Castro Valley Adult School Active Adults

The Castro Valley Adult School offers classes on our 4430 Alma Ave. campus and at the following locations as noted on each class.
Active Adults 50+ classes are on-going and tuition FREE unless otherwise indicated. Register in the class. Adults under 50 may enroll in classes on a space available basis for a registration fee of $25 unless otherwise indicated in the course description. For registration and additional information call 886-1000.

BIRDS OF THE BAY AREA

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
Treat yourself to an adventure into the world of birding. Join naturalist, wildlife photographer, and ornithologist, Phil Gordon, to learn important tips on bird identification, bird finding, and birding equipment. This class includes ten hours of lecture/discussion interspersed with hiking and field practice in local regional parks and open spaces. Field trips will be announced in class.

Instructor: Phil Gordon has over 25 years experience as a birding instructor. He has served as Field Trip Leader and Guide extensively within and outside the U.S. Member: of ABA & AOU; Ohlone Audubon Soc.; CA Academy of Science; Point Reyes and San Francisco Bay Bird Observatories; Lindsay Wildlife Museum.

10 classes
Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-Seniors may enroll in this class for $29

BIRDS FOR EVERY SEASON

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
This year round course is divided into three areas of study, FALL; WINTER; SPRING/SUMMER. Each section is tailored to the seasonal, changing habits of birds that provide the best examples of study during these contrasting seasons. Classes include models, specimens, demonstrations, slide shows, study sheets and practice using methods of recording observations. Emphasis will be directed towards birds of California and the S.F. Bay Area. There will be opportunities to join the instructor as well as others on community and organizational field trips. This class will be coordinated with the Friday morning field trip classes, both of which will be designed with a year after year sequence for the bird study student.

Phil Gordon has over 25 years experience as a birding instructor. He has served as Field Trip Leader and Guide extensively within and outside the U.S. Member: of ABA & AOU; Ohlone Audubon Soc.; CA Academy of Science; Point Reyes and San Francisco Bay Bird Observatories; Lindsay Wildlife Museum.

*Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $29
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THE MEMORY ACADEMY

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
The Memory Academy is an 11 week program/ curriculum to educate students on the things that normally come with age, and how to adapt to them. The latest research is used to provide mentally challenging activities that work all parts of the brain. Included in the class is physical exercise and relaxation techniques that help counteract stress. Important topics are covered to keep students informed about how the brain and body works, issues that affect them, and all that works together to strengthen the mind, body, spirit and independence. Space is limited to 30 students.

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
The Advanced Memory Academy is for students who have already taken The Memory Academy and wish to continue strengthening and developing their mind and body. Activities such as cryptographs will push our brains to work in new ways and we shall challenge each person physically toward their next level of fitness. Space is limited to 30 students.

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $29
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Computer games are not just for kids wielding imaginary weapons anymore. There is a world of cognitively stimulating games and activities that are easy to learn and fun to use! Come join this class as we explore games that will improve your mouse skills and your brain power. Some examples of the computer games we will explore are solitaire, mah-jongg solitaire, tetris, sudoku, crossword puzzles, minesweeper, and movie games. Once you learn these cognitive games in class you can continue on your home computer with the ones you enjoy most. No prior computer experience or skill necessary.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS 50+ - LEVEL 1
061501
(Information Technology) This slow-paced, hands-on course provides a solid foundation for the beginning computer user. Students will explore many of the typical uses of computers at home and at the workplace. Topics covered will include:

Hardware/Software
• Taskbar
• Control Panel
• Customizing your desktop
• Simple word processing
• Organizing and finding files
• Using Window’s Help feature

This class gets the new computer user started and is a good review for those with some computer experience.

(Please preregister by March 31) 6 classes

Course	Dates	Days	Times	Instructor	Location	Fees
061501	4/1-5/6	Tu	11:00am-1:30pm	Best	*Room 18	$38

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $69

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS 50+ - LEVEL 2

Information Technology)
In this hands-on course you will learn more about the Windows operating system including files and folders, shortcuts, internet, web and email.

(Please preregister by May 12) 6 classes

Prerequisite: Intro to Computers for Seniors Level 1, or equivalent experience. It is important to know how to use the mouse effectively.

Course	Dates	Days	Times	Instructor	Location	Fees
061601	5/13-6/17	Tu	11:00am-1:30pm	Best	*Room 18	$38

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $69

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS 50+ - LEVEL 3

(Information Technology)
This hands-on course is a continuation of Intro Level 2 and includes learning more about email, attachments and using the Internet. We will also focus on different programs and how to wisely choose which program to use for which task.

Prerequisite: Intro to Computers for Seniors Level 2.

(Please preregister by July 21) 3 classes

Course	Dates	Days	Times	Instructor	Location	Fees
061601	7/22-8/5	Tu	11:00am-1:30pm	Best	*Room 18	$30

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $69

MICROSOFT WORD

(Computer/Software Applications)
Students will learn how to create, edit and print documents, for example, a letter or a book. Skills
taught include; editing, cutting, copying, pasting, opening and saving files.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers for Seniors - Level 1, or equivalent knowledge.

(Please preregister by June 6) 3 classes

Course	Dates	Days	Times	Instructor	Location	Fees
061701	6/9-6/23	Tu	11:00am-1:30pm	Best	*Room 18	$30

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $

FILES AND FOLDERS

(Information Technology)
In this hands-on class you will learn the difference between files and folders. You’ll practice creating folders, and learn to copy and move files so it will be easier to find your files. We’ll discuss when and how to use CDs, DVDs and USB flash drives to store your files.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers for Seniors - Level 1, or equivalent knowledge.

(Please preregister by May 9) 2 classes

Course	Dates	Days	Times	Instructor	Location	Fees
067101	5/12-5/19	Mon	11:00-1:30pm	Best	*Room 18	$21

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-seniors may enroll in this class for $
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Language

BASIC SPANISH I

(The World)
Learning a new language is a challenging adventure and this class is your first step. We’ll start with set phrases, and add simple grammar and vocabulary, enabling you to express yourself correctly. We’ll learn about the principles of pronunciation necessary to understand and be understood. Whether you want to learn Spanish for work, travel or your own enjoyment, this class will help you enter the world of Spanish speakers.

BASIC SPANISH II

(The World)
In the Basic Spanish II class, we will continue building on the vocabulary and grammar concepts begun in the Basic Spanish class. We will cover a variety of everyday topics useful for travel, work or simple conversation. Continue on the exciting journey of learning the language spoken by over 300 million people worldwide. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of Basic Spanish or permission of instructor.

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
Non-Seniors may enroll in this class for $59

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JEWELRY MAKING

The Arts)
Throughout history, people have enhanced their personal sense of beauty by adorning themselves with jewelry. Now it’s your turn! Take some time to learn the basics of jewelry making. This course will cover techniques in stringing, pearl knotting, and wire working. Create lovely necklaces,bracelets and earrings through class projects and personalized instruction. All first time students pay a $30 material fee (paid to teacher at first class, cash or checks only) to cover stringing materials, findings and simple beads for class projects. Students may wish to purchase additional materials to personalize their creations. Returning students may choose to pay a reduced fee of $15 if they wish to provide all their own beads.

ARM CHAIR TRAVEL

(The World)
East Africa on safari. Join Arnie for a personal guided tour of his trip to Africa. Discussion and questions.

INTRODUCTION TO DRAWING

(The Arts)
Learn to draw what you see! This class will provide instruction for the beginner and experienced artist who want to develop proficiency in drawing. Students will practice drawing exercises and learn rendering techniques that will help to create beautiful finished drawings. A materials list is available at the Castro Valley Adult School main office.

Instructor: Jenny Speckels holds a BFA in Drawing from California College of Arts & Crafts. She is also a published illustrator—many of her plant illustrations can be seen in Sunset’s Western Garden Book. Maximum of 25 students.

THE ART OF DRAWING AND PAINTING

(The Arts)
All art media explored. A self-paced class geared to the student’s own personal level of ability. Other areas included are: composition, perspective, color mixing, use of values, use of line, texture, and perspective. All levels of ability welcome. Occasional field trips. Material list available at first class meeting.

CLASSIC MOVIE HIGHLIGHTS

(Arts)
Join us in a vicarious stroll through the finest moments of Hollywood’s Golden Era with plenty of eye candy to mark the way. Each class will focus on a specific film, director, actor or genre and will include clips from movies or documentaries as well as trivia and behind-the scenes facts. Media includes film, classic film books, magazines and handouts.

(Safeguarding Self and Property)
This seminar will give you an overview of the four basic parts of Medicare and help you to better understand what is right for you.

Taking Care of Your Feet

(Health Literacy)
This course will provide information on how to protect, maintain, and improve the health and strength of your feet, including methods for relieving discomfort and pain. It will address questions about selecting proper foot wear, beneficial exercises, and cover common foot ailments (plantar fasciitis, arthritis, corns, calluses, spurs, etc.), as well as whether pedicures and massage are beneficial. This course can be of particular importance for athletes, diabetics, and those coping with the challenges of aging and poor circulation.

Instruction will be provided by Dr. Ken Howayeck, Board Certified Podiatrist and Foot Surgeon; Founder and President, Steps Above Foundation, Ltd.; Founder and Owner, “Five Star Wellness Testing;” Clinical Asst. Prof. of Surg., Univ. Hawaii Sch. of Medicine; Book Author, “My Foot Is Killing Me!;” Past Pres. Hawaii Pod. Medical Assoc.

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School
** $5 per session or $12 for all 3 sessions
Non-Seniors may enroll in this class for $29

INTRODUCTION TO GOLF-BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE
(Golf scores 80 and above)

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
This class will introduce you to the basics of playing a game of golf beginning with classroom instruction in room 19. Learn the fundamentals including correct “golf-club grip”, useful drills to improve your game, golf course management and how to lower your score breaking 100, 90, 80. The instructor will provide a schedule for practice sessions at the driving range. You may bring your own clubs or use one provided by the instructor.

Instructor: Ken Schmidt, PGA School of Instruction/Private Instructor

ARTHRITIS AQUATICS PROGRAM

Relieve arthritis pain with the use of buoyancy from water and the relaxing warmth of a heated pool. This combination creates an excellent environment for decreasing arthritis pain and stiffness. Gentle movements utilized in this program help to improve flexibility and increase joint motion, while restoring or maintaining muscle strength. Please bring a bathing suit and towel.

Aquatic Instructors are trained and certified by the Arthritis Foundation. The exercises prescribed meet the requirements as outlined by the Arthritis Foundation. Classes purchased through the Castro Valley Adult School (CVAS) do not have to be used sequentially, but must be used during the quarter purchased. Once the initial 8 classes are completed, students may purchase additional sessions through CVAS. Open enrollment.

*Classes held at: Vibrant Care Rehabilitation
20996 Redwood Road
Castro Valley, CA 94546

FITNESS FOR ACTIVE ADULTS 50+

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
Come have fun while improving your flexibility, cardiovascular health, bone density, and muscle strength. Lots of stretching, low impact aerobic dancing, strength training with light weights, and floor exercises. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring weights and exercise mat.

(No class 5/26, )

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

FITNESS AND RELAXATION

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
These classes include the best of many different types of exercise; Circuit Training, Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi and basic weight lifting with light weights. You will improve range of motion, posture, balance, and coordination while also strengthening knees, torso, shoulder, back and neck. Everyone is encouraged to work at their own pace. Wear comfortable loose clothing. Open Enrollment.. NO FLOOR EXERCISES. BEGINNERS WELCOME!

(No class 1/21, 2/18 4/12, 4/30, 5/3, 5/5, 5/7, 5/26)

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

NICE AND EASY MOVEMENT

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
Whether your doctor has advised you to enroll in an on-going exercise class following a brief hospitalization or you’re seeking a moderate exercise program, our instructor will lead you through a slower-paced exercise routine that provides the benefits of improved flexibility, cardiovascular health, bone density, and muscle strength. Lots of chair exercises, stretching, low impact aerobic dancing, and strength training with light weights. No floor exercises. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring weights.

(No class 1/21, 2/18,5/26, 7/4)

* Class held at Castro Valley Adult School

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

SLOW AND EASY MOVEMENT

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
The gentle exercises in this new class are appropriate for people who have suffered a stroke, developed arthritis or osteoporosis and for those with neuromuscular conditions such as Parkinson’s that limit mobility. People using wheelchairs or walkers are especially invited to attend. Most activities will be done seated and in stocking feet. Please wear comfortable clothing. Caregivers are enchouraged to participate.

(No class 7/4)

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

TONE AND TRIM

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
Enjoy your workout while exercising to fun motivating music. These classes are designed to be effective and safe at a moderate intensity promoting high calorie burning with cardio work and basic strength training with a focus on core muscles using the theory of Pilates. Routines are designed with a blending of Tai Chi (to warm muscles), Circuit Training aerobics and strength work (with light-weights), floor work with Pilates and a relaxing cool down with Yoga flexibility stretches to reduce stress and relieve tight aching back and neck muscles. Also improve posture, balance and coordination while strengthening muscles to support knees, backs and shoulders as well as all other health benefits of regular moderate exercise; prevent Diabetes, Heart Disease, Osteoporosis while lowering Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure. Certified Personal Trainer will easily tailor the activities to fit you r personal fitness needs and abilities.

SENIOR NUTRITION/ACTIVITY PROGRAM FOR ACTIVE ADULTS 50+

(Retirement)
This program includes Spectrum’s Fall Prevention & Balance Exercise Class on Tuesdays from 9:15-10:15 and Tai Chi instruction on Thursdays. Sewing, needle art, beading, oil painting (Thursdays only) and other craft activities are available throughout the morning. Computerized sewing machines make your sewing experience easy and fun. Additional events include sing-alongs, choral concerts, senior health screening and guest speakers that will educate and provide valuable nutrition information or inform you of helpful resources available to active adults 50+ through local and county agencies. A nutritional lunch is available with a reservation. If you would like to volunteer to help with the lunch program, please contact Lynn Hollfelder (866-1000) for more information.

SPECTRUM'S FALL PREVENTION & BALANCE EXCERCISE CLASS

Are you beginning to lose your balance or trip and fall more often. Then strengthen your
muscles, improve your balance and learn how to prevent falls in this one hour Fall Prevention and
Balance exercise class.

SPECTRUM'S FALL PREVENTION MEDICATION MANAGMENT SERIES

Did you know that your medications may be causing you to fall? Come and hear a licensed pharmacist speak on a variety of Medication and Fall Prevention topics. All presentations are FREE.

• April 29 Arthritis
• June 17 High Blood Pressure

Free one-on-one consultation with the pharmacistis available to evaluate the medications you are currently taking. Bring your list of medications. Also you may sign up to meet with a multi-lingual licensed pharmacist if your primary language is other than English.

REVERSE MORTGAGE AND PRIVATE INVESTING

(Safeguarding Self and Property)
Investing for seniors. Learn about which kinds of investments to be leery of as a senior. Which may be right for you. Get a general overview of reverse mortgages and how you can tap into your home equity. Learn how to postpone your property taxes if necessary.

AVOIDING FINANCIAL FRAUD AND IDENTITY THEFT

(Safeguarding Self and Property)
Don’t be the next victim of identity theft or financial fraud. Come and learn common ways to avoid these crimes affecting many Americans. You will receive valuable resource lists on how to protect yourself and your assets.

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

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Understanding Electronic Gadgets

(Technology)
Have you heard the terms GPS, iPod, MP3 player, DVR, memory key, USB connection, WiFi, Blue Tooth, digital camera, uploading photographs, downloading photographs? At the end of this class you will know what these and other terms mean, you will have seen many of these devices, and you will have a pretty good idea as to the benefits/enjoyment these devices can bring to your daily life.

GENEALOGY

(Family)
Researching your Heritage… a step by step program to uncover your ancestry domestically and internationally. Where will your research take you? Each student is assigned a computer with internet and e-mail access for an hour and a half each week. This allows the researcher to expand and uncover the family history utilizing the latest technology of U.S. Census, ancestor listings and military records. It’s a fantastic way to explore the unknown.

BRUSH UP YOUR SHAKESPEARE AND CULTURAL LITERACY

(Communication)
View Shakespeare’s plays and related subjects on video. Read some scenes. Discuss the writing, the times, and the themes. Also explore the language of Shakespeare and our own time. Come share your knowledge, learn from others, or just enjoy the plays.

MATURE DRIVERS CLASS

(Health and Fitness Literacy)
Mature drivers 55 and over–– you may qualify for a reduced auto insurance premium by completing a mature drivers course. This is an eight hour class that will cover traffic laws in California, discuss defensive driving techniques that will help you compensate for mistakes of other drivers and deficiencies caused by aging. Contact your insurance agent to see if you qualify for an insurance discount. The certificate is included and is good for three years. You must be a California licensed driver.

BASIC TECHNIQUES IN PIANO, ORGAN AND KEYBOARD

(The Arts)
Learn to play piano, organ or keyboard in our unique music lab. Students work independently at learning stations that are designed for multilevel instruction. Computers are available for an on-line piano tutorial for all levels. Electronic keyboards with headphones allow students to practice while waiting for a private lesson with the instructor. Information for purchasing a book will be given at the first class or bring your own from home.

OPERAS AND BALLETS FOR MUSIC LOVERS

(The Arts)
Imagine spending a blissful afternoon at the opera or ballet. This class will feature presentations of the world’s most successful operas and ballets, highlight composer profiles, and examine unique characteristics that have contributed to the success of each production. Scheduled viewing of world renowned professional performances along with participant favorites will be announced in class.

SENIOR SING-ALONG CHORUS
CO-SPONSORED BY H.A.R.D/C.V.A.S

(The Arts)
If you enjoy singing, this class is for you. Enjoy combining the power and richness of your own voice with others in this great sing-along group. Songs will include a repertoire of Broadway show tunes, songs from the hit parade of the 30’s and 40’s and other favorites. Director: Angie Zigenis

*Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Road
Castro Valley
510-881-6738

** $1.00 drop-in fee at front desk

CASTRO VALLEY ADULT SCHOOL BAND

(The Arts)
If you love music and play an instrument, come join the Castro Valley Adult School Community Band! This traditional concert band performs at least four concerts per year, and is the featured band for the Annual Rowell Ranch Parade (seated. . .not marching!) The band performs classical music as well as marches, show tunes and pops. A great way to keep up your skills, develop new skills on a second instrument and make new friends who share your musical interests. Intermediate and advanced players welcome. Visit our website at: www.CastroValleyBand.com

CASTRO VALLEY ADULT SCHOOL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

(The Arts)
Come play great music! The Castro Valley Adult School Chamber Orchestra will perform three concerts during the year, provide outreach to enthuse students in music and build community support for the performing arts. If you are an intermediate to advanced player, the Chamber Orchestra will be a fulfilling musical experience and a fun way to bring great music to the community. Members are chosen by audition and instrument needs for the next performance.

* Room 22
Class Held at: Creekside Middle School
19722 Center Street
Castro Valley, CA

CASTRO VALLEY ADULT SCHOOL JAZZ BAND- BIG BAND SWING ERA

(The Arts)
A continuation of the class which began in the fall quarter, this class is open to adults who enjoy sight reading and playing the big band sounds of the 1930’s and ‘40’s. The musical library of over 300 arrangements are for two Alto, two Tenor and Baritone Saxophones, four Trumpets, four Trombones, Piano, String Bass, Guitar and Drums. Alto’s and Tenor’s who double on Clarinet or Flute is a plus. Vocalists are also welcome to try out. The band will perform two concerts per year at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.

(No class 5/26)

*Room G2
Class Held at: Canyon Middle School
19600 Cull Canyon Rd
Castro Valley, CA