Lifelong Learning Opportunities Through NISD Community Education Courses

Since its establishment in 1984, the Northside Independent School District (NISD) Community Education Department has championed the concept of lifelong learning, offering a diverse range of courses for adults and children. These courses, spanning from technology to arts and fitness, aim to enrich the lives of community members through accessible and engaging educational experiences.

A Broad Spectrum of Courses

NISD Community Education offers a rich array of classes categorized into four main areas:

Profit & IT: This category focuses on enhancing professional skills and knowledge in high-demand areas. Courses include Computers and Technology, Business Solutions, Money Management, and Certificate Programs. These courses are designed to help individuals advance their careers and stay competitive in the modern workforce.
The Arts: For those seeking creative expression and cultural enrichment, The Arts category offers classes in Dance, Music, Languages, Fine Arts, and more. These courses provide opportunities to explore new hobbies, develop artistic talents, and connect with others who share a passion for the arts.
Mind & Body: This category caters to personal and professional development, offering courses in Personal Growth, Professional Continuing Education, Study Skills, and Body-Mind-Health related topics. These classes aim to improve overall well-being, enhance cognitive abilities, and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Fun & Play: This category offers a wide range of recreational activities and hobbies, including Home and Garden, Sewing and Needlecraft, Culinary Arts, Pets, Crafts, and Sports and Fitness. These courses provide opportunities to relax, learn new skills, and enjoy leisure time with like-minded individuals.

Accessibility and Convenience

Classes are conveniently taught on Northside ISD school campuses and at various community sites. This widespread availability ensures that individuals can easily access educational opportunities regardless of their location within the district. The courses are designed for the benefit and enjoyment of the participants and are generally offered for non-credit purposes, unless specifically designated otherwise.

Program Funding and Enrollment

The NISD Community Education program operates as a tuition-based, self-supporting entity, demonstrating its commitment to financial sustainability. Each semester, the program attracts over 10,000 students who enroll in more than 500 classes, highlighting the community's strong interest in lifelong learning.

Registration and Important Policies

Youth Waiver & Parent Handbook

All youth camps and classes require completion of a Youth Waiver/Information Form to participate in programs. The form must be signed and submitted to the registration office before class attendance. A copy of the Youth Waiver/Information Form can be obtained by visiting the office or downloading it.

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Purchase Orders

Companies and organizations enrolling staff for training can complete registration forms and attach company information or purchase orders.

Refunds

Refunds are available if requested at least two working days before the first class meeting. No refunds will be issued after this time or for failure to attend class. Credit card refunds are processed to the original card and take 24 to 48 hours. Cash and check refunds are issued by check and take 4 to 6 weeks. All class cancellations or changes initiated by the student are subject to a $6 processing fee per course. A $25 service fee is charged for NSF checks.

Registration Timing

Registration remains open for most classes as long as space is available. However, registration for specialty classes may close two business days before class time to allow instructors to purchase necessary supplies.

Teaching Opportunities

The NISD Community Education Department welcomes proposals from individuals interested in teaching. The department's mission is to promote lifelong learning for all community members, and it continuously seeks to develop new and relevant courses. Course proposals are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Proposal Submission

Interested individuals can submit detailed proposal information for review. Upon successful receipt, the proposal will be placed on file with NISD Community Education. If the course is accepted, a Program Coordinator will contact the proposer to organize course details and gather additional information.

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Course Description Guidelines

Course descriptions should be concise, not exceeding 60 words, and should include goals, topics, possible projects, and class format. It is recommended to write in the "you" tense, addressing potential students directly. The success of class registration depends partly on the instructor's promotional efforts, and instructors are expected to actively market their classes.

Important Considerations

Class Purpose

Northside Independent School District offers classes to the public solely for information, instruction, enlightenment, and example.

After School Enrichment Providers

NISD is currently accepting proposals from new After School Enrichment Providers. Contact will be made during the week of August 14th for any other information that is needed.

Age Requirements

Adult Classes: Students must be at least 16 years of age to take an adult class. Students under 16 may register with prior consent from the Instructor and Coordinator and may require an adult to register with them. You do not have to be a resident of Northside School District to take our classes. Children may not accompany adults to class; child care is not provided.

Children’s Classes: Adherence to the age requirements listed in the course description is expected. Appropriate behavior is expected, and disruptive children may be dropped from the class without a refund at the instructor's discretion.

Registration Process

If space is available, registrations are taken until the first day of the class. Visa or Mastercard information is required for payment. The Community Education office is open Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm, and follows the Northside ISD central office calendar. If a class is full, individuals will be placed on a waiting list and notified if an opening occurs or an additional class is opened.

Transfers/Credits/Refunds

If Community Education cancels a class, a full refund will be issued, or a credit can be applied to a future course. Credit vouchers are valid for one calendar year. Tuition is non-refundable once a class has begun. To cancel a class or transfer to another, notification must be given two working days before the class begins.

Accessibility and Customization

Classes are held at various campuses and private businesses throughout Northside School District. Community Education is committed to making its classes accessible to all members of the community. Northside campuses are smoke-free facilities. The program can also assist organizations with their training needs by custom designing courses in Information Technology, Foreign Language, Business/Management, Leadership/Supervisory Programs, and Specialized curriculums, either at the organization's location or at an NISD facility.

Discounts

NISD employees and Gold card holders are eligible for a 15% discount on adult class registrations. Discounts are provided by registering in person or over the phone. Employees must provide their e-number and campus. Only one discount may be applied per person, and discounts apply only to classes registered through Northside Community Education.

Gold Card Eligibility

The Northside Gold card is available for:

Senior citizens with the over-65 homestead tax exemption who live in NISD
NISD residents with disability exemptions
Senior citizens (over-65) living in rental property in NISD
Retired District employees

The cardholder must print his/her name on the back of the card for it to be valid.

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