1. education
2. graduate school
3. college

Learn More. Learn Often.
Spring 2015
LEARNwest
Online, Evening, and Weekend Classes for Adults
Spring is a time for growing!
Your mind is like a garden and it is time to plant some seeds!
Cloud Computing | Floral Wine & Design | Get Fit for Summer
Getting Started in Voice Over | Kokedama String Gardens
Visit us at wdmcs.org/commed
Table of Contents
Arts and Crafts............................3
Careers............................................4
College Readiness and Test
Preparation.....................................4
Computers.................................4-5
Dance...............................................6
Do It Yourself...............................6
Finances......................................6-7
Food & Nutrition......................7-8
Languages.....................................8
Online...............................................8
Personal Growth..........................9
Wellness........................................10
Class Locations..........................10
Registration Form......................11
WDMCS Community Education is the
outreach department of the West Des
Moines Community School District.
We provide opportunites for learning,
service, and fun to people of all ages.
WDMCS Community Education serves
the needs of our community by
connecting people, ideas, and resources.
LEARNwest
WDMCS Community Education
3550 Mills Civic Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 633-5001
[email protected]
Welcome to the spring 2015 LEARNwest catalog!
We are excited to offer up a mix of popular
favorites and new classes in the spirit of
personal growth and new beginnings.
Get a fresh start this spring, whether that
means getting in touch with your artistic
side, choosing a healthier diet, or improving
your physical and spiritual wellness. Classes
like Meditation for Stress Relief and Mental
Focus, Tuning Into Your Inner Guidance
System, and Poetry: The Language of
the Soul all offer a chance to rejuvenate
yourself.
We are also offering our new early registration
discount again! When you register at least two
weeks prior to the class start date, you will receive
a $5 discount. If you register online, the class
price listed will automatically reflect a $5 discount
when it applies. If you are registering by mail, your
registration needs to be postmarked at least two
weeks before the class start date to qualify for the
discount, otherwise the regular rates apply.
There are a few exclusions for the discount, and they include: all ACT classes,
College Planning, and online classes, as well as those for parent/child.
Thank you to newcomers and veteran students alike for participating in
LEARNwest. Make sure to ‘Like’ the LEARNwest Facebook page for updates,
discounts, and LEARNwest news. I also encourage you to register promptly
to ensure your discount and your place in the class of your choice.
Sue Otte
LEARNwest Program Coordinator
Office Hours: Monday-Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Shahna Janssen,
Director of Community Education
Sue Otte, Program Coordinator
Jess Lieb, Program Assistant
Julie Lundy, Administrative Assistant
Jamie Evans, Communications Specialist
Non-Discriminatory Policy: The West Des Moines Community
School District does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age
(for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual
orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for
programs) in its educational programs and its employment
practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing
complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a
grievance related to this policy, please contact the district’s
Equity Coordinator, Carol Seid, Associate Superintendent
of Human Resources, 3550 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des
Moines, IA 50265; Phone: (515) 633-5037; e-mail: seidc@
wdmcs.org.
2
Connect With WDMCS Community Education:
See What Opportunities We Have For You!
www.wdmcs.org/commed - 515.633.5001 - Spring 2015
ARTS & CRAFTS
Floral Wine & Design
Get creative with friends, bring a bottle
of wine, and enjoy an evening out
together! Design your own arrangement
with various flowers set in an attractive
glass/goblet. Learn tips on color,
composition, and design, while gaining
the skills and confidence to go on
and create your own arrangements.
Students must be 21 years of age or
older. Please bring a pair of pruners to
class. Course taught by designer and
florist Danielle Tamasi.
Knitting: Take it to the Next
Level
Ready to take your knitting to the
next level? This class will help you
understand how to read patterns,
identify your stitches, start new castons and bind-offs, fix your mistakes,
seam knitted items, and cleanly weave
in ends. Students should bring two
pairs of knitting needles (size 11 or 13)
and two balls of yarn. Prerequisites:
students need to know how to cast on,
knit, purl, and bind off (all covered in
Knitting 101). Course taught by Penny
Heeren.
Wednesdays, 3/25-4/8, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$54 plus materials listed above. Indian
Hills Junior High, Room 1423, #sART03.
New! Nightscapes
Garner the special tips and skills
needed to create stunning nighttime
photographs! We’ll learn the tools,
settings, and basic techniques of
nighttime landscapes and cityscapes—
with or without people in the scene.
Bring your SLR (no point and shoots)
and questions. There is an optional
field trip on Sunday, 5/24 that costs
$15 and is payable to the instructor
at the first class. The field trip will
provide supervised instruction and
is followed by the final class night to
allow for evaluation and questions.
Prerequisites: proficient manual SLR
operation or completion of LEARNwest
Photography Series. Course taught by
Steve Alexander.
Tuesdays, 5/19-5/26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$45+. Learning Resource Center,
#sART05.
Thursday, 4/23, 6:30-8 p.m., $30 plus
material fee of $15 due to instructor.
Something Chic Floral, 1905 E.P. True
Parkway, Suite 209, West Des Moines,
#sART01.
Macro Photography Magic
Focus on Flash
Learn to control your own light with
your SLR camera and add-on flash
attachment where and when you need
it. We’ll cover the features, benefits,
and techniques to create more natural
looking photos than most think
possible. Use flash for people in social
situations and activities, still life shots,
and more. Please bring your SLR (no
point and shoots) and your questions.
There is an optional field trip on Sunday,
4/26 that costs $15 and is payable
to the instructor at the first class.
Prerequisites: proficient manual SLR
operation or completion of LEARNwest
Photography Series. Course taught by
Steve Alexander.
Learn to capture the amazing small
universe we all know exists but
don’t always see! We’ll cover tools,
accessories, and techniques used to
magnify flowers, critters, minerals, baby
toes, and more! Bring your SLR (no
point and shoots) and questions. There
is an optional field trip on Sunday,
5/10 that costs $15 and is payable
to the instructor at the first class.
Prerequisites: proficient manual SLR
operation or completion of LEARNwest
Photography Series. Course taught by
Steve Alexander.
Tuesdays, 5/5-5/12, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$55+. Learning Resource Center,
#sART04.
Tuesdays, 4/21-4/28, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$55+. Learning Resource Center,
#sART02.
Registration Information - page 11
Photography by Steve Alexandar
New! Paint from the Heart
Everyone possesses the seeds of
creativity. Step away from the outside
world of stress and into a world of
peace, joy, and acceptance through
painting! This class is not one that
teaches you how to paint an object in
front of you, but rather teaches you to
connect to your inner self and unlock
your heart for self-expression. Learn
to free yourself of doubt, stress, and
judgment and harness the beauty of
your own unique, creative style. We’ll
explore mixed media while learning
new techniques along the way! Course
taught by Yvonne Brune.
Mondays, 4/6-4/27, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$59 plus materials. Supply list available
at registration. Valley Southwoods
Freshman High School, Room 254,
#sART06.
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CAREERS
Online! Extraordinary
Customer Service*
Learning to build your customer service
skills will have a powerful impact on
your career success as well as success
in other areas of your life. Through
this course, you will discover the
direct relationship between service
skills and career achievement. You
can help your organization and your
career by translating your good service
intentions into a workable plan and
gain knowledge of ways to consistently
deliver great service. The payoff is
enormous. Course taught by Nanette
Sanders-Cobb.
May 4-29, $145. Online, #sOLC03.
Online! Introduction to Data
Analysis*
Data Analysis is quickly becoming
one of the most sought-after skills
in the workplace. Companies have
vast amounts of data, but rarely have
someone with the ability to analyze that
data for trends and to make predictions.
This course will give you a basic
understanding of how to analyze data
in a business setting. Businesses look
for candidates with an understanding of
how to analyze the data they have been
collecting; this course will help you start
on that journey. Course taught by John
Rutledge.
April 6-May 1, $195. Online #sOLC06.
Online! Marketing Using
Social Media*
Develop a two-way communication
and marketing strategy for your
organization using social media. Let
your instructor guide you in exploring
major social media, including Twitter,
LinkedIn, and blogging. Learn quick,
easy ways to use Twitter, blogs, and
LinkedIn to engage your customers or
clients and keep them interested in your
organization or business. You’ll find out
the advantages and disadvantages of
each, and learn what’s right for your
work and kind of organization. Course
taught by Suzanne Kart.
May 4-29, $195. Online, #sOLC08.
*All online classes are excluded from the
early registration discount.
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COLLEGE READINESS
TEST PREPARATION
College Planning 101
Become empowered and take an indepth look at preparing for college. This
course offers a comprehensive program
covering high school preparation,
activities, resumes, ACT/SAT testing,
college visits, application timing,
college choices, factors in choosing a
college, scholarships, and financial aid,
including a discussion of the impact the
economic crisis has had on admissions
and scholarships. The presenter has
40 years of college and high school
experience, and has visited more than
30 college and university campusesin
the past few years. The last 30 minutes
of class will be for questions and
answers. Course taught by Tom Shively.
COMPUTERS
Online! Boosting Your Website
Traffic*
Acquire the basic skills to boost your
website traffic, including how to analyze
your visitor traffic, how to use search
engine optimization to get greater
visibility and exposure in Google
searches, and how to redesign your
website copy to increase your visitors
and results. Course taught by Dan
Belhassen and Susan Hurrell.
May 4-29, $195. Online, #sOLC01.
Tuesday, 4/7, 6:30-9 p.m., $19 (students
and spouses are also encouraged to
register at the additional cost of $9/
person). Stilwell Junior High, Room
2106, #sCOL11.
New! Computer Workshop
College Planning
with Tom Shively
Tom Shively is a college planning
specialist with 14 years of experience
in college planning and advising
for high school students, as well as
30 years of experience in college
admissions. He has personally visited
more than 50 colleges and universities
in the last five years, and created and
managed the Golden Circle College
Fair for 10 years. Shively has served
on numerous college and university
advisory boards, and served as
President of the Iowa Association
of College Admission Counselors.
Details for the College Planning 101
class are listed above.
If you have never worked with
computers or are a very new user, join
us for this easy-paced introductory
class. We will cover the basics of
using the mouse, opening and using
programs, saving and printing your
documents, and survival skills for the
new or almost new computer user.
Course taught by Kim Mayrose.
Tuesdays, 4/7-4/14, 10 a.m.-noon, $40.
Learning Resource Center Computer
Lab, #sCOM02.
Looking for ACT
Prep classes?
LEARNwest offers ACT Prep classes
for students preparing to take the
ACT test. Classes offered include ACT
Test Prep-Introduction, ACT English,
ACT Math, ACT Reading, ACT Science,
ACT Essay, ACT Practice Test, and ACT
Boot Camp.
To
learn
more
about
these
classes please visit our website at
www.wdmcs.org/commed then click
on ‘Take a Class’.
*All ACT classes are excluded from the
early registration discount.
www.wdmcs.org/commed - 515.633.5001 - Spring 2015
Online! Creating Cell Phone Apps*
It seems that nearly everyone is
carrying and using a smartphone these
days. Whether you favor the Android,
iPhone, or Blackberry platforms,
once you get used to having Internet
access with you “everywhere” you go,
it’s hard to be unplugged. In this four
week course, we will provide you with
step-by-step instructions on how nontechnical users can build, deploy and
market smartphone applications across
Android and iPhone platforms. This
course is ideal for business owners and
executives who want to understand
how smartphone applications can
be inexpensively built and also for
technical users who want to understand
to how quickly deploy smartphone
applications. Course taught by Dan
Belhassen and Susan Hurrell.
May 4-29, $245. Online, #sOLC02.
Facebook for the Last
Few Stragglers
Feel like you are the only
one without a Facebook
page? Or do you have a page but don’t
know what to do with it? You’ll see how
to create your profile, find and chat
with friends, share pictures and links,
and find popular games. Important
issues like security and privacy will
also be covered. If you already have
a Facebook account, please bring
your username and password. If you
don’t have an account, please bring
your email address and password and
come to class 15 minutes early. There
is an optional Q & A for 30 minutes
after class. Course taught by Kimberly
Dunbar.
Online! Getting Started in Voice
Over*
The demand for voice over (VO)
talent has boomed over the last
decade, driven by more demand for
content online, an increased demand
for audiobooks, and much easier
production requirements than ever
before. The demand for that talent
continues to grow. This class identifies
every tool and skill you need to acquire
to take advantage of the swelling need
for voice over artists. When completed,
this course will leave you with a plan
to get started. Course taught by David
Lawrence.
April 6-May 1, $245. Online, #sOLC04.
Online! Introduction to Social
Media*
Get involved in the move from in-person
to online communication. Learn what
social media is and the role in your
business and personal life. Find out the
top sites and how businesses are using
the sites for communication, customer
retention, branding, marketing, market
research, needs assessment, and
serving customers and clients. Explore
the options for your organization.
Look at case studies of what other
organizations are doing. Let your
instructor guide your exploration of
Facebook and YouTube. For anyone
interested in social media. Course
taught by Jennifer Selke.
April 6-May 1, $195. Online, #sOLC07.
*All online classes are excluded from the
early registration discount.
Thursday, 4/9, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $34.
Learning Resource Center Computer
Lab, #sCOM04.
Genealogy for Beginners: Finding
Your Roots on the Internet
Have you ever wondered if you’re
related to a world-famous person? Or
if maybe one of your ancestors served
a pivotal role in the Civil War? Climbing
your family tree on your computer can
be fun and eye-opening! In this class,
we’ll cover internet sites that will help
you trace your family and ancestral
lineage. Course taught by Sherry
Foresman.
Tuesdays, 4/28-5/5, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $40.
Learning Resource Center Computer
Lab, #sCOM05.
Social Media Overview for 50+
Social media is a powerful vehicle—it’s
time you get on board and find out
for yourself! You can connect with so
many different people and places when
using Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and
Pinterest. You’d be surprised at what’s
going on out there and that you can
access it all from the comfort of your
home. Come to this class to learn all
about it. Course taught by Kim Mayrose.
Tuesdays, 4/21-4/28, 10 a.m.-noon, $40.
Learning Resource Center Computer
Lab, #sCOM06.
Registration Information - page 11
Computing with
Jeremy Fernandez
Jeremy has
been teaching
LEARNwest
computer classes
for over two
years. Students
enjoy learning
about computers
and different
types of software
in his classes.
Read below to learn more about the
different classes Jeremy is teaching
this spring.
Cloud Computing
Are you new to Google Drive
and not sure how to navigate the
system? There’s a whole world
out there you can begin to pilot!
You’ll learn how to get started and
work through the drive including
creating online documents, sharing
surveys using Google forms, and
making use of the wide variety
of templates. You can collaborate
with others and even publish
your own docs to the web. Basic
knowledge of word processing and
spreadsheets is required. Course
taught by Jeremy Fernandez.
Mondays, 4/27-5/11, 6:30-8 p.m.,
$39. Indian Hills Junior High, Room
1307, #sCOM01.
Excel 2013,
Introduction
Designed for those
who have little or no
experience with spreadsheets,
but are familiar with computers
and the Microsoft Office platform.
You will learn spreadsheet uses,
terminology, and work with basic
formulas and functions on the
Microsoft 2013 system. A flash drive
is recommended, but not required,
to allow for work at home. Course
taught by Jeremy Fernandez.
Mondays, 3/23-4/20, no class on
4/6, 6:30-8 p.m., $50. Indian Hills
Junior High, Room 1307, #sCOM03.
Like Us on
Facebook
facebook.com/learnwest
5
Line Dancing
DANCE
Ballroom Dancing, Beginning
Learn the basic fundamentals of the
ever popular dance favorites, including
the Foxtrot, Waltz, and Rumba, in
this course that will keep you on your
toes—literally! After just three weeks,
you’ll feel confident enough to step out
onto any dance floor! You’ll learn from
a very patient and professional dance
instructor, Jennifer Malcom-Brown, who
has taught thousands of Iowa students
for over two decades!
Line dancing has made a comeback!
Join in the excitement and see for
yourself how much fun and exercise you
can get without sweating at the gym!
Great music from many different genres
is played, and you never need a partner.
These aren’t just “country line dances,”
they include ballroom, Blues, Latin, Irish,
Hip Hop, and Swing. Line dancing is
a great way to meet new people and
make friends! Course taught by Jennifer
Malcom-Brown.
Tuesdays, 3/31-5/5, 6-6:55 p.m., $44
per person. Jordan Creek Elementary
Community Room, #sDAN03.
Tuesdays, 4/21-5/5, 7-8 p.m.,
$44/couple. Jordan Creek Elementary
Community Room, #sDAN01.
Tuesdays, 3/31/4/14, 7-8 p.m.,
$44/couple. Jordan Creek Elementary
Community Room, #sDAN02.
Salsa is an infectious, vibrant dance
filled with passion, excitement, and
Latin flair! With all the summer festivals
fast approaching, now is the time
to learn so you can join all the fun,
get active, and meet new people.
This beginner class will teach you
basic steps, turns, partner work, and
combinations. Through this class, you
will build a good foundation and gain
confidence to get out there and dance!
No partner or experience required
because the best way to learn is to
dance with different leaders/followers.
Class taught by Salsa Des Moines.
Swing Dance, Beginning
Jitterbug
Register at least two weeks prior to
the class start date to receive a $5
discount.If you register online, the
class price listed will automatically
reflect the $5 discount when it applies.
If you are registering by mail, your
registration needs to be postmarked
at least two weeks before the class
start date to qualify for the discount.
6
Would you like to be better prepared
for the upcoming bike riding season?
Discover the basic problem-solving
skills that will help if something happens
to your bike while out riding. Knowing
these skills can enable you to get home
on your own and save time and money.
Topics include fixing a flat tire, repairing
brake cables, and minor wheel truing.
These skills are easy to learn and can
help in a pinch—especially on RAGBRAI.
Course taught by Matt Buchanan.
Salsa Dancing
Mondays, 4/6-5/11, 7:30-8:30 p.m., $49.
Western Hills Elementary Community
Room, #sDAN04.
Early Registration
Discount
Bicycle Maintenance
Monday, 4/27, 7:30-9:30 p.m., $25.
Rasmussen Bike Shop, 301 Grand
Avenue, West Des Moines, #sDOIT01.
Dance at Your Wedding
Fretting over how you will look on the
wedding video? Bring your spouse-tobe, wedding party, family, and friends
to this two-week course designed to
ease your jitters. Learn how to dance
the Swing and Rumba to some of the
most common songs played at wedding
receptions, so you don’t get caught just
swaying back and forth. Course taught
by Jennifer Malcom-Brown.
DO IT YOURSELF
Swing Dance is HOT and very cool!
Jitterbug is an easy and fun swing
dance that can be done to all kinds of
music. It’s a lively dance with lots of
style and no complicated footwork.
You’ll learn the basic steps, some
showy moves, and will explore different
music styles to dance to. You will be
able to go out dancing by class end!
Partner required, but no previous dance
experience needed. Course taught by
Janet and Mike Dennis. FINANCES
Retirement Planning 101
Afraid you can’t afford to retire? We will
explore this question along with social
security, Medicare, how to convert a
401(k) plan to an income stream you
won’t outlive, ways to minimize your
taxes in retirement, and options to help
protect your investments from market
fluctuation. This seminar is relevant to
anyone who wants to become more
empowered in today’s financial world.
Course taught by a financial advisor
with over 30 years of experience.
Tuesday, 3/24, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $23.
Stilwell Junior High, Room 2106,
#sFIN01.
Wednesdays, 3/25-4/15, 7-8:30 p.m.,
$64/couple. Fairmeadows Elementary
Community Room, #sDAN05.
www.wdmcs.org/commed - 515.633.5001 - Spring 2015
Second Saturday—What a Woman
Needs to Know About Divorce
This workshop is designed to help
women take the next step, no matter
where they are in the process of
untying the knot. Second Saturday
deals with the legal, financial, family,
and personal issues of divorce in a
logical, yet compassionate way. With
the guidance of trained professionals,
workshop participants will gain greater
understanding of the confusing divorce
process. Pre-registration is required.
Course taught by Marlis Gilbert.
Saturday, 4/11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., $40.
Learning Resource Center, #sFIN02.
New! Jump Start your Dinner:
Cooking with Starters
FOOD & NUTRITION
New! Grilling and Smoking
Learn techniques for grilling and
smoking to perfection, including tricks
on how to grill your meats to rare,
medium, or well done. Join registered
dietitian, Julie Gieseman, and Chef
Steve Strock to learn how to bring your
inner chef to your outdoor kitchen.
Class will finish with you preparing your
own steak, which you will enjoy with
sides and a glass of wine or beer to
compliment.
Making homemade “starters” ahead of
time can help you get a jump on making
quick, nutritious family dinners. Join
registered dietitian, Julie Gieseman,
and Chef Steve Strock to learn how to
prepare a homemade meal starter that
we’ll use to prepare and sample three
different, delicious recipes.
Wednesday, 4/29, 5:30–6:30 p.m., $33.
Hy-Vee Club Room, 555 S. 51st St., West
Des Moines, #sFOOD03.
Wednesday, 5/6, 5:30-7 p.m., $39.
Hy-Vee Club Room, 555 S. 51st St., West
Des Moines, #sFOOD01.
Splitting Heirs: Why Everyone
Needs an Estate Plan
A well-crafted estate plan saves your
family undue grief and cost by ensuring
your assets are distributed as you
want. Whether your assets are worth
thousands or hundreds of thousands,
it’s important to protect everything you
worked so hard to earn. Learn how to
avoid unnecessary expenses and fees,
how to reduce or eliminate taxes, and
how to maximize the transfer of your
real estate, investments, and personal
belongings to your loved ones and/or
charitable organizations. This course
is taught by a financial planner and
an attorney with over 30 years of
combined experience.
Monday, 4/6, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $23.
Stilwell Junior High, Room 2106,
#sFIN03.
Splitting Heirs: Estate Planning
Beyond the Basics
Would you like to learn more about
planning your estate? There is more
specialized information available,
and this class will discuss advanced
strategies to minimize taxes and how
to use trusts and other solutions
to leverage and grow your estate.
Course taught by a financial planner
and attorney with over 30 years of
combined experience.
New! Paleo vs. Mediterranean?
You Decide!
Why does the conventional American
diet make us sick? Is the Paleo way of
eating that much better? Or would you
be healthier with the Mediterranean
diet? Come to this class and learn about
this trending topic and how to avoid the
common diseases of civilization, such as
obesity, metabolic syndrome, and more.
Join Ofelia Mohr, Health and Wellness
Coach, for this informative session that
will give you an overview of both styles
of eating.
Japanese Appetizers
Could your culinary repertoire use a
little boost? It’s time to expand your
skills and learn to make delicious
pot stickers that are crunchy on the
outside and juicy inside. You’ll learn to
make the tasty fillings and then how
to wrap them. In addition to a couple
other appetizers, you’ll also make tofu
and vegetables which are healthy and
satisfying. Course taught by Chikako
Brown.
Wednesday, 4/29, 6-7:30 p.m., $34.
Indian Hills Junior High, Room 1421,
#sFOOD02.
Thursday, 4/23, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $23.
Stilwell Junior High, Room 2106,
#sFIN04.
Registration Information - page 11
Pin With Us
WDMCS Community
Education
Tuesday, 4/28, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $34.
Indian Hills Junior High, Room 1421,
#sFOOD04.
Parent/Child Sushi Rolls
Have you ever had sushi rolls and
thought, I could make these? Come to
this class and learn how to make your
own! We will learn how to assemble
the right ingredients and then go over
techniques to roll everything correctly.
Miso soup will also be available to taste,
and for dessert, tasty mochi (sweet
rice balls) will be covered. Students
will need to pay the instructor $2 for a
bamboo mat. Course taught by Chikako
Brown.
Wednesday, 4/8, 6-8 p.m., $34/adult,
$15/child. Indian Hills Junior High, Room
1421, #sFOOD05.
7
Seafood Cooking Class
Seafood is known for its health benefits
as a natural source of heart-healthy
Omega-3 fats, but it can also be a quick,
simple way to get a meal on the table.
Join registered dietitian, Julie Gieseman,
and Chef Steve Strock, to learn about
all the health benefits seafood can
provide. We’ll also cover seafood safety
as we use various cooking techniques
to prepare and sample several unique
seafood dishes so delicious you won’t
believe they’re healthy!
Thursday, 4/9, 5:30–6:30 p.m., $33.
Hy-Vee Club Room, 444 S. 51st St., West
Des Moines, #sFOOD06.
LANGUAGES
German, Continuing
This class will help you expand your
German language skills in a friendly,
comfortable environment. You‘ll learn
more conversational skills, expand your
travel vocabulary, and discover how
to survive better as a tourist. Students
should purchase the textbook, German
in 10 Minutes a Day. Course taught by a
seasoned traveler and native German,
Karin Gale.
Tuesdays, 4/7-5/12, 6:30-8 p.m., $59.
Learning Resource Center, #sFOR01.
Sushi Rolls
Have you ever had sushi rolls and
thought, I could make these? Come to
this class and learn how to make your
own! We will learn how to assemble
the right ingredients and then go over
techniques to roll everything correctly.
Miso soup will also be available to taste,
and for dessert, tasty mochi (sweet
rice balls) will be covered. Students
will need to pay the instructor $2 for a
bamboo mat. Course taught by Chikako
Brown.
New! Kokedama String Gardens
A variant of bonsai, these Japanese
string gardens have become an internet
sensation! You’ll learn how to take a
plant out of a pot, encase the roots in a
ball of moss, tie it, and then hang it with
string or display it in a clay dish. Many
plants can be grown this way, including
ferns, orchids, African violets, various
houseplants, and more! You will get to
create two of your own string garden
plants to take home! Course taught by
Anita Enos.
Saturday, 3/28, 1-3 p.m., $29 plus a
material fee of $24 due to instructor.
Ted Lare Design Build, 2701 Cumming
Avenue, Cumming, #sLAW01.
GO! Spanish, Intermediate
Class emphasis will be on conversation
and expanding vocabulary skills.
Students should purchase E-Z Spanish
by Ruth J. Silverstein. Course taught by
Daissy Tillapaugh.
Tuesdays, 3/24-4/14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$51 plus textbook. Valley Southwoods
Freshman High School, Room 150E,
#sFOR02.
Wednesday, 3/25, 6-8 p.m., $40. Indian
Hills Junior High, Room 1421, #sFOOD07.
ONLINE
Through our partner, UGotClass,
LEARNwest is able to offer a wide
variety of online classes. If you have
ever wanted to try an online class or
prefer to learn and work on your own
schedule, then these online classes are
for you!
Classes start at different times
throughout the year, so please visit our
website at www.wdmcs.org/commed,
then click ‘Take A Class’ for dates and
registration information.
*All online classes are excluded from the
early registration discount.
8
LAWN & GARDEN
Sand Casting Rhubarb and Hosta
Leaves
Make your own garden art this summer
with leaves from the landscaping! In this
class, you will make a sand casting of
a rhubarb or hosta leaf (your choice).
Once the sand casting is completed, it
can be painted or left natural, and then
used as a birdbath, birdfeeder, or simply
as a piece of garden art. You will need
to leave your creations to dry and come
back to pick them up one week later.
Course taught by Anita Enos.
Session 1: Saturday, 5/30, 10 a.m.-noon,
#sLAW02. Session 2: Saturday, 5/30,
1-3 p.m., #sLAW03. $29/session plus $24
material fee due to instructor. Ted Lare
Design Build, 2701 Cumming Avenue,
Cumming.
New! Make-Up for Special
Occasions
PERSONAL GROWTH
Golf, Beginning
Would you like to gain the confidence
to join your friends on the golf course?
Learn golf fundamentals to develop a
repetitive and consistent swing with
emphasis on grip, setup, alignment,
putting, and chipping. All equipment
provided. Please indicate whether
you are right or left-handed when
registering. Students may bring their
own clubs, if they prefer. On the last
night of class, weather permitting,
students will go to the range. Cost of
range is approx. $6-7. Course taught by
Ray Kinley.
Mondays, 4/6-4/27, 6-7 p.m., $48 plus
cost of range. Westridge Elementary
Gym, #sPER01.
Do you have a special occasion coming
up where you want to look really nice?
Learn tips and tricks to enhance your
natural beauty and take it up a notch.
Discover when to enhance your lips vs.
your eyes, and how to coordinate your
make-up with your outfits. You’ll also
learn about important skin care, color
theory, face shapes, and how to choose
the best make-up for you and the
occasion. Course taught by experienced
make-up artist, Pamella Loyola.
Thursday, 4/16, 6:30-8 p.m., $29. Stilwell
Junior High, Room 1212, #sPER04.
Meditation for Stress Relief and
Mental Focus
Are there days when your mind seems
scattered and your anxiety level
distracts from your ability to function
smoothly? In this class, you’ll learn many
easy, accessible meditation techniques
and yoga poses designed to relieve
stress and anxiety, increase mental
focus, and boost your energy. The class
will begin and end with appropriate
yoga exercises that facilitate meditation
for your personal practice. At the end of
the course, each participant will receive
a customized 15-minute daily program
that best addresses his/her individual
needs. Please wear comfortable clothes
and bring a mat to class. Course taught
by Ofelia Mohr.
Thursdays, 4/2-4/30, no class on 4/16,
7-8:15 p.m., $50. Valley Southwoods
Freshman High School, Room 170,
#sPER05.
A Writer at Heart?
F.R. “Fritz” Nordengren is a recently
retired university professor and author
of two novels: “Concealed: The Book of
Joshua” and “Kolby Rae.” His memoir
about his 620-mile walk across Spain,
titled “Every Step Is A Gift,” will be
released March 2015. Nordengren
enjoys sharing his experiences and
ideas with others who are curious or
passionate about sharing their writing
with the world.
He feels lucky
to be working
with the
LEARNwest
program and
the amazing
students in his
classes.
How to Self-Publish Your Book
The number of self-published books
is growing every day with more and
more authors going this route. As an
author, you can maintain more control
over what happens with your work.
In this class, you’ll learn how to get
from a finished, edited, and proofread
manuscript, into an attractive and
readable format that can be made
into an E-book or print edition. Learn
about software, skills, and the process
of publishing. Even if you want to
produce a hardbound collection of
family recipes, or write the next great
American novel, this class is for you!
Course taught by Fritz Nordengren.
New! Poetry: The Language of the
Soul
This full day workshop offers you an
opportunity to share the poetry you
love (yours and/or that of others), read
the poetry of others, write your own
poetry, and share it if you like. You’ll
experience a host of activities designed
to ignite your inner poet. You’ll have
opportunities to give and receive
feedback about the poetry written. You
may even see your work in print and/
or hear it in the form of a song. Course
taught by Judy Olson.
Saturday, 4/18, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., $89 plus
$5 material fee due to instructor. Valley
Southwoods Freshman High School,
Room 170, #sPER06.
New! Tuning Into Your Inner
Guidance System
Have you ever received a sudden burst
of insight or a perfect solution to a
problem? We all have an inner guidance
system that helps us in our daily lives.
Most of us have never learned what it
is or how to use it. In this session, you’ll
learn what guidance is like, how to
distinguish it from your inner critic, and
how to enhance its presence in your
daily life. Course taught by Judy Olson.
Saturday, 5/2, 1:30-3:30 p.m., $39. Valley
Southwoods Freshman High School,
Room 170, #sPER07.
New! How to Promote Your Book
Have you written and published your
book but wonder how to market it?
Come to this class and learn strategies
to become successful in getting the
“word” out there. Create a plan and
strategy to boost its exposure and
marketability. Use social media to create
buzz and let people know why it’s
special. You might even be a best seller
on Amazon! Course taught by Fritz
Nordengren.
Monday, 4/20, 6:30-9 p.m., $34. Stilwell
Junior High, Room 2106, #sPER03.
Monday, 4/13, 6:30-9 p.m., $37. Stilwell
Junior High, Room 2106, #PER02.
Registration Information - page 11
9
New! Get Fit for the Summer!
WELLNESS
Get Moving with
Julie Lundy!
Julie Lundy is
Community
Education’s
administrative
assistant.
She is a
recreational
runner
who has
completed
two
marathons
and several
half marathons, Dam-to-Dams, and
5Ks. She sees running as a way to
control stress and have some time
alone. It is something that can be
done anywhere, at any time, with
anyone. Lundy likes to remind
students that running does not have
to be a race, and it does not matter
how fast you are!
5K for Beginners
Have you always wanted to run a
5K? Join this fun, six-week training
group to get you from the couch
to the finish line with only three
30-40 minute training sessions
per week. Training sessions will be
designed so each person can move
at his/her own pace. The goal is
to finish a 5K, not to win one. This
group will meet once a week for a
group run/walk and motivational
session to help keep you training
through the week. Discussion will
include nutrition and strength
training ideas, as well as individual
goals. Online exercise logs and
conversations with the instructor
and other participants will help
keep you on track, motivated, and in
touch with the group throughout the
week. The final goal is for the group
to run a local 5K race together at the
end of the six weeks. Course taught
by Julie Lundy.
Saturdays, 4/4-5/9, 9-10 a.m., $45
plus cost of race entry. Learning
Resource Center, #sWEL01.
10
Get ready for the change of seasons!
This hour-long class will include
cardio exercises to burn extra calories,
strength training to make you stronger,
and stretching to make you feel limber
and relaxed. It’s just what you need
before swimsuit weather. Be sure to
wear comfortable workout clothes
and sneakers, and bring a mat, towel,
and water. Course taught by Ildiko
Timmerman.
Thursdays, 4/16-5/21, no class 5/7,
6-7 p.m., $50. Stilwell Junior High Gym,
#sWEL02.
New! Lose to Win!
Did you start this year with the best
of intentions to eat right and work
out, only to find that even the best
intentions don’t get results? You’ll learn
how to replace all those bad habits
with practical, deprivation-free nutrition
plans, workouts that burn more fat, and
a realistic approach to developing real
health that will last the rest of your life.
Say good-bye to broken goals and hello
to losing weight and gaining results!
Course taught by Dr. Kevin Miller.
Monday, 4/13, 6:30-8 p.m., $29. Indian
Hills Junior High, Room 1218, #sWEL03.
WERQ Dance Fitness
WERQ is a fiercely fun dance fitness
class based on current pop, rock, and
hip hop charting music. The dance steps
are high-energy with expert cuing and
songs you love from the radio combined
for an effective, easy to follow
cardiovascular WERQout. This class
is for all fitness backgrounds and all
levels of dance ability. Students should
wear comfortable workout clothes and
sneakers. Course taught by Cindy Lin.
Wednesdays, 3/25-4/22, 6:15-7:15 p.m.,
$43. Stilwell Junior High Auditorium,
#sWEL04.
New! Yoga Sampler
Have you thought about trying yoga but
aren’t sure which type would be best for
you? This is your opportunity to sample
a variety of styles. Yoga creates the
mind-body connection by developing
strength, concentration, and flexibility
which is great for a wide range of
fitness levels. Join certified yoga
instructor, Gayle Vettese, as you explore
the different styles and become familiar
with them. Please bring your own mat
and wear comfortable clothing.
Class
Locations
Non-School Sites
•
•
Hy-Vee
555 South 51st Street, WDM
Something Chic Floral
1905 E.P. True Parkway,
Suite 209, WDM
School Sites
1. Valley High School
3650 Woodland Avenue, WDM
2. Valley Southwoods
Freshman High School
625 S. 35th Street, WDM
3. Indian Hills Junior High
9401 Indian Hills Drive, Clive
4. Stilwell Junior High
1601 Vine Street, WDM
5. Westridge Elementary
5500 E.P. True Parkway, WDM
6. Clive Elementary
1600 73rd Street, Windsor Heights
7. Crestview Elementary
8355 Franklin Ave., Clive
8. Crossroads Park Elementary
1050 50th Street, WDM
9. Fairmeadows Elementary
807 23rd Street, WDM
10. Hillside Elementary
713 8th Street, WDM
11. Jordan Creek Elementary
4105 Fuller Road, WDM
12. Western Hills Elementary
600 39th Street, WDM
13. Learning Resource Center
3550 Mills Civic Parkway, WDM
Looking For
Something For Your
Student?
Adventures
offers
enriching
experiences
for
K-8
students
after school, in the evenings, and
on the weekends. Adventures
provides a way for students to
expand their knowledge or skills
in an area of interest and try
something beyond the classes that
they have during the school day.
To view a full listing of Adventures
classes, please visit our website at
www.wdmcs.org/commed/take-aclass and then click on Adventures.
Wednesdays, 4/22-5/13, 6:15-7:15 p.m.,
$35. Valley Southwoods Freshman High
School, Room 170, #sWEL05.
www.wdmcs.org/commed - 515.633.5001 - Spring 2015
Four Ways to Register
Online
Registration has never been easier. In just a
few minutes, you can sign up and register
for any of the LEARNwest classes. Visit our
website at www.wdmcs.org/commed and
click on Take A Class.
In Person, at the Learning Resource
Center, 3550 Mills Civic Parkway in West
Des Moines between the hours of
8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
By Mail
Learning Resource Center
LEARNwest
3550 Mills Civic Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50265-5556
Register Early
• Registration is required for all classes and is taken on a firstcome basis.
• Register at least two weeks in advance of a class start date
and receive a $5 discount off your registration. Some
exclusions do apply.*
• If registering close to the start of class, call or check the website to confirm that space is still available.
Confirmations
If an email address is provided, a confirmation will automatically
be sent. If not, please request a confirmation when registering.
Refunds
There is a $10 charge on all refunds except classes filled or
cancelled by LEARNwest. To receive a refund, requests must
be made by phone or in writing to LEARNwest before the class
meets a second time. For one-night classes, refunds will only be
given before the class is held.
Supply List
By Phone
Call in your class registration with your
credit card number to (515) 633-5001 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Please complete
the registration form before calling to avoid
delays.
If a supply list is required for your class, please request the list
when registering. If registering online, you can link to the supply
list from the class description page. A supply list will not be sent
unless requested.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for those who qualify. To learn more,
please call (515) 633-5001.
Questions?
Call (515) 633-5001 or email [email protected].
Spring 2015 Registration Form
Student Name
Address
Day Phone
City, State
Cell Phone
Zip
Evening Phone
E-mail
Birthdate
How did you hear about us?
❑ Catalog ❑ Facebook ❑ Website
❑Friend
❑ Instructor
❑ Other _____________
1. Class Name _______________________________________ Code ____________ Class Begins ____/____/_____ $__________
2. Class Name _______________________________________ Code ____________ Class Begins ____/____/_____ $__________
3. Class Name _______________________________________ Code ____________ Class Begins ____/____/_____ $__________
Early Registration Discount* $ ___________
(Subtract $5 for every class you are registering at least two weeks in advance for.)
Total Fees = $ ___________
Method of Payment
❑ Cash ❑ Check No. ___________ Please make checks payable to Community Education.
Photo Permission
❑ I prefer NOT to be photographed for future use in publications, website, social media, or local media and newspapers.
*The following classes are excluded from the early registartion discount. College Planning, all Parent/Child, ACT, and Online classes.
Registration Information - page 11
11
Non-Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Des Moines, IA
Permit No. 23
West Des Moines Community Schools
Learning Resource Center
3550 Mills Civic Parkway
West Des Moines, IA 50265-5556
TRY SOMETHING NEW!
New! Nightscapes
Garner the special tips and skills
needed to create stunning nighttime
photographs! We’ll learn the tools,
settings, and basic techniques of
nighttime landscapes and cityscapes—
with or without people in the scene.
Bring your SLR (no point and shoots)
and questions. There is an optional
field trip on Sunday, 5/24 that costs
$15 and is payable to the instructor at
the first class. The field trip will provide
supervised instruction and is followed
by the final class night to allow for
evaluation and questions. Prerequisites:
proficient manual SLR operation or
completion of LEARNwest Photography
Series. Course taught by Steve
Alexander.
Tuesdays, 5/19-5/26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
$45+. Learning Resource Center,
#sART05.
New! Grilling and Smoking
Learn techniques for grilling and
smoking to perfection, including tricks
on how to grill your meats to rare,
medium, or well done. Join registered
dietitian, Julie Gieseman, and Chef
Steve Strock to learn how to bring your
inner chef to your outdoor kitchen.
Class will finish with you preparing your
own steak, which you will enjoy with
sides and a glass of wine or beer to
compliment.
New! Computer Workshop
If you have never worked with computers
or are a very new user, join us for this
easy-paced introductory class. We will
cover the basics of using the mouse,
opening and using programs, saving
and printing your documents, and
survival skills for the new or almost new
computer user. Course taught by Kim
Mayrose.
Tuesdays, 4/7-4/14, 10 a.m.-noon, $40.
Learning Resource Center Computer
Lab, #sCOM02.
Connect With Us
Wednesday, 5/6, 5:30-7 p.m., $39.
Hy-Vee Club Room, 555 S. 51st St., West
Des Moines, #sFOOD01.