District 214 Community Education

Have you ever said, "I used to love doing theater in high school," or "I miss acting but life got in the way"? Whether you're brand new, returning after a break, or looking to sharpen you skills, this welcoming 8-week class is for you. Led by The Theater Lab Producer, Patrick Zielinski - an actor, director and writer with over 25 years of esperience - This course explores monologues, scene work, subtext, improvisation, and ensemble techniques. All levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary. At The Theater Lab, we believe in collaboration, inclusion and most importantly, fun. Join a supportive community of fellow creatives and rediscover the joy of acting.

This course offers more conversational practice for students who have completed the equivalent of beginning and intermediate Spanish. Everyday vocabulary is emphasized through many types of practice.

Mahjong is a Chinese tile game of luck, skill, and strategy that is gaining popularity in the US. Are you looking for something fun to do? Come on your own, or bring your friends and learn how to play American Mah-Jongg! In the beginner class you will learn the basic rules and strategies, and play the game in a casual and friendly environment. Beginners will be provided with primer cards to play and will transition to the NMJL cards.

Apple galette is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance that captures the essence of autumn. This rustic French dessert features buttery, flaky pastry enveloping tender, spiced apples, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Our class will guide you through the process of crafting this delectable treat with ease, using straightforward techniques and seasonal ingredients.

Good physical health, mental well-being, and personal safety are of the utmost importance. A wonderful way to achieve all three is through the Korean self-defense system known as “Hapkido.” This ancient martial art utilizes a wide variety of tactics to help ensure one’s safety and to avoid conflicts and violence, including joint locks, pressure point techniques, strikes, kicks, “ki” energy breathing, and traditional weapons. Hapkido is therefore suitable for everyone of all fitness levels, be they young or young at heart, and is a lot of fun as well. No equipment or previous martial arts experience is required.

The internet is an incredible resource, but is also has its dangers. Predators often exploit the internet to trick individuals into revealing sensitive and confidential information, which they then can use to compromise bank accounts, credit cards, and more. Join us for an insightful discussion on internet safety. Learn how to identify online scams and discover the steps to take if you find yourself a victim.

Be ready to dance at your next special occasion! This class covers the fox trot, waltz, jitterbug, cha-cha, polka, Latin dance and swing. Singles, couples and teens welcome.

Chair Yoga is for those who would like to access the benefits of yoga without having to sit, kneel or lie on the floor. This class is done seated in a chair and standing by a chair that can be used for support. Participants may also choose to remain seated for the entire class. We will practice gentle, fluid movements to promote circulation, alignment, flexibility, balance, overall strength and deeper, smoother breathing. Mental effects include mind-body awareness, improved concentration and a sense of well-being. Use of light weights is optional.

Come explore Chicago’s rich Holiday traditions with CET! After a late morning departure our first stop is to see a tradition dating back to 1942 as we visit the Museum of Science & Industry’s “Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.” See the museum's grand 45-foot tree which graces the Museum rotunda covered with more than 30,000 twinkling lights and surrounded by more than 50 smaller Christmas trees carefully decorated to represent countries and cultures from around the world. This sparkling display and festival of trees is a true immersion into Christmas! Each tree has a description about the decorations and the customs of that country. Next we enjoy a late lunch/early dinner at the Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, the highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant originally a Romanesque Revival firehouse built in 1905. Afterward, we stop at the colorful Christkindlmarket, Chicago’s enchanting and inviting holiday village where you can shop for holiday gifts and crafts at the large open-air Christmas Festival. Top off the evening with a Christmas Lights drive see the Magnificent Mile, the holiday window displays at Macy’s and Millennium Park to see Chicago’s official Christmas Tree!

If you want to learn how to fly RC airplanes, or if you are a seasoned veteran and want to hone your skills during the winter months this is a class for you. Our “classroom” is the field house where we fly small to medium sized, electric RC planes in any weather. Most of our students are “repeat attenders” and have become good friends who enjoy sharing their knowledge with newcomers. So, if you are just starting out and need some help, or if you are looking for a comfortable place to fly during the winter, join us for fun and fellowship.