Katy ISD’s Community Education Program Keeps Residents Learning New Skills

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

January 4, 2024

By Natalie Cook Clark

The New Year is a great time to commit to new skills whether it’s adding a new professional skill or picking up a hobby. Registration is open for Katy ISD’s Community Education Course and options range from guitar lessons, computer skills, salsa dancing and more!

Photo credits: Katy ISD

For 33 years Katy ISD has offered the community a variety of learning opportunities. Registration is now open for their Community Education Courses. This is a wonderful opportunity for community members to learn and grow in both professional and recreational topics.

“Our aim is to provide a learning experience that caters to everyone’s interests and schedules,” says Karen Lewis, Director of Internal & Community Relations. “Whether you're looking for a deep dive into a subject or a one-night exploration, Katy ISD Community Education has you covered."

Courses start on January 22, 2024 and are hosted in the evenings at either Taylor High School or Cinco Ranch High School. Enrollment is open to everyone and the District hopes that individuals with diverse interests and busy schedules can find the best fit for them.

Community Education class subjects include classes in the following areas:

Art
Dance
Music
Business
Computer Skills
Culinary
Finance
Health and Wellness
Home and Garden
Spanish
Personal Safety
Retirement and Long-Term Planning

Classes range from multi-week courses like drawing, painting, and dance that allow participants to develop new skills over time. They also offer single-night courses catering to specific interests, such as targeted business and finance topics, women’s self-defense, and craft nights.

Classes are limited to ages 18 and up. Most classes offer a certificate of completion to celebrate the achievement.

Continued Education Benefits Career Development

Whether it's staying up on the latest computer skills, learning a new language, or simply having fun in an art class; continued education in adults has been proven to be beneficial.

"One of the biggest benefits of continuing education is that it can improve one's skills in a current job or help gain new skills in preparation for a career change," states LinkedIn, a major job networking site.

Many Benefits to Learning a New Skill

Research shows that learning something new has major benefits even if it isn't for a career or career change. Learning and always being a student can make a major impact on your life and health. Research stresses these possible benefits from continuing to learn:

1. Brain chemistry changes for the better

2. Learning speed increases

3. Becoming a more interesting person

4. Fighting boredom

5. Adapting better to change

6. Warding off or delaying dementia

Registration is available online. For more information or assistance, please contact the Community Education Department at 281-396-6365.