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Classifieds

Publication Date: Friday, December 20, 2002

Class Guide

Send listings to Class Guide, Palo Alto Weekly, P.O. Box 1610, Palo Alto, CA 94302, or fax them to 326-3928.

To place a paid advertisement in Class Guide, call our display advertising department at 326-8210.

Make the most of winter by taking a class in something you've always wanted to do. It's never too late to get in shape or study a new language. Try ballet or the waltz, or learn to play the piano. All the classes listed below are local, so go for it!

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
Cardinal Prep 407 Chester St., MP, 454-0259

In-home one-on-one tutoring for SAT, grades 1-12 reading and math, and pre-school early reading. Cardinal Prep builds strong academic foundations. Most tutors are Stanford and Berkeley graduates, current Stanford students and former faculty. Tutoring offered throughout Bay Area. Call for more information or e-mail cardinalprep@att.net.

Continuing Studies Program Stanford University, Stanford, 725-2650

Register through Jan. 2 for more than 80 winter quarter evening and weekend courses, seminars and workshops. Courses are taught by Stanford instructors and are open to all adults in the Bay Area. Take classes on a part-time basis for intellectual enrichment -- both personal and professional. Courses in Archaeology, Art, Business, Communication, Creative Writing, Design, Drama, Film, History, Languages, Literature, Music and Science. Five and ten-week courses available. Instruction begins Jan. 6. Register online at http://continuingstudies.stanford.edu or call for more information.

Master of Liberal Arts Program (MLA) Stanford University, Stanford, 725-0061

MLA program at Stanford University allows you to earn your master's degree at one of the world's great centers of learning. The MLA Program was created with working adults in mind and takes three to five years to complete. It is designed for students who wish to pursue a broad, interdisciplinary course of study in the liberal arts. Small seminars, taught by Stanford faculty, meet in the evenings. Admission is selective. Completed applications for the 2003-2004 academic year are due Jan. 24. Call for more information.

Mid-Peninsula High School 1340 Willow Road, MP, 321-1991

Mid-Peninsula High School encourages students to set and pursue realistic goals. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and take a traditional college preparatory curriculum in small classes (average 15 per class). They are encouraged through a structured advisory system ("CORE") to plan and follow an appropriate sequence of courses. Students learn to work collaboratively, to communicate effectively, to take responsibility for themselves and their education, and to become productive members of the school and the larger communities. Graduates have gone on to attend a wide variety of colleges and universities in California and throughout the United States. Call for more information.

BODY

Since 1983 Body Therapy Center, a state-approved school for massage and bodywork, has offered classes to both professionals and the community at large. Offering 1,250 hours of professional certification courses, Rolfing and Esalen massage classes, dozens of continuing education classes and a wide variety of community workshops. Prices begin at $40. Please call for a full schedule and price list or visit www.bodymindspirit.net.

Gold Star Gymnastics 92 W. El Camino Real, MV, 694-7827

Gold Star Gymnastics offers gymnastics classes for parents and tots through preschool, plus a full array of recreational classes through competitive teams in boys and girls gymnastics, rhythmic and cheer. This year Gold star started an adult program with gymnastics, aerobics and strength/stretch classes to entice Mom and Dad back to exercising. Call for a free trial or visit www.goldstargym.com.

JKA Shotokan Karate of Stanford Stanford University, Stanford, 917-9674

Traditional Japanese martial arts club with emphasis on conditioning, form and adherence to the culture and tradition of the art. Classes Tues./Thurs., 7-8:30 p.m.; Sat., noon - 2 p.m. Open to all ages, experience and skill levels.

Mountain View-Los Altos Adult School 333 Moffett Blvd., MV, 940-1333

The MV-LA Adult School has a long history and commitment to adult education. Be fit! Offering Afro Brazilian dance, belly dancing, Feldenkrais, kickboxing, jazz dance, hiking, Pilates, stretch and flex, Tae Kwon Do, Tai Chi and yoga classes. Quarter begins Jan. 6. Call for more information or visit www.mvlaae.org.

Movement Practice Palo Alto, 321-0921

Movement Practice: Getting to know your body. Bring attention to the habitual and the unknown. Ease chronic pain. Gentle, yet challenging. Great for new yoga students. Two seven-week classes available. Tuesdays, 5:30-6:45 p.m. beginning Jan. 14; or Fridays, 8:30-9:45 a.m. beginning Jan. 17. First Congregational Church, Embarcadero and Louis. Series only. Based on the Feldenkrais Method. Instructor: Elizabeth Robinson. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This family YMCA offers fitness and exercise classes throughout the year for all ages and fitness levels, including step, high/low-impact, muscle conditioning, cycling, kickboxing, prenatal and post-partum fitness, sports conditioning, yoga, strength training for teens, kids' fitness, and water aerobics, including deep water running and adaptive water exercise. Call for more information.

DANCE

Ballet and tap classes for beginners from six years old (Wed., 3:15 p.m.), nine to 12 years old (Wed., 4:15 p.m.) and teens (Thurs. afternoon). Some openings for preschoolers available on Tues. afternoon. Beginning adult ballroom held on Tuesday evenings. Beginning adult tap and ballet, Wed. evening. Those with previous experience please call for placement. Pre-registration required for all classes. Call for more information and pre-registration.

Brazilian Dance Classes 1305 Middlefield Road, PA, 463-4940

The City of Palo Alto Arts and Culture division offers a Brazilian dance workout with Anita Lusebrink. Get in shape while enjoying the sensual movements and music of Brasil. 10-week session starts Jan. 13. Mondays at 6:45 p.m., Thursdays at 7 p.m. Once a week: $100; twice a week: $180. At Palo Alto's Lucie Stern Community Center Ballroom. Call for more information.

Dance Connection 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 322-7032

Dance Connection offers dance instruction for ages 3 to adult in several forms of dance including jazz, ballet and pointe, tap, funk jazz, and hip-hop. Instruction includes beginning to advanced levels with specialty classes such as a boys program, preschool and kindergarten classes, elementary combination classes, and dance teams. Winter sessions include belly dance and boys hip-hop/break dance. Call for more information or visit www.danceconnectionpaloalto.com.

Dance Visions 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 858-2005

Dance Visions offers a wide variety of dance classes for children/teens (pre-ballet/creative dance, ballet and modern) and adults (ballet, character, modern, contact improv, pilates, hip hop, Caribbean beat, cardio salsa, Feldenkrais, Middle Eastern, do your own dance, jazz conditioning, Indian modern funk, and more). Most classes are co-ed and ongoing. Drop-ins are welcome. Call form ore information or visit www.dancevisions.org.

L'Ecole de Danse Palo Alto, 323-7932

Offering European and Russian style dance lessons for children and adults at all skill levels. Now opening new beginner ballet classes for ages 7-10. Lessons at the Cubberley Community Center.

Marti's Dance Studio 1140 Riverside Drive, Los Altos, 947-8699

Tap, ballet, lyrical, jazz, cheerleading, hip/hop and H/H martial art for boys, and yoga. Classes offered in Portola Valley and Sunnyvale studios also. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This family YMCA offers Line Dancing for Active Older Adults, beginning in January. Come enjoy a variety of line dances, fun moves and music. Class is geared toward older adults, but all adults are welcome. Ongoing classes free to YMCA facility members. Call for more information.

Zohar Dance Company and School 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 494-8221

Under the direction of Ehud Krauss and Daynee Lai-Krauss, dancers experience the splendor of dance at Zohar. Taught by a professional faculty including the directors -- Lisa Burnett, Kristine Elliott and Barbara Susco -- Zohar offers ongoing classes for adults in jazz, ballet and modern. Studio space is available for rehearsals and workshops. Conveniently located at the Cubberley Community Center. Call for more information or visit www.zohardance.org.

HANDICRAFTS

Ongoing classes in weaving, spinning and knitting for beginner and intermediate students. Day and evening sessions. Explore the ancient art of Temari, a Japanese folk art, or learn to weave the Navajo way. Enhance your lifestyle with an art form almost forgotten. Visit the studio and watch the students work. Call for more information, e-mail webemit@worldnet.att.net, or visit www.customhandweavers.com.

Mountain View-Los Altos Adult School 333 Moffett Blvd., MV, 940-1333

The MV-LA Adult School has a long history and commitment to adult education. Offering calligraphy, ceramics, Chinese brush painting/calligraphy, greeting cards workshop, Japanese flower arranging (Ikebana), knitting/crochet, needle arts, oil/acrylic painting, photography, quilt making, sewing, silk painting and watercolor painting. Quarter begins Jan. 6. Call for more information or visit www.mvlaae.org.

HEALTH

Services include aquatic therapy and adaptive aquatic classes that promote independence, water safety and wellness for individuals of all ages, with or without developmental or other disabilities. Rehabilitation and leisure swim classes include: Advanced Healthy Back, Water Wellness, pre-natal and parent-tot. The pool is kept at 90-92 degrees and is completely wheelchair accessible. The pool is available for private parties. Call for more information or visit www.c-a-r.org.

California Yoga Center 570 Showers Drive, Suite 5, MV, 947-9642

The California Yoga Center offers classes for beginning to advanced yoga students. Instructors specialize in Iyengar-style yoga, which cultivates strength, endurance, flexibility and relaxation. Ongoing yoga classes are scheduled every day and include special classes for back care, prenatal and seniors. Weekend workshops explore a variety of yoga related topics. Call for more information or visit www.californiayoga.com.

Gentle Pilates Palo Alto, 326-4172

5-week series: "Flexible Posture: Learn ways to stand and sit taller and more comfortably while relieving back pain." Begins Jan. 31. Fridays at 1:15 p.m. $45. Dance Visions in Cubberley Community Center. Instructor: Jennie Cosgrove. Call for more information or e-mail: jencos@bigfoot.com.

Lift Fitness 284 San Antonio Road, MV, 949-3031

Pilates instruction: mat classes and private instruction. Personal fitness training: circuit classes or private instruction. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This family YMCA offers a 12-week Personal Fitness Program, designed to take the unfit individual from inactive to active, and helps members make a commitment to physical activity, includes weekly meetings with a strength trainer. Free for facility members. Call for more information.

Pilates for Golfers 3906 Middlefield Road, PA, 494-0991

Pilates for golfers and other sports enthusiasts. Tues./Thurs. mornings. Call for times. $90 for series of six classes. Back to Fitness physical therapy. Strengthens core muscles to improve your game.

Qigong Institute 561 Berkeley Ave., MP, 323-1221

Chinese Qigong for health. Stress reduction exercises for improving and maintaining health. Suitable for all ages. Classes meet eight Mondays, Jan. 13 - March 3, at the Lucie Stern Community Center, Community Room, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. 6:30-8 p.m. $115 for Palo Alto residents, $125 for non-residents. Register at the Palo Alto Cultural Center office, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto, or call 329-2527.

Sequoia YMCA 1445 Hudson St., Redwood City, 368-4168

Winter programs currently being offered include: Youth basketball league (K-5), indoor swim lessons, youth swim team, preschool sports, pre/post natal fitness, pilates, w.o.w. (workout and weight loss program) and more. All programs take place at the Sequoia YMCA. Call for more information or visit www.ymcamidpen.org.

Taijiquan Tutelage of Palo Alto 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 327-9350

Established in 1973. Learn the classical Yang Cheng-fu style of Taijiquan (T'ai Chi Ch'uan). Beginning classes start monthly. Classes are held at the Cubberley Community Center. Please call for more information and literature, or visit the website at: www.ttopa.com.

Taoist Tai Chi Society Palo Alto, (415) 999-6889

Discover a moving art form, based on a centuries-old tradition, for increased strength, balance and flexibility, promoting overall health benefits and stress reduction. Classes taught by accredited instructors. The Taoist Tai Chi society is the world's largest non-profit Tai Chi society. Call for more information or visit www.taichicalifornia.org.

The Wisdom of India 505 E. Charleston Road, PA, 857-0919

Satyananda yoga on a deep level, incorporating poses, meditation, philosophy and more esoteric yoga practices. Taught by Andrea Lenox. Wednesdays, 5:30-7 p.m.

Yoga Center of Palo Alto 541 Cowper St., PA, 322-YOGA (9642)

The first yoga center in Palo Alto. All levels of classes from beginning to advanced. Based on the teachings of BKS Iyengar, author of "Light on Yoga." Physical poses, breathing exercises and relaxation. Develop a strong, flexible body and a quiet mind. Beautiful studio and excellent instruction.

Yoga is Youthfulness 590 Castro St., MV, 964-5277

Yoga is Youthfulness in Mountain View helps you improve your health for good. Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa Flow and Bikram yoga classes for all levels. Meditation classes. Mats and towels provided. $13 drop-in, second class is free. Series purchases available. Call for more information or visit www.yogaisyouth.com.

LANGUAGE

Learn conversational German on a basic level at the Palo Alto Adult School. Reading and writing are also covered, as well as the fundamental principles of grammar. The instructor, a college-credentialed teacher with a master's degree, lived and studied in Germany through the Stanford-in-Germany program. Tuesday evenings, Jan. 7 - March 4, 7-9 p.m. $85. Call to register or e-mail: adultschool@pausd.palo-alto.ca.us.

Language Pacifica 585 Glenwood Ave., MP, 321-1840

Language Pacifica is an English language (ESL) school, with intensive group classes offered weekdays. Designed for adults ages 16 and over, with a maximum of 12 students per class. These ongoing classes have an academic focus and prepare students for TOEFL and enrollment in U.S. colleges. Private classes are also available. Call for more information or visit www.languagepacifica.com.

Mountain View-Los Altos Adult School 333 Moffett Blvd., MV, 940-1333

The MV-LA Adult School has a long history and commitment to adult education. Learn or practice a language! Offering Chinese, Finnish, Farsi, French, German, Italian, Latin, Russian and Spanish. Quarter begins Jan. 6. Call for more information or visit http://www.mvlaae.org.

MIND & SPIRIT

Learn physical and mental exercises that allow you to develop flexibility, strength and stamina in the body; experience peace, clarity and focus in the mind, and expand the conscious development of your own spirituality. Ongoing biweekly classes held in the Willow Room, Oak Creek Apartments, Palo Alto on Tues., 7:30-9 p.m.; and Sat., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: $10-15. Call for more information.

Foundation for Global Community 222 High St., PA, 328-7756

The Foundation for Global Community offers skills training and discussion courses on the themes of people, planet and prosperity. Courses include: conflict resolution, Enneagram, green teams/earth-friendly choice, a sense of place, and many more. Fees vary. Call for more information or visit www.globalcommunity.org.

Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (ITP) 744 San Antonio Road, PA, 493-4430 ext. 16

The Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (ITP) offers distance learning courses in the area of transpersonal studies, creative expression, spiritual psychology, women's spiritual development and wellness counseling. Each course is designed for the independent learner, and includes individual supervision with a mentor who is an expert in the field of study. Course content emphasizes the integrative study of mind, body and spirit, and its practical application to the student's personal and professional life. Ongoing students may enroll in a course anytime. Call for more information or visit www.itp.edu.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This family YMCA offers Life Enrichment classes: Couples Shiatsu Massage, QiGong, TaiChi Chuan, Tae Kwon Do, Mat Based Pilates, and beginning and intermediate Hatha Yoga. Call for session start dates and fees or visit www.ymcamidpen.org.

Satyananda Yoga 3412 Ross Road, PA, 857-0919

Calming and gentle, strengthening and joyful -- firmly based in the yogic tradition of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Bihar, India, are beginning and intermediate classes taught by Andrea Lenox. Call for more information.

UCSC Extension 10420 Bubb Road, Cupertino, (408) 861-3844

Entering the Heart of the World: A weekend workshop with Joanna Macy. Renew your joy in life and relearn your heart's desire to take part in the healing of our world. Joanna Macy is renown for her trainings involving the interface between social and spiritual breakthroughs. Sat., Feb. 8 and Sun., Feb. 9 at the Lucie Stern Center, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Fee: $250 if registered before Jan. 25, $275 after. Call for more information or visit www.ucsc-extension.edu.

MISCELLANY

Five Branches Institute offers a professional master's degree program in traditional Chinese medicine. New semester starts in February. Enrollment is still open. Nationally accredited; financial aid available. Call for more information or visit www.fivebranches.edu.

George Rubin Palo Alto, 424-1940

Private lessons for all ages in Hebrew, Judaica and Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutoring. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

The Ventura Youth Activity Center is a place where teens and pre-teens (grades 6-12) can hang out with friends, meet new people and participate in a variety of events and activities during after school hours (Monday-Friday, 3:30-6:30 p.m.). Snacks are provided on a daily basis, along with two pool tables, a Foosball table, an Air Hockey table and basketball courts. Most activities are free, except for minimal charges for special field trips. There is a computer center, complete with eight work stations and two printers, perfect for research on the internet and printing out school papers. Call for more information.

MUSIC & ARTS

The Atherton Arts Committee is pleased to announce a fabulous season of hands-on, intelligent and fun-filled classes for children in its facility at Holbrook-Palmer Park. Winter session begins Jan. 13 and runs through March 20, and includes classes in drawing and printmaking, clay, contemporary art projects, and performing arts. Call for more information, e-mail atherton_art@hotmail.com or visit www.ci.atherton.ca.us/ (click 'Arts Committee').

The Bead Shop 158 University Ave., PA, 328-5290

The Bead Shop offers a variety of jewelry making classes from basic stringing techniques to more advanced ones including Metalsmithing, Silver Art Clay, Chain Making and Pearl Knotting. Learn to create elegant necklaces, bracelets and earrings for yourself or as gifts using semi-precious stones, sterling silver and gold filled findings. Classes are offered year-round. Prices begin at $45/class. Call for more information or visit www.beadshop.com.

Chinese Brush Painting Cubberley Studio, PA, 948-1503

Master calligrapher and painter Anna Wu Weakland teaches Chinese brush painting. Class meets eight Tuesdays, 2:30-4:30 p.m., beginning Jan. 7. Learn to paint with minimum strokes and achieve maximum results. The techniques of all the popular subject matters will be taught. Beginners and advanced students welcome.

Community School of Music and Arts (CSMA) 253 Martens Ave., MV, 961-0342

Something for everyone. More than 50 new art classes beginning Feb. 10: Ceramics, drawing, painting, multi-cultural arts and more. New early-childhood program (ages 18 months - five years): Adventures in music, art, ceramics. Music classes for all ages: World harmony, chorus, jazz combos, children's chorale, intro to keyboard, violin, guitar, music theory, chamber music and more. Private music lesson registration by appointment only. Multi-lingual faculty of 75+ professionals. Tuition aid offered. Call for more information or visit www.arts4all.org.

El Camino Youth Symphony (ECYS) 2439 Birch St., Suite 3, PA, 327-2611

ECYS welcomes young musicians ages 6-18 with at least one year of experience on a musical instrument to join their music education program. Currently in its 40th season, the El Camino Youth Symphony provides a quality education and performance program, with an opportunity to participate in a wide array of both preparatory and advanced orchestras and ensembles Program membership is by audition only. Call for more information or visit www.ecys.org.

Gryphon Stringed Instruments 211 Lambert Ave., PA, 493-2131

Offering group classes and individual lessons for guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, harp, dulcimer, bass and violin. Open Monday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. New series of group classes begins the week of Jan. 6. Call for more information or visit www.gryphonstrings.com.

LifePlays Improv Mountain View, 712-1306

Tap your capacity for full presence and spontaneous expression as you follow your impulses and connect creatively with others. Six-week sessions meet weekly. Call for more information or visit www.LifePlays.com.

Pacific Art League of Palo Alto 668 Ramona St., PA, 321-3891

Draw, paint, print, sculpt. Fifty-five classes taught by professional artists. Children, adults, beginners and advanced. Small classes. Call for more information or visit www.pacificartleague.org.

Painting: A Practical Approach with Barbara Clark 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 321-8891

For painters and non-painters using non-academic approaches including meditation, guided imagery and exercises in feeling and seeing. Search deeper, overcome blocks, take risks and have fun with colors and forms. All materials supplied. Media include tempera, oil pastels, collage, monotype printing. Tuesday and Saturday mornings. Classes begin Jan. 4. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Children's Theatre 1305 Middlefield Road, PA, 463-4930

The Palo Alto Children's Theatre offers an array of classes during the winter. Acting I: Beginning acting for eight to 10 year olds. Playing Along: Creativity and imagination classes for six to eight year olds. Story Acting: Nursery rhymes, short poems and familiar stories are used to help four and five year olds create stories to act out. Class costs and times vary. Parent or legal guardian must conduct all registration in person at the Children's Theatre. Call for more information.

Peninsula Youth Theatre (PYT) 2500 Old Middlefield Way, MV, 988-8798

PYT offers classes in acting, singing and dancing for ages two-and-a-half and up. Cost is $100 and up per class for the session, which runs Jan. 27 - May 9. PYT also offers vacation drama camps for ages 8 and up from Feb. 17-21 and April 14-18. Cost is $225. Call for a brochure or register online at www.pytnet.org.

OUTDOORS

Camp Unalayee, established in 1949, is a multi-cultural camp nestled in the pristine Trinity Alps Wilderness in Northern California west of Mount Shasta. Offering backpacking, rock climbing, arts and crafts, swimming, fishing and canoeing on a private alpine lake, archery, campfires and more. A leadership training program with backpacking adventures specializing in nature studies, wilderness ethics and outdoor living skills is offered to 16 and 17 year olds. Transportation provided from the Bay Area. Cost varies. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This family YMCA has a 20-foot high climbing wall with the feel of real rock and the comfort and safety of being indoors. There are swim lessons for all ages, and scuba classes with ocean dives included. Adult sports leagues are offered in basketball, soccer and volleyball. Call for more information.

Shoreline Aquatic Center 3160 N. Shoreline Blvd., MV, 965-7474

Shoreline Aquatic Center offers kids' camps, teen/adult classes in windsurfing, kayaking and sailing, and rentals of pedalboats, canoes, kayaks, sailboats and windsurfers. Open seven days a week, year round. Prices range from $50 for private lessons to $345 for junior camps. Call for more information or visit www.ci.mtnview.ca.us/citydepts/cs/sd/lake.htm.

SCHOOLS

For the first time -- openings in January for the pre-primary (2-3 year olds) and primary (3-6 year olds). New beautiful building. The best in Montessori education. International and multicultural. NAEYC accredited. Call for more information or visit www.casadeibambini.net.

Children's International School (CIS) 4000 Middlefield Road, PA, 813-9131

CIS provides a strong, hands-on educational program for children grades K-8. In addition to mixed-age classes with 1:10 teacher-to-student ratios, CIS offers a host of unique program features to enrich the fundamentals: intercultural activities including Spanish, Japanese and Latin instruction; music, art, literature, physical education and computers. The goal of CIS is to develop independent learners who have confidence, creativity and critical thinking skills. The school offers a full-day program (7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.) year round. Call for more information.

The Children's Pre-School Center (CPSC) Palo Alto, 493-5770

Loving, supportive relationships between teachers and children together with developmentally appropriate practices are the keys to the school's special quality. In partnership with parents, CPSC provides children from six weeks through five years with an excellent, stimulating, fun-filled program, setting the foundation for self-confidence and success. Call for more information or visit www.cpsccares.org.

Emerson School 4251 El Camino Real, PA, 424-1267

Year-round, all-day Montessori-based education for children grades 1 - 8. Offering an individualized curriculum, strong fundamental academic preparation, an emphasis on personal values and a focus on thinking skills. For more information or to sign up for an open house, please contact Leah at 424-1267 or e-mail lmaxwell@headsup.org.

German School of Silicon Valley 310 Easy St., MV, 254-0748

Full-time German school (preschool - tenth) with an excellent academic program. Immersion preschool and kindergarten, no prior knowledge of German required. Classes held Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. plus afternoon activities. Tuition starts at $670 per month, plus one-time $450 matriculation fee.

The Girls' Middle School (GMS) 180 N. Rengstorff Ave., MV, 968-8338

GMS is an all-girls middle school dedicated to nurturing and empowering young women. GMS features an innovative curriculum which combines academic rigor with creativity, focuses attention on girls' emotional and social needs and embraces diversity with a multi-cultural staff. Call for more information or visit www.girlsms.org.

Living Wisdom School 456 College Ave., PA, 462-8150

Your child will blossom in this extraordinary learning environment, with emphasis on achievement, poise, creativity and joy. Living Wisdom School currently includes grades K-8. Give your child a well-rounded education for excellence in academics, life-skills and higher awareness. Thirty years of educating children for life. Call for a brochure, more information or to schedule a guided tour, or visit www.LivingWisdomSchool.org.

Mid-Peninsula Jewish Community Day School 4000 Terman Drive, PA, 494-8200

Offering a broad range of academic and physical achievement classes. Mid-Peninsula Jewish Community Day School achieves the highest standards in Jewish and secular education. Call for more information.

Pacific Art League of Palo Alto 668 Ramona St., PA, 321-3891

Draw, paint, print, sculpt. Fifty-five classes taught by professional artists. Children, adults, beginners and advanced. Small classes. Fees vary. Winter session runs Jan. 6 - March 30. Register now.

Palo Alto Adult School 50 Embarcadero Road, PA, 329-3752

Register now for winter 2003 classes, which begin Jan. 6. Wide range of low-cost classes includes Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics, arts, fitness, foreign language, home improvement, online classes and English as a Second Language (ESL). Call for more information or visit www.paadultschool.org.

Palo Alto School for Jewish Education (PASJE) Palo Alto, 855-9063

PASJE, K-8, offers an innovative and thoughtful curriculum of Judaic studies and Hebrew. The school provides a caring environment for learning and building a community based on Jewish culture, history and life cycles. Call for more information.

Primary Plus School 333 Eunice Ave., MV, 967-3780

Infant care, ages birth - 2 year olds. Preschool instruction for ages 2-5. Dance classes offered include ballet, tap and tumbling. Call for more information.

The Roberts School 641 Coleman Ave., MP, 322-3535

The Roberts School offers preschool, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten since 1975. The approach to early childhood education is developmental and academic. Activities include cooking, art, music, Spanish, gymnastics, science and phonics-based instruction to support pre-reading skills. Call for more information.

St. Cyprian Catholic School 195 Leota Ave., Sunnyvale, (408) 738-3444

St. Cyprian Catholic School offers a religion-based education in a personal environment of one class per grade, K-8. The enrollment reflects the diversity of Silicon Valley, while providing an environment committed to the spiritual and academic growth of each student. Art, music, band, physical education, after-school sports and extended care are also offered. A major facilities expansion has recently been completed which doubled the physical space and includes dedicated computer and science labs as well as room for an all-day kindergarten. Call for more information.

West Bay Christian Academy Redwood City, 366-8205 or 568-9222

West Bay Christian Academy is an independent, non-denominational Christian school. Offering college preparatory instruction to students in kindergarten through 12th grades. For information regarding the elementary campus, contact Nancy Galleni, Elementary Principal, at 366-8205. For information regarding the High School campus, contact Ed Swift, School Administrator, at 568-9222 or visit www.westbay.org.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Avenidas offers a wide range of classes, lectures and activities aimed at meeting the broad interests of adults over the age of 50. Stretch your mind with classes and lectures ranging from music, art and history to computers. Stretch your body with exercise classes for every fitness level, from aerobics to gentle exercise and back strengthening. Participate in recreational trips around the greater Bay Area or visit the Health Library of Avenidas, a resource for all ages. Winter quarter runs Jan. 6 to March 31. Call for more information.

Black Diamond Sports 162 University Ave., PA, 289-0900

Beginner Rollerblade lessons for adults and children. Gain the fundamentals and skills you need to have a safe and fun rollerblading experience. Lessons every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. Free. Meet at the Main Quad of Stanford University at noon.

Foothill College 12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, 949-7777

Foothill College offers more than 1,000 classes every 12 weeks, from accounting to martial arts to web publishing. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current job skills, change careers or just want to take a class for your own personal enrichment, Foothill College has the courses you want. Winter quarter begins Jan. 6. Registration now through Dec. 30. In addition to the main campus, classes also offered at the Middlefield campus in Palo Alto. Visit www.foothillcollege.org.

Italian Educational Institute (IEI) Menlo Park, 299-8844

The newly formed Italian Educational Institute (IEI) offers evening adult classes in the Italian language as well as classes -- given in English -- on various interesting aspects of Italian culture. The eight-week classes are held at Jordan Middle School, 750 N. California St., Palo Alto. A Food as Culture class is offered in collaboration with Dal Baffo Restaurant in Menlo Park and includes a full Italian dinner each class meeting. Enrollment open house Jan. 11 and 12, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., 1155 Crane St., Suite 5, Menlo Park. Call for more information or visit www.italybythebay.org.

The Klutz Store 572 College Ave., PA, 493-2481

The Klutz Store is 400 square feet of everything Klutz. It may be the smallest store in town (it makes up in charm and personality what it lacks in pure acreage) but the fun-per-square-foot measure is off the charts. Selling a diverse collection of kits, toys, learning gizmos, juggling apparatus and, of course, every single one of the award-winning, world-famous Klutz books. Just about every Saturday afternoon the store hosts various events. These events (hands-on craft demonstrations, magic shows, petting zoos, etc) are always fun and always free. The Klutz Store is also home base for a Saturday afternoon juggling club. Come on by! Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Mountain View-Los Altos Adult School 333 Moffett Blvd., MV, 940-1333

The MV-LA Adult School has a long history and commitment to adult education. Improve your skills. Classes offered include: arts and crafts, birding, chorus, computers, creative writing, dance, English as a second language (ESL), genealogy, high school programs, hiking, international relations, home and finance, foreign languages, memoirs, mental/physical fitness, music, needle arts, orchestra, photography and writing. Older adult classes (55+, $10), parent education and volunteer opportunities. Classes begin Jan. 6. Call for more information or visit www.mvlaae.org.

Page Mill YMCA 755 Page Mill Road, PA, 858-0661

The Page Mill YMCA offers the following classes this winter: Monday's: 9:30-10:45 a.m., Low & Tone Aerobics; 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Body Works Conditioning. Tuesday's: 10-11 a.m., Low Impact Cardio; 11 a.m. - noon, Fit Ball/Core Conditioning. Wednesday's: 7:15-8:30 a.m., Low & Tone Aerobics; 6-7 p.m. Cardio Bootcamp. Thursday's: 11 a.m. - noon, Fit Ball/Core Conditioning; 7-8 p.m., Spinning. Friday's: Noon - 1 p.m., Restorative Yoga; 4-5 p.m., Yoga; 6-7 p.m., Spin & Core Conditioning. Saturday's: 9-10:15 a.m., FitWalk; 10:45-11:40 a.m., Spinning. Sunday's: 8-9 a.m., Spinning & Sculpt; 10:30-11:30 a.m., Cardio Kickboxing. Call for more information.

Palo Alto Family YMCA 3412 Ross Road, PA, 856-9622

This Family YMCA offers a variety of fitness, enrichment, swim classes, teen programs, and sports programs for all ages. Call for a brochure or visit the facility which includes a gymnasium, indoor pools, a complete fitness center, and a climbing wall. The YMCA builds strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

Parents Place 410 Sherman Ave., PA, 688-3040

More than 20 support groups and educational workshops for parents and classes for parents and children. Topics include: kindergarten readiness, dealing with children's anger, negotiating with kids, positive discipline, stages of development, children and media/technology, toilet training, and understanding your teen. Drop-in play center and parenting resource library. Sliding fee scale available. Call for more information or visit www.ParentsPlaceOnline.org.

Peninsula Volunteers Little House 800 Middle Ave., MP, 326-2025

Peninsula Volunteers Little House offers a large variety of classes for people age 50 and over. Health and fitness classes include: T'ai Chi/Chi Kong, yoga, hiking, line dancing and general conditioning. Arts and craft classes include: watercolor, oil and acrylic painting, oriental brush painting, jewelry making, lapidary, enamel, ceramics, pottery and sewing craft. We also offer a variety of computer classes for the Macintosh and the PC, including a class on the Internet. Other classes offered include: French, Spanish, birding, bridge, family history, lip reading, memoir writing, current events and several history classes. Call for more information.

Reach Fitness Club 707 High St., PA, 949-3730

Reach Fitness Club's award-winning class schedule includes something for everyone. Offering: kickboxing, step/sculpt, cardio dance, body sculpting, Pilates, hip hop/funk and Latin dance. See the full schedule at www.reachfitnessclub.com.

YWCA of the Mid-Peninsula 4161 Alma St., PA, 494-0972

Capoeira: Mondays/Saturdays. Begins Jan. 6. $72; Samba: Mondays/Saturdays. Begins Jan. 4. $72; Yoga: Mondays/Wednesdays. Begins Jan. 7. $70; Bridge: Monday/Wednesday/Friday mornings. $92; Shinyimasu Martial Art: $100 for two people; Business Start-up Workshops: $150 for six weeks. Visit www.ywcamid.org for more information.