New Ulm Public School

5 Powerful Techniques to Embrace Positive Thinking Positive thinking is about navigating life’s obstacle course with confidence and grace—spotting the silver lining in others, celebrating your own uniqueness, and adding that extra sprinkle of positivity to every challenge you face. Through fun, interactive group discussions, you’ll discover how negative self-talk can hold you back—and more importantly, how to turn those thoughts around. You’ll learn powerful, practical techniques to reframe your mindset, replace negativity with self-belief, and boost your confidence to new heights. Please bring paper and a pen. Min. 2, max. 10. Heather Behr, Positive Mindset Coach

A Practical Computer Class for Older Adults 1-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Back on Course: Essential Computer Classes for Those Who Need Help! 2 Sessions to Choose from: Session 1: Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Time: 10:00am–11:00am Session 2: Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Time: 5:00pm–6:00pm No Experience Required Course Overview Have you taken computer classes before and been totally lost? Well, this unique class is for those who are looking for simple and practical instructions. Your patient instructor has trained 1000s of older adults, with 4 and 5-star ratings! We will discuss the popular YouTube website that offers 1000s of free informative and entertaining videos, show a few email tips and tricks, demonstrate online shopping, visit AARP and other related websites for seniors, use some shortcut keys, and navigate Google Search to do research and get information. So, if you have been frustrated with other classes, consider taking this refreshing and informative computer class for older adults! Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

A Taste of Tuscany: Handcrafted Ricotta Gnocchi Meal 2-Hour Cooking Class Artist/Instructor: Tess Georgakopoulos, Dish it up Good Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm No Experience Required Course Overview Step into the world of Italian-inspired elegance with this hands-on culinary experience. You’ll learn to create ricotta gnocchi—delicate, cloud-like morsels of goodness prized for their refined melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle flavor. Far from ordinary, these handcrafted bites capture the essence of rustic Italian cooking while bringing a touch of sophistication to your table. Once prepared, the gnocchi will be turned into a restaurant worthy meal, married with a velvety herb-kissed Tuscan cream sauce and paired with tender chicken. A beautiful soft, French-style loaf of bread will be baked to accompany this luxurious dish. This interactive cook-along is more than a class—it is an experience, an invitation to savor, to learn, and to bring the taste of Tuscany into your home. Equipment Needs Stand-mixer and dough hook are recommended for the bread Gnocchi board is Optional More information will be included in the ingredient list Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed 5 days prior class Ingredients A list will be emailed 5 days prior to class Handouts Ingredient List / Station Prep is provided 5 days before the class Recipe Packets are Provided AFTER the class has completed The instructor believes, through years of experience, that some of the best learning happens with “doing” instead of reading along. It helps to build peoples’ confidence in the kitchen knowing they have created something unique and delicious all on their own. They then can use the recipes provided as a guide. This way of teaching also allows for a greater focus on the task at hand. Special Note While cooking along is loads of fun, and highly recommended, it is optional. Participants will receive a list of ingredients in advance of the class with enough time for shopping and preparation. A professionally made PDF packet of the Instructors Personal Recipes from this class will also be received. This class will take place on Zoom, free online software. Participants will receive instructions on how to access the class prior to it starting.The instructor’s recipes are copyrighted and are only shared with those who register for this class. As an added bonus, the instructor has created a private group and a public group on Facebook for participants of her cooking classes. Everyone will receive an invite to the groups although joining is optional. Come join the fun! One registration fee covers immediate family members living full-time in the same household. Adult supervision is required if children participate. If friends, adult children, or extended family members are participating together, EACH separate household must register SEPARATELY. Cancellation Once ingredient list packets have been sent, there are no refunds.

AI for Older Adults - So Easy and Practical 1-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Back on Course: Essential Computer Classes for Those Who Need Help! 2 Sessions to Choose from: Session 1: Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026 Time: 10:00am–11:00am Session 2: Date: Friday, February 13, 2026 Time: 4:30pm–5:30pm No Experience Required Course Overview Are you curious about AI (Ai)? Then this class is for you! We will explore the practical benefits of using a basic form of AI called ChatGPT. Find quick written solutions to problems based on your exact needs. Generate personalized text in seconds for invitations, letters, and any other materials you are looking to create. AI will quickly generate any text for you based on your interest. Take your search, research, inquiries, and answers to questions to a whole new level! Also, never worry about grammar and spelling errors again! Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Adult Conversational Spanish: Beginner Part 2 1-Hour Online Class (6 sessions) Artist/Instructor: Futura Language Professionals 2 Sessions to choose from: Session 1: Dates: Mondays - February 23, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Time: 6:00pm–7:00pm Session 2: Dates: Tuesdays - February 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Time: 6:00pm–7:00pm Course Overview Continue your Spanish journey in Beginner Spanish Part Two! Build on conversational skills for directions, restaurants, and everyday interactions. Learn vocabulary on food, weather, dates, family, and key verbs like ser and tener. Explore cultural topics on food, family, and friendships. Open to new and returning students. Zoom access and basic computer skills required. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Adult Conversational Spanish: Intermediate Part 1 1-Hour Online Class (6 sessions) Artist/Instructor: Futura Language Professionals Dates: Wednesdays - February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, Apr 1 Time: 6:00pm–7:00pm Course Overview Continue building your Spanish skills with interactive conversations, role-playing real-life scenarios, and expanding your vocabulary. This course covers ER & IR verb conjugation, hobbies, sports, and workplace terminology, along with cultural discussions on music, dance, and influential figures in Spanish-speaking countries. Open to students who have completed Intermediate Spanish Part 1 or a beginner conversation course. Zoom access required. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Adult Spanish for Travel 1-Hour Online Class (6 sessions) Artist/Instructor: Futura Language Professionals Dates: Thursdays - February 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr 2 Time: 6:00pm–7:00pm Course Overview Learn Spanish for travel from the comfort of home! This live, interactive course helps adults master essential phrases for greetings, dining, and directions. With Futura’s engaging approach, you’ll build confidence while having fun. Perfect for beginners and those with some experience. Zoom access and basic computer skills required. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Koi Fish Watercolor 2-Hour Watercolor Class Artist/Instructor: Caroline Porter Date & Time: Thursday, March 5, 2026 6:30–8:30 PM No Experience Required Age Ranges: Ages 14+ (ages 12+ only if accompanied by adult) Course Overview Take a deep breath and relax while painting this intertwining watercolor Koi Fish piece. Follow along with watercolor artist, Caroline Porter, and learn various shading and detailing techniques. You'll also work with wet on wet and wet on dry techniques while completing this 8x10 artwork. This class is great for beginners through intermediate. Due to time restraints, the outline of each koi fish will be lightly drawn in. Class will start with penciling in very minimal details. The majority of class time needs to be reserved for the painting portion. Location New Ulm Area Community Education Room 104 – Lower level of the Washington Learning Center 910 14th St N, New Ulm, MN 56073 Materials All supplies are provided by the instructor. Materials include: Paper: Strathmore 300 Series Cold Press 140 lb Brushes: Round size 4, 6, 8, and/or 10 Paints: Winsor & Newton Cotman Series Misc.: Paper towels, masking tape, masking fluid, pencils and more Important Notes All necessary materials are included, but students may bring their own paints or brushes if preferred. Participants are welcome to bring a notebook for note-taking. Students are encouraged to continue practicing the skills learned during the workshop at home. *Coloration may vary due to different monitors/screens, production variations and digital photography.* **By purchasing an item or attending a class from Caroline Porter Art (Artist Caroline E. Porter) you agree and understand that all designs are property of Caroline E. Porter and that the purchase of an item/ticket is NOT the purchase of reproduction rights and/or copyrights and that all designs are NOT intended for resale. For personal use only**

Paint Your Partner 2-Hour Watercolor & Ink Class Artist/Instructor: Caroline Porter Date & Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 6:30–8:30 PM No Experience Required Age Ranges: Ages 14+ (ages 8-13 only if accompanied by adult) Course Overview This Valentine’s Day, grab a partner and come to the hilarious and trending Paint Your Partner Portrait Class. In this class you’ll learn a variety of ink drawing skills to help capture your partner’s personality and looks. Then finish your artwork with watercolors to make it really pop! This class is perfect for folks looking to have fun. No experience is required. Instructor, Caroline Porter, will start students off with a basic pencil outline of a head, neck, and shoulders on an 8x10 inch piece of watercolor paper. Students can adjust the pencil drawing to the likeness of their partner. Location New Ulm Area Community Education Room 104 – Lower level of the Washington Learning Center 910 14th St N, New Ulm, MN 56073 Materials All supplies are provided by the instructor. Materials include: Paper: Strathmore 300 Series Cold Press 140 lb Brushes: Round size 6, 8, and/or 10 Paints: Winsor & Newton Cotman Series Ink: Black Sakura Pigma Micron Pens (waterproof) Misc.: Pencils, paper towels, rulers, and more Important Notes All necessary materials are included, but students may bring their own paints or brushes if preferred. Participants are welcome to bring a notebook for note-taking. Students are encouraged to continue practicing the skills learned during the workshop at home. *Coloration may vary due to different monitors/screens, production variations and digital photography.* **By purchasing an item or attending a class from Caroline Porter Art (Artist Caroline E. Porter) you agree and understand that all designs are property of Caroline E. Porter and that the purchase of an item/ticket is NOT the purchase of reproduction rights and/or copyrights and that all designs are NOT intended for resale. For personal use only**

Watercolor Bookmarks 2-Hour Watercolor Class Artist/Instructor: Caroline Porter Date & Time: Friday, January 23, 2026 6:30–8:30 PM No Experience Required Age Ranges: Ages 14+ (ages 8-13 only if accompanied by adult) Course Overview Fall back in love with reading through this Watercolor Bookmark class. Create 3 preselected designs including the ever so popular Rainbow Pines, Starry Night and Jellyfish. Led by watercolor artist, Caroline Porter, students will learn a variety of skills to create their own unique bookmarks. This class is perfect for all skill levels. To help students gain confidence, everyone will also get to practice on scrap paper before working on their final artwork. Each bookmark measures slightly under 2 x 7 inches. Students will receive cellophane sleeves for each bookmark to help protect the artwork. Featured Bookmarks 1. Rainbow Pines - A fun and colorful bookmark featuring a row of pines with blending colors. Students are encouraged to select their own colors or follow along the rainbow pattern. 2. Starry Night - Captures a beautiful night sky with shimmering stars and black pine trees below. This piece uses iridescent watercolors and will shine in the light. 3. Jellyfish - Enjoy painting this tantalizing design completely in glitter watercolors! The specific type of glitter watercolor used shifts colors between blue and purple. Location New Ulm Area Community Education Room 104 – Lower level of the Washington Learning Center 910 14th St N, New Ulm, MN 56073 Materials All supplies are provided by the instructor. Materials include: Paper: Strathmore 300 Series Cold Press 140 lb Brushes: Round size 6, 8, and/or 10; Liner/Script brushes Paints: Winsor & Newton Cotman Series; Enlightened Watercolors Iridescent Watercolors Misc.: White Winsor & Newton gouache, paper towels, masking tape, and more Important Notes All necessary materials are included, but students may bring their own paints or brushes if preferred. Participants are welcome to bring a notebook for note-taking. Students are encouraged to continue practicing the skills learned during the workshop at home. *Coloration may vary due to different monitors/screens, production variations and digital photography.* **By purchasing an item or attending a class from Caroline Porter Art (Artist Caroline E. Porter) you agree and understand that all designs are property of Caroline E. Porter and that the purchase of an item/ticket is NOT the purchase of reproduction rights and/or copyrights and that all designs are NOT intended for resale. For personal use only**

Barn Quilting with Cynthia Buchholz 4-Hour Painting Class Artist/Instructor: Cynthia Buchholz Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026 Time: 5:30pm–9:30pm No Experience Required An Additional Material Fee of $65.00 is due to the instructor at the beginning of the class. Course Overview Create your own stunning 2’ x 2’ barn quilt on Aluminum Composite, a premium-grade material used by professional sign makers. It will never rust or rot, is lightweight yet sturdy, and makes an excellent surface to paint on. Choose from 75+ fabulous paint colors using high-quality Behr paints. All supplies are provided, including 3M tape, aprons, hair dryers—and yes, even a fun dance-off for odd but awesome prizes! You’ll also have at least 16 pre-drawn patterns on grid paper to choose from, making it easy to select a design you love. Painting barn quilts is a lively, rewarding 4-hour class with guided, step-by-step instruction that takes you from the first line to the final touch. You’ll learn techniques to create a professional-quality barn quilt and leave with a finished masterpiece ready to hang—and guaranteed to earn admiration. Location New Ulm Area Community Education Room 104 – Lower level of the Washington Learning Center 910 14th St N, New Ulm, MN 56073 Materials An additional Material Fee of $65.00 is due to the instructor at the beginning of the class.

California Sushi Roll Extravaganza! 2-Hour Cooking Class Artist/Instructor: Tess Georgakopoulos, Dish it up Good Date: Friday, May 2, 2026 Time: 4:00pm–6:00pm No Experience Required Course Overview When it comes to traditional sushi that is made with raw sushi grade fish such as salmon or tuna opinions tend to be pretty divided—people are usually either a very strong “yes”, or an equally strong “no”. Enter California Roll: the friendly gateway “Sushi” that has converted countless skeptics to enthusiastic fans! In this fun, interactive cook-along experience, Tess will guide you through the process of making a variety of California rolls that just might have you wondering why you have never tired making them yourself before! California roll combinations are only limited by your imagination!Make them vegetarian or with seafood, with or without seaweed, spicy or mild—it’s all up to you and your creativity. Learn the essentials of preparing seasoned sushi rice, whipping up flavorful spicy mayo, and wrapping, rolling, and shopping your sushi with a range of tasty fillings including a crab salad we will be making with crabsticks. To top it all off, Tess will share simple yet impressive plating and presentation ideas to make your rolls look as good as they taste! Equipment Needs Sushi Rice Nori / Seaweed Sheets Toasted Sesame Oil (Japanese) Rice Vinegar Optional - Bamboo Sushi-Rolling Mat More info will be provided in the ingredient list packet. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed 5 days prior class Ingredients A list will be emailed 5 days prior to class Handouts Ingredient List / Station Prep is provided 5 days before the class Recipe Packets are Provided AFTER the class has completed The instructor believes, through years of experience, that some of the best learning happens with “doing” instead of reading along. It helps to build peoples’ confidence in the kitchen knowing they have created something unique and delicious all on their own. They then can use the recipes provided as a guide. This way of teaching also allows for a greater focus on the task at hand. Special Note While cooking along is loads of fun, and highly recommended, it is optional. Participants will receive a list of ingredients in advance of the class with enough time for shopping and preparation. A professionally made PDF packet of the Instructors Personal Recipes from this class will also be received. This class will take place on Zoom, free online software. Participants will receive instructions on how to access the class prior to it starting.The instructor’s recipes are copyrighted and are only shared with those who register for this class. As an added bonus, the instructor has created a private group and a public group on Facebook for participants of her cooking classes. Everyone will receive an invite to the groups although joining is optional. Come join the fun! One registration fee covers immediate family members living full-time in the same household. Adult supervision is required if children participate. If friends, adult children, or extended family members are participating together, EACH separate household must register SEPARATELY. Cancellation Once ingredient list packets have been sent, there are no refunds.

Canva Power Hour: Advanced Tricks That Save You Time! 1-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Social Club Simple, Practical Training for Busy Adults 2 Sessions to choose from: Session 1: Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Time: 12:00pm–1:00pm Session 2: Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026 Time: 12:00pm–1:00pm Course Overview Take your Canva skills to the next level with advanced techniques and hidden features that will streamline your design workflow. This one-hour workshop is perfect for users already familiar with Canva basics who want to discover time-saving shortcuts, professional design hacks, and tools that make creating stunning graphics effortless. Leave with insider tips that will transform how you approach design projects and cut your creation time in half. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Census Records Decoded: Ready to Unlock the Secrets of Census Records? 1.5-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Mica L. Anders, Anders Genealogical Services Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026 Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm Course Overview In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn to mine these documents for family gold. We'll dive into both federal and state census records, and use them to expand your family tree and uncover fascinating details about your ancestors' lives. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Classic Homemade Pierogi & Sweet Berry Pierogi 2-Hour Cooking Class Artist/Instructor: Tess Georgakopoulos, Dish it up Good Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 Time: 4:00pm–6:00pm No Experience Required Course Overview Have some fun participating in this cook-along experience as you learn how to make your own homemade Classic Pierogi, and wonderful Sweet Berry Pierogi with 2 types of homemade dough and filling that will make your taste buds dance for joy! We will also be learning how to cook, and freeze these little dumplings that you can make ahead and store for a rainy day.No fancy equipment needed. This class has been so popular; it has even been featured in the American Polish Journal! Equipment Needs More info will be provided in the ingredient list packet. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed 5 days prior class Ingredients A list will be emailed 5 days prior to class Handouts Ingredient List / Station Prep is provided 5 days before the class Recipe Packets are Provided AFTER the class has completed The instructor believes, through years of experience, that some of the best learning happens with “doing” instead of reading along. It helps to build peoples’ confidence in the kitchen knowing they have created something unique and delicious all on their own. They then can use the recipes provided as a guide. This way of teaching also allows for a greater focus on the task at hand. Special Note While cooking along is loads of fun, and highly recommended, it is optional. Participants will receive a list of ingredients in advance of the class with enough time for shopping and preparation. A professionally made PDF packet of the Instructors Personal Recipes from this class will also be received. This class will take place on Zoom, free online software. Participants will receive instructions on how to access the class prior to it starting.The instructor’s recipes are copyrighted and are only shared with those who register for this class. As an added bonus, the instructor has created a private group and a public group on Facebook for participants of her cooking classes. Everyone will receive an invite to the groups although joining is optional. Come join the fun! One registration fee covers immediate family members living full-time in the same household. Adult supervision is required if children participate. If friends, adult children, or extended family members are participating together, EACH separate household must register SEPARATELY. Cancellation Once ingredient list packets have been sent, there are no refunds.

DNA 101: The Positive and Negative Effects of Using DNA in Genealogical Research 1.5-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Mica L. Anders, Anders Genealogical Services Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026 Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm Course Overview Curious about DNA testing? Let's demystify genetic genealogy together! We'll explore popular DNA kits, interpret results, and use them to enhance your family research. You'll also learn to navigate unexpected matches and understand the pros and cons of genetic testing in genealogy. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

DNA 102: Dive Deeper into the Fascinating World Where Genealogy Meets Genetics! 1.5-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Mica L. Anders, Anders Genealogical Services 2 Sessions to choose from: Session 1: Date: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm Session 2: Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 Time: 10:00am–11:30am Course Overview Discover how traditional research and DNA analysis work together to unlock your family's past. We'll explore advanced tools, address common misconceptions, and help you leverage both fields to enrich your family history journey. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Decluttering, Downsizing & Senior Living Resources 1-Hour Class Artist/Instructor: Jill Spence with Caring Transitions Session 1 - Date: Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Time: 10:00am–11:00am Session 2 - Date: Monday, April 13, 2026 Time: 2:00pm–3:00pm Course Overview This class offers a friendly, supportive guide to decluttering and downsizing, along with helpful resources for finding the right assisted living community or home care services. Learn how simplifying your space can create safer environments, reduce stress, and open the door to more freedom and joy. Participants will receive practical tools to navigate the transition from a house to an apartment or assisted living setting. You'll also learn key signs that it may be time to start exploring senior living options & how working with a senior care advisor with assisted living locators can benefit your family. Location New Ulm Area Community Education Room 104 – Lower level of the Washington Learning Center 910 14th St N, New Ulm, MN 56073 Materials All supplies are provided by the instructor.

Excel for the Absolute Beginner 1-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Back on Course: Essential Computer Classes for Those Who Need Help! 2 Sessions to Choose from: Session 1: Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026 Time: 10:00am–11:00am Session 2: Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026 Time: 5:30pm–6:30pm Course Overview We will demonstrate how to navigate and interface with Excel’s basic features. See how to create a simple contact list, view how to use calculations, and see how to generate simple formulas. You will also learn to use the fill handle, sort existing data, merge and center, move cells and ranges, and wrap text. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Fast-Track to Social Media Marketing for Business 1-Hour Online Class Artist/Instructor: Social Club Simple, Practical Training for Busy Adults 2 Sessions to choose from: Session 1: Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Time: 12:00pm–1:00pm Session 2: Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026 Time: 12:00pm–1:00pm No Experience Required Course Overview Take your business to new heights with our fast-paced, comprehensive session designed to equip business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals with the essential skills and strategies needed to leverage social media for business success. Learn how to effectively reach your target audience, increase brand awareness, and drive engagement across major social media platforms. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed prior to class

Focaccia, Stromboli, & Calzones! Oh My! 2.5-Hour Cooking Class Artist/Instructor: Tess Georgakopoulos, Dish it up Good Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026 Time: 4:00pm–6:30pm No Experience Required Course Overview What makes a Focaccia a Focaccia, a Stromboli a Stromboli, and a Calzone a Calzone? How are they different? How are they the same? Discover the delicious answers to these questions as we explore the world of unique rolled & stuffed pizzas, marvelous focaccia bread, and an out-of-this-world pizza sauce made from the instructor’s own personal recipes. Using two different types of homemade dough—one crafted for pizzas and the other for the focaccia, you’ll learn how to crate these Italian –inspired favorites step-by-step with confidence and easy. Participants are welcome to make them all or simply pick and choose their favorites to cook-along with, personalizing each creation with toppings and fillings of their choice. With rave reviews from past participants, this fun and flavorful experience just might make takeout pizza a thing of the past! Equipment Needs 9x13 non-stick baking pan or larger sheet pan Stand-mixer is recommended, but optional More info will be provided in the ingredient list packet. Location Online Zoom Link - Emailed 5 days prior class Ingredients A list will be emailed 5 days prior to class Handouts Ingredient List / Station Prep is provided 5 days before the class Recipe Packets are Provided AFTER the class has completed The instructor believes, through years of experience, that some of the best learning happens with “doing” instead of reading along. It helps to build peoples’ confidence in the kitchen knowing they have created something unique and delicious all on their own. They then can use the recipes provided as a guide. This way of teaching also allows for a greater focus on the task at hand. Special Note While cooking along is loads of fun, and highly recommended, it is optional. Participants will receive a list of ingredients in advance of the class with enough time for shopping and preparation. A professionally made PDF packet of the Instructors Personal Recipes from this class will also be received. This class will take place on Zoom, free online software. Participants will receive instructions on how to access the class prior to it starting.The instructor’s recipes are copyrighted and are only shared with those who register for this class. As an added bonus, the instructor has created a private group and a public group on Facebook for participants of her cooking classes. Everyone will receive an invite to the groups although joining is optional. Come join the fun! One registration fee covers immediate family members living full-time in the same household. Adult supervision is required if children participate. If friends, adult children, or extended family members are participating together, EACH separate household must register SEPARATELY. Cancellation Once ingredient list packets have been sent, there are no refunds.