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5th Graders Intro To Middle School

Entering middle school is a big transition for any student. Intro To Middle School is an opportunity for current 5th graders to experience what life will be like at Dakota Meadows or Prairie Winds Middle School. As a participant, you will take a school tour in the form of a Scavenger Hunt, practice using combination dial locks like those on your new locker, and meet new classmates. Bring your questions! We will have experts on site to answer important questions about school lunch, classes, after school activities and how to arrive at class on time with only minutes between bells. We will break it down, so life in the middle is something you look forward to in the Fall!

9:00 - 11:00 AM

Starting Soon

77 Lancers Winter Color Guard

Calling all 77 Lancers Colorguard Participants! Winter Color Guard is an opportunity to extend your season and keep working on your skills in flags, rifles and poms. This program will include an audition and placement within an ensemble that best fits your skills and experience. All registered Color Guard members will perform a choreographed show that performs both locally and at possibly 2 winter competitions in the metro area. Fee covers cost of participation. All Color Guard will be asked to purchase their own costume that matches the show theme (more information provided at practice). Transportation to performance events (both in town or out of town) will be on your own or through carpooling arrangements among members. No bus transportation will be provided.

Sun/Thu/Sat, Nov 17 2024 - Mar 2

9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Lincoln Community Center

A Taste of Electrical and Computer Engineering

In partnership with the MNSU College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, join us for a hands-on exploration of IC chip, Internet-of-things, Robotics, and Software Defined Radio. This camp is held in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Labs at MNSU!

Mon-Thu, Aug 4 - Aug 7

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

An Introduction to Working with Herbs for Health

Herbs have the ability to support us in times of need as well as to support and nourish us every day! In this class, we will discuss several common, local herbs and their benefits/uses. Herbs can be worked with in a variety of ways (teas, infusions, decoctions, tinctures, salves/oils, cooking, etc.) for daily use and for common ailments. This class is taught by Herbalist and Integrative Nutritionist, Kara Swenson. Kara Swenson, owner of Thistle Patch Wellness, is an herbalist and integrative nutritionist.

Lincoln Community Center

Starting Soon

Basic Archery Instructor

This is a certification course for adults interested in teaching Basic Archery Skills, using the NASP (National Archery In Schools Program) curriculum. This full day course runs from 8:00 am - 5:30 pm at Lincoln Community Center. Successful completion of this course allows adults to lead instructional content, using the curriculum and authorized equipment. Bring your own lunch and beverages. There will be a lunch break, but not long enough to leave campus.

8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Lincoln Community Center

Popular

Beginner Ceramics (Adult)

Dive into the world of ceramics and kickstart a new hobby! This 6-week beginner-friendly course meets once a week, with each class designed to build on the skills you’ve learned previously. Whether you're just starting or have dabbled with clay, you’ll explore the essentials of hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques, progressing at a steady pace. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation in ceramics, allowing you to confidently pursue independent projects in our Open Pottery Studio option. Come with curiosity, leave with creations! All materials are provided—just bring your enthusiasm for learning. Instructed by Mel Gerold of Skogland Designs, who also hosts the Tuesday Open Pottery Studio sessions

Wed, Apr 2 - May 7

Lincoln Community Center

Chess Tourney - Spring Regional

Back by popular demand! Our regional chess tourneys are fun, competitive and an all around good time. We have a growing number of players from around the region, ready to play in a community of players that love the game and friendships formed. We will award medals and ribbons to grade level and division champions. Check in begins at 8:00 am at Lincoln Community Center (110 Fulton Street) First round is at 8:30 am. We will present awards at 11:30 am. Please register in advance so we can prepare the tournament space for a good time. We do not accept walk in registrations as we need to contact contestants if weather or low enrollment influences play. This event is co-sponsored by South Central Service Coop and Mankato Community Education Enrichment + Leisure Program.

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Lincoln Community Center

Clay, Glaze & Firing Supplies For LCC Pottery Studio (Consumables)

Fees are for a 25 lb block of Clay, (Glaze and Firing also included). Clay purchase is for use in the Pottery Studio at Lincoln Community Center (110 Fulton Street). You also have access to our potter’s wheels, slab roller, extruder, glazes, greenware storage, tools and electric kilns. When your clay supply is gone, you can purchase a new block of clay. The studio has a designated area where artists can store their unused clay supply. Glazes and firing are included with the clay cost. The studio, managed by Mankato Community Education Leisure + Enrichment Program keeps in inventory high quality supplies and equipment for artist use. The studio and CE cannot be held responsible for work that in the process of drying or firing is damaged or broken. The studio will be closed on days / evenings when Mankato Area Public School closes due to weather related closures.

1519-2025

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Earth Day Weekend: Conservation in Action

Join us on April 27th from 1-4 PM at Williams Nature Center for a hands-on conservation service day, led by the youth leaders of the Green Crew. Roll up your sleeves for trail maintenance, invasive species removal, plant identification, water quality testing, and rewilding activities that will make a real difference to the park and our planet. This event is perfect for families and kids of all ages. Bring your love for nature and get ready to give back to the earth! Gloves, tools, and training will be provided. Williams Nature Center: 54988 MN-68, Mankato, MN 56001 This service day is being offered by the young adult leaders of the Green Crew. The Green Crew is a youth-led environmental education and conservation service program associated with the Minnesota Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America. *Cost of this project is funded by Minnesota Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America.

Sun, Apr 27

1:00 - 4:00 PM

Williams Nature Center

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Everybody Has A Story: Writing Your Memoir

Many people have experiences that they'd like to share in writing with friends, family, or the public, but they don't know how to begin. This course is an excellent value at $18.75 a session! This is an ongoing course in which we'll read short excerpts from classic memoirs and do writing exercises in order to help students isolate what stories they want to tell and how they want to tell them. We'll examine ways of organizing memories into a narrative, practice adding lively details, consider whether there are themes that should be highlighted, and noodle around with how to tell the whole truth when you don't know it. Students who have not yet started a project are welcome, as are those with writing already underway. J. Anderson has taught composition and literature at the College of St. Catherine, The Loft, St. Louis Park Schools, and other schools and non-profits. She worked in community relations for Barnes & Noble and was the director of the Westminster Town Hall Forum. She writes the "Smaller" column for the St. Peter Herald.

Tue, Apr 8 - Apr 29

Lincoln Community Center

Explore The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

The beauty of Spring & Summer is in full bloom! This bus trip includes a Tram Ride, a Flower Pot Lunch, and a 10% discount at our gift and garden store. There will be time to explore the grounds on your own or meditate in the wonderful scents and sounds of the season. * Lunch options are a ham, turkey or veggie wrap. You will be asked your choice in the registration questions. Registration Deadline: May 16 NO REFUNDS can be given for trips after the registration deadline, as we have to purchase tickets ahead of that deadline. Trip Itinerary: Arrive at WOW Zone, Mankato - 8:15 am Arrive at St. Peter Community Center (Washington Street) 8:50 Am Tram Ride # 1 - half the group (10:30 am) Lunch - 12:00 noon Tram Ride # 2 - Rest of the group - 1:30 pm Leave Arboretum - 3:00 pm Arrive home in St, Peter - 4:00 Arrive home in Mankato - 4:30 pm

8:15 AM - 4:30 PM

Wow Zone, SW corner of parking lot

From Chaos to Calm: Mastering Meal Planning for Busy Households

In today’s fast-paced world, juggling work, school, activities, and family life can make mealtime feel like an overwhelming task. But with the right approach, meal planning can be a game-changer for busy families, saving time, money, and stress while ensuring your family gets nutritious, home-cooked meals. This presentation will provide practical, easy-to-implement strategies for streamlining your meal planning, even on your busiest days. In this session, we will cover: - Why Meal Planning Matters: How meal planning can save time, reduce food waste, and promote healthier eating habits for the whole family. - Getting Started with Meal Planning: Simple steps to create a weekly meal plan that works for your family’s needs, preferences, and schedule. - Batch Cooking & Make-Ahead Meals: How to prepare meals in advance to cut down on daily cooking time and still enjoy fresh, nutritious meals throughout the week. - One-Pot & Sheet Pan Meals: Tips for quick and easy meals that minimize cleanup while maximizing flavor and nutrition. - Incorporating Variety: How to keep your meal plan interesting by rotating recipes, using seasonal ingredients, and finding ways to introduce new foods your family will love. - Snack Planning & Kid-Friendly Meals: Easy, healthy snacks and meal options that are both nutritious and appealing to kids, plus strategies to involve children in meal prep. - Grocery Shopping Tips: How to shop efficiently, stick to a budget, and make the most of your pantry staples so you’re always prepared. - Flexibility and Time-Saving Hacks: How to adapt your meal plan when life gets busy, including shortcuts, freezer meals, and takeout options that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. By the end of this presentation, parents will have a step-by-step guide to simplify meal planning, make the most of their time in the kitchen, and ensure their families are enjoying nourishing meals—without the stress. Whether you’re new to meal planning or looking to refine your system, you’ll leave with actionable tips to bring organization and ease to your family’s mealtimes. Join us to discover how a little planning can make a big difference in your family’s busy life!

Mon, Apr 7

5:30 AM - 7:00 PM

Center for Learning- 15 Map Drive

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Popular
GRASP Math

GRASP – MANKATO ACADEMIC SUMMER PROGRAM (SELF PACED, WORK AT HOME, NO INTERNET, NO SCREENS) It is time to UNPLUG! This workbook program is done at home and at your own pace. No computer or internet is needed to complete the lessons. Take your book with you on vacation, to the cabin, or work on it inside on a rainy day! GRASP is a correspondence program designed to reinforce math and reading skills learned during the school year just completed! This workbook program is designed for students who have completed any grade from K–8, to keep their skills current over the summer months. Students complete nine lessons in math, reading, or both over the summer. Each lesson takes about one hour to complete. The lessons are mailed in by the parent, scored by the GRASP company located in Grand Rapids Michigan, results recorded and earned awards sent to the children in September. Books will be available for students to pick up (locally) at Lincoln Community Center (110 Fulton Street) Books are ordered after registration closes on Friday, June 13, 2025. Once the books arrive in Mankato, families will be advised of pick up hours and special instructions for completing the lessons. Please make sure your correct email & mailing address is on file at Community Education, so correspondence can reach you in a timely fashion. Workbooks are anticipated to arrive in Mankato by Friday, June 20, 2025, but you should wait for a confirmation email that assures you that the books are ready for your pick up. Call the Mankato Community Education Office at (507) 387-5501 with questions. To review concepts just completed, register / order the workbook representing grade completed in spring of 2025. To work ahead on new concepts, register for workbooks representing your grade level in the fall of 2025 or beyond. Please consider carefully what grade level you want your child to practice. Once books are ordered, they become your property and are not returnable for a refund. GRASP Registration Deadline: Wednesday, June 13, 2025

5652-Grade 2

5652-Grade 3

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Home Alone Safety (Parent & Child Class)

Staying home alone for the first time is an opportunity eagerly anticipated by most kids; but with opportunity comes responsibility. This course covers a variety common scenarios and topics specific to children preparing to stay home alone, or stay home with younger siblings. We ask that a parent or adult guardian attend class with the child.

Lincoln Community Center

Ages	7 yr. - 16 yr.

Starting Soon

Virginia State Parks (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

Intro to Svenska (Swedish Language) Club

Join our Swedish Language Club, where students will explore the basics of the Swedish language while immersing themselves in Sweden’s rich cultural traditions. Through interactive lessons students will develop language skills and learn about Swedish history, customs, and daily life. About Middle School After School Clubs: Each club meets only 1 day per week to accommodate more students. Students are welcome to register for multiple clubs, but you may only attend the club on the day(s) you are registered. Each club has limited enrollment, so register EARLY if you intend to participate. Club ends at 5:00 PM and students must be picked up promptly. When changes are made to the original schedule, the Mankato Community Education office will communicate with parents via text or email, so please be certain that your eleyo account stays updated with accurate email and phone contact information. Middle School After School will be open from 3:25 - 5:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday afternoons. Students must be picked up promptly at 5 pm. No programming on Wednesday or Friday. Keep scrolling to learn about financial aid from Greater Mankato Area United Way Connecting Kids. WHERE TO REPORT Immediately after the final bell of the school day, students enrolled in Middle School After School should report to the cafeteria. You should report to MSAS with EVERYTHING you need for clubs or to take home. You WILL NOT be able to go to your locker after 3:30 pm when the academic wings are locked. There will be a sign indicating the check in area and MSAS site leaders will be ready to distribute a snack and take attendance. From 3:25 - 3:45 pm, students will be in the cafeteria having a snack, visiting with friends, and unwinding from the school day. Clubs begin at 3:45 pm and end at 5:00 pm. Site leaders will assure students are directed to the right location for their club or have proper supervision and age appropriate activities until picked up. All students participating in the Middle School After School program are expected to adhere to the same rules of conduct as during the school day. Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated, and failure to comply may result in loss of access to after-school activities. If you have any additional questions about the program or your participation, please contact Michelle Biodrowski, Enrichment + Leisure Specialist with MAPS Community Education at mbiodr1@isd77.org. REFUNDS If you wish to withdraw your registration from a club, you must do so a MINIMUM of 4 business days prior to the start date of the club. Refunds will not be granted fewer than 4 days prior to the start date of the club and after the club has started. If space allows, you will be allowed to join a club after the start date, but the cost will not be pro-rated. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Greater Mankato Area United Way Connecting KidsFee discounts are available particularly for those who qualify for FREE or REDUCED lunch. For more information on possible scholarships, contact Jennifer Stratton at Connecting Kids: connectingkidsmankato@gmail.com or by phone at 507-207-3042. Visit the Connecting Kids website.You must complete the Application For Educational Benefits before requesting a scholarship. This application is available from your school.

Thu, Feb 6 - Apr 24

Dakota Meadows Middle School

Introductory Dance Classes For Adults

DANCE CLASSES RETURNING TO LINCOLN COMMUNITY CENTER Dance is more popular than ever! Mankato Community Education at Lincoln Community Center has a great space for you to try something NEW! We brought dance back in the Fall and we hope to keep going strong into the new year. Sign up with a partner or come solo! if you do not have a partner, one will be assigned to you. INSTRUCTORS Brian & Lynette Dawley Our teachers have been dancing and competing together for over 16 years. They have taken over 2,000 hours of private coaching from some of the top Ballroom instructors in the United States as well as Canada, the United Kingdom and Argentina. SO MANY DANCES TO CHOOSE FROM! SIGN UP FOR ONE OR TRY THEM ALL! Beginning East Coast Swing - February 19 - March 22 (6:40 - 7:30 pm) Get moving with triple rhythm swing! Learn the basic steps in this fun, energetic dance! This is a great social dance for smaller floors and can be danced to a variety of music! Intro To Nightclub Two Step - February 19 - March 22 (7:40 - 8:30 pm) Join us for a fun date night as we learn the basics of nightclub two step. Learn soft, flowing patterns that glide across the floor as we dance to all those great ballads! Line Dance - March 26 - April 16 (6:40 - 7:30 pm) Shake off the winter blues with a line dance class! You will learn basic, beginner line dances to a variety of popular music. This is great exercise and you don’t need a partner! Wedding Dance Sampler - March 26 - April 16 (7:40 - 8:30 pm) Is there a wedding dance in your future? Feeling a little apprehensive about stepping out onto the dance floor? This class is for you! “Sample” three popular wedding dances: foxtrot, rumba and swing. You will learn the basic steps and a few simple moves in each dance. You will also be introduced to the concepts of lead, follow and frame to ensure your success on the dance floor and give you a night to remember! Couples and singles are welcome! Sign up solo or with a friend / partner. Fees are per person.

Wed, Mar 26 - Apr 16

Lincoln Community Center

Starting Soon

Learn To Lancer - Performance In Color Guard Flags, Rifles + Poms

Learn to Lancer is a NEW program for youth 7 years old to 15 years who would like to learn the artistry of dance, movement and twirling with Color Guard Flags, Rifles and Pom Poms. Participation in this course is introductory and will give youth the opportunity to learn skills that will lead to future success in the 77 Lancers Color Guard as well as our OWN performance opportunities at local events such as high school sports. Learn to Lancer program will perform at events and 1 showcase competition (non-competitive) - more information on date, time and location will be shared when finalized. Learn To Lancer fee is for program participation and use of program equipment. Costumes, hair, makeup, and shoes are purchased by families and are personal property of the child / family at the completion of the program. Transportation to any performances are provided by families of the participants. Participants will be held to responsible use standards of our performance equipment (rifles, poms, and flags). Equipment is property of Mankato Community Education and will stay in Mankato Community Education inventory at the end of the season.

Sun/Thu/Sat, Nov 17 2024 - Mar 2

12:00 - 6:00 PM

Lincoln Community Center

Ages	7 yr. - 18 yr.

Leave No Trace Family Training: Exploring Nature, Protecting the Planet

Join us for a fun and engaging Leave No Trace Training designed especially for families! This 3-hour hands-on experience will teach both kids and parents the simple yet powerful ways we can all enjoy nature responsibly. Through games, interactive activities, and outdoor exploration, families will learn the 7 Leave No Trace principles—from how to respect wildlife to keeping our favorite parks clean. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just enjoying a picnic in the park, these tips will help your family minimize your impact while having fun in the great outdoors. It’s a wonderful opportunity to instill a love for nature and a sense of stewardship in your little adventurers. Let’s work together to preserve our beautiful planet, one adventure at a time! Registration cost of $25 is per family unit. This workshop is being offered by the young adult leaders of the Green Crew. The Green Crew is a youth-led environmental education and conservation service program associated with the Minnesota Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America. The Leave No Trace curriculum is associated with the Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Sat, Apr 5

2:00 - 5:00 PM

Lincoln Community Center

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Leave No Trace Trainer Certification: Empowering Future Leaders in Outdoor Ethics

Are you passionate about protecting our natural spaces? Join us for a transformative Leave No Trace Trainer Certification program over the first two April weekends! This comprehensive two-day training will equip you with the knowledge and skills to become a certified Leave No Trace trainer, empowering you to educate others on responsible outdoor practices. Day 1: A 6-hour training session at the Williams Nature Center on April 6th, will cover the 7 Leave No Trace principles in-depth, engaging you in hands-on activities and discussions. We will review the history of Leave No Trace. Day 2: Dive deeper with a 10-hour training at Williams Nature Center on April 13th, where you’ll participate in practical scenarios and learn effective teaching strategies for conveying these important concepts. Our expert instructors will guide you through real-world situations, helping you gain confidence in leading workshops and community events. This certification is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, educators, and leaders who want to make a difference in their communities. By becoming a certified Leave No Trace trainer, you’ll join a network of dedicated advocates committed to preserving our natural resources for future generations. Take the next step in your outdoor leadership journey and help shape the future of responsible recreation! This class is open to youth and adults but has been designed for young adults 14-21. This class is being offered by the young adult leaders of the Green Crew. Williams Nature Center: 54988 MN-68, Mankato, MN 56001 The Green Crew is a youth-led environmental education and conservation service program associated with the Minnesota Valley Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America. The Leave No Trace curriculum is associated with the Center for Outdoor Ethics. The lead trainer Tom Crawford is a certified Leave No Trace Educator and an associate advisor with the Green Crew. He will be joined by a team of young adult-certified Leave to Trace Trainers.

Sun, Apr 6 - Apr 13

8:30 AM - 6:30 PM

Williams Nature Center

Level 1: Introduction to Water Skills

Introduction to Water Skills Must be at least 6 years old. Introduces basic aquatic skills, which continue to be built upon throughout Learn-to-Swim levels. A brief list of objectives includes: Open eyes underwater and retrieve submerged objects Back float (with assistance) Arm and hand treading actions (with assistance in chest deep water) Combined arm and leg actions on front and back Mankato Community Education and Recreation is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for participants, staff and the community we serve by following guidance from the Minnesota Departments of Health and Education.

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Level 2 - Fundamental Aquatic Skills

Fundamental Aquatic Skills Proof of Level 1 completion required. Builds on the fundamental aquatic and water safety skills from Level 1. Swimmers begin learning independent aquatic locomotion skills. A brief list of objectives include: Rotary breathing Changing direction of travel while swimming on front and back Combined arm and leg actions on front and back

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Level 3 - Stroke Development

Stroke Development Proof of Level 2 completion required. Expands proficiency of aquatic locomotion, safety and rescue skills of Level 2 by providing additional guided practice. A brief list of objectives include: Headfirst entry from the side in a sitting postition Survival floating on front (30 seconds) Front crawl and elementary backstroke Mankato Community Education and Recreation is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for participants, staff and the community we serve by following guidance from the Minnesota Departments of Health and Education

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Mon/Wed, Apr 7 - May 7

Lifeguard Training - Blended Learning

Become a certified lifeguard through the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course, offered in a blended learning format. This course combines online learning with in-person skills sessions to provide a flexible and comprehensive training experience. Participants will complete online coursework at their own pace before attending scheduled in-person sessions to practice water rescue techniques, CPR, AED use, and first aid. Prerequisites: Participants must be at least 15 years old by the last day of the course and pass a swimming skills evaluation, which includes a swim-tread-swim sequence and a timed retrieval of a 10-pound object from a depth of 7-10 feet. Certification Requirements: To earn certification, participants must complete all online coursework, attend all in-person sessions, demonstrate competency in required skills, and pass the final written and practical exams. Note: Please bring a swimsuit and towel to in-person sessions. Detailed instructions for accessing the online portion will be provided upon registration.

Sun/Thu-Sat, Mar 27 - Mar 30

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sun/Fri, Sat, May 9 - May 17

9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Starting Soon

Little Athletes - Running, Jumping, and Agility

Preschoolers and kindergarten students will explore the fundamentals of athletic development through fun and engaging activities focused on running, jumping, and agility. Our young athletes will participate in playful drills and obstacle courses that promote movement, coordination, and confidence. Throughout the program, we’ll introduce simple skill "tests" to track progress, helping children see their improvement in areas like speed, balance, and hopping ability. This introductory course is perfect for energetic kids who love to move and want to experience the joy of physical activity!

Sat, Apr 26 - May 17

9:00 - 10:00 AM

Ages	4 yr. - 5 yr. ^{11 m}

Sat, Apr 26 - May 17

10:15 - 11:15 AM

Ages	6 yr. - 7 yr. ^{11 m}