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Continuing Education

Explore the enriching opportunities offered through South Colonie's Continuing Education program, designed for adults of all backgrounds. Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, pursue a hobby, or enhance your professional development, our program provides affordable classes with minimal fees for registration, instruction, and materials.

Office of Continuing Education
Anjelieeque Martinez, Director
Kristen Kristel, Coordinator
102 Loralee Drive, Albany, NY 12205
(518) 869-3576, ext. 0443

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News

Interested in discovering more about our continuing education program? Simply complete this form, and you'll be among the first to receive updates about upcoming programs and opportunities.

Continuing Ed News

Spring 2026 — Registration opens Dec. 19

Registration for our Spring 2026 program opens Friday, Dec. 19.  Classes begin Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.

Discover a wide variety of classes for all interests — arts, fitness, tech, enrichment, and more — plus a special one-day bus trip to New York City on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

 

Spring 2026 Program

Spring 2026
Classes begin February 2.

If you register for a course that is subsequently cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, you will be notified and receive a refund electronically. No other refunds will be given. No notification will be sent to registrants unless the course is cancelled. 

 

Printed Program

  • Taxes & Retirement

    • Instructor: Stephen Cash
    • Tuesday, Feb. 10  & Thursday, Feb. 12
    • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
    • Room 114 – Colonie Central High School 
    • Fee:  $18,  Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – Free.

    The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” passed in July 2025, will reshape many of our financial lives.  From the Federal tax brackets, changes to SALT (state and local taxes), mortgage interest, property tax deductions, updated child tax credits, senior deductions, expanded standard and itemized deductions, to car purchase incentives and more.  Beyond today’s taxes, “OBBBA” impacts future retirement income sources, healthcare costs (including Medicare) and estate planning for future generations.  Join us as we navigate potential pitfalls before they become irrevocable.  Discover how to turn challenges into planning opportunities by being proactive, not reactive. 


    So, You’re Ready to Downsize!

    • Instructor: Neil Bindelglass
    • Wednesday, Feb. 11
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Room 112 – Colonie Central High School 
    • Fee:  $23, Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – $18

    According to AARP, an American will turn 50 every eight seconds.  That is more than 10,000 people every day.  During this time, many people begin to think about downsizing, either by choice or because of health-related issues and it can all be very overwhelming.  This class will give an overview about how to break this mammoth task down into manageable pieces.  Topics will include:  Sorting your possessions, how to downsize, space planning for a new residence, questions to ask before you hire a mover, home staging, when a Senior Move Manager is right for you, and questions to ask a Senior Move Manager before you hire them.  


    How to Get Rid of Your Stuff: Selling and Donating Items

    • Instructor: Neil Bindelglass
    • Thursday, Feb. 12
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Room 112 - Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $23, Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – $18

    This course is the perfect accompaniment to “So, You’re Ready to Downsize.”  Millions of Americans are downsizing and moving to smaller homes.  And many older Americans have been in their homes for decades.  This course will discuss how you can dispose of all of the items that you don’t want or won’t be taking with you when you move.  Topics will include Craig’s List, Ebay, estate sales, giving things away and donating goods (and the tax benefits).


    Taxes & Retirement

    • Instructor: Stephen Cash
    • Tuesday, Feb. 24  & Thursday, Feb. 26
    • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
    • Room 114 – Colonie Central High School 
    • Fee:  $18,  Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – Free.

    The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” passed in July 2025, will reshape many of our financial lives.  From the Federal tax brackets, changes to SALT (state and local taxes), mortgage interest, property tax deductions, updated child tax credits, senior deductions, expanded standard and itemized deductions, to car purchase incentives and more.  Beyond today’s taxes, “OBBBA” impacts future retirement income sources, healthcare costs (including Medicare) and estate planning for future generations.  Join us as we navigate potential pitfalls before they become irrevocable.  Discover how to turn challenges into planning opportunities by being proactive, not reactive. 


    Preplanning Cemetary Services

    • Instructor: Matthew Yager & Trish Wielt
    • Thursday, February 26                                         
    • 6 to 7 p.m.                 
    • Room 112 - Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $18,  Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – Free

    This class offers an introduction to preplanning for your family’s cemetery needs. It is a step by step educational program including history, rules, regulations, current laws, and burial options for you and your family. Presented by Memory Gardens. 


    Healthcare After Retirement – Part 1

    • Instructor: Michael Stanton
    • Tuesday, March 3
    • 6:15 to 8 p.m.
    • Room 112 – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $18, Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – Free

    Do you know what to expect when it comes to Medicare? Did you know Medicare is mandatory for those collecting Social Security and it will likely be your greatest expense in retirement? If you or someone you know is turning 65, ready to retire, or losing your employer plan, this course will help you discover an understanding of Medicare. From Part A to IRMAA, learn the fundamentals of how each section of Medicare works in this hands-on class aimed at making complex information easy-to-understand.


    Healthcare After Retirement – Part 2

    • Instructor: Michael Stanton
    • Tuesday, March 24
    • 6:15 to 8 p.m.
    • Room 112 – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $18, Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – Free

    An educational course designed to help you understand the differences between Advantage, Supplemental and Prescription drug plans. This is the second course in the Healthcare series offered by Michael Stanton. 


    Getting Paid to Talk/An Introduction to Voice Over 

    • Instructor: Voice Coaches
    • Monday, March 9 
    • 6:30 to 9 p.m.
    • White Lake Music & Post Recording Studios, 26 Vly Road, Albany 12205
    • Fee:  $23, Colonie SeniorCourtesy Card Fee -$18.

    From audio books to advertisements and beyond, we encounter recorded voices everywhere!  In this one-night class, your instructor will take you behind-the-scenes in the voice over field for a fun and realistic look at how the voice over field really works.  You’ll gain inside perspective on developing skills and how to leverage your voice’s strengths.  You will also have an opportunity to record a sample of professional voice over under the instruction of the instructor. 

    With more than 30 years as a voice over artist and voice over producer, your instructor is part of the team at Voice Coaches with clients including major television networks, gaming designers, audio book publishers and more.  Learn more at voicecoaches.com.  


    Rubber Stamping - All Occasion Cards

    • Instructor: Ann Burns
    • Wednesday, March 18 
    • 6:30 to 9 p.m.
    • Room 134 – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $23, Fee: Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – $18

    Need a card for a special occasion?  In this class you will make a Sympathy, Get Well and two Birthday cards.  We will make four cards using different techniques and folds.  Your family and friends will be so impressed when they receive their handmade card from you!  Envelopes included.  No stamping experience necessary.  Please bring double sided adhesive and a small pair of scissors.  Check out samples of the instructor’s work on her website.


    Rubber Stamping - Humorous Cards

    • Instructor: Ann Burns
    • Wednesday, April 1
    • 6:30 to 9 p.m.
    • Room 134 – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee:  $23, Fee: Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – $18

    Everyone enjoys getting a funny card for their birthday or “just because.”  In the class you will make cards to send to good friends.  The cards will not only be funny, they will be made using napkins, incorporating fancy folds and a technique to impress everyone. Envelopes included. No prior stamping experience needed.  Please bring a pair of scissors and adhesive of your choice. Check out samples of the instructor’s work on her website.


    Hudson River: It’s Human and Natural History 

    • Instructor: Scott Stoner
    • Monday, April 13                              
    • 6:30-8:30 PM       
    • Room 107 – Sand Creek Middle School
    • Fee:  $23, Fee: Colonie Senior Courtesy Cardholders – $18

    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.  We will embark on its narrowest, widest and deepest points as we document its wildlife and habitats as it passes through forest, field, marshland and cities.  In addition, we will take a look at the dramatic human history of this great river delving into its key role in art, transportation and industry specifically, in America’s environmental movement.  Join us for this two-hour class on “The River That Flows Both Ways.” 

  • Beginning Feb. 2 unless otherwise noted

    Yoga Flow with Cardio, Strength and More

    • Instructor: Lisette Roldan-Hart
    • 8 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
    • Cafeteria – Forest Park Elementary School
    • Fee: $60, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $55.

    This class is designed to create an effective and well-rounded fitness routine for all levels, from beginners to advanced students. Participants should bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. Athletic apparel is recommended. Hand weights may be brought, but they are not necessary for the workout. Strength exercises will focus on using one’s own body.


    *Continuing Transparent Watercolor 

    • Instructor: Kevin Kuhne
    • 6 Weeks, March 16 – April 27
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Room 245 – Sand Creek Middle School
    • Fee: $50, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee -$45.

    *Start Date: March 16

    This 6-week course is for the student who has some basic knowledge of the materials and techniques of transparent watercolor.  Any previous watercolor class is a helpful prerequisite.  We will explore a theme in watercolor (possibly Spring flowers) and continue to practice and expand our painting skills.  We may also study the watercolors of an old or current master by copying one of their works which relates to our chosen theme.  Class will not meet on April 6.

    Materials:  Do not buy any special supplies until after the first class, but please bring whatever watercolor supplies you already have.  Do bring a water container, facial tissue and paper towels (or a cloth) to the first class. 


    Coed Volleyball – Intermediate

    • Instructor: Paul DeFrancisco
    • 12 weeks
    • 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
    • New Gym – Sand Creek Middle School
    • Fee: $75, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee-not applicable to this course.

    Competitive pickup games for veteran players. Participants are expected to have a mastery of basic volleyball skills and a hands-on knowledge of offensive and defensive strategies, including the use of designated hitters, setters, blockers, and more. Play will be conducted in accordance with USA Volleyball rules and regulations. This class is NOT for beginners.


    Quilting – Intermediate

    • Instructor: Donna Hyer
    • 10 weeks
    • 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Library Lounge – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee: $55, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee – $50.

    If you have a basic knowledge of quilting or would like to brush up on your skills and learn some new techniques, this class is for you. We’ll be making a quilt or a table runner (or two) and having fun along the way.

  • Beginning Feb. 3 unless otherwise noted

    *ZUMBA

    • Instructor: Carolyn Schirnglone
    • 6 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
    • Cafeteria – New Location:  Forest Park Elementary School
    • Fee: $50, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $45.

    *Start Date: February, 24

    A Latin-inspired dance fitness class that incorporates Latin and international music. The class combines fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. You will get a great workout while having a blast. Choreography incorporates hip-hop, soca, salsa, merengue and mambo. Squats and lunges can also be included. Moving in sync to music will make you work hard and help you build endurance, tone muscles, and build definition. Bring water and a towel.


    Quilting Beginner

    • Instructor: Donna Hyer
    • 10 Weeks 
    • 6 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Library Lounge – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee: $55, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $50.

    Learn the basics and/or learn the proper way to put a quilt together. Have fun and make a lap quilt in the 10-week session.

  • Beginning Feb. 4 unless otherwise noted

    Ballroom Dancing II for Couples

    • Instructor: Janet Murphy
    • 10 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.
    • Cafeteria – Roessleville Elementary School
    • Fee: $70 per couple, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $65 per couple.

    Now that you know the basic steps of the Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Rhumba and Waltz, it’s time to kick it up a notch!


    Ballroom Dancing I for Couples

    • Instructor: Janet Murphy
    • 10 Weeks 
    • 7:15 to 8 p.m. 
    • Cafeteria – Roessleville Elementary School
    • Fee: $70 per couple Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $65 per couple.

    Learn the basic steps of the Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Rhumba and Waltz. A course for couples getting married or
    just for fun!


    Coed Volleyball – Beginner Level

    • Instructor: Tammy Thayer
    • 12 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Gym - Forest Park Elementary School
    • Fee: $75, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $70.

    Learn basic skills and knowledge of the game in a relaxed, non-competitive, non-aggressive, fun-filled atmosphere. Perfect for those who have always wanted to try it, those who love to play, but aren’t quite ready for intermediate play AND everyone in between!


    Coed Volleyball – Intermediate/Advanced Level 

    • Instructor: George Ruth
    • 12 Weeks 
    • 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
    • Gym – Lisha Kill Middle School (New Gym)
    • Fee: $25, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee not applicable for this course. 

    This course is for people who have experience with volleyball. Play will be more intense with players hitting hard and playing the ball in places that will make their opponents run and dive to get it. Please be aware of the physical intensity of the play level. For the enjoyment and safety of all players, please consider your skill level and physical mobility when considering participation. Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee-not applicable for this course.


    Oil Painting 

    • Instructor: Theresa Somaio
    • 10 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Room 132 – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee: $60, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee – $55.

    Explore still life, landscape and portrait painting in oils.  Bring your own painting projects to work on or work with the instructor’s set ups and photos.  All levels of experience are welcome to attend this painting workshop.  Materials list will be handed out on the first night of class, but bring a small canvas and whatever materials you have. The instructor has been teaching art to adults and children for over twenty years.


    Quilting Advanced

    • Instructor: Donna Hyer
    • 10 Weeks 
    • 6 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Library Lounge – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee: $55, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card Fee – $50.

    Work on your own projects with the help and expertise of other knowledgeable quilters.  Special group projects and demonstrations during the session.

  • Beginning Feb. 5 unless otherwise noted

    Crochet-Beginner to Intermediate

    • Instructor: Susan Andrews
    • 12 Weeks 
    • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
    • Library Lounge – Colonie Central High School
    • Fee: $60, Colonie Senior Courtesy Card $55.

    This class is for a novice in need of the basics, or someone beyond the basics who needs assistance now and then. Beginners should bring worsted weight bright color yarn and a crochet hook no smaller than H and no larger than K. Intermediates should bring your own project or choose from a variety of my patterns.

  • Bus Trip to NYC 

    NYC timesquare

    Saturday, May 16, 2026

    Fee $47.00

    • Leave: Sand Creek Middle School at 8 a.m. 
    • Arrive: Bryant Park at 11:30 a.m.
    • Leave: Bryant Park at 7:00 p.m.
    • Arrive: Sand Creek Middle School at 10:30 p.m.

    You may leave your car in the school parking lot. Reservations are completed on-line. No refunds or credits
    will be given. Students 18 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

    No fee waiver for Senior Citizens on bus trips.

About Continuing Education

Drug Free School Zone 
New York State public schools are all DRUG FREE ZONES, and that includes tobacco products. Smoking is not allowed ANYWHERE on school property.

Eligibility 
Registration is open to all adults, both residents and nonresidents of South Colonie. Registrants must be 21 years of age or older unless otherwise stated in the class/course description. NO ONE UNDER THE AGE OF 21 MAY ACCOMPANY REGISTRANTS TO CLASS.

Enrollment
Because Continuing Education is a self-sustaining program it is necessary to have a minimum of 12 full-fee participants enrolled in a course before it can be held. All courses are filled on a “first come, first served” basis.

English as a new language  (ENL)
ENL classes offer self-paced, individualized lessons to help students improve English speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. The classes are free to students age 21 or older.

High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma Program
New York is now offering a new test leading to a NYS High School Equivalency Diploma. The Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) replaces the GED as the only free, state subsidized assessment leading to a New York State High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma.

Parking
All vehicles must be in designated parking areas only, NOT IN CIRCLES. VIOLATORS MAY BE TICKETED OR TOWED.

Senior Citizens
Residents of the South Colonie School District, age 60 or older, may use their Courtesy Cards for the purpose of participation in the Program of Continuing Education at no cost, unless otherwise noted. Additional fees for books and materials are not waived for senior citizens. Courtesy Cards are available at the South Colonie District Office, Colonie Town Hall and Beltrone Living Center-Senior Resources Dept., 12 Metro Park Road, Suite #103, Albany, NY 12205.

TASC, ENL and home study options
GRASP (Giving Ready Adults a Study Program)
GRASP is a TASC home study program for the more advanced student who cannot attend a traditional class. Individualized packets of instruction are delivered to a student’s home. GRASP is a free program for students age 21 and older.
For information and to register for any of the classes or assessments, call (518) 862-4707. You may also view information on the Capital Region BOCES website.

Seeking instructors

Do you have knowledge of a subject or a specific skill you could share with others? If so, the South Colonie Continuing Education program could be for you. The district is always in need of new instructors to teach classes during the fall and spring semesters.

Most classes meet once a week in the evening for 8-10 weeks. We also offer one-night and two-night workshops. We need instructors for gardening, computer skills, foreign languages, crafts, yoga, home improvement and more. If you have an idea, tell us about it. New ideas are always welcome. Teachers are paid per course.

If you are interested, please send a letter of interest and resume to Anjelieeque Martinez, Continuing Education Coordinator, South Colonie Central School District, 102 Loralee Drive, Albany, NY 12205. For more information, please contact Anjelieeque Martinez at (518) 869-3576. Specific requests have been made for the classes listed below – if you have knowledge in any of these areas, think about sharing!

These areas include Sewing, Nutrition, Writing Courses, Foreign Languages, iPhone (beginners), iPhone (advanced), Macbook Clinic (beginners), Facebook (beginners), Facebook for Business (Intermediate), Basic Home Maintenance, How to Become a Vegetarian, Beginning Digital Camera Use, Recognizing Plants in our area, Bridge, Speed Reading, Stained Glass, Graphic Design.