Take a Class!

St. Charles Community Education offers a variety of exciting courses from jewelry-making to guitar playing.

“I have always wanted to learn how to play the guitar,” said a local resident who is planning to take advantage of just one of the many classes offered by the Community Education Program in St. Charles Parish. The Community Education Program in conjunction with St. Charles Parish Public Schools, allows community members, schools, businesses, and public and private organizations the opportunity to take classes focusing on various subject areas, recreational and academic.

“We offer a variety of classes. We have experienced instructors that teach classes on just about everything: arts and crafts, jewelry making, sewing, accounting, music, etc. You name it, we have a class for you,” said Gwen Cashio, Director of the Community Education Program in St. Charles Parish. According to the program’s mission statement, the Community Education Program extends beyond the traditional school day to provide academic, recreational, health, social service, and work-prepared programs for people of all ages. Best of all these classes normally only require a small fee for supplies and learning materials for the class.

“I am very excited. It looks like we will have a strong turn out for the spring session. I received fifty plus registration forms on the first day registration was open to the public,” said the Director. She went on to say, “We were forced to cancel the fall session due to Hurricane Katrina so it is very important that we have a successful spring session. And this session, the classes will be offered to residents of St. Charles Parish and surrounding areas.” In the past, the program was only available to residents of the parish. But when residents of other parishes expressed an interest in taking a class or two, the registration became open to all who are interested in participating in the program.

“We are pleased to offer several classes in computer education and business to residents that may have businesses that were impacted by Hurricane Katrina. These classes may help business owners get back on their feet with their businesses,” said Jayne Tate, West Bank Coordinator for the Community Education Program. She went on to say, “We have had people who have moved into St. Charles Parish and say that they are so glad we have such a wonderful program to offer their families for there was no such program where they formally lived.”

The Community Education Program is ideal for anyone interested in taking a class of interest in their spare time. If you have an interest, Community Education has the answer for you. So what are you waiting for? Call now to register. For further information or to register for a class contact Gwen Cashio at 985-785-3142 or email at communityed@st.charles.k12.la.us.