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Chisago Lakes Community Education

Nov. 1, 2024

Chisago LakesCommunity EducationNov. 1, 2024

A note from the Director: A note from the Director:

Maintaining a Welcoming Environment at the Wildcat Community Center

Dear Chisago Lakes Community,

My name is Daniel McGonigle, Director of Community Education for Chisago Lakes Public Schools. I’m reaching out to reinforce a commitment we hold dearly and to ensure families and students understand the expectations for conduct within our shared space.

The Wildcat Community Center (WCC) is a truly unique space, offering opportunities for meaningful, multi-generational connections. Our younger members have a chance to learn from the wisdom and experiences of those who have been part of our community for decades. As a parent, I deeply value this aspect of the WCC and feel fortunate that my own children have access to this environment. For our older community members, the center offers an active link to both our school district and the wider community—a connection we are dedicated to preserving.

Our team at the WCC is committed to keeping this a safe, welcoming place for all ages, and we pledge to do everything we can to make your experience here positive and enriching. Unfortunately, recent behaviors by a few of our younger members have threatened this promise.

While most of our students are respectful, we’ve recently experienced disruptive incidents involving a few individuals, including stolen bikes, inappropriate use of railings, loitering, throwing objects at other members, and even hallway water fights. These actions compromise the respectful atmosphere we strive for and cannot be overlooked.

In response, we are implementing no-trespass orders for those whose actions disrupt the space, with the length adjusted to fit the severity of each infraction. It’s essential to remember that this is a community center—not a childcare center. Students are welcome here as long as they behave responsibly. Those who don’t may face restrictions, including potential no-trespass orders, suspension of their membership, and possibly more, to protect the integrity of our space.

Parents, I kindly ask you to take a moment to speak with your children about appropriate behavior at the WCC. This conversation is instrumental in maintaining the center’s positive environment, helping ensure it remains a vibrant, respectful space for everyone. We are fortunate to work closely with law enforcement and our district’s principals, who support our commitment to uphold these expectations and enforce consequences when necessary.

Thank you for reading, and thank you especially to those parents who will reinforce this message with their students. Your support helps us make the Wildcat Community Center the best it can be—a true asset for all.



Warm regards,
Daniel McGonigle
Director of Community Education
Chisago Lakes Public Schools

If you have any questions, reach out to me at dmcgonigle@Isd2144.org

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Community ED Talks

Community ED Talks EPISODE 2 Join us as we dive into National Honor Society at CLHS — with Gabriel Muedeking and Bene Smith

Listen now to Episode 2 on Spotify and stay tuned for more insightful conversations coming your way!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5drVwqYC7GLu8abiPAAijP?si=OSCeZe8eTfGFbvOwo36Ulw


#communityedtalks #podcastlaunch #lifelonglearning #communityeducation #chisagolakes

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2025 Wedding Expo - Vendors Opportunity!

We’re excited to announce that vendor registration for the Wedding Expo at the Wildcat Community Center is now open! If you're a wedding professional looking to showcase your services to brides and grooms-to-be, this is the perfect opportunity.


Event Date: Saturday, January 18th, 2025

Location: Wildcat Community Center


Don't miss out on the chance to connect with couples planning their big day and other industry experts. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot today!


For more information and to register, visit https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/.../2025-chisago-lakes... or contact us at 651-213-2600.

Aquatics Aquatics

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Lifeguarding Recertification Course

This curse is designed to refresh your knowledge and skills. Upon successful completion, you will renew your American Red Cross Lifeguarding (Including Deep Water) with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid certification for another two years.


To participate in the Lifeguarding Recertification class, you must have a current American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification, and certification expired by no more than 30 days.

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Aqua Fitness - Age 55+

Aqua Fitness - Age 55+

For ages 55+ Aqua Fitness is a great way to exercise with low impact to joints. It will help strengthen muscles and bones all while having fun in the water! This class provides a light to moderate aerobic workout that increases endurance, core strength and flexibility. There is limited use of equipment.

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Aqua Zumba

Aqua Zumba

Ages 12+ This course is perfect for those looking to make a splash by adding a low-impact, high-energy aquatic exercise to their fitness routine. Aqua Zumba blends the Zumba philosophy with water resistance, for one pool party you shouldn't miss! There is less impact on your joints during an Aqua Zumba class so you can really let loose.

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Adult Classes Adult Classes

Intro to Creative Writing - From Poem to Short Story

Intro to Creative Writing - From Poem to Short Story

Use your imagination and curiosity to travel from poem to short story in this introductory creative writing class, experimenting with styles and genres along the way. Learn to write regularly, take risks, share ideas, and feedback with your peers. Explore what it means to write creatively and to gain experience and confidence when writing and communicating.

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Deer in the Fall Woods

Deer in the Fall Woods

Join us in painting this peaceful picture. Step by step instructions, great for beginners. 16"×20" canvas, acrylic paints. All materials included in class fee.

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Dormant Seeding

Dormant Seeding

Spring is often thought to be the traditional time to plant seed, but fall has its advantages. When we seed in fall, the seeding is dormant, and the seed will remain in the soil all winter long to germinate in spring. In many cases, dormant seeding can be more effective than spring and summer seedings.

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Fall Pallet Knife Painting

Fall Pallet Knife Painting

In this class we will not be using brushes, but instead pallet knives. This creates a fun and different look to you art. Step by step instructions, beginners welcome. All materials included in class fee.

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Fall Septic System Care

Fall Septic System Care

How does your individual septic system really work? How can you as a homeowner care for and protect your investment to maximize the life of the system? There are many simple things you can do to extend the life of your septic system while at the same time maximizing efficiency, reducing expensive repairs, and protecting water quality.

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Painting with Pam

Painting with Pam

Pam will join us during our Forever Young meeting to help us with our own work of art! Pam is so fun and nice and I know you'll have a blast!

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Photo Transfer to Canvas

Photo Transfer to Canvas

Canvas is a beautiful medium onto which paintings are usually drawn. But canvas is also a great surface for carrying photographs, especially photographs of friends, family, or stunning scenery. In the photo transfer onto canvas learn about the magic that can happen with common art supplies.

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Red Barn in the Winter

Red Barn in the Winter

A red barn surrounded by the white winter snow is so pretty. 16"×20" canvas, acrylic paint, step by step instructions. All materials included in class fee.

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Social Security: Timing is Everything

Social Security: Timing is Everything

Social Security is a vital income source for many retirees. But it can be a confusing topic, and making the most of it can have a lot to do with timing it right. This workshop can help attendees get answers to their questions and learn what Social Security can mean for them.

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New Sessions Starting: Strong Her Society

Discover the rejuvenating experience offered by our community this October! Join us for 6 diverse sessions that will recharge your mind and body.

We will alternate between mindful art (sacred geometry and mandala drawing), and healthy recipes. We will incorporate some Yoga, Mediation and Pilates for an overall full body workout.


The mission is to bring women together in a warm and supportive environment, where we can train our bodies, unleash our creativity , learn to eat healthy, foster friendships and take a break from our daily routines. Don't miss this opportunity for quality time with like-minded individuals!

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Ghosts and goblins and ghouls, oh my!

Our Little Wildcat Preschoolers got into the Halloween Spirit at Primary School on the holiday!

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Hope you had a great Halloween!

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Walk through

The students did a walk through of the office to show off their costumes!

Virtual Classes Virtual Classes

Posture & Osteoporosis Workshop: Building Better Bones

Posture & Osteoporosis Workshop: Building Better Bones

Have you ever caught sight of your reflection in a window or mirror to see that your head leads the way? Or noticed that your shoulders and upper back are too rounded forward? You'll learn simple techniques to improve posture and stand straighter.

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How to Publish Your Book Without Going Broke

How to Publish Your Book Without Going Broke

So, you've written a book. Now what? Whether you've written the great American novel and want to share it with the world, or your memoirs to pass on to family and friends, this class is for you.

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Loving Kindness / Friendship Meditation

Loving Kindness / Friendship Meditation

This 2,500 year old practice helps us overcome self-dislike and builds proper self-love and self-acceptance. It also helps us act more gently and lovingly toward others and live without fear or hatred of others. This practice improves good relationships and helps heal problem ones. It also teaches compassion, balance in relationships and appreciating others' good fortune.

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Fitness Fitness

  • Yoga: Improve your flexibility
  • Total Body: a 45-minute workout that incorporates basic strength training and cardio for any fitness level
  • Dynamic Strength & Stretch: Basic and advanced strength movements in combination with dynamic body weighted movements for any fitness level
  • POUND: You become the music in this exhilarating full-body workout
  • Women & Weights: Learn to lift the right way and become comfortable with the weight rack
  • Tai Ji Quan, Moving for Better Balance: A research based balance training regimen designed for older adults at risk of falling and people with balance disorders
  • Sport Specific Strength & Conditioning: Come train to get ready for your next sport season!
  • Zumba: A cardio workout featuring Latin inspired music and dance and other aerobic moves
  • Full Body Balance & Flexibility (55+): Live 2 B Healthy's trainers bring you a new class each week that will focus on improving balance, flexibility, and strength to prevent falls and increase independence
  • Dance Fit: Get ready to kickstart your mornings with SuZanne Gillespie's high-energy 5 AM Dance Fit class!

Fall Classes Fall Classes

Eco Art Experience

Eco Art Experience

In this class we will explore making art with everyday items that might otherwise wind up in the recycle bin! We will make windchimes out of tin cans, snowmen out of plastic bottles and fun winter/holiday decorations out of unusual household items. Kids will leave this class full of creative ideas to "Use what we have" and minimize items finding their way to the landfill.

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Intro to Creative Writing - From Poem to Short Story

Intro to Creative Writing - From Poem to Short Story

Use your imagination and curiosity to travel from poem to short story in this introductory creative writing class, experimenting with styles and genres along the way. Learn to write regularly, take risks, share ideas, and feedback with your peers. Explore what it means to write creatively and to gain experience and confidence when writing and communicating.

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Dodgeball

From classic dodgeball to capture the flag we have many different dodgeball games to play. Tie those shoes tight and be ready to duck, dodge and dive! All equipment provided.


November 6th/7th - 20th/21st

Lakeside - Thursdays from 3:45-5:00pm

Primary School - Wednesdays 3:40-4:40pm

Primary School (Preschool) - Wednesdays 4:40-5:25pm

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Gym Games at Taylors Falls

Soccer, Football, Dodgeball, Basketball, Wiffle Ball..... Name a game kids love to play and we are doing it in this class. Each class is just about having fun! All equipment provided.


Nov 5th - 19th

3:30-5:00pm

Intro To Archery

Intro To Archery

Learn to shoot a bow safely and accurately. Quality archery instruction will be combined with an opportunity for the students to shoot and improve their skills. All equipment provided.

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Nature Club

Embark on a captivating journey into nature with our certified naturalist-led after-school program! This curriculum evolves with the changing seasons, ensuring fresh experiences and discoveries with each passing month.

  • Lakeside Elementary - Tuesdays, 3:45 - 5:15pm
    • starts Nov 5th
  • Primary School - Thursdays, 3:40 - 5:10pm
    • starts Nov 7th
  • Taylors Falls - Mondays, 3:30 - 5:00pm
    • starts Nov 11th
Find Your "self" In the Wild

Find Your "self" In the Wild

Join a former park ranger for an exciting middle school session on orienteering and wilderness navigation! Students will learn essential skills for navigating the great outdoors, both with and without a compass and map. This hands-on workshop will cover reading topographic maps, using natural landmarks, and understanding basic compass techniques.

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On a Stick: Cake Pops

On a Stick: Cake Pops

By the end of this class, you will be a cake pop expert! Choose from chocolate and vanilla cake, and decorate until your heart's content with sprinkles, shredded coconut, or a chocolate drizzle. All supplies are included.

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Pass the Popcorn Please

Pass the Popcorn Please

Movie night isn't complete without popcorn and other sweet and salty treats! These recipes will be in high demand any day of the week! All supplies are included. On the Menu: Nacho Cheese Popcorn, Candy Corn Fall Popcorn and Unicorn Popcorn

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Thanksgiving Treats

Thanksgiving Treats

Kids are going to flip over these absolutely adorable Turkey Cookie Pops and Reese's Turkeys!

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Wrestling Clinics

Beginner Clinic (K - Gr 2): This class is intended for those beginning in the sport and interested to learn more about it.

2nd graders with a year or more experience should register for the Advanced course or email BNelson@isd2144.org for guidance.


Advanced Clinic (Gr 2 - Gr 6): This is for wrestlers looking to compete in tournaments and ready to perfect learned techniques. 2nd graders who have at least one year of experience can register for this class, otherwise they should register for the K-2 class. Wrestling at the youth level incorporates many different training methods including tumbling and relays to work on agility. This clinic uses a systematic progression of wrestling moves that are appropriate for each age level.

Middle School Strength & Conditioning

Middle School Strength & Conditioning

Come and get a great workout twice per week. The workouts will be subjective to each student's ability level. Students will be divided into 2-3 workout levels and each group will get an appropriate workout based on their age & fitness level. A great way to get active for beginning lifters or build strength and conditioning for student-athletes!

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Festive Drawings

Festive Drawings

Spark your child's imagination with a Young Rembrandts Cartooning Class! They'll discover the power of exaggeration with Cow Expressions and Elf Expressions, perfect for conveying a whirlwind of emotions. Basketball Fun will score big with sports fans, while Baking Sequence and Decorating Sequence promise seasonal fun and creativity.

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Toddlers and Tots Toddlers and Tots

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NEW Mixed ages ECFE Class!

Welcoming children birth to 3 years old. Come and engage in purposeful and interactive play with your children in this class of movers and shakers. Parents and children stay together while enjoying regular classroom activities along with movement areas, art, and story time. Parents and children will participate in an interactive circle time with singing and movement activities before heading home.

Registration will stay open as new families are always welcome to join!

Music and Movement

Music and Movement

Music and Movement are both so important to a child's development. Adults will participate with their child while discovering the connection of movement to learning. Come join us in lots of fun, engaging songs, finger plays, interactive songs with books, simple yoga moves, and more!

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Let's Go Exploring Nature

Let's Go Exploring Nature

Ages 3-5 yrs old Embark on an exciting adventure with our certified naturalist-led Nature Club, designed especially for preschool students and their families! Together, we'll embark on captivating nature hikes (weather permitting), where kids and parents alike will have the opportunity to observe and connect with the natural world.

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Morning Music and Movement

Morning Music and Movement

In this lively and interactive class, children will learn rhythm, melody, and movement. Led by Sheryl Baker from River City Clogging, each session is a dynamic blend of music exploration and physical activity, tailored specifically for young minds and bodies. Perfect for little ones at home who need to burn off some energy!

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Parents Make and Take Learning Thru Loose Parts (PARENTS ONLY)

Parents Make and Take Learning Thru Loose Parts (PARENTS ONLY)

Parents, come learn how using loose parts can help and enhance your child's learning and academic success at home! Simple items and reusable activity sheets will allow your child to work on literacy skills including letter making and naming; mathematical skills including number naming, 1:1 counting, patterning, more/less concepts, and more!

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Tiny Tot Dance & Movement to Music

Tiny Tot Dance & Movement to Music

Join in the fun as you will move to the upbeat music while learning fun beginner dance moves. This class is a perfect intro to dance class for tiny tots that love to move to the beat!

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Family Fun Time

Family Fun Time

PRICE IS PER FAMILY - PLEASE ONLY ENROLL ONE USER/ADULT DURING REGISTRATION. Register online for $7 per family/per date or buy a $35 punch card for 6 visits - adult supervision required. Great opportunity for parents, grandparents, or homeschool teachers to bring students in for activities in our facilities.

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Kids Club Kids Club

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Kids Club Spots Available

Need child care this school year? Kids Club still has spot available!


Kids Club Child Care program provide high quality services that will grow with your child from preschool through grade five. Kids Club Child Care offers flexible scheduling options to meet the needs of your family!


Program Information:

Age: must be 3 on or before September 1, 2024

When: Open 9:00am - 12:50pm (Before Preschool) or 11:30am - 3:30pm (After Preschool)

Where: Conveniently located at Primary School & Taylors Falls Elementary

BONUS: All Day Care offered on days your child does not attend Preschool.

Little Wildcats Preschool, Preschool + Parents, & ECFE Little Wildcats Preschool, Preschool + Parents, & ECFE

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Upcoming Dates

  • Monday, Nov 4th - No School, Staff Development
  • Tuesday, Nov 12th - Music and Movement ECFE Class @ Primary School
  • Tuesday, Nov 19th - Parents Loose Parts ECFE Class @ WCC
  • Tuesday, Nov 26th - Early Childhood Screening By Appointment Only

Join Forever Young Today! Join Forever Young Today!

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Don't forget to join us for our Forever Young Club for the 2024-25 school year and summer! "We're planning many fun and educational events for the year, not to mention all of the wonderful friends you'll meet," said Betsy Sandgren, Forever Young Coordinator. Click to register today.

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Free Computer Technology Workshop 50+

Drop-in workshops 2024-25:

Are you having issues with your smart phone, tablet or computer? Drop in at one of hte dates below to get individual help from a capable volunteer or a high school student. We'd love to help you out! Each meeting will feature a topic plus time for individual help.


Location: Wildcat Community Center (enter through door 7).

Tuesdays @ 2.30pm

Nov. 12, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10, 2024

Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18, Mar. 4, Mar. 18, Apr. 1, Apr. 15, Apr. 29, May 13, 2025.

Look for additional technology classes offered through Community Education on our CE site.

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2025 Chisago Lakes Home and Business Showcase!

The CHISAGO LAKES BUSINESS SHOWCASE will be held on Saturday, March 01, 2025 from 9am to 4pm at the Wildcat Community Center.

Registration Opens October 1st:

https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/course/2586/winter-2025/2025-chisago-lakes-home-and-business-showcase

Don't Forget to Follow Us! Don't Forget to Follow Us!

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We are now on INSTAGRAM!

Drumroll please... We are officially part of the Instagram family! Follow us for all things community education, fun activities, and valuable resources. Let's grow together! @clcommunityed

www.instagram.com/clcommunityed

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Chisago Lakes Early Childhood Parents for more fun and interesting ideas you can share with your child. It's also a fun place to connect with other families in the community with young children!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/CLEarlyChildhood/


Chisago Lakes Community Education to see what fun and interesting things we have going on down at the WCC to make sure you don't miss out on anything!

https://www.facebook.com/CLCommunityEd

Chisago Lakes Community Education
https://ce.isd2144.org/
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