Simsbury DCE
Simsbury Department of Continuing Education
Holiday Candle Base (FL302)
Wednesday December 3 2025
Learn how to make a candle centerpiece for your table or anywhere in your home. Made with deco mesh, premium ribbon, floral elements and a battery operated candle. (Cindy Braunlich)
Henry James Memorial School
Pickleball Open Play (NOV333)
Wednesday November 5 2025
Join us for open play Pickleball for 3 weeks in November (11/5, 11/12, and 11/19) from 4:15-5:30 pm at Henry James Middle School gym.
Keep the fun rolling!
Henry James Memorial School
Instant Guitar for Busy People (FL327)
Tuesday November 18 2025
In just a few hours you can learn enough about playing the guitar to give you years of musical enjoyment, and you won’t have to take private lessons to do it. This crash course will teach you some basic chords and get you playing along with your favorite songs right away. Fee includes the online book and follow up lessons, a recording of the class and an optional periodic question and answer session. Class is held online using Zoom and is partly hands on instruction and lecture/demonstration. Ages 13+. (Chords Are Key)
Instant Piano for Busy People (FL328)
Monday November 17 2025
In just a few hours, you can learn enough secrets of the trade to give you years of musical enjoyment. Learn to play piano the way professionals do-using chords. The chord method is LOTS of fun and dramatically easier to learn than reading notes. Fee includes the online book, online follow up lessons, a recording of the class and also an optional periodic question and answer session. Class is held online using zoom and is partly hands on instruction and partly lecture demonstration. Ages 13+ (Chords Are Key)
Plan Your Social Security (FL312) (CANCELLED)
Wednesday November 12 2025
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (Charles Yannich, Jr./Albert D'Agosto of Retirement & Money Strategies)
Winter Angel Decor (CANCELLED)
Tuesday November 11 2025
Celebrate the season with a peaceful and beautiful felted angel figure. In this relaxing class, you’ll learn to sculpt soft wool into an elegant angel, complete with wings and gentle facial features. Whether used as a holiday ornament or a meaningful winter keepsake, your finished creation will bring warmth to any space. A lovely introduction to sculptural felting and a joyful project for all skill levels. (Dina Karpukov)
Henry James Memorial School
American Sign Language (FL321)
Monday September 22 2025
Want to learn a new language? Want to learn a new skill? Join Level 1 American Sign Language class and learn more about Deaf Culture and Deaf People. (Michelle O’Donnell)
Little Yogis Adventure (FL203)
Thursday November 6 2025
This course offers an engaging introduction to yoga, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional development. Sessions include breathing exercises, sun salutation warm-ups, kids' yoga books, and mindfulness activities. Children explore various aspects of yoga including singing bowls, yoga blocks, and partner yoga in the form of playful yoga activities or games.
Everything is provided by the teacher, but kids are welcome to bring their own yoga mat if they want. (Sandra Shevchuk)
Squadron Line School
Introduction to French: Part 1 (FL323)
Thursday September 18 2025
Looking to learn something new this fall? Going on a trip to Europe or Canada? In this course, you will learn introductions and greetings, how to order a meal, ask for help with directions, as well as basic vocabulary. Cultural knowledge is incorporated into each topic, concluding with a popular film discussion to introduce you to one of the French-speaking world’s favorite pastimes. Students should purchase the French Made Easy Level 1 book before the first class. No senior discounts (Julianna Stockwell)
Henry James Memorial School
The Language of Vietnamese (FL326)
Tuesday September 16 2025
This fascinating course will provide you with an understanding of the basics of Vietnamese. Participants will learn to pronounce, read, speak, and get familiar with daily life socializing using the Vietnamese language. (Talia Vu)
Henry James Memorial School
Beginner/Intermediate Knitting (FL318)
Wednesday September 17 2025
This class is for beginners, eager to learn to knit as well as intermediate knitters looking to enhance their knitting skills. Beginners will learn the basics including how to read a pattern, cast on, basic knit and purl stitches, binding off and finishing skills, while creating a beautiful cowl or scarf. Intermediate knitters will use this opportunity to choose a more challenging project and have guidance along the way. Beginner supply list provided prior to first class. Class size limited to 12.
Simsbury High School
Beginner/Intermediate Knitting: Seniors (FL319)
Wednesday September 17 2025
This class is for beginners, eager to learn to knit as well as intermediate knitters looking to enhance their knitting skills. Beginners will learn the basics including how to read a pattern, cast on, basic knit and purl stitches, binding off and finishing skills, while creating a beautiful cowl or scarf. Intermediate knitters will use this opportunity to choose a more challenging project and have guidance along the way. Beginner supply list provided prior to first class. Class size limited to 12.
Simsbury High School
Advanced Beginner/Intermediate French (FL322) (CANCELLED)
Wednesday September 17 2025
This course is for students who have completed Intro to French Part 2 or have several years of French language experience. You will develop more advanced conversational skills, read and understand short texts, and be able to compose short messages. Authentic sources will be provided to allow ample opportunity to practice what we study each week. This course aligns will level A2, based on the European Framework of Reference for Languages. Students should purchase the French Made Easy Level 1 book before the first class. No senior discounts (Julianna Stockwell)
Henry James Memorial School
Introduction to French: Part 2 (FL324) (CANCELLED)
Wednesday September 17 2025
This course is designed for students who have completed Intro to French Part 1 or have previously taken a French course and are currently at
an advanced beginner level. Improve your conversation skills and further develop your vocabulary and grammar to support interactions
you would encounter during travel. You will learn to describe a daily routine and express possession, using reflexive verbs, prepositions, stress pronouns, and direct objects. A variety of video and audio sources with native speakers audio sources with native speakers will be utilized to help improve your oral comprehension. Part 1 and Part 2 can be taken simultaneously. Students should purchase the French Made Easy Level 1 book before the first class. No senior discounts (Julianna Stockwell)
Henry James Memorial School
Macrame Plant Hanger (FL320)
Tuesday October 21 2025
In this macrame workshop, you'll learn a few basic knots to create a unique style of plant hanger that also functions as decorative wall art. Blending traditional techniques with a modern twist, this project goes beyond the classic hanging planter to become an eye-catching piece for your space. You’ll explore texture, pattern, and balance while crafting a functional yet artistic plant hanger. All materials are provided, and no experience is necessary.
Gather at Hopmeadow
Financial Strategies for Successful Retirement (FL307)
Tuesday October 7 2025
This in-depth three-session course offers retirees or people thinking about retiring the opportunity to plan for a comfortable retirement. You’ll learn strategies designed to help generate a steady income, help protect your assets from erosion, reduce taxes, and provide a more secure retirement for you and your spouse. This seminar is designed for retired individuals and couples, and those planning on retiring in the next 5 to 10 years. You will also learn how to make the best use of your employer’s retirement plan, evaluate lump-sum distribution options, and help potentially reduce estate taxes through proper estate planning. You’ll also learn about various types of annuities. We will also cover Social Security, Medicare, and ways to provide asset allocation to properly position your assets to your objectives, risk tolerance, and prior investment experience. A spousal guest is included at no cost, but must register. (Valenti Wealth Management)
Henry James Memorial School
Salem Witch Museum Bus Trip (FL402)
Saturday October 18 2025
Begin your day with a self-guided tour of the Salem Witch Museum (admission included) where you can experience first hand the reign of terror and hysteria that was rampant in Salem in the 1690’s through the powerful multi-sensory presentation. Visitors are given a dramatic history lesson using stage sets with life-size figures, lighting and narration (an overview of the Witch Trials of 1692). That summer, 180 people had been accused and imprisoned totally defenseless against accusations of witchcraft in a society driven by superstition and fear. The afternoon will permit free time to enjoy “Haunted Happenings” around town. Visit the Witch Dungeon Museum or the Salem Pirate Museum (admission not
included). You can take a walking tour or ride the trolley. Enjoy the unique shops and quaint stores Salem offers. Lunch is on your own at one of the many restaurants in the area. The possibilities are endless! (Tours of Distinction)
Iron Horse Boulevard Parking Lot (behind Fitzgeralds)
Beginning Amigurumi Crochet (FL316) (CANCELLED)
Thursday September 18 2025
Welcome to beginner amigurumi, the Japanese art of creating small, stuffed yarn creatures! In this class, you will learn the basics of how to make adorable stuffed crochet items. In order to take this course, you must already know how to do the single crochet stitch. Bring bright, solid-colored yarn, worsted weight, a size G or larger crochet hook, and a darning/yarn needle. (5 weeks at Henry James School)
Simsbury Public Library
Take Great Smartphone Pictures (FL331)
Wednesday October 8 2025
The quality of smartphone cameras is improving rapidly. Their capabilities extend far beyond what some people primarily use them for... taking selfies. In many situations they work quite well as stand-ins for 35mm cameras. This class is for those interested in producing high-quality images with their smartphone cameras. That means learning and understanding the camera controls as well as when and how to use them. Doing so will put you in better control of your camera. And that means significantly better photographs. In addition, two types of editing programs will be introduced. A complete handout will be provided to all participants. Please note: This class will not cover the taking of selfies. (Peter Glass)
Henry James Memorial School
Beginner Crochet (FL317)
Wednesday September 17 2025
Welcome to the art of crochet! This is a beginner course where you will learn the basics of crochet, from how to hold the yarn and hook, to simple stitches that will enable you to make all kinds of crochet projects for yourself or others. We will make a beautiful scarf that incorporates what we’ve learned in this class! Please bring Red Heart Super Saver yarn in a bright, solid color, and a size 5.50 or 6.00 crochet hook. (5 weeks)
Simsbury Public Library
Intermediate Pickleball: Adult (FL332)
Wednesday September 24 2025
Take your game to the next level! Focus on key areas to improve your game, strategy, court positioning, control, drop shot, drives, and lobs.
No equipment necessary - the paddle and ball will be supplied. (RFL Tennis Instructors)
Henry James Memorial School
Intro to Pickleball: Adult (FL333)
Wednesday September 24 2025
New to the game or have been playing but without any formal instruction to learn fundamentals? Our instructors will guide you through the game and teach you the fundamentals from the beginning with a variety of basic drills. You will also work on your serve, returning the serve, ground strokes, rules and score keeping. No equipment necessary - the paddle and ball will be supplied. (RFL Tennis Instructors)
Henry James Memorial School
After School Art Club (FL201)
Wednesday September 10 2025
Join us for a 6-week after school Art Club where kids can dive into fun with hands-on projects that spark creativity and self-expression. Students will explore new art techniques, like painting, printmaking, collage, or sculpture, using a variety of colorful materials. They'll learn how to plan and build their ideas while experimenting with tools and textures. This playful and supportive environment encourages imagination, problem-solving, and making new friends. This is a drop-off program at Gather at Hopmeadow at 961 Hopmeadow Street. (Kirsten Hocker)
Gather at Hopmeadow
Pumpkin Mouse House (FL304)
Tuesday October 14 2025
Step into a world of cozy autumn charm! In this whimsical class, you’ll learn to needle felt a miniature mouse and its sweet little pumpkin house. This project is a joyful introduction to 3D felting techniques and layering textures. You’ll leave class with a unique and heart-warming fall decoration that’s sure to delight family and friends. All materials provided – perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. (Dina Karpukov)
Henry James Memorial School
Aging In Place: How to Protect Assets (FL313)
Tuesday October 14 2025
Did you know that Connecticut is among the top 3 states with the highest costs for nursing home and long-term care? That’s why it is so important to do your due diligence and protect everything that you have worked SO hard for – and if possible – to do so while remaining in the comfort of your home!
In this program, we will help you better understand how to avoid putting your-hard earned assets at risk in a way that can best position you to stay in your own home and age in place. Specifically, you’ll learn about Medicaid and other public benefit programs the state has to offer as well as strategies that married or single people can use to protect their assets. All students will receive an informational booklet about long-term care planning crafted by our estate planning and elder law firm. (Attorney Lara Bomzer)
How Money Works (FL308) (CANCELLED)
Thursday October 9 2025
Learn how to create a budget, save money more efficiently, and learn how to tackle debt. By applying the principles of this class, you can achieve financial security. The guide for ‘How Money Works’ will be provided. (George Reigeluth)
Simsbury High School
Let's Talk Medicare (FL309)
Wednesday October 8 2025
Are you or a loved one about to turn 65 and are getting ready to sign up for Medicare? Attend this Medicare 101 course to learn about all the coverage options, their costs and the enrollment deadlines and penalties. Plans of discussion are: Original Medicare; Medicare parts A, B,
C and D; Medicare Advantage Plans; Medicare Supplements. We welcome any questions you may have regarding coverage options and which plan might be right for you, when to enroll, and sharing the cost associated with them. A detailed handout will be provided. It’s never too late to start planning! (Dan Dempsey)
Henry James Memorial School
Plan Your Social Security (FL311) (CANCELLED)
Tuesday October 7 2025
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (Charles Yannich, Jr./Albert D'Agosto of Retirement & Money Strategies)
What is a Trust? (FL314)
Tuesday October 7 2025
What is a trust, and how can it benefit you? In this program, we will explain how the different trusts work and clarify when using a trust may, or may not, be appropriate. We will also discuss the benefits of trusts including how they can be used to minimize or avoid taxes, safeguard assets from potential ex-spouses and creditors, preserve public benefits for loved ones, support beneficiaries with a disability or special needs, and if you can actually avoid probate. Whether you're new to trusts or have some understanding of them, our goal is to ensure you leave with a comprehensive understanding of how these valuable planning tools can work to your advantage. Following the class, every participant will receive an informational booklet about trusts crafted by our estate planning and elder law firm.(Attorney Colleen Masse)
Beginner Digital Photography (FL329)
Wednesday September 17 2025
Perhaps you own and shoot with a 35mm digital camera but are ending up with less than satisfactory photos. Or maybe you’re tired of shooting on AUTO, having realized you’d like a better understanding of how your camera works. This is the course for you! All the basic photography concepts will be covered in depth, including aperture settings, shutter speed, exposure and image editing basics.
With camera in hand, learn specific controls that mystify most beginners. Spend time in class taking pictures and learning composition ideas.
Please bring your 35mm digital camera (with its battery charged), battery charger, camera card, and instruction booklet. It would be helpful if your camera can operate in non-automatic modes, such as manual or shutter priority. A complete handout will be provided. (Peter Glass)
Henry James School
Getting Your Estate Plan Right (FL306)
Tuesday September 30 2025
Do you have a strong and up-to-date estate plan? If not, this task should be at the top of your to-do list! An estate plan is your legally documented roadmap for loved ones to know your wishes, and how to manage your financial, health, and/or legal affairs. This session will focus on important estate planning like Wills, powers of attorney, advance directives, trusts, and beneficiary designations. Learn what happens if you don’t have a Will, considerations for choosing your power of attorney and health care agents, and some common estate planning mistakes to avoid. All students will receive an easy-to-understand estate planning guidebook written by our attorneys. (Attorney Jeff Rivard)
Intro to Artificial Intelligence (FL330)
Thursday September 18 2025
Over this two-day, hands-on workshop, gain a comprehensive introduction to artificial intelligence. We'll explore the historical evolution of AI, identify the major players shaping its future, and cover essential safety and ethical practices.
Through practical, hands-on exercises, you'll learn to apply AI concepts yourself, unlocking a deeper understanding of how AI works and how to use it safely and effectively in real-world scenarios.
(2 sessions from 6:00-7:30 pm at Henry James School)
Henry James Memorial School
Game Day Nutrition: Fueling the Young Athlete (FL315) (CANCELLED)
Wednesday September 24 2025
Good nutrition is essential for any athlete to perform at their best, and it is especially important for young athletes. In this class we will cover the basics of sports nutrition to make sure your young athlete is properly fueled for their sport. This class is appropriate for parents, coaches, and athletes.
Simsbury High School
Little Yogis Adventure (FL202) (CANCELLED)
Thursday September 18 2025
This course offers an engaging introduction to yoga, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional development. Sessions include breathing exercises, sun salutation warm-ups, kids' yoga books, and mindfulness activities. Children explore various aspects of yoga including singing bowls, yoga blocks, and partner yoga in the form of playful yoga activities or games.
Everything is provided by the teacher, but kids are welcome to bring their own yoga mat if they want. (Sandra Shevchuk)
Squadron Line School
Beautiful Fall Wreath (FL301)
Wednesday September 17 2025
Learn to make a beautiful fall wreath that will fit between your front door and screen door or hang on any inside wall. Made of Decomesh, Premium ribbon, beautiful sign and fall leaves. The ribbons in the picture may not reflect exactly what will be in class.
Henry James Memorial School
Needle Felted Woodland Mushrooms (FL303) (CANCELLED)
Tuesday September 16 2025
Learn the magical art of needle felting by creating your own enchanting woodland mushrooms! In this beginner-friendly class, you'll shape colorful toadstools using wool roving and special felting needles. Along the way, you'll gain hands-on experience in basic felting techniques like forming shapes, blending colors, and adding details. These charming mushrooms make adorable decorations or thoughtful handmade gifts. No experience necessary – just bring your creativity! (Dina Karpukov)
Henry James Memorial School
Plan Your Social Security (FL310)
Monday September 15 2025
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (Yannich Retirement & Money Strategies)