Personal Enrichment

Summer 2026 Community Education

Intermediate Swing Dance for Teens/Adults

This course will be held at Dreamlights Studio at the Viaport Mall, 93 W. Campbell Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306

Students, ages 16 and older, will learn the intermediate footwork, rhythm, and styling of East Coast (6-count) Swing. Some basic dance experience is recommended.

 

Introduction to Ballet and Modern Dance for Teens/Adults

This course will be held at Dreamlights Studio at the Viaport Mall, 93 W. Campbell Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306

Students will learn elements of classical ballet, classical modern dance (Horton, Limon, Graham) with a healthy dose of post-modern dance (generally a mix of theater and dance) and jazz. Please wear stretchy clothing, have long hair pulled up in a pony tail, and be prepared to dance in socks or barefoot. No experience necessary.

 

Ballroom Dance for Teens/Adults

This course will be held at Dreamlights Studio at the Viaport Mall, 93 W. Campbell Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306

Students, 16 years and older, will learn the basic steps, style and rhythm of Waltz, Rumba, swing, and foxtrot. No partner or experience necessary.

 

Latin Dance for Teens/Adults

This course will be held at Dreamlights Studio at the Viaport Mall, 93 W. Campbell Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306

Students, 16 years and older, will learn the basic steps, style and rhythm of Merengue, Bachata, Salsa, and Cha Cha. No partner or experience necessary.

 

Intro to Swing Dance for Teens/Adults

This course will be held at Dreamlights Studio at the Viaport Mall, 93 W. Campbell Rd., Schenectady, NY 12306

Students, ages 16 and older, learn the basic footwork, rhythm, and styling of East Coast Swing (6 count). No partner or experience necessary.

 

NEW! Birding: An Introduction

Tuesday, July 7
6-8 p.m.
CRN# 60478
CFP 025-51
Fee: $45

Early summer is a great time to start looking at birds in the Capital Region. The many species that nest here are feeding their families, and others are present along the many waters of the region. How do we identify these birds, and where do we find them? In this introductory workshop, we will discuss identification techniques, binoculars, field guides, apps, and places to go “birding” in our region. Come get a head start on this fun and popular hobby!

 

NEW! The Hudson River: Its Human/Natural History

Tuesday, July 21
6-8 p.m.
CRN# 60479
CFP 026-51
Fee: $45

New York’s iconic Hudson River changes dramatically as it journeys 315 miles from the Adirondacks to New York Harbor. This class highlights its development from a tiny, shallow, rocky stream to a raging freshwater river, and then to a tidal estuary. The class will explore its narrowest, widest, and deepest points as we document its wildlife and habitats as it passes through forest, field, marshland, and cities large and small. We will also look at its dramatic human history, delving into its key role in art, transportation, industry, and America’s environmental movement.

 

Getting Paid to Talk: Intro to Voice-Overs

Monday, August 3
6:30-9 p.m.
CRN# 60198
CFP 725-51
Fee: $35

This course will be held at Voice Coaches, 26 Vly Road, Colonie, NY 12205.

From audio books, training material, animation, gaming, and commercials to socially relevant content, television, and more, today’s voice-over field has become a great way to leverage your individual interests, voice qualities, and communication skills in a whole new way. Learn about how the industry really works today, trends in opportunity in the community, and areas of future growth, and hear about the top traits casting professionals look for when hiring voice professionals. Students will also hear samples from working voice-over artists. Because this class is small, students will have the opportunity to record a sample professional voice-over under the direction of our instructor, who can offer feedback and advice. If you’ve ever wondered how to begin in voice-over part-time, full-time, or for supplemental or retirement income, this workshop is a great, upbeat, and realistic first step.

 

Nature Photography

Tuesday, August 4
6-8 p.m.
CRN# 60388
CFP 197-51
Fee: $45

Suitable for all levels of photographers with a variety of equipment, this course covers basic elements including light, composition, and focus, and how they apply to close-ups, landscapes, and wildlife photography. The course will discuss tools and techniques in the field, and simple editing to bring out the best in your photos.

 

NEW! Belly Dancing - Just Veils 

Tuesdays
August 4 – August 25
6-7:30 p.m.
CRN# 60474
CFP 021-51
Fee: $75

This course will be held at the Yama Kawa Dojo located at 140 Erie Blvd., Schenectady, NY 12305, Suite 211

Students will learn two veil choreographies while rediscovering the grace and sensuality of classic veil techniques. Veils are a dance prop of delight and mystery. Some Beladi dance techniques will be reviewed.  Some prior belly dance skills are helpful.

 

Aikido for Adults and Teens

Thursdays
August 6 – August 27
7-8:15 p.m.
CRN# 60199
CFP 800-51
Fee: $75

This course will be held at the Yama Kawa Dojo located at 140 Erie Blvd., Schenectady, NY 12305, Suite 211

Students, ages 14 and older, will practice Hombu style Aikido, which strengthens the body, mind, and spirit. Aikido uses blending and redirecting techniques, Jujutsu joint locks and boxing elements that keep this martial art applicable for all individuals. Aikido promotes self-defense, flexibility, strength building, and coordination. Note: Students are asked to wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.

 

NEW! Biblio/Poetry Therapy

Saturday, August 15
1-3 p.m.
CRN# 60472
CFP 020-01
Fee: $75

This course will be held at the Yama Kawa Dojo located at 140 Erie Blvd., Schenectady, NY 12305, Suite 211

This class is an introduction to the principals and practices of Biblio/Poetry Therapy including its history, legalities, credentialing process, and why it is necessary. Students will leave the class knowing the difference between writing workshops for honing the craft of writing and employing the clear techniques of Biblio/Poetry Therapy.  The class will have experiential opportunities to better grasp those differences. Knowing how to implement and maintain the boundaries between "writing workshops" and Biblio/Poetry practices supports the enrichment of one's professional practice responsibly. Anyone in the counseling, therapy fields, (CASAC, Social Work, etc.) as well as those leading specialty writing groups, would benefit greatly from the class.

 

NEW! Birding Your Backyard: Attracting Birds

Tuesday, August 18
6-8 p.m.
CRN# 60480
CFP 027-51
Fee: $45

Are you new to feeding birds or a veteran backyard birdwatcher looking for a few tips? Wondering what those birds are? Birds provide beauty, entertainment, and interest to our yards. The Fall is a great time to start or upgrade our efforts to welcome them. This one-night class covers feeders, food, water, and shelter to best welcome birds to our yards, along with identification of common species.