Buffalo Public Schools

Adult Education Division

Personal Enrichment

Are you interested in Learning for Leisure? 

 

Learning can be fun and a great way to relax and socialize. You might want to develop an existing interest or learn something new.

Learning can be a way of relaxing and doing something you enjoy, alongside other like-minded people in a relaxed environment.

Learning for leisure can also build your confidence, and act as a stepping-stone back into more academic learning.

Below is a list of available classes or you can search our catalog...

Conversational Spanish  Spanish is spoken by almost 400 million people worldwide and about half of the population in the Western Hemisphere speak Spanish. It is the primary language for as many people as English in this region of the world. Whether you are in health care, law enforcement, social work or just want to travel to a Spanish-speaking country, this lively and entertaining class will teach you active listening skills as well as correct Spanish pronunciation. You’ll learn common phrases and vocabulary, sentence structure, and conversational techniques.
Entrepreneurship - Owning Your Own Business - Have you dreamed of owning our own business but have been fearful of taking the first step? Explore the benefits and the challenges of small business ownership, the opportunities and pitfalls. You’ll gain a better understanding of what you need to know before you move out of your comfort zone and head in the direction of your dreams. Learn how to write a business plan, create business cards, and where to obtain financing. You will discuss the different types of businesses that might suit you. Learn about marketing and financial statements while gaining broader understanding of the role of the Internet in business development. If you have the courage to begin and the persistence to endure, nothing should hold you back from achieving your goals. 
Basic Drawing & Painting - This course is intended to be therapeutic and enjoyable for beginners as well as more experienced artists. You do not have to know how to draw or paint to enjoy this course. Have fun while exploring the use of several media: pencil, watercolor pencil, watercolor painting and oil painting. The students’ interests and ability level will determine the focus. Taught by an experienced illustrator and designer.

Introduction to Digital Photography - Learn the basics of digital photography and the digital darkroom. This course will focus on the technology that drives the digital camera including information on exposure, lighting, composition, and digital formats. Adobe Photoshop CS will introduce you to the digital darkroom. Topics for this industry-standard software include selections, tools, layers, text, color, paint, masking, channels, and much more. This hands-on course will provide you with the skills to use your camera effectively and the know-how to improve and manipulate images. This is a useful course for anyone in almost any field who wants to learn the basics of creating, improving, and manipulating images. Prerequisite: Must have basic computer knowledge.
Basic Floral Design - With little or no floral experience, you will be able to create your own floral arrangements. You will be introduced to some of the basics of floral design including the following topics: bow making, creating bud vase and vase arrangements, centerpieces, wreaths, and holiday decorations using fresh and silk flowers.
Introduction to Interior Design - Love to decorate? Want a new look for your home? Get some great ideas from Lil E. Designs to include the following topics: Color Effects Me, Basic Design, The Practice of Measuring, Floor Planning, Period Furniture, and End Results. “Measure Mate,” a handbook for decorating, will be available for a cost of $10, payable to the instructor. Please bring a 11/2 inch three ring binder.
Mosaics - Learn to create beautiful mosaic designs using stained glass, ceramic tile or broken dishes. Craft your own masterpiece, each with its own unique texture and color. Highly skilled instructor employs both the direct and indirect method, and teaches with a variety of materials applications. Come with your own ideas or become inspired with new ones.

Quilting by Hand - Made Easy - Rejuvenate your sewing skills and develop a quilting hobby that benefits the heart, soul and body. At the end of this course you will be able to create your own sewing essentials kit and develop and define sewing skills. Explore creativity with quilt making and learn the advantages of recycling common fabrics for additional uses.

Introduction to Fitness Training - Gain confidence to safely workout and train in any fitness club by the end of this 6-week course.  Learn the difference between isolation and compound exercises and the advantages of each; the difference between free weights and weight machines and the advantages of each. Learn how to maintain proper form and breathing techniques and the correct way to stretch and warm up before exercising. Most of all, this class will help you understand the health benefits that come with weight training and exercise. All students MUST come prepared to workout with shorts, T-shirt and water bottle. Locker Rooms will be available.

Business & Marketing for Artists - Are you an aspiring artist? Do you want to learn how to make money by selling your art and winning commissions? This course taught by internationally recognized public artist Augustina Droze will help you gain the confidence and business know-how to jump start your career as a professional artist. You will learn the basics of marketing, business plans, promotion, legal issues, sales and presentations, and how to succeed in the gallery or public art setting.

Introduction to Microsoft Office - Need to improve your computer skills? Learn how to create documents and templates and use tables as you are introduced to Microsoft Word. Enhance your keyboarding skills while developing speed and accuracy. Learn shortcuts that will develop your proficiency in Microsoft Office. Students will learn basic spreadsheet skills with an introduction to Excel. Find out how to create a simple budget using this powerful tool. Learn some simple skills for “surfing the net.”