Owatonna Community Education

Join us on a walking tour that will feature descriptions and histories of many prestigious and lovely homes in our community. You will hear stories of the people who designed, built, and lived in these architectural gems. This tour will cover 2.5 miles. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions of the day. Your tour fee includes a copy of the book, "Homes of Note in Owatonna, Minnesota".

The high-spirited new adaptation transforms this classic tale into a toe-tapping musical with original pop songs. Dorothy, a restless Kansas farm girl eager to see more of the world, is transported by a cyclone to the magical world of Oz where she meets the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, who quickly become her new friends. Together, they overcome their fears of witches, flying monkeys, and a haunted forest to learn if the Wizard can make their dreams come true. Bring your grandchildren, family or friends! On the menu: chicken tenders, macaroni & cheese, fresh fruit, cookie, milk, juice and coffee. Trip fee includes: motorcoach transportation, admission & lunch. Register by July 15. No refunds on trips.

Immerse yourself in a perfect blend of style and creativity with our "Sculpture and Style" day trip! Begin your adventure by strolling through the Caponi Art Park in Eagan, MN. Our artist guide will lead us through the park as we walk about one mile and view over 55 sculptures nestled across 60 acres. As you explore, you’ll discover local artisans' masterpieces, each piece telling its own story. After indulging in some art therapy, let your stylish side shine as we travel to the Eagan Outlet Mall and shop-til-we-drop! Grab lunch, window shop, and don’t forget to pick out a mother’s day gift! We’ll even throw in some coupons to be used at the outlet! Your trip fee includes motorcoach transportation, admission/tour at the Caponi Art Park, and coupons to use at the Eagan Outlet Mall. Lunch is on-your-own. If you have any mobility requirements, please let us know at registration. Register no later than April 23. No refunds on trips.

From beginners to more advanced students, Fit for Life classes are an excellent way to increase mobility, flexibility, and endurance. This class works at a slower pace to promote a healthy mind and body. You'll stretch, tone, and strengthen all at the same time. You'll leave feeling like you got in a great workout with some wonderful friends! Chairs are provided.

Small Business Academy is a three-month program that provides participants with the knowledge, relationships, and tools necessary to turn business ideas into action. The only requirements to join the program are (1) have an idea, (2) be willing to question, shape, and improve that idea, and (3) be willing to talk about the idea with others. In this facilitator-led, small-group program, participants develop and refine their ideas, critically examine each part, and determine what to do next through real-time feedback from people in the community. This approach allows participants to quickly discover potential problems in their concepts and find viable models more quickly. Participants leave the program with the tools and skills necessary to create a sustainable business. In partnership with the Owatonna Area Business Development Center (OABDC), with funding provided in part by SMIF, DEED, SBDC, and SBA. $250 for materials, reimbursed upon completion of 8 out of 10 classes. Scholarships and materials in Spanish are also available. Register at sbaowatonna.eventbrite.com

Blast off into a Spanish adventure that is out of this world! This LIVE, virtual class is perfect for young explorers eager to learn Spanish while exploring the wonders of the universe. Through astronaut role-plays and rocket-themed activities, students will learn key vocabulary and phrases related to space, planets, and more. With engaging instructors, this fun, bilingual course builds basic language skills and fosters a love for the cosmos. Join us for a summer camp that's truly stellar!

Embark on an exciting journey through the Spanish-speaking world right from the comfort of your home! This interactive, beginner-friendly, LIVE, online course is designed for adults eager to learn practical Spanish for travel. Our experienced instructors will guide you in practicing essential phrases for greetings, ordering in restaurants, and asking for directions. With Futura's dynamic, hands-on approach, you'll stay engaged and have fun while building confidence for your next adventure. Ideal for both new learners and those with some prior experience in Spanish conversation.

The hallmark of any spring or summer celebration is, undoubtedly, the dessert. Whether you are looking for something memorable to create for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or beyond, look no further. Join Chef Tess for one of her newest classes as she guides you through the process of creating three exceptional confectionary creations: a Classic French Fruit Tart, a version of a Greek Phyllo Pastry Tart called “Bougatsa”, and...CAKESICLES, a sweet treat that is the latest craze of a cake-on-a-stick! Popular desserts any time of year! Equipment Needs: A Cakesicle Silicone Mold and Popsicle sticks will be needed to create the Cakesicles. Available at most craft stores, as well as online. Sticks are often included in the kit. A tart pan with a removable bottom of any shape will be needed for the French Fruit Tart. Participants will receive a list of ingredients and a class link (zoom - free download) in advance of the class with enough time for shopping and prep. A professionally made PDF packet of the instructor's personal recipes from this class will also be sent to you following class.

Join us for a fun-filled spring scavenger hunt designed specifically for adults with disabilities! Explore the great outdoors, solve clues, and discover hidden treasures in a supportive and inclusive environment. This engaging activity encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and plenty of smiles!

This walk will introduce you to the serene beauty and history of Forest Hill Cemetery as you learn about the symbolism on the gravestones. Hear some secret stories about a few of the thousands of people interred here. Maybe spot some wildlife. The instructor has researched local history for many years. A portion of the class fee will go toward the Cemetery Association. Please note: the terrain at the cemetery is hilly, with some parts of the tour involving uneven ground as well as walking. Hiking shoes are suggested. Please park at the cemetery entrance on Mineral Springs Road.

Join us for an introduction to some of the Catholic pioneers of the area. Find out the significance of Andera crosses, as well as the symbolism on gravestones. Please wear comfortable shoes.

Catch a St. Paul Saints game with us at CHS Field in Lowertown! The St. Paul Saints have played professional minor league baseball in a unique outdoor setting in St. Paul for years, gathering crowds of all types with a family-friendly atmosphere. The Saints offer exciting baseball, fun promotions, and affordable prices to make their games one of the most sought-after tickets in the Twin Cities. Don't miss a great day of baseball beneath the beautiful St. Paul skies! Your trip fee includes: Motorcoach transportation and admission. Register no later than July 1, 2025.

Don't just PLAY games, CREATE them! Create and learn to modify our Star Wars-themed games using scratch. Students will be walked through step-by-step tutorials to create 2-3 working games and animations using popular Star Wars sprites. With any remaining time, students will be challenged to modify or improve the games created in class. Bring a USB drive, lunch and a drink.

This course will give you hands-on experience developing your game using Scratch 3, a visual coding platform. Students will learn to think like programmers and learn coding concepts with a Super Mario Bros.-themed game. The first part of the class will be instructor-led. With any remaining time, students will have the opportunity to customize their games. Please bring a USB drive, lunch and a drink.