Fox Chapel Area Adult Education builds on success of first online-only classes

The first-ever entirely remote semester of Fox Chapel Area Adult Education (FCAAE) proved to be more rewarding than organizers expected – so much so that they’re building on its success for a second round of virtual classes that begin in January.

“I am so honored to work with a community that values learning and creating social connections even at a time when it’s best for us to be physically apart,” executive director Sue Goodwin said. “There promises to be something for everyone to help pass the short days/long nights of winter.”

Registration opens Jan. 4 and the semester begins Jan. 11.

FCAAE, founded in 1963, is an outreach program of the Fox Chapel Area School District dedicated to providing enrichment classes to adults at a low tuition. One-night and multi-week classes are offered.

Goodwin plans to offer about 30 classes, many of which she said are the direct result of educators being willing to embark on the remote adventure.

“My early hope was to offer 12-15 classes,” she said.

She had such a positive response from potential teachers that the course number kept climbing.

Winter classes will include Spanish and German languages, Mah Jongg, art, cooking and history, among others.

There will be fitness classes that include recordings of the instructor so that students can continue to work out during the week.

Some students have reached out to FCAAE leaders to express thanks for providing personal interaction during the pandemic when so many other programs have been canceled.

“My class gave me some much-needed human connection,” student Lauren Block said. “Cheers to them for pivoting and supporting communities in these very challenging times.”

Organizers said adults of all ages and technology backgrounds found success in using the Zoom platform. And, there is a deliberate connection with local owners of small businesses in an effort to raise their profile and spur support.

“Our students learn from knowledgeable professionals who are also neighbors,” Goodwin said. “In the process, FCAAE helps to highlight a local business that our students may not previously have known and will now visit.”

Registration is available with step-by-step Zoom instructions at fcaae.org.