This fall we are pleased to offer The Friendship Lab, a new class designed for adults looking to build stronger, more meaningful connections. The class blends research-based techniques with hands-on experimentation to help participants create and sustain fulfilling friendships.
The Friendship Lab is taught by Tony Shen, a graduate of Stanford and UC Berkeley Haas Business School. Tony transitioned from a successful career in education management to focus on his passion for improving lives through social connection.
“The single most important factor for a healthier and happier life is good relationships,” Tony says. “More than ever, we need better and more quality friendships.”
Students in The Friendship Lab participate in weekly activities that include self-reflection, improv-based exercises, and group discussions. Students are encouraged to have fun and play, fostering the vulnerability and openness necessary to build lasting bonds.
“Friendship – especially later in life – takes effort, intention, and planning,” Tony says. “My hope is that people will leave this class with the practical tools they need to create and sustain these vital connections.”
Register today! Class starts Monday October 21!
Details: Mondays, Oct. 21 - Nov. 18, 7:00-8:30pm, $135. Register at piedmontadultschool.org or call (510) 594-2717.
We are excited to welcome Jana Branisa as the new High School Diploma Coordinator at the Adult School. Jana oversees the progress of more than 30 students currently enrolled in the program, helping them work toward the life-changing achievement of earning their diplomas.
"It’s incredibly rewarding to support adults in reaching this important goal," Jana says. "Our students are dedicated, and we’ve already had three graduates this school year!"
In addition to her work at the Adult School, Jana provides technology support for Piedmont High School staff and teaches computer science and mathematics classes. Before transitioning into education, she built a career in the private sector as an IT professional and Corporate Webmaster.
Born in Prague, Czech Republic, and raised in Germany, Jana moved to the U.S. with her family and settled in Oakland as a young adult. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, gardening, swimming, kayaking, skiing, and spending time with her two adult sons.
As part of our commitment to meeting the needs of the community, Piedmont Adult School offers free, state-funded Career Technical Education (CTE) classes. These short-term courses are designed to equip job seekers, entrepreneurs, and those looking to upskill with the tools needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
In our Fall 2024 session, we are pleased to offer five CTE classes:
Navigating Your Career Path
Introduction to Social Media Marketing
Beginner's Guide to AI/ChatGPT
Microsoft Office
Legal Issues for Small Business
Business Plan Basics
Do you have a specific area of interest in business, entrepreneurship, or computer skills that you'd like to see offered? Let us know! We welcome your suggestions at pas@piedmont.k12.ca.us.
We’re excited to announce the launch of our new ESL Conversation Partners Program, providing students in our English as a Second Language (ESL) classes a valuable opportunity to enhance their language skills. This initiative connects ESL students from both the Beginning and Intermediate/Advanced classes with community volunteers for 45-minute weekly conversations, helping students build confidence in using English for everyday interactions.
To prepare for their roles, volunteers received an orientation from Adult School Director Shannon Fierro, who shared practical tips on creating a supportive and encouraging environment for English learners, as well as strategies for effective communication.
“Our ESL students and volunteers alike have expressed how much they enjoy these sessions,” says Shannon. “It’s more than just learning English—it’s about making meaningful connections. This program taps into the strengths of our community, aligning with the school district’s goal of ‘Partnering Beyond the Classroom.’”
For more information, call (510) 594-2717.
