All the pieces are in place

for a great season of learning at Oregon Coast Community College

With the start of a new year comes the perfect opportunity to try something new, and Oregon Coast Community College is once again offering a slate of engaging Community Education classes designed to help you do just that. The Winter 2026 term includes a wide variety of non-credit in-person and online opportunities to learn, explore and connect, with classes beginning as early as January 5.

Among the highlights is a return of “Irish Steps,” a lively course that explores the traditional solo dances that predate the flashy choreography of modern Irish stage productions. Taught by Nora Sherwood on Monday evenings at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, the course focuses on old-style and sean-nós steps; rhythmic, low-impact movements that require coordination and a bit of stamina, but no prior dance experience. Students can expect a brain-to-feet challenge with a generous helping of Irish culture mixed in.

For those who prefer to stay home and avoid driving Highway 101 in the winter, but still want to shake things up, the college offers several unique online workshops this term. One such class, “Clutter Clearing,” combines practical organization strategies with energy-clearing techniques. Instructor Chellie Kammermeyer leads students through three Tuesday evening sessions that blend guided meditations, homework challenges and gentle coaching to help participants break free from the stuff that’s weighing them down, both physically and emotionally. Note that this class is also offered in-person this term.

Also offered online this winter is a beginner-friendly chess class delivered via Zoom on Friday nights. The class is designed to help new players learn the rules and tactics of the game in a supportive, interactive environment. The course breaks down chess fundamentals while encouraging students to explore strategies and endgames at their own pace, all from the comfort of home.

Another Zoom-based offering, “Climate Change & the Rights of Children” invites participants of all ages to examine how environmental shifts are affecting young people worldwide. Instructor Tom Kerns connects the science of climate change with the history of global human rights, focusing especially on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It’s a timely and thought-provoking eight-week course that asks big questions — and encourages equally big thinking.

Those looking for a more hands-on experience will find it in “Process & Technique: Level 1,” an in-person art class meeting Thursday afternoons at the college’s Lincoln City campus. Taught by artist Doni Conner, the class is designed to help participants develop their own creative voice using mixed media techniques like texture, mark making and collage. Students choose their own subjects and work toward a finished piece by the final session, a satisfying way to kick-start or reignite an artistic practice, no matter your prior experience.

From fitness to cooking, music to painting and more, the full catalog offers something for just about every interest. Most classes are low-cost and open to adults of all ages.

To explore the full schedule and register, go to oregoncoast.edu/communityed.