The Spanaway Learning Center is made possible with a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant from the U.S. Department of Education awarded to the Bethel School District.

 
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Adult Community Classes

Adult Basic Education
Adult Basic Education: GED Preparation
For adults who want to improve basic reading, writing and math skills. This program assists those who want to prepare for the high school equivalency test (GED). This class is offered in partnership between Pierce College and Bethel School District.
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Monday & Wednesday, 9/22 ­ 12/17
Time: 5:30 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: No fee
Min / Max: 15 / 20
Instructor: Lynette Hanson

Arts & Enrichment
Calligraphy
Calligraphy means beautiful writing, but the good news is that it does NOT mean that you have to have good handwriting! It is an acquired skill, and just about anyone can learn. You will learn to create your own greeting cards, banners, posters, certificates, inspirational quotes, and letters. You will need to bring your own medium calligraphy pen with you to each class.
Location: Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
Day / Date: Thursday, 10/9 ­ 11/20
Time: 7:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $35
Min / Max: 8 / 15
Instructor: Irmgard Roush


Oil Painting ­ Bob Ross Painting Method
The joy of painting! Bob Ross’ wet-on-wet painting method makes it possible to create an oil painting in just a few hours and practice is the key to this astonishing ability everybody has. In this workshop, you will learn the tricks of the trade ­ how to use the correct brushes, correct loading and brushstrokes, and perhaps most important ­ the courage to do so. You will be able to create your own designs in landscape or seascape after you learn the basics. Everyone possesses the talent ­ if you didn’t try it yet, how can you know?
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Saturday
Beginner Classes:
Fall Session BEG-I ­ 10/18
Fall Session BEG-II ­ 11/15
Fall Session BEG-III ­ 12/6
Intermediate Classes:
Fall Session INT-I ­ 11/1
Fall Session INT-II ­ 11/22
Fall Session INT-III ­ 12/13
Time: 9:00 a.m. ­ 5:00 p.m. (lunch break is on your own)
Fee: $38 / Session (registration fee)
$15 material fee per class (bring payment to class)
Min / Max: 6 / 8
Instructor: Uli Smallwood (Certified Bob Ross Instructor for landscape/seascape designs) Quilting
Location: Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
Day / Date:
Time:
Fee:
Min / Max:
Instructor: Susan Oberkirsch


Computers
Introduction to Computers
No computer skills? No problem ­ this class is designed for you! Students will learn basic information about computers, introducing Windows, saving documents, keeping track of files, computer parts, terminology, mouse use, as well as discuss the Internet and simple steps of operation. Students will have the opportunity to try fun and interesting activities.
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Tuesday, 10/7 ­ 10/21
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Word Processing
Using Microsoft Word, you will learn basic word processing skills. Learn to set up and create letters, envelopes and documents, insert and edit text, correct mistakes, change margins and fonts, and use clip art. Prerequisite: Windows Basic or instructor’s approval.
Location: Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
Day / Date: Thursday, 10/9 ­ 10/23
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Windows Basics
Students will learn the basics of the Windows operating system, whether you use Windows 95, 98, NT, ME, Millennium, or XP. You will learn to start programs, manipulate Windows, work with dialog boxes, use and customize the taskbar, use the active desktop, create folders, work with floppy disks and perform disk maintenance. Learn how to use Windows Explorer to maintain your hard drive, and much more. Prerequisite: Intro to Computers or basic computer skills (must be able to use a mouse).
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Tuesday, 11/4 ­ 11/18
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Spreadsheets / Databases
Using Microsoft Excel, you will learn to plan and create an original spreadsheet document for use with financial records or other important data. You will also learn to design and create databases. Prerequisite: Windows Basics or instructor’s approval.
Location: Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
Day / Date: Thursday, 11/6 ­ 11//20
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


World Wide Web (www) and E-mail Overview
Learn to “surf the Net” using Microsoft Internet Explorer! You will learn about the Internet structure and terms, how to access web sites, use search engines to find interesting web sites, and how to download information from the Internet. You will learn how e-mail works, how to send, receive and print e-mail messages, how to set up an e-mail address book, how to create attachments, and more!
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Tuesday, 12/2 ­ 12/16
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Scanning & Digital Camera
Use the scanner for a copier, fax machine, or pictures, and much more. Learn to use a digital camera and create fun and exciting cards, screensavers, and memorabilia from family and friends using Picture It! and other software. Learn to use the Quick Cam to communicate with friends and family, live online. A digital camera will be provided for classroom use. Prerequisite: Windows Basics or instructor’s approval.
Location: Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
Day / Date: Thursday, 12/4 ­ 12/18
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $40
Min / Max: 6 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Holiday Letters and Cards Workshop
Use Microsoft Word and Print Shop to create letters and cards to send to family, friends, customers, etc. Learn to use graphics, pictures (scanned or digital), then copy, paste, and create wonderful works of art. Create pamphlets, letterhead, business cards, envelopes, labels, certificates, postcards, calendars, banners, and more! Prerequisite: Windows Basic or instructor’s approval.
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Saturday, 11/8
Time: 9:30 ­ 2:30 p.m.
Fee: $22
Min / Max: 8 / 10
Instructor: Richard Scott


Foreign Language
Beginning Conversational French
Bonjour! Lean basic conversational French in just a few weeks! You will learn basic vocabulary, verbs, and a bit about French culture from a French instructor. Á bientôt !
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Tuesday, 10/7 ­ 12/16
Time: 6:00 ­ 8:00 p.m.
Fee: $38
Min / Max: 16 / 28
Instructor: Charles Monfort

Health & Fitness
Stress Reduction & Fitness for Women
Are you feeling stressed out? Uptight? Tired? Lacking energy? Come join us! You will learn ways to reduce stress and maintain a sense of calm while increasing your energy level. All this can be achieved while participating in a weight training and/or aerobic program specially designed by the instructor. Please ­ get your doctor’s advice before starting this or any fitness program.
Location: Spanaway Jr. High
15701 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Monday & Wednesday 10/13 ­ 12/17
Time: 6:00 ­ 7:00 p.m.
Fee: $32
Min / Max: 14 / 25
Instructor: Karen Campbell

Home Repair
General Home Repair
Should you fix it yourself or call in a pro? Learn how you can save money while doing your own home repairs and understand when it is important to hire a professional by completing a cost comparison. You will learn where to find resources and information, as well as what basic tools you need in your toolbox.
Location: Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
Day / Date: Saturday, 10/25
Time: 9:00 a.m. ­ 12:30 p.m.
Fee: $7.50
Min / Max: 5 / 12
Instructor: Dave Einert

Limited Class Sizes
Class sizes are limited, so register as soon as possible.
Registration / Payment
Registration and payment must be received a minimum of one week before the start of the class.
Exception: Adult Basic Education classes accept ongoing enrollment; additionally, there is no fee.
Cancellation
Classes must meet minimum enrollment requirements. If the class is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, you will be notified and will receive a refund. If you have any questions or concerns, please call 253.683.5823.
Inclement Weather
Spanaway Learning Center classes will also be cancelled when inclement weather causes schools to close. If weather conditions occur late in the day, we will make every effort to call you. You may call us at 253.683.5823 or check our web site www.bethelsd.org/slc.htm. Every effort will be make to provide class status information on the telephone voicemail if the office is closed.
Disabled Students
If you need reasonable accommodations, please contact our office at 253.683.5823 at least two weeks before class starts so your request may be evaluated.

Class Locations
Bethel Family Center
18020 B Street E., Spanaway
 
Thompson Elementary
15605 B Street E., Tacoma
 

Registration Form

 

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