education on nearly every aspect of students’ lives, including lessening anxiety, increasing focus and retention, improving language skills, and increasing academic performance in many subjects. Individual music lessons can be a positive part of supporting your student’s mental and physical well-being now and into the future.
How you can support your student while they take individual music lessons
Behind every great musician is someone who supports and believes in them—parents or guardians are a vital part of student success in their music journey. Here are a few tips on how you can support your student while they take individual music lessons:
Listen to them play. Giving your student a chance to practice in front of an audience is excellent for helping them grow in their confidence and focus. Use this opportunity to encourage their progress (no matter how small) and let them know that you are excited about what they are learning.
Encouragement and support. Positive encouragement is especially important when your student is struggling or facing a difficult challenge. Consistently showing patience and understanding are very important as music requires a lot of perseverance and time. Let your student know how proud you are of their efforts and of their progress.
Provide opportunities and space to practice. Create an environment where your student can practice without being disturbed. This could be as simple as setting a time aside every day when they have access to a quieter room in your house. Try to keep the distractions at a minimum while they are practicing and consider their need for regular practice when scheduling events or assigning them tasks and chores.
Ask questions and engage in discussion. Learning sinks in deeper when your student is given a chance to share what they have learned. Ask questions, engage in conversation, and show interest in what they are learning. This can be as easy as a few intentional minutes at the dinner table or before bed, but it will have a very positive impact on you and your student.
A preview of our classes
At District 214 Community Education, we offer many individual music lessons, which include but are not limited to:
The gift of music education is one that will keep on giving to your student into their adult life, and individual music lessons can be a strong part of making that a reality. Classes are open for registration now, register with us at District 214 today!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Make Your Travel Dreams a Reality with Community Education Travel
“Investment in travel is an investment in yourself.” — Matthew Karsten
Traveling to new places (near and far) is a wonderful experience that keeps on giving even after you’ve returned home. Many of us dream about traveling to new places (near and far) but dreaming about traveling and successfully planning a trip are two very different things; local resources with pre-planned trips can help you fully enjoy the experience while removing the headaches and anxiety that can come with travel. This is exactly what Community Education Travel (CET) offers: CET is a travel resource within your own community that offers extended and day trips. Pre-planned itineraries, unique destinations, and education are all a part of what you will experience when you travel with CET.
The value of travel
Traveling teaches you things about places and people you’ve never seen before. It opens you up to new ideas and can even create or deepen the relationships you have with the people you travel with. Studies have shown that traveling can have a positive impact on life satisfaction. Meeting new friends, exploring other cultures or history, and seeing a new side of yourself are all part of that satisfaction. With Community Education Travel, that experience is made seamless and pleasant: we handle the details so you can enjoy the moment.
Why Community Education Travel?
Planning something even as short as a day trip can be time-consuming and complicated, let alone an extended trip to an unfamiliar place. Researching the best routes, restaurants, and destinations can be overwhelming as you want to get the most out of your experience. Choosing lodging that is comfortable and convenient for your trip can also prove to be challenging. At CET, we do all the legwork for you so that you can relax and enjoy your trip. We offer:
A diverse range of destinations and experiences. CET offers dozens of trips every year ranging from short half-day jaunts to local tourist hot spots to exotic multi-week vacations to dream destinations across the world.
Learning opportunities. See new places that will expand your knowledge of history, cultures, science, and world-changing events.
Pre-planned itineraries for hassle-free travel. CET takes the stress out of traveling by providing pre-planned itineraries so you can relax and enjoy your experience without worrying about the details.
Trip insurance & visas. Our tours also include trip cancellation insurance and gratuities for guides, drivers, bellmen, and servers at included meals. Visas for foreign countries, if required, are obtained for you!
Detailed final documents. For some of our CET extended tours, a pre-departure information meeting is held before your tour to discuss monetary needs, weather, packing needs, and airport check-in and security procedures for CET air tours. If there is no meeting you will receive a detailed email with final instructions for your trip.
Opportunities to meet new friends. Traveling with CET creates the opportunity for you to connect with like-minded travelers and potentially form lasting friendships.
Tips on choosing your adventure
When deciding on a trip, here are a few things to consider:
Consider your budget and travel goals. Are you looking to explore within a day’s drive of your own home? Do you like theatre? Would you like to see more of the United States and its diverse landscape? Have you always dreamed of going to another country and immersing yourself in a new culture? Determining your travel goals and settling on your travel budget will help narrow down what trip is right for you.
Research available programs. Finding out what options are available will help you decide what trip matches your goals and budget. At CET, we offer day trips, theatre trips, extended national trips, and international trips.
Register and prepare. Register for the trip of your choice and start preparing for your new adventure. You can use your time to purchase the appropriate items and clothing, obtain any necessary documents, and make arrangements for your home (or pets) to be taken care of while you are gone.
Making your travel dreams a reality
Adventure is waiting for you, and with CET, you can make your dreams a reality—what are you waiting for? Time to hit the road and explore what’s out there! Registration for new Day Trips begins Wednesday, November 1. Learn more about Community Education Travel today!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Five Tips for Getting the Most Out of Community Education Classes
“View life as a continuous learning experience.” — Denis Waitley
The goal of Community Education classes is to enrich and uplift the lives of the members of a community through education, whatever your needs and goals might be. Community Education can open doors to new opportunities, skills, and even friendships and connections with those around you. At District 214 Community Education, we offer a variety of classes designed to grow your skills and knowledge right here in our community.
Community Education is a good idea for anyone who wants to expand their knowledge and enrich their life. Here are five tips on how to get the most out of your Community Education experience.
Reflect on your goals. What do you want to learn? Are you looking to make friends with people who share your interests? Do you want to get out of your comfort zone and try new things? Have you been wanting to learn a specific skill? Our Community Education classes offer a wide variety of options with versatile times to help meet your needs and goals.
Choose the right class. Choose a class that matches your interests and goals as you will be more motivated in these classes. Consider your current skill level and any prerequisites required to be a part of the class. Research available classes to find the one that best matches your goals.
Prepare before the class. Make sure you have any necessary supplies required to participate in the class. Ensure you clearly know the class schedule and expectations, and make sure you are familiar with the class location, how to get there, and where to park.
Be engaged. Remember, you are in class to learn, and the teachers are there to teach, so be confident about speaking up and getting the most out of your experience. Ask questions when you are unclear about what is being taught, connect with your fellow classmates, and seek help when needed from your instructor. You came to learn and grow, so get the most out of your experience while you are there!
Embrace continuous learning and improvement. While you are in your class, stay curious and open to the new ideas and skills you are learning. Reflect on what you’ve been taught (even when you are not in class). And always celebrate your progress, big or small. The joy of learning is found in the journey, not just the destination.
Community Education can change your life for the better in many ways - at District 214 we want you to get the most out of your experience with us.
A preview of our classes
We offer a wide variety of classes at District 214 Community Education. A few of them include:
Self-Defense Workshop. This workshop will help individuals learn how to recognize and react to dangerous situations. Strategies are discussed and practiced to develop awareness along with the use of simple and effective self-defense techniques to deter and escape an attack.
Beginning Guitar. The guitar is one of the most versatile and popular instruments around, and our beginning guitar class is the perfect way to get started! In this introduction to guitar playing, we will cover basic chord shapes, strumming patterns, and simple lead lines, and apply what we’ve learned to popular and well-known songs.
Dinner for Company. In this hands-on program, participants will make a complete meal fit for entertaining friends and family in less than one hour. We will include appetizers, side dishes, and a main dish of French Mustard Chicken that can all be created from scratch with easy-to-obtain ingredients and simple equipment. Participants will then enjoy their creations before returning home.
How to Buy a Second Home or Retirement Property. Ready to spend some time in the sunshine on the beach or on the ski slopes? Learn the best way to purchase your second home or vacation property in this course. Discussion will include learning to make owning your second/retirement home a reality. During the class, we will also go over the minimum down payments, credit requirements, affordability, and the underwriting criteria needed for your purchase.
Community Education can expand your horizons, open new doors, and create lifelong connections. Register for classes with us at District 214 Community Education today!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest-running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Six Ways to Improve Your Culinary Skills Through Community Education
“Food is not just eating energy. It's an experience.” — Guy Fieri
Imagine impressing your friends and family with gourmet dishes that look as good as they taste. If you have a passion for cooking and an appetite for new experiences, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure with District 214 Community Education. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, there is a class for you!
In this article, we’ll look at six reasons to unleash your inner chef—and why community education is the secret sauce.
Six reasons to take culinary classes in Community Education
Healthier cooking. Home cooking is an excellent way to eat healthier and enjoy life more. Culinary classes can help you learn how to create unique flavor combinations, master a new dish, or learn new techniques.
New ideas. Feel stuck in a rut with your cooking? Do you want to spice up your life with new recipes, techniques, or ideas? Our classes can give you a fresh perspective on the same ingredients or show you a whole new side of food and cooking that you’ve never seen before.
Expert guidance. Our skilled instructors will guide you in learning how to implement new techniques or incorporate new flavors. From international cooking to family recipes, there is something for everyone.
Hands-on learning (and practice). Practice your new cooking knowledge and skills on-site during class while under the supervision of your instructor, which will help you feel confident in taking your new skills home.
Confidence. Culinary classes are not just satisfying to your taste buds—enjoy the feeling of confidence and developing new skills that you can share with your friends and family.
Meet new friends who share your passion. Shared interests are a great way to kick off a friendship and add fresh flavor to your life. Community Education classes are an excellent opportunity to connect with others who share your passion and interests.
A sample platter of the culinary classes we offer
Charcuterie Made Easy. Learn to craft a noteworthy Charcuterie Board with meats, cheeses, spreads, dips, seasoned nuts, and more. We will craft the "extras" like dips, marinated olives, and cheese spreads to make the board special, then discuss layout and scaling the size for your guests. Recipes are included and a feast will be enjoyed at the end of class.
Four Basic Sauces and How to Use Them. Developed in the 19th century by French chef Auguste Escoffier, mother sauces serve as a starting point for a variety of delicious sauces used to complement countless dishes, including veggies, fish, meat, casseroles, and pastas. Learn how to make four classic French Sauces: béchamel, velouté, espagnole, and hollandaise. Make them step by step and then learn how to modify them for different dishes. Participants will learn how easy it is to make unique sauces for at home cooking.
Dinner for Company. In this hands-on program, participants will make a complete meal fit for entertaining friends and family in less than one hour. We will include appetizers, side dishes, and a main dish of French Mustard Chicken that can all be created from scratch with easy-to-obtain ingredients and simple equipment. Participants will then enjoy their creation before returning home.
Cinnamon Apple Tarts. Apple season is here! In this class, you’ll learn how to make the tart shell from scratch. Discover how to make the most delicious cinnamon apple filling topped with homemade Chantilly cream. Have your containers ready, you’re going home with a scrumptious Cinnamon Apple Tart.
Holiday Dinner Made Easy. No more stress making holiday favorites! Learn how to make a delicious and meaty stuffed butternut squash. For dessert, we are making mini pecan pies. Get tips on how to set yourself up for success when it comes to preparing for the holidays.
Spice up your life and sign up for Community Education culinary classes—fall registration is underway now!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Advancing Language and Literacy with Adult Education
“Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress in every society, in every family.” — Kofi Annan
Learning English as a second language or improving your reading and writing skills as an adult might seem like a challenge. However, with District 214 Adult Education, learning can be an empowering journey filled with support and encouragement. Your road to a better future for you and your family starts here, with an Adult Education program created for adult learners like you.
Challenges and concerns faced by adult learners
We understand that adults carry greater responsibilities in their day-to-day life, which can make taking Adult Education classes challenging. Adult learners may experience:
Challenges balancing education with work and family commitments. A majority of adults desiring additional education are also parents, which means that paying the bills and caring for their children come before education.
Lack of time because of work commitments. Fulfilling job obligations is the #1 reason adults do not pursue additional education.
Fear of failure. Many adults have a fear of failure that holds them back from pursuing education—but language and literacy barriers can easily hold them back from opportunities to advance.
Adult Education can help you reach your goals
While taking more classes might feel overwhelming, the good that can come from it is worth it! The advantages of adult learning include:
Better employment opportunities. The more educated you are, the greater potential you have to work in a job that includes opportunity for advancement and promotion.
Improved communication skills. Improving your communication skills helps your work and home life.
Health literacy. The ability to read and understand health information is important to understand what’s being said and make good health decisions for yourself and your family.
Personal empowerment. Adult Education can help you feel more confident and comfortable
How Adult Education helps
At District 214 Adult Education, our goal is to meet you wherever you are in life and help you take your next steps forward. Our classes:
Go beyond traditional education. Our classes are designed to meet your educational goals and provide you with useful knowledge and skills.
Create a supportive, inclusive environment designed for adult learners. Whether you are learning English as a second language, earning your high school equivalency, or more, our Adult Education classes are designed to meet your needs. Our instructors want to see you succeed on your educational journey regardless of where you are at in your language and reading skills, or educational level.
Have convenient schedules and locations. District 214 Adult Education removes many of the obstacles that could stand between you and reaching your educational goals. Many of our classes are available in the morning or evening (select classes even offer childcare), at locations that are close to where you live and work.
Classes are free. Our Adult Education classes for adult learners are free, making learning available to you right here in your community.
A sample of our classes
English as a Second Language. English language learners study the English language to gain knowledge and skills to earn a secondary school diploma or transition to post-secondary education and training through career pathways. We offer beginning through advanced levels.
Family Literacy. Community Education offers a variety of educational opportunities for families with children from age 3 to age 10. Family Literacy programs emphasize the relationship between Adult Education, early childhood education, parenting education, parent involvement, and future success in school.
The Catherine M. Lee Women's and Children's Center. The Catherine M. Lee Women's & Children's Center helps female immigrants gain skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English. This helps them increase their skills for gaining employment and helping their children succeed in school. Children ages 5 and under are welcome to attend early childhood education classes while their mothers attend adult classes.
Read to Learn Adult Literacy. In Read to Learn, trained volunteer tutors help English-speaking adult learners in a one-to-one in-person instructional setting.
Adult Education can be a bridge from your current today into a brighter tomorrow—at District 214 Adult Education we are committed to helping you during the journey. Registration will open in December for classes that begin in January and February. Check the website. We can't wait to meet you!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest running public high school community education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Funding For Adult Education Programs/Stevens Amendment The District 214 Community Education Adult Education and Family Literacy Program is supported in part by the Illinois Community College Board, which includes federal funds totaling $393,071. Approximately 1% ($14,500) of this program is supported with non-government sources. The Catherine M. Lee Women’s and Children’s Center and the Family Literacy Program are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy. No federal funds supported the U.S. Citizenship Preparation or Spanish GED classes.
Advantages of Adult Education Classes
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
—Malcolm X
Many of us are motivated by the dream of a better future. But it can remain a dream unless you find the path to make it a reality. Adult Education classes can be the bridge between dreams and reality—these classes go beyond traditional education, with a supportive, inclusive environment created for the unique needs of adult learners.
In this article, we will look at the advantages of Adult Education classes and how they can empower you on your journey toward becoming a citizen, earning your high school equivalency, or advancing your career. Best of all, all District 214 Adult Education classes are offered at no cost.
Five Advantages of Adult Education Classes
As an adult learner, you have responsibilities and a busy life. Our Adult Education classes are designed to be flexible for your needs and convenient for your schedule. Here are five more advantages of our Adult Education classes:
Programs created specifically for adult learners. Whether you are learning English as a Second Language, earning your high school equivalency, or more, our Adult Education classes are designed to meet you where you are and provide the education you need to succeed.
Designed to fit into your life. District 214 Adult Education removes many of the obstacles that could stand between you and reaching your educational goals. Many of our classes are available in the morning or evening (select classes even offer childcare), at locations that are close to where you live and work.
The path to a better career. You may want to switch careers or advance in your current one. Our goal is to give you the tools and education to go further in your career, faster.
Real-world relevance, practical skills. Adult Education classes are created to help you succeed in the real world. We teach what you want to learn in classes led by knowledgeable instructors and guest speakers, with practical examples to give you the education you are looking for.
Supportive, inclusive instructors. Our instructors want to see you succeed on your educational journey regardless of where you are in your language and reading skills, or educational level.
Explore more of what you can find through District 214 Adult Education and Family Literacy.
Here is a sample of our current Adult Education classes:
English as a Second Language. English language learners study the English language to gain knowledge and skills to attain a secondary school diploma or transition to post-secondary education and training through career pathways. We offer beginning through advanced levels.
Family Literacy. Adult Education offers a variety of educational opportunities for families with children from age 3 to age 10. Family Literacy programs emphasize the relationship between Adult Education, early childhood education, parenting education, parent involvement, and future success in school.
The Catherine M. Lee Women's and Children's Center. The Catherine M. Lee Women's & Children's Center helps female immigrants gain skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English in order to increase their skills for gaining employment and helping their children succeed in school. Children ages 5 and under are welcome to attend early childhood education classes while their mothers attend adult classes.
College and Career Ready classes. We work with participants to improve their employability, skills in reading, writing, and math so they can be “College Ready” for transition into high-demand jobs and certificate programs at Harper College or other institutions. We teach valuable on-the-job work skills such as critical thinking, information technology applications, career management, resume development, soft skills, teamwork, and presentations.
Illinois High School Equivalency test preparation in English or Spanish. We will prepare you to take the GED® Computer-Based Test. Morning and evening classes are available. Clases de preparación para el examen de GED® en español Certificado de Equivalencia de la Educación Preparatoria.
U.S. Citizenship Test Preparation. If you are a legal permanent resident and meet eligibility requirements, we can help you prepare to become an American citizen. We offer free classes to prepare you for the naturalization interview.
Read to Learn Adult Literacy. In Read to Learn, trained volunteer tutors implement prepared lesson plans for English-speaking adult learners in a one-to-one in-person instructional setting.
Registration will open in December for classes that begin in January and February. Check the website. We can't wait to meet you!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Funding For Adult Education Programs/Stevens Amendment The District 214 Community Education Adult Education and Family Literacy Program is supported in part by the Illinois Community College Board, which includes federal funds totaling $393,071. Approximately 1% ($14,500) of this program is supported with non-government sources. The Catherine M. Lee Women’s and Children’s Center and the Family Literacy Program are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy. No federal funds supported the U.S. Citizenship Preparation or Spanish GED classes.
Back to School for You: Ideas for Classes This Fall
“The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live.” — Mortimer Adler
Back to school season is here—and it’s not just for the kids and teenagers. It’s the ideal time for parents and adult learners to step back into a classroom and continue the learning journey.
Whether you’re looking to acquire a new skill, explore a passion, or expand your horizon, you’ll find a wide range of classes to choose from with District 214 Community Education. Our expert instructors offer a wide range of classes with the flexibility to fit your busy schedule, offered at convenient locations here in your own community.
Learning is not just for the youngest members of our society; a thriving life is one that includes continual learning and expansion of your skills. Sign up for a class with District 214 Community Education and join the “back to school” crowd this fall.
Community Education Enrichment Classes
Do you want to learn how to play guitar? Do you want to unleash your creativity with our arts classes, but don’t know where to start? Here are some ideas:
Sewing 101. Learn basic sewing terms, techniques, fabric selection, and pattern reading. This class will focus on projects intended for students with little or no experience, though all levels are welcome.
Fingerstyle Guitar. Did you ever want to learn how to play Fingerstyle/Classical guitar? Students will learn the fundamentals of playing without a pick, exploring beginning classical/fingerstyle guitar pieces and learning how to apply this technique into your song repertoire. Students of all levels are welcome; basic chord knowledge recommended. Must provide your own instrument.
Are you a food enthusiast or someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen? Our culinary classes offer something to everyone’s tastes. From baking to world cuisine, you'll gain hands-on experience and build skills with guidance from seasoned chefs. A sample of our classes includes:
Four Basic Sauces and How to Use Them. Learn how to make four classic French sauces: béchamel, velouté, espagnole, and hollandaise. Make them step by step and then learn how to modify them for different dishes.
Holiday Dinner Made Easy. No more stress making holiday favorites! Learn how to make a yummy and meaty stuffed butternut squash. For dessert, we’re making mini pecan pies. Get tips on how to set yourself up for success when it comes to preparing for the holidays.
Cinnamon Apple Tarts. Apple season is here! In this class, you’ll learn how to make the tart shell from scratch. Discover how to make the most delicious cinnamon apple filling topped with homemade Chantilly cream. Have your containers ready, you’re going home with a scrumptious Cinnamon Apple Tart.
A healthy body and active lifestyle are the foundation for vibrant living. Make fitness a priority this fall and join one of our many fitness Community Education classes, which include:
Chair Yoga. Participants may choose to remain seated for the entire class or stand and use a chair for support. We will practice gentle, fluid movements to promote circulation, alignment, flexibility, balance, overall strength, and deeper, smoother breathing.
Badminton. This indoor class format is primarily open play with instruction available. Plastic shuttles provided. Bring your own racket; loaner rackets are available if needed.
Are you looking to expand your health and wellness knowledge and take steps towards better health today? Join us for a health and wellness class!
Tai Chi (multiple levels available). Tai Chi (Taiji) is an ancient Chinese exercise with numerous health benefits. As a martial art, Tai Chi downplays brute strength and emphasizes learning motor skills and nurturing the body. The mindful movements promote stress relief and relaxation. Physically, this practice is a low-impact exercise that will foster balance, coordination, and flexibility while exploring martial intentions.
“The purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” —Sydney J. Harris. New languages are an excellent way to turn a mirror into a window into another culture, or to prepare for an upcoming trip abroad. Check out some of our Community Education language classes which include:
Spanish: Beginning 1. This introductory course teaches the fundamental skills and conversational patterns that encourage quick foreign language acquisition. Simple dialogue, vocabulary, and grammar development is appropriate for those who have never studied Spanish or who feel the need for review before continuing to Spanish Beginning 2.
Italian - Beginning. This course is an introduction to the Italian language, using only essential grammar for learning everyday Italian. By the end of the course the student will be able to introduce themselves and to navigate themselves in an Italian city, to carry out a conversation in an airport or hotel setting, and to ask for instruction. Purchase book online or call the CE office.
Polish - Intermediate. This class is for those who have had an introduction to the Polish language and wish to continue the adventure. Expand your knowledge and understanding of Polish while having fun during the journey. Bring book from Polish 1 or purchase at registration online.
Take charge of your financial future by joining one of our adult Community Education personal finance classes today! A few options include:
Rejuvenate Your Retirement. This course focuses on issues and financial concepts important to retirees. You’ll learn tax-efficient income planning, lifestyle preservation, inflation protection, and providing a legacy.
How to Sell Your Home for Top Dollar. How do you sell your house for top dollar in this market? Learn real estate sales and marketing strategies to assist you in successfully selling your property.
Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning. Learn about wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, and guardianship. Take the first step to create or update an appropriate plan.
Learning is a joyful, lifelong endeavor. Join us at District 214 Community Education and learn something new today!
District 214 Community Education is one of the longest running public high school Community Education programs in the state of Illinois.
Started in 1947, our program has had over 75 years of experience in bringing high-quality youth and adult enrichment programs and continuing education classes to the residents of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling, and beyond.
Earning degree readies student for “bigger life” ahead
When Nikki “Winter Belle” Hicks showed up for the first day of High School Equivalency classes at District 214 Community Education, the teacher pulled them aside. Winter had notched a high score on the language arts part of the pre-test. “The teacher pulled me aside and said, ‘You’re going to be out of here before the semester is over.’”
The teacher, Nicol Engel, was right. Winter didn’t need the full semester of classes to pass the test, earning their high school equivalency certificate in November 2022.
Winter had attended Buffalo Grove High School but dropped out after freshman year. “I had been out of school for a long while. But high school was always in the back of my mind. I felt bad that I didn’t graduate; I felt I deserved to have that,” they said. “All of my family members encouraged me to go back, and told me it would be amazing to do. I definitely didn’t want this to be something that hindered my future.”
Engel said of her student: “They came to the program ready to move forward with their goals. Winter is a prolific reader and has much knowledge on a wide range of issues and topics, which made for exceptional in-class discussions.”
Having achieved their degree, 21-year-old Winter is working in their father’s construction business for the time being. But they say the Adult Education experience in District 214 has left them ready to attack their dreams. “I didn’t just experience education in that class,” Winter says. “I went there to get my degree and to be part of the community. But when I walked out of there, I had discovered I was way better at talking to people. Everyone in class was so different and interesting.”
From her perspective, Engel says, “Winter has a way of uniting people, and lifting others up when they need assistance. I look forward to watching as they move forward in this complex world. They will do interesting things.”
That’s Winter’s goal. They said: “The experience has helped re-ignite my passion to do what I want to do as an artist and in the community. I want a bigger life, and now I’m ready for that.”
Guitar instructor helps students find the music
Michael Plantan’s musical beginnings sound a familiar refrain: Michael always loved music, and loved listening to his brother play guitar. His mom bought him his first guitar, and got him into lessons.
But unlike many kids who pick up a guitar for fun, Michael has made a career of music. He earned a degree in classical guitar performance from the American Conservatory of Music, and embarked on a more than 30-year career performing and teaching throughout the Chicagoland area.
He has served as part-time instructor or adjunct professor at Concordia College, Harper College, and the former Hinsdale Center for the Arts, in addition to performing and teaching private lessons. “Any musician you find—unless they’re a full-time professor, we’re all independent contractors,” Michael said.
District 214 Community Education has offered guitar classes “forever,” Michael said. When he took over the classes in 2018, he suggested adding a beginners’ class in ukulele. “Ukulele has become very popular around the country. It’s a simple instrument and easy to get quick results, playing pop and folk tunes with four or five chords,” he said.
Depending on enrollment and availability, he also offers classes in Fingerstyle Guitar and Classic Rock Unplugged.
The goal of the beginners’ classes is to introduce basic chords and strumming patterns, to teach students to read music, and to get the students playing simple pop and folk songs. “By the time they have left me, I hope students have something they can enjoy for the rest of their lives,” Michael said. “Playing guitar or ukulele is something you have for yourself. Getting away and playing an instrument can bring so much peace and joy to you.”
CET manager shares his passion for travel
When Bob Ramian graduated from college with a business degree and started looking for a job, he spied an ad for a travel company headlined “no experience necessary.” He contacted the organization, which turned out to be one of the top tour companies in the U.S. “The owner wanted people coming in fresh, to train them from the beginning,” says Bob. “I didn’t originally have it on my radar, but after going through training, it turned out that I really enjoyed it.”
Bob currently serves as tour operations manager for District 214’s Community Education Travel and is celebrating nearly four decades in the travel business. “The biggest change in the travel business has been technology,” he says. “When designing tour products back in the day you had to, oftentimes, personally search for destinations. When I first started in the business I was like Charles Kuralt, driving through America. I was in all 50 states before I was 30 years old.”
He started working with District 214 more than a decade ago as an outside contractor, and joined the district staff in April 2014.
Community Education Travel develops and operates its own tours, and also works with larger organizations as a group travel agency. In a typical year, more than 2,000 people travel on CET tours. Bob plans the extensive roster of trips, which include day tours to scenic and historic locations, performing arts and special events in the Chicagoland area—extending occasionally into southern Wisconsin, northwest Indiana and even once in a while into southwest Michigan. In addition, CET organizes extended tours within the U.S. and overseas—that have included, for instance, a 25-person trip to Egypt and cruises to Hawaii. A regular highlight is a summertime Chicago Cubs road trip, taking fans to games in places like Minneapolis and Milwaukee.
The success is in the numbers: Bob says as many as 80% to 85% of tour participants return for more experiences. “I would say if you want a worry-free, educational and fun experience, please join us!” he says. “Our tours are all-inclusive, unique and you might come away with some new life-long friends.”
For Bob, the bottom line is "to see smiling faces and get phone calls from people who have just come off a tour, and hear them say what a great time they had. That’s why we are in the travel business.”
