February 2026

What's New in Adult Education?

by Deb McDermott-Johnson, Director of Community Education

Here’s a special invitation for Owatonna to look at what’s new in Adult Education! Learning pursuits as an adult can be transformative. A focus on “you” often means growing your personal confidence, skilling up for improved career opportunities, and finding that “one thing” that speaks to your purpose and passion that can strengthen your family and fuel community vitality. 

Enjoying any of the programs planned for this spring and summer is another opportunity to enjoy new connections and get reacquainted with folks you haven’t seen in a while. Whether your desire to learn is for personal growth or economic mobility, learning with Community Education provides learners with experiences that connect.

New learning opportunities are published in the upcoming Community Education brochure landing in your mailboxes the week of February 23. It will be posted to owatonnacommunityed.org at the same time. Registration begins March 9. 

Do any of these opportunities hold meaning for you? Walking tours showcase the fun and historical nuances of our wonderful community. Day trips, via coach bus, are full of culture and comradery – a great way to socialize and share adventure. 

Fitness and wellness classes provide you with current strategies for maintaining health in our ever-busy lives. When was the last time you tried rock climbing? Imagine the strength you’ll gain and the new friends cheering you on! 

The Walking Track at OHS is open – the number of attendees has been amazing this winter. There’s a genuine sense of community as folks circle the oval for a short while or the entire 3-hour session. 

Has acupressure intrigued you? We’ve got folks who can help you explore this remedy. We also have outdoor adventures sure to meet your mental wellness needs, as well as aromas for supporting your emotional mindset. Cooking is known to be a creative stress reliever. Check out the options for growing culinary expertise!

Perhaps dance and artistic expression are more your style. We have plenty of hometown folks who share their talents and skills in support of yours!

Creativity in our daily work can also be enhanced by taking classes in new design software for marketing and business networking. Or, explore classes to help you build your business brand. Sometimes, we need to learn more to do more in our work environments. We offer basic life support training as well as foreign languages. Our Adult Learning Center also has basic skill development – is it math, computer skills or college-writing you need? Maybe you want to wrap up that GED you’ve been putting off. 

We have career pathway programs to explore if you are contemplating a career move or just want to test your interest. We have entry-level programs that flow into programs at Riverland and South Central Colleges and they can support your studies into a 4-year program if that is your goal.  

Community Education is grateful to be part of the “adult learning package” for Owatonna. Learning for all is a community asset in Owatonna, underpinned by a network of providers who want to reach you where you are at and support your learning beyond your best dreams!