Based on practices developed by Bobby McFerrin and his collaborators, Circle Singing is a supportive, judgment-free space to sing with others without having to read music. It's a playful, joyful community singing experience. Jody creates songs in the moment — patterns, percussive sounds, rhythms, harmonies, melodies — and teaches the parts orally to the rest of the group. The parts layer together into completely original compositions, each song a unique creation, never sung before, never to be sung again. Jody will also teach different aspects of how to create an improvised ‘song’ for singers who want an opportunity to lead. There will be no pressure to lead if you don’t feel ready! All voices are welcome! Feel free to contact Jody at jjalbright58@gmail.com if you have any questions. "Jody consistently creates a safe environment that warmly invites singers to participate, explore, and play — regardless of singing experience." -Linda "Jody’s class was a delight. It gave me confidence to jump right into singing improvisation with the circle of classmates. I look forward to the next opportunity to sing with Jody." -Sharyl

Have you wanted to de-clutter your home, and just don't know where to start? Have you started the process, only to feel overwhelmed, and then got stuck? Ellen will share her tried-and-true methods for organizing a home, and developing systems to keep it that way. Come ready to ask her for the best approaches to purge your worst clutter spots! You'll go home with renewed motivation and a page of Timely Tips.

Something happens when you stop trying to make it look right and you let yourself just play. In Collage for Your Spirit, you’ll spend two hours with images, scissors, and your own instincts — guided by Marianne Mullen, artist, teacher, coach, spiritual director and trained SoulCollage® Facilitator who has spent 25+ years helping people find what they didn't know they were looking for! The process is simple. You gather images that call to you. You arrange them. You sit with what emerges. You leave with at least one completed collage card — and usually something you didn’t expect. This is more than just an art class. It’s a class about listening to yourself and self-discovery. Having fun with images and art expression! Wear clothes you can get glue on (likely won’t happen but just in case!). Age 12+ No experience needed. No wrong answers. All materials provided.

Join Pamela, a Swiss native and German teacher, to continue your German language journey. This class is designed for those that have taken German classes before, and have an understanding of German language. During this online interactive course you will have the opportunity practice speaking the German language through dialogues, read articles, and stories. Conversation will widen your vocabulary and greatly improve your pronunciation. Not sure if this level is right for you? Contact us and we can connect you with Pamela before enrolling. A Zoom invitation to join the course will be sent prior to the start of the first class. All ages are welcome!

Benvenuti in Italia! “Conversational Italian” is dedicated to your needs and wants in this beautiful language. For this reason, the preliminary assignment for the first class is for you to prepare a realistic list of things you would like to learn given the number of sessions we will have. If you wish the class to be conducted in Italian or have a hybrid approach (Italian and English) you must all agree to this for obvious reasons. Having a hybrid approach is beneficial and Cinzia will explain her philosophy in this regard. Not sure what level of Italian you are at? No problem! Sign-up and decide after the first class if this will meet your needs. This is an online class. A Zoom or Google Meet invitation will be emailed prior to the start date. "I have taken this online Italian conversation course with Cinzia for three years, and it is a great touch-point every week to practice the language and even meet new friends in Vermont who also have an interest in the language. Some of these friendships from the online class have transitioned into real life friendships, as we continue to meet after the class is over to practice Italian together!" "I really enjoy these classes with Cinzia. They provide an opportunity to practice Italian in an informal, friendly and chatty atmosphere. Cinzia sends materials between classes but homework is more or less at the individual's discretion. It helps me keep on my Italian and especially practice my listening and speaking skills with a native speaker. Cinzia is funny, warm, and great at teaching colloquial details."

Join us for this 3 week beginner-friendly workshop and learn how to crochet a festive stocking. Perfect for gifting or decorating your home! Students will have the opportunity to choose from a selection of stocking patterns and yarn that best suits their style. While the workshop is beginner-friendly, some basic crochet experience is recommended. Each student will be provided with yarn and a crochet hook to complete their project and this is included in the course fee. Students are also welcome to bring their own worsted weight yarn if they wish (the project will use 2 colors: one for the body, and one for the toe, heel and cuff). For students aged 13 and older. Younger students are welcome to register with an adult caregiver who is also registered.

Join us for a beginner-friendly workshop where we will learn how to crochet a granny square. Students will learn how to create a magic circle and make granny squares suitable for a wide range of projects (think bags, cardigans, and the classic blanket). Prior crochet experience is recommended before joining this workshop. Students are encouraged to bring their own yarn and crochet hook (medium-weight 4 yarn and a 5.0–6.0 mm hook are recommended). Materials will also be provided if needed. For students aged 13 and older. Younger students are welcome to register with an adult caregiver who is also registered.

Step into the darkroom and discover photography at its most elemental. Using light, time, objects, and simple handmade cameras. In this four-session studio course, students will explore two of photography’s most mysterious and hands-on processes: photograms and pinhole photography. With photograms, students will arrange objects directly onto light-sensitive paper, creating images from their shadows, silhouettes, textures, and shapes. With pinhole photography, students will construct simple cameras from everyday cardboard or metal objects and use them to capture images formed by light passing through a tiny aperture. Along the way, we’ll explore the fascinating histories of these techniques while learning the basics of black-and-white darkroom processes, exposure, and developing. No previous photography experience is necessary—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment. Cellphones will not be used except as an optional source of light. This class will use the CVU Photography Lab. Quality paper and additional materials for this class are included and reflected in the fee. Ages: 16+ Great Blue Heron Photogram Model of t-RNA, photogram

This class is for anyone who wants to learn the basics to mend their own knitted items like socks, gloves, hats, sweaters, and more.You will learn: how to repair a hole or snag in a knit item by darning, a simple woven type of mending. how to inspect and assess a knit (or woven) item that needs repair. how to select a needle, select yarn/thread, and tie a knot. blanket stitch, the basis for other creative knit repairs and Scotch darning. how to start, weave and finish a basic darn square with one or two colors using a darning mushroom or embroidery hoop. Practice or start darning an item that is ready for some attention! Students can bring an item they would like to learn how to mend by darning.All other materials included. No experience required. Ages 13 and older recommended; younger students are welcome with an adult caregiver who is also registered.

Looking for a striking and gorgeous way to decorate for Autumn (and Halloween) that doesn’t involve carving fresh pumpkins? Using only sharpies and craft pumpkins, this class will show you how to use different Zentangle “tangles” to adorn your pumpkin. Zentangle combines drawing intricate lines, curves, and orbs and uses them in repetitive patterns. Encourage your creative expression with this fun and relaxing method of drawing. You will be shown how to draw a variety of tangles then choose the ones you like to use on your pumpkin. Previous Zentangle experience is not required. All materials are included in the fee. Min age: 16+

Come learn the basics of pen turning with professional wood turner Andrew Duling. Pen turning is an excellent introduction to lathe work. It’s a quick, fulfilling, and inexpensive way to go from wood to finished product. Bring home turned pens you can cherish for years or give as a gifts this holiday season. Each student will complete turning of one pen, with the option of turning an additional pen as time allows. Open to all ages 16+, students 12-16 welcome with an adult chaperone. All experience levels welcome! No prior woodworking experience required. All materials and use of equipment included in the fee. Bring safety eye goggles and wear closed toed shoes. No loose clothing! Wear your hair tied back or wear a hat.

Digital Photography Studio offers a highly personalized learning experience designed to meet you exactly where you are in your photographic journey. This small, studio-style course is guided by your interests and goals—whether you’re just getting comfortable with your camera or refining a more advanced creative vision. Each student will receive individualized instruction and thoughtful feedback tailored to what they want to explore. Topics may include mastering camera settings, strengthening visual composition, understanding the history of photography, improving print quality, or developing and articulating a personal photographic style. After enrolling, students are encouraged to email the instructor to share the specific aspects of photography they’re most excited to focus on. This helps shape the course content and ensures meaningful, relevant instruction for everyone. Enrollment is limited to just 8 students to allow for in-depth guidance, discussion, and hands-on support in a collaborative studio environment. This class will use the CVU Photography Lab. Each student will have use of a computer loaded with Adobe Photoshop software to use to enhance their photographs. Ages: 16+ Please offer this class again. It was precisely what I've been looking for. Tom Brennan is a wonderful teacher!

Tired of auto mode? This course covers the essentials of digital photography. Over the course of 4 weeks learn all the fundamentals of photography aperture, shutter speed, ISO, metering, composition. Through in-class discussion and out of class projects, you'll learn what each of these settings does and how to adjust them to bring your photographic vision to life. Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, and a USB drive or external hard drive to save your images. This course will also cover the basics of image editing. Students will have access to Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop in the CVU photography lab during class hours, so no personal software is required. Age: 16+

In this class for beginners, we will learn the basics of the English language in a friendly and supportive group setting. We'll review common phrases and vocabulary that will allow you to engage in conversation and help you become more confident in your interactions. We will chat about simple topics such as the weather, hobbies, family, Vermont, work, and more, in a low-pressure situation.Deborah looks forward to meeting you!

AI isn’t all hype, it's a surprisingly helpful assistant and time-saver that you can use right now and often for free. In this beginner-friendly class, we’ll explore 10 practical ways to use AI in your daily life, from detecting scams to "profitable decluttering".We'll talk about the latest versions of tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini and see how to put them to work without a subscription.What You’ll Learn: How to use AI to solve everyday problems and stay organized How to scan and identify objects with your phone’s camera How to research, summarize, and plan smarter (not harder) How to save time, money, and effort using free versions of today’s top AI tools The ethics of AI: What to trust, how to protect your data, and how to spot bias Bring your questions, and optionally your devices to test and follow along in class. "Chris Rodgers is super bright and very engaging. He has a depth of knowledge in this field, and so he was able to answer questions from folks just starting out and didn't miss a beat when the discussion moved into more advanced use of AI. The class was fun and we left with a thought provoking handout." "So much to learn! This class helped broaden the base of ideas for applying AI to everyday life. Chris Rodgers did a great job sparking our imagination and providing examples of fun and practical uses for AI."

Learn to make fresh fettuccine from scratch using a hand crank pasta maker while a deliciously rich and flavorful bolognese sauce simmers to perfection. Enjoy some Italian tunes and learn a few Italian phrases while you cook. The instructor will share tips carried down from her Roman grandmother and mother for a truly authentic Italian meal. Making pasta is a fun activity to do together with friends and family of all ages and this class is all you’ll need to learn how. The classic bolognese sauce includes pork and beef, but a vegetarian version can also be offered upon request. This is a participatory cooking class. A small group of 3-4 students will work together at each cooking station to complete the recipe on the night's menu.

Have you written a novel, memoir, or other book and wondered what comes next? This practical workshop will demystify the process of finding a literary agent and preparing your submission materials. We’ll explore how to research and identify agents who are a good fit for your work, what agents look for in a submission, and how to put together the essential materials—including a compelling query letter, synopsis, and opening pages. You’ll also learn how to approach the submission process strategically and avoid common mistakes that can get a promising manuscript overlooked. Whether you’re just beginning to explore traditional publishing or are ready to start querying, this workshop will give you a clearer roadmap for taking the next step toward publication. Option to take this course in-person at CVU High School on Oct 29 or online on Nov 5. Age 18+

There are words that have stayed with you. A line from a poem. A lyric. A passage you underlined and never forgot. An “ah-ha” moment of clarity. Perhaps something your photographed? Or a message a friend, leader or mentor once said and has been a guiding light for you. Or maybe…you are really P’d off and have some WORDS TO SAY that must be expressed more, fully! Fly Your Own Flag is a two-hour mixed media class built around these words — and the colors that feel like they belong together on a banner, flag, or mini poster. You really DO get to fly your own flag in any way that works for you! 1. You'll start with text. Either bring something that moves you — a poem, a page, a lyric, a line — or choose from Marianne's Wordy Resources that you can create from. 2. From here, you build. Layer. Discern. Play…and CREATE with Marianne’s Color Resources full of fun materials organized by colors of the rainbow and of course some sparkle! 3. You will be guided to design your flag monochromatically or let it evolve into something more. Your words will shape around what words speak to, and for, you. You leave with a flag you actually want to fly… No experience needed. No wrong answers. All materials provided. Wear clothes you can get glue on (likely won’t happen but just in case!). Age 12+

Dust off your French and get comfortable speaking it again! This conversation-focused course is designed for students who already have a basic foundation in French and want to refresh, strengthen, and polish their skills through engaging conversation. Rather than focusing heavily on grammar or written exercises, class time will center on speaking, listening, vocabulary, and the natural rhythms of French conversation. Through a variety of topics and activities, you’ll have the opportunity to practice expressing yourself, build confidence, and reconnect with language you may not have used in a while. Whether you studied French years ago or simply want more opportunities to practice, this is a welcoming way to brush up, build fluency, and keep your French alive. Not sure if this course is right for you? No problem, email us and we will connect you to Julie! All ages welcome!

A memoir is not a record of everything that happened. It is a carefully curated story about what mattered, why it mattered, and what it means now. In this three-week workshop, participants will explore how memoirists transform a lifetime of experiences into a compelling narrative. Through discussion of published memoir excerpts, we will examine how writers choose which moments to include, which details to emphasize, and how they uncover deeper meaning within their experiences. Together, we will explore questions such as: Why this story? Why these memories? And what makes one moment more essential than another? Participants will be guided through reflection, writing exercises, and memoir-mapping activities designed to help them identify meaningful stories, recurring themes, pivotal moments, and emerging insights within their own lives. Through this process, students will begin exploring which experiences feel most alive on the page and what larger questions, transformations, or discoveries may connect them. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the stories they may want to tell and a clearer sense of where a potential memoir might begin. Participants will receive handouts, suggested readings, and optional between-session writing exercises.For students aged 13 and older.

Everyone has stories. Memoir is the art of transforming those experiences into meaningful narratives that help us better understand ourselves, our lives, and the world around us. In this three-week introductory course, participants will explore the foundations of memoir writing, including what distinguishes memoir from autobiography, personal essay, and fiction. Through discussion, examples, writing exercises, and guided reflection, students will learn the essential elements of memoir craft, including scene development, character, voice, structure, and the role of reflection in shaping lived experience into compelling story. Whether you dream of writing a book, preserving family stories, or simply exploring your life through writing, this course will provide a strong foundation for understanding memoir and beginning to shape your own experiences into meaningful narratives. Participants will receive handouts, suggested readings, and optional between-session writing exercises. For students aged 13 and older.

This class will address three modes of fitness: cardiovascular exercise, stretching, and strength training. The emphasis will be on full-body strength training using a set of dumbbells, a band, and a mat to complete safe and effective exercises, appropriate for any level of fitness. Participants will be guided on all exercises with a commitment to having each person understand the purpose of the exercise, and know how to make it harder or gentler depending on individual needs. Questions are encouraged! Heather wants you to understand the principles of fitness, including optimizing the benefits of cardiovascular exercise and stretching. We will navigate around injuries and chronic conditions that need TLC. Classes will begin with a warm-up and end with a gentle stretch. While the class is geared towards people with less experience, all fitness levels are welcome! Please bring a mat, a set of dumbbells (between 5 and 10 pounds depending on personal preference), and an exercise band (a long single band similar to what's in the photo) to class, along with water. Wear clothes that are comfortable for movement and exercise. "Heather was a wonderful instructor- so full of energy and information! This class was great for learning the basics and how to incorporate a strength training and exercise program into your life. She was responsive to questions and focused on the class being for and about the participants and their needs and offering modifications to exercises as needed. I’d love to see more classes taught by her!" "I have worked with personal trainers and physical therapist for years. Heather's knowledge and instruction is spot-on. In addition, Heather is so personable and she makes the program fun and enjoyable. I looked forward to this class every week. I would recommend this class to anyone, any age, who wants to learn good technique and make lasting changes in staying fit."