2024-2025 ADULT EDUCATION
JOB & CAREER
TRAINING
PROGRAMS
The Adult Education Job & Career Training programs at Polaris Career Center are designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in today’s leading occupations.
Each program features comprehensive, hands-on training for adults who are just starting a career, who are in job transition, or who want to upgrade their existing skills to remain competitive. Complete a Job & Career Training program at Polaris Career Center and master job skills and concepts that will maximize potential employment opportunities.
PROGRAMS ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL AID
(For students who qualify - 600 hours or longer)
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• Automotive Service Technician
• Cosmetology Academy
• Dental Assisting
• Facilities Maintenance
• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
• Medical Assisting
• Medical Billing and Coding
• Police Academy
• Practical Nursing
• Precision/CNC Machine Technology
• Welding
Call 440.891.7668 for Financial Aid Information.
SHORT-TERM TRAINING PROGRAMS
(less than 600 hours)
Tuition Payment Plan Available
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• Cardiographic Technician
• Manicurist
• Phlebotomy Certification
BENEFITS OF JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS
During instruction or upon completion of any Job & Career Training program, you will receive:
• Career Portfolio - documentation of your capabilities
• Certificate of Completion
• Job Readiness Assistance - training in job-seeking skills, resumé writing and interviewing techniques
• Job Search Assistance
• College Credit - in selected courses
• Industry Recognized Certifications - passing scores required
Contact Doug Miller at dmiller@polaris.edu for Program Information.
CAREER ADVISING
Don’t know where to start? Contact the Workforce Counselor at 440.891.7638 for a FREE consultation! Develop a plan to determine a career decision that is right for you and schedule an Individualized Career Testing session which will measure your interests, values and aptitudes in a variety of occupations (cost $89). Test results and a step-by-step plan will be provided at a follow-up session. The cost of this testing will be deducted from tuition if you register for a Polaris Job & Career Training program.
YOU’RE INVITED!
JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAM
OPEN HOUSE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025 • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025 • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
CARDIOGRAPHIC TECHNICIAN
(244 HOURS, 17 WEEKS)
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Students will learn non-invasive cardiac testing procedures.
• Electrocardiograms
• Holter and telemetry monitoring
• Stress testing
• Safe practices
• 144 hours of classroom and lab training
• 100 hours unpaid externship in a non-smoking clinical setting
• Must be completed during daytime working hours.
• May be required to complete (at student’s expense) immunization/titers, drug screening, physical exam, and/or background check prior to externship placement.
• 90% attendance with an overall C average (70%) grade or better required for externship placement.
Total Program Cost: (Tuition, Books & Supplies, Materials): $3,395
Schedule: Monday & Wednesday: 5:30-10:00 p.m.
Spring: Jan. 27, 2025 - May 21, 2025 (approx. end date). Program Orientation: Jan. 22, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m. Cost of uniform not included.
(252 HOURS, 19 WEEKS) PHLEBOTOMY CERTIFICATION (252 HOURS, 17 WEEKS)
PHLEBOTOMY CERTIFICATION
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Students will learn the following in this 252-hour training program:
• Blood collections using vacuum collections devices, syringes, winged infusion sets, and capillary skin punctures
• Special handling of non-blood specimens
• 152 hours of classroom training and lab practice
• 100-hour unpaid clinical externship (work-based activity)
• Must be completed during daytime working hours.
• May be required to complete (at student’s expense) immunizations/titers, drug screening, physical exam and/or background check prior to externship placement.
GET CERTIFIED
Certified EKG Technician (CET) AHA Healthcare Provider CPR
• 90% attendance with an overall C average (70%) grade or better required for externship placement.
Total Program Cost: (Tuition, Books & Supplies, Materials): $3,395
Schedule: Monday - Wednesday: 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Spring: Feb. 3, 2025 - May 27, 2025 (approx. end date)
Program Orientation: Jan. 29, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m.
GET CERTIFIED
Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
AHA Healthcare Provider CPR
ENROLLING FOR FALL 2025!
PRACTICAL NURSING
(1100 HOURS, 43 WEEKS)
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Students will learn the following in this 1100-hour training program:
• Nursing care for patients across all age groups: adult, pediatric, maternity, and geriatric
• Human anatomy and physiology
• Assessing and monitoring patients’ health status
• Fundamental nursing skills, such as medication administration, IV therapy, wound care, and infection control protocols
• Communication techniques for interacting with patients, family, and healthcare teams
• Hands-on experience through our unique clinical partnerships program at Southwest General Health Center
• Preparation to pass the national licensure exam to excel as an LPN
Approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing
Practical Nursing
Open House Dates:
Thursday, January 9, 5:00 p.m.
Friday, February 7, 10:00 a.m.
Wednesday, March 5, 5:00 p.m.
Friday, April 4, 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, May 8, 5:00 p.m.
Friday, June 6, 10:00 a.m.
Practical Nursing
Virtual Information
Session Dates:
Wednesday, January 22, 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, March 12, 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, May 21, 12:00 p.m.
*Check website for additional dates.
GET LICENSED
Ohio State Board of Nursing - Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) - NCLEX Exam
CAREERS
Licensed Practical Nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, jails, clinics, and private homes
To register for an open house, contact nursing@polaris.edu or call 440-692-2130. Powered by
Schedule: Monday - Thursday: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. and one Friday per month, August 2025 - June 2026
Contact Theresa Liska at nursing@polaris.edu or 440-692-2130 for more information.
HEATING, VENTILATING, AIR CONDITIONING AND REFRIGERATION (HVAC/R)
(600 HOURS, 20 WEEKS DAY)
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Students will learn the following in a state-of-the-art, fully-renovated lab:
• Theory of heat and refrigeration
• Basic and automatic controls
• Electric motors
• Heating and humidification
• Air conditioning and air distribution
• Heat pumps
• Schematics
• Ventilation
Duct work
• Electrical code and electrical controls
• Air properties and balancing
GET CERTIFIED
608 EPA Refrigerant Recovery Universal (Type 1, 2, and 3)
Heating, air conditioning and refrigeration installation procedures and diagnostic techniques
• Refrigeration troubleshooting
Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) membership included.
Total Program Cost: (Tuition, Books & Supplies, Materials & Assessments): $10,996
Schedule: Monday - Thursday
Spring Day: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Feb. 3, 2025 - June 16, 2025 (approx. end date)
Program Orientation: Jan. 30, 2025 @ 8:00 a.m
Cost of recommended safety-toed footwear is not included.
Automotive Service Technician
Cosmetology Academy
Dental Assisting
Facilities Maintenance
Cardiographic Technician
Assisting
Billing and Coding
OSHA 10-Hour
North American Technician Excellence (NATE) HVAC Support Technician
HC/HFO - Hydrocarbon/Hydrofluoroolefin
CAREERS
Refrigeration Technician
HVAC Installer
Project Manager
Service Technician
Wholesale Sales
Academy
CONTINUING EDUCATION
TRAINING RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES
The Ohio TechCred program, sponsored by the State of Ohio’s Office of Workforce Transformation, reimburses employers who enroll their workers in industry-recognized, technology-focused credential training. Polaris Career Center courses that qualify for TechCred include all MS Excel, IT Programming, SolidWorks & AutoCAD, Electrical Training and many of Polaris’s Job & Career Training programs and courses. Visit TechCred | Polaris Career Center for further information and contact Kimberly Grieco, Business Coordinator, at 440.891.7646 or kgrieco@polaris.edu.
CUSTOMIZED & CONTRACT TRAINING
We can tailor our programs and services to meet your specific training needs. Below is a list of some of what we have to offer. For more information on any of our programs, contact Kimberly Grieco, Business Coordinator, at 440.891.7646.
INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL TROUBLESHOOTING
Polaris Career Center has an electrical training lab with individualized learning stations replicating the typical components and operations of various industrial machines. Topics include troubleshooting and diagnosing systems using schematics, three–phase motors and control circuits, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) systems.
EPA SECTION 608 CERTIFICATION
HVAC industry technicians who maintain, service, repair and dispose of refrigerant-containing equipment must be certified under the EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Polaris instructors can help companies study, practice and sit for the Type I, II, III and Universal certifications.
HVAC PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
HVAC and Maintenance Technicians can train and work hands-on with a variety of systems at your location or in Polaris Career Center’s HVAC lab. Topics can include reading electrical schematics, sheet metal fabrication, troubleshooting and repairing residential and light commercial units.
LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATIVE TEAMS
Polaris Career Center can work with your specific needs at all leadership levels – entry-level to top-level executives. Training can target all areas of communication, including decision-making skills, managing conflict, and building a growth-oriented team.
IT PROGRAMMING: COMPTIA CERTIFICATIONS
Polaris Career Center offers CompTIA certification classes in Tech+, A+, Network+, and Security+.
MICROSOFT EXCEL
Polaris trainers can expand your employees’ comfort level and knowledge of Excel to improve office productivity and collaboration. Training can be done at Polaris or your location, with one employee or many.
REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM® SEMINAR – Workplace Safety
Help your valued employees stay safe and productive by providing the knowledge to anticipate and avoid dangerous situations associated with a workplace environment. Topics include physical security within the building and parking lots, personal protection devices, technological security (phone/credit card/Internet), co-worker interactions and more.
CHILD CARE IN-SERVICE TRAINING/CERTIFICATION
Our Child Care In-Service Training courses can be offered on-site at your location or at Polaris Career Center. For additional information, contact Melissa Wolfe at 440.891.7665 or mwolfe@polaris.edu.
BUSINESS
PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR BEGINNERS (12 HRS.)
Manage personal and business projects successfully. If you spend time on personal or work-related projects and you’ve never received project management training, this course is for you. This four-part course exposes you to the Project Management skills, techniques and tools necessary to steer your projects to successful completion – on time and within budget. Topics include:
• Scope definition and agreement
• Schedule development, risks and contingencies
• Cost estimates, agreement and alternatives
• Identification of personnel, equipment and facility resources
• Effective control of project including GANTT Charts, Network and Critical Path diagrams
• Identifying risks and assessment/attenuation Prerequisite: Knowledge and skill with MS Word and Excel. Taught by a Senior Project Manager with over 27 years of experience in the field. Please bring a flash drive to class.
Thurs 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Feb. 6 – Feb. 27, 2025 Class fee $245 / Materials fee $0 Total $245
ACCOUNTING
CLASSES WILL RESUME FALL 2025.CHECK BACK IN WITH US FOR ACCOUNTING FUNDAMENTALS I & II.
PERSONAL FINANCE & ESTATE PLANNING
The following attorney-led classes are $45 each.
BLENDED FAMILIES: ESTATE PLANNING TO PROTECT “YOURS, MINE AND OURS” (1.5 HRS.)
There are unique challenges and specific strategies blended families should implement to avoid planning gaps and conflicts. Understand the core legal directives every family should have to protect the people and things they cherish.
Mon 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Feb. 24, 2025
HOW TO AVOID NURSING HOME POVERTY (1.5 HRS.)
Long-term care costs, ranging between $60,000 -$75,000 yearly, pose a threat to your lifetime financial security and to the estate you plan to leave to beneficiaries. Understand the main methods of covering long-term care costs, the strategies to maximize private and public resources, and the directives every family should have to make sure they can act if a disability or death strikes.
Thurs 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Feb. 27, 2025
LIVING WILLS, HEALTH POWERS OF ATTORNEY, DNR ORDERS, ORGAN DONATIONS & HIPAA (1.5 HRS.)
Most people do not fully understand the different roles each directive plays when you cannot communicate your own wishes. Learn the legal requirements for each directive, what the agent can and cannot do, the types of Do Not Resuscitate orders, what happens when no directives are executed prior to a health crisis, and the outcomes when the care providers refuse to honor the directives.
Mon 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Mar. 24, 2025
NUTS & BOLTS OF TRUSTS (1.5 HRS.)
Trusts can be one of the most useful and cost-effective legal tools for maintaining control over assets during good health, illness, and death—without court costs or delays. Learn how trusts work, the pros and cons, the costs involved, when to consider using trusts, and what should be included in the trust provisions.
Thurs 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Mar. 27, 2025
CAREGIVER CHILDREN AND THEIR ELDER PARENTS (1.5 HRS.)
Families can face unnecessary emotional and financial costs when they make the “wrong” decision because they do not understand their options regarding long-term care for parents. This workshop provides an overview of the care and safety of their parents and their assets while protecting the child from parental debts. It covers the essential directives families should have in place to ensure agents are authorized to act for the parent and addresses Medicare and Medicaid rules, care management, guardianship and other factors that can arise when a parent declines mentally or physically.
Mon 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Apr. 21, 2025
PRENUPTIALS & COHABITATION AGREEMENTS: Why – When – How (1.5 HRS.)
Asset protection by way of a “pre-nup” is a must, not only for the wealthy lovebirds, but for anyone who is planning to marry or live unmarried with a partner. Learn the basics of protecting money and possessions in current relationships, what to include in a cohabitation agreement and how to provide for children from prior relationships.
Thurs 7:00 PM–8:30 PM Apr. 24, 2025
RETIREMENT READINESS SERIES (9 HRS)
Retirement isn’t just about finances; it is also about lifestyle. Envision your ideal retirement lifestyle and create a plan to achieve it, whether that involves travel, hobbies, volunteering, or other pursuits. Americans are living longer, healthier lives than ever before. Our retirement assets will have to do more for us over a longer period of time. If you feel that retirement is coming quickly and you need to educate yourself on the foundational pillars of a successful retirement plan, this 6-week course is for you! The following six classes - descriptions and schedules below - can be taken individually or as a series for a $30 discount.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Feb. 18 – Mar. 25, 2025
Class fee $120 / Materials fee $0 Total $120
RETIREMENT BASICS (1.5 HRS.)
Will You Have Enough to Retire Comfortably?
Explore retirement basics, craft a retirement roadmap, assess factors influencing your retirement timeline and financial longevity, and master strategies for leveraging tax-advantaged savings tools like IRAs and 401(k)s.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Feb. 18, 2025 Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
INCOME PLANNING (1.5 HRS.)
Will You Have Enough Income in Retirement?
Retirement income planning is the process of understanding how much income you’ll need and positioning your assets to provide that income. Topics include the impact of early vs. delayed retirement, steps to estimate the amount of money you will need (including healthcare costs, taxes, and inflation), and how to supplement income such as Social Security and employer pension with investment strategies.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Feb. 25, 2025
Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
TAX PLANNING (1.5 HRS.)
How Does Tax Planning Change Through Four Stages of Retirement?
In retirement, your tax rate may vary widely based on the timing and order in which you use different sources of income to pay for your expenses. Learn about the Social Security “tax trap” and how you can avoid it, IRA challenges, mistakes to avoid when it comes to your investment portfolio, health care, estate planning and more!
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Mar. 4, 2025
Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
PLANNING FOR THE LONG TERM (1.5 HRS.)
Will You Need Long-Term Care?
According to the federal government, a majority of people over age 65 will need some type of long-term care, with a significant number of people needing care in a nursing home. Topics include: what long-term care is and where it’s provided, strategies to pay for it, government incentives for long-term care insurance, and how Medicare and Medicaid factor into long-term care planning.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Mar. 11, 2025
Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
ESTATE PLANNING (1.5 HRS.)
Have You Created an Estate Plan for Your Family?
An effective estate plan can help ensure that your family’s financial needs will be taken care of, and that your personal wishes will be carried out in the manner you intended. Learn why you need an estate plan, strategies to plan for incapacity, including special health care directives, wills, trusts, life insurance, and key tax basics, including an overview of the federal gift & estate tax.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Mar. 18, 2025
Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS (1.5 HRS.)
When Should You Begin?
Social Security remains the major source of guaranteed lifetime retirement income for most Americans. Understand what full retirement age is and how your benefit is determined, how retiring earlier than, or later than, your full retirement age will affect your benefit, why it’s important to plan together with your spouse, strategies to boost retirement and survivor’s benefits, and the effects of working after you begin receiving Social Security.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Mar. 25, 2025
Class fee $25 / Materials fee $0 Total $25
NEW - FINANCIAL PLANNING BASICS (3 HRS.)
Crafting Your Financial Roadmap to a Secure Tomorrow
A financial roadmap can motivate you to save money, help you meet your financial goals, and help improve your overall financial security now and in the future. Learn how to construct a budget, establish an emergency fund, understand credit, work with basic investment concepts and identify your needs for estate planning.
Tues 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Apr. 1 & 8, 2025
Class fee $59 / Materials fee $0 Total $59
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
COMPUTERS 101 (3 HRS.)
This on-campus class is designed for a new computer user, an individual considering the purchase of a new computer, or those who need to refresh their basic computer knowledge. Topics include: basic terminology and components of a computer, types of computers – desktop, laptop and tablets, comparing mouse/ touch pad/touch screen types, sending and receiving emails, basic Internet searching, creating/naming/saving and moving folders and files, and an overview of the MS Office Suite (Word, Excel).
Wed 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Feb. 5, 2025
Class fee $49 / Materials fee $0 Total $49
TECH TALK WITH TIM (1.5 HRS.)
Learn how to use today’s tech devices and apps. These 90-minute sessions are designed for people with questions about using modern technology. Bring your portable devices such as smartphones and/or make use of our computers to improve your knowledge and use of everyday technology!
CELL PHONE APPS FOR EVERYDAY USE (1.5 HRS.)
Wed 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Mar. 26, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
FAMILY PHOTOS ON YOUR PHONE (1.5 HRS.)
Learn how to take, store, enhance & send pictures. Wed 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Apr. 9, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
SOCIAL APPS (1.5 HRS.)
Includes Facebook, Twitter (X), Snapchat and more! Wed 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Apr. 23, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
EFFICIENCY ESSENTIALS: MICROSOFT OFFICE EDITION (30 HRS.)
This series is designed to take your basic office skills from oldschool to the digital world. Learn the essential skills necessary for a career in a professional office environment: Microsoft 365 Office Suite, Outlook, setting meetings, and data displays in tables and graphs are some of the hands-on products and processes you will learn. The series includes five classes. Schedules and descriptions of each follow. The following five courses can be taken individually or as a series for a $30 discount.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Feb. 3 – Apr. 9, 2025
(Classes run on selected dates within the series – check schedules below)
Class fee $655 / Materials fee $170 Total $825
*Payment plan available
WINDOWS: COMPUTER BASICS, FILE MANAGEMENT & INTERNET (6 HRS.)
Designed for beginning computer users or for those in need of a refresher on the latest Windows features. Topics include: navigating Windows features & apps; storage media & manipulating files; searching & safe Internet practices. Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of personal computers including use of the mouse. Please bring a flash drive to class.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Feb. 3 & 5, 2025
Class fee $129 / Materials fee $50 Total $179
MS EXCEL FOR BEGINNERS: LEVEL 1 (9 HRS.)
Learn the basics of Excel including how to create a worksheet with basic formulas, enter & edit data, print worksheets, rearrange data, manage multiple worksheets, use functions, and much more. Level 1 textbook included. Prerequisite: Familiarity with basic computer functions. Please bring a flash drive to class.
Wed/Mon 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Feb. 19 – Feb. 26, 2025
Class fee $199 / Materials fee $30 Total $229
MS OUTLOOK (3 HRS.)
Utilize the variety of features within Outlook. Topics include: sending, forwarding and organizing emails; interacting with contacts; sharing calendars, creating signatures; scheduling meetings and more.
Mon 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Mar. 10, 2025
Class fee $69 / Materials fee $30 Total $99
MS WORD FOR BEGINNERS (6 HRS.)
Navigate, edit and create text in business documents, use bulleted lists, format and manipulate tables, insert headers/footers and page breaks, use Word Art and insert pictures, textboxes and text-wrapping, use mail merge and more. Please bring a flash drive to class.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Mar. 24 & 26, 2025
Class fee $149 / Materials fee $30 Total $179
MS POWERPOINT (6 HRS.)
This class will propel students from the beginning PowerPoint designer to an integral part of any business design team. Topics include: basic features and design of a presentation, using themes, slideshow delivery tips, working with outlines, organizing and formatting data, adding animation and sound, working with copyrighted materials, adding transitions and objects, working with multimedia, slideshow timings and more. Prerequisite: Familiarity with personal computers and Windows 11. Please bring a flash drive to class.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Apr. 7 & 9, 2025
Class fee $139 / Materials fee $30 Total $169
MS EXCEL APPLICATIONS
Unleash the power of Excel! Our comprehensive training covers everything from basic functions to advanced data analysis. The following classes fulfill business and individual needs for specific topics and skills within the Excel world. Each class includes a comprehensive workbook supplying self-assessments, skill builders and extra practice outside of class. Prerequisite: Familiarity with MS Windows. Please bring a flash drive to all classes.
EXCEL 1: BASICS (4 HRS.)
Learn the basics of Excel worksheets including how to enter and edit data, format cells, create and use formulas, insert and delete rows and columns, rearrange data, and use autofill. Class includes an introduction to functions such as AutoSum. Level 1 textbook included.
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Mar. 20, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Mar. 20, 2025
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM May 15, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM May 15, 2025
Class fee $90 / Materials fee $30 Total $120
EXCEL 2: FUNCTIONS, CHARTS & FILTERING DATA (4 HRS.)
As a continuation of Excel 1, learn how to apply special formatting, utilize functions in formulas (SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, MAX & MIN), create and use charts to compare and analyze data, chart tools, organize data with sort and filter, and more. Level 1 textbook required.
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Mar. 27, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Mar. 27, 2025
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM May 22, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM May 22, 2025
Class fee $90 / Materials fee $30 Total $120
EXCEL 3: DATA ANALYSIS & LOOK UP TABLES (4 HRS.)
Learn how to work with dates and time in formulas, what-if and goal seek analysis, troubleshoot formulas, use horizontal and vertical look-up functions, use the quick analysis tool and more. Level 2 textbook included.
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Apr. 3, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Apr. 3, 2025
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM May 29, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM May 29, 2025
Class fee $90 / Materials fee $30 Total $120
EXCEL 4: PIVOT TABLES, CHARTS & SLICERS (4 HRS.)
Learn how to use Pivot Tables and Charts to quickly and flexibly summarize and analyze enormous amounts of data while minimizing time and errors. Use Slicers and Filters to refine the analysis. Level 3 textbook included.
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Apr. 10, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Apr. 10, 2025
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM June 5, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM June 5, 2025
Class fee $90 / Materials fee $30 Total $120
EXCEL 5: USING MACROS FOR REPEATED TASKS (4 HRS.)
Automate repetitive tasks in Excel using MACROS which allows the user to record every keystroke and mouse movement and then recalls those actions with a single keystroke. Level 3 textbook required.
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Apr. 17, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Apr. 17, 2025
Thurs 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM June 12, 2025
Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM June 12, 2025
Class fee $90 / Materials fee $30 Total $120
NEW - AI TOOLS FOR THE OFFICE: ENHANCE YOUR SPREADSHEETS USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (4 HRS.)
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a phenomenon in the world of business. Learn how to use freely available generative AI tools to enhance your productivity with Excel spreadsheets and data. Designed for current Excel users, this course will introduce you to the basic functions of AI and its benefits and cautionary use in the workplace. Prerequisite: Experience working with spreadsheets.
Tues 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM May 6, 2025
Tues 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM May 6, 2025
Tues 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM May 20, 2025
Tues 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM May 20, 2025
Class fee $99 / Materials fee $40 Total $139
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) CERTIFICATION
NEW - TECH+ (40 HRS.)
CompTIA Tech+ serves as an essential entry point for those beginning their journey into the world of technology. This course provides a comprehensive overview of fundamental concepts and practical skills. Students will:
• Understand and manage IT infrastructure and computing concepts.
• Troubleshoot and resolve common hardware and software issues.
• Recognize and address basic cybersecurity threats.
• Grasp emerging technologies like AI and IoT Tech+ exam vouchers are not included in the materials fee –students may purchase separately. Prerequisite: General user knowledge of Windows.
Wed/Thurs 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Feb. 5 – Mar. 6, 2025
Class fee $860 / Materials fee $135 Total $995*
*Payment plan available
COMPTIA CORE SKILLS CERTIFICATION SERIES (200 HRS.)
Stackable Certifications
Completion of these stackable certification prep classes prepares you for multiple CompTIA certifications and gives you the knowledge and experience needed to grow your IT career. This series takes the beginning user through the CompTIA Core Skills Career Pathway using virtual labs, cloud service provider capabilities, and cybersecurity. All courses are held on-campus. The following three courses can be taken individually or as a series for a $180 discount.
Wed/Thurs 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Mar. 26 – Dec. 18, 2025
(Approximate dates)
Class fee $4,125 / Materials fee $1,540 Total $5,665*
*Payment plan available
RESIDENT DISCOUNT
The residents of Berea, Brook Park, Brooklyn, Fairview Park, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township and Strongsville will receive a $5 discount on the tuition (class) fees listed.
A+ CERTIFICATION (88 HRS.)
A+ Certification is the building block for nearly all other IT certifications and the premier entry-level program for PC technicians. This course covers an introduction to PCs, safety, PC components, miscellaneous hardware, windows operating systems, preventative maintenance, hardware installation and more:
• SaaS applications for remote work
• Troubleshooting and how to remotely diagnose and correct common software, hardware, or connectivity problems
• Changing core technologies from cloud virtualization and IoT device security to data management and scripting
• Multiple operating systems
Certification exam vouchers for CORE 1 (220-1101) and CORE 2 (220-1102) are included. Prerequisite: Tech+ and familiarity with program installation.
Wed/Thurs 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Mar. 26 – June 25, 2025 (no class 4/30, 5/1, 5/7, 5/8, 6/19)
Class fee $1,895 / Materials fee $625 Total $2,520 *
*Payment plan available
NETWORK+ (56 HRS.)
Network+ covers the latest trends in networking and validates the core skills necessary to establish, maintain, troubleshoot, and secure networks in any environment, preparing students for a career in networking and cybersecurity. Students design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks using virtualized lab experiences and hands-on training. A certification exam voucher (N10-009) is included. Prerequisite: Completion of the A+ Certification course or equivalent.
Wed/Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Aug. 27 – Oct. 9, 2025
Class fee $1,205 / Materials fee $415 Total $1,620 * *Payment plan available
SECURITY+ (56 HRS.)
CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career. Security+ is the most widely adopted ISO/ANSIaccredited early career cybersecurity certification on the market. Understand and use the most recent advancements in cybersecurity technology, terms, techniques, and tools such as automation, zero trust, risk analysis, operational technology, and IoT. Students will:
• Assess the security posture of an enterprise environment and recommend and implement appropriate security solutions.
• Monitor and secure hybrid environments, including cloud, mobile, and IoT.
• Operate with an awareness of applicable laws and policies, including principles of governance, risk, and compliance.
• Identify, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents. Certification exam voucher (SY0-701) is included. Prerequisite: Completion of the A+ and Network+ courses or equivalent.
Wed/Thurs 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Oct. 29 – Dec. 18, 2025
(no class 11/26, 11/27)
Class fee $1,205 / Materials fee $500 Total $1,705*
*Payment plan available
SOLIDWORKS / CAD
AUTOCAD – INTRODUCTION (28 HRS.)
AutoCAD is an important skill when pursuing jobs in architecture, interior design, drafting, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. Learning AutoCAD will give you a solid foundation to master other design applications; all other CAD software is modeled after its interface. Part one of a two-part series designed to introduce AutoCAD to the new user. Hands-on exercises will be used to teach the basic drawing and editing commands needed to produce 2D drawings.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM Feb. 10 – Mar. 10, 2025 (no class 2/17)
Class fee $525 / Materials fee $100 Total $625*
*Payment plan available
AUTOCAD – INTERMEDIATE (28 HRS.)
Topics and hands-on practice include: dimensioning, hatching, isometric blocks and external references. Prerequisite: AutoCAD Introduction or equivalent knowledge. Textbook from AutoCAD Introduction is required.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM Mar. 17 – Apr. 9, 2025
Class fee $525 / Materials fee $0 Total $525*
*Payment plan available
Register for both AutoCAD Introduction and AutoCAD Intermediate and save $100. Discount is applied to the last class.
COMING FALL 2025!
SOLIDWORKS SERIES (102 HRS)
SolidWorks allows engineers to design, draft, study, record, simulate and develop the immensely detailed systems of today’s industry. This series takes the beginning user through the SolidWorks curriculum using scenarios and practical applications moving to more advanced training, ending with a prep course and CSWP certification exam. Call 440.891.7646 for more information.
CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY
WEEKEND WARRIORS SERIES (48 HRS.)
This popular, hands-on series is designed for individuals who want to learn the proper techniques, tools and materials for a weekend warrior construction project. Perfect for homeowners, home-flippers or those who want to work safely with electricity, water lines, power tools and construction materials. The descriptions and schedules for the eight courses appear below. Students are requested to bring a sack lunch for the day.
Classes run on Saturdays 8:30 AM– 2:30 PM Feb. 22 – Apr. 26, 2025 (no class 3/1, 4/19)
Class fee $1,295 / Materials fee $0 Total $1,295*
*Payment plan available
Classes can be taken individually or bundled in a series for $1,295, saving you $185.
WEEKEND WARRIORS: ELECTRICAL (6 HRS.)
Learn the basics of electricity and how it functions within the home. Understand the types of receptacles, GFCI’s, switches, and light fixtures, and how to correctly wire them.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Feb. 22, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: DRYWALL (6 HRS.)
Learn how to install, repair and tape drywall in this hands-on class.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Mar. 8, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: HARDWOOD & QUICK
LOCK FLOOR INSTALLATION & REPAIR (6 HRS.)
Learn how to install, repair, replace, stain & finish a variety of flooring materials.
Sat 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM Mar. 15, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: PAINTING (6 HRS.)
Learn about the methods and materials for interior and exterior painting, covering everything from color selection to cleaning brushes. Hands-on practice includes prepping drywall and application of paint.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Mar. 22, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: CERAMIC FLOOR & WALL TILING (6 HRS.)
Learn how to install and repair ceramic tile for walls and floors.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Mar. 29, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: PLUMBING (6 HRS.)
Learn how to install faucets, replace and repair toilets and solder.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Apr. 5, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: MASONRY (6 HRS.)
Learn about the different types of mortar, brick, block, tuck pointing and how to make minor repairs. Handson practice includes mixing and laying brick, block and stone.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Apr. 12, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
WEEKEND WARRIORS: HVAC (6 HRS.)
Learn how to recognize and repair simple problems in your heating and cooling system. Hands-on training includes common sense diagnostics of basic problems in your systems like motor failure, poor airflow, and electrical problems.
Sat 8:30 AM–2:30 PM Apr. 26, 2025
Class fee $185 / Materials fee $0 Total $185
CONSTRUCTION HICCUPS SERIES (12 HRS.)
Join legendary contractor and home inspector Greg Simon to identify and troubleshoot common construction issues and problems that arise within your home. From foundational concerns to mechanical systems, framing, roofing, finishes and ventilation, this lecture-based series covers a broad range of topics essential for homeowners and aspiring DIYers. Class descriptions and schedules are listed below. Classes can be taken individually or bundled in a series for $190*, saving you $20.
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Feb. 1 – Apr. 12, 2025
(no class 2/15, 2/22, 3/1, 3/8, 3/15)
Class fee $190 / Materials fee $0 Total $190
GUTTERS, GRADING & DOWNSPOUTS (2 HRS.)
From leaky basement walls to cracks in your foundation, this class helps homeowners understand correct construction and identify the cause and correction for a variety of grading and drainage issues. Topics include: pitch, effects of grading on concrete, downspouts, footer tile, risers, gutters, and more!
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Feb. 1, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
BASEMENTS & FOUNDATIONS (2 HRS.)
Do you have cracks in your basement? Mysterious stains on your walls? This class helps homeowners understand proper construction and correction for a variety of foundational problems. Topics include: footing & rebar, concrete block, poured walls, clay tile, wood beams, displaced walls, effects of hydrostatic pressure, and more!
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Feb. 8, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
FRAMING, ROOFING, WINDOWS & DOORS (2 HRS.)
From missing shingles to flashing issues, this class helps homeowners understand, diagnose and correct a variety of framing and roofing issues. Topics include: basic framing, roofing & flashing issues, windows, doors and more!
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Mar. 22, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
PLUMBING, ELECTRICAL & HVAC (2 HRS.)
Do you have a cranky furnaces? Hot air coming out of your air conditioning? This class helps homeowners understand correct mechanical system construction and identify the cause and correction for a variety of mechanical problems. Topics include: hot water tanks, plumbing, electrical components, HVAC care and more!
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Mar. 29, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
FLOORING, PAINTING & OTHER FINISHES (2 HRS.)
From walls to floors, this class helps homeowners understand the correct choice, installation and care of home finishes. Topics include the do’s and don’ts of home finishes and more!
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Apr. 5, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
CONTRACTOR HORROR STORIES (2 HRS.)
Join contractor/home inspector Greg Simon in this interactive troubleshooting lecture-based construction class. The class will focus on a collection of homeowner problems, discussion, and problem-solving pathways. Polaris will email students upon registration requesting that they submit one photo of their home problem. Students should be ready to discuss their photo and concerns in class and receive professional advice.
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Apr. 12, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR (30 HRS.)
In this hands-on class, you will learn how to service, maintain, repair and winterize two- and four-cycle engines as well as outdoor power equipment. This class will cover safety training, use of tools, calibration, ignition systems, lubrication, tune-ups, blade and chain sharpening, trouble shooting, preventative maintenance and more.
Tues/Thurs 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Feb. 4 – Mar. 6, 2025
Tues/Thurs 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Apr. 22 – May 27, 2025 (no class 5/8)
Class fee $390 / Materials fee $125 Total $515*
*Payment plan available
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCTION TO PIPE WELDING
ASME SECTION 9 (24 HRS.)
This course covers the following major topics in Pipe Welding: E6010 and E7018 Up-hill, 2G, 5G and 6G, theory and hands-on practice. Students can earn an AWS qualification. Welding gear is required, such as helmet, jacket gloves and safety glasses. Prerequisite: Welding: Introduction or equivalent experience.
Sat 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Mar. 29 – Apr. 12, 2025
Class fee $545 / Materials fee $150 Total $695*
*Payment plan available
ELECTRICAL
RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICAL WIRING (36 HRS.)
Class includes instruction on safety, electrical theory, trade tools, residential wiring installations, grounding electrical systems, determining circuit load, troubleshooting and repairing residential service and NEC Code compliance. Hands-on training includes: wiring of lighting fixtures with single-pole switches, three- and four-way switches, receptacles, GFCI and AFCI, ceiling fans and 240V circuits.
Tues/Thurs 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Jan. 7 – Feb. 13, 2025
Class fee $540 / Materials fee $220 Total $760*
*Payment plan available
INDUSTRIAL MOTOR CONTROLS (36 HRS.)
Develop the knowledge of Industrial Motor Controls through hands-on practice and theory instruction. Learn the principles of ladder logic, standard control circuits such as start/stop and forward/reverse and troubleshooting techniques. Topics include reading schematics, manual motor starters, control transformers, magnetic motor starters, overload protection, reversing techniques, control relays, time delay relays, and automatic input devices.
Mon/Wed 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Jan. 6 – Feb. 19, 2025
(no class 1/20, 2/17)
Class fee $540 / Materials fee $245 Total $785*
*Payment plan available
ELECTRICAL CLASSES COMING FALL 2025!
• Electricity: AC & DC Basic
• Residential Electrical Wiring
• Industrial Motor Controls
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
*Call 440.891.7646 for more information
PERSONAL SAFETY
REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM® (5
HRS.)
Avoid becoming a victim of crime! This nationally recognized Refuse to Be a Victim® crime prevention course promotes awareness and prevention of criminal confrontations. Topics include home, automobile, phone, technology, travel and personal security. Bring a bag lunch or snack.
Sat 10:00 AM–3:30 PM Mar. 15, 2025
Class fee $50 / Materials fee $9 Total $59
CONCEALED CARRY INFORMATION SESSION (6 HRS.)
Ohio no longer requires a Concealed Carry Permit, but you still need to obey the laws concerning concealed carry and the use of lethal force. Topics include: gun safety for adults, kids and storage; gun mechanisms and operation; firearm laws; Shoot-No-Shoot scenarios and shooting skills practice using a laser-trainer and much more. This course does not include firing or handling actual guns and does not result in a Concealed Carry Permit. Students are not permitted to bring firearms on campus.
Sat 9:00 AM–3:00 PM Apr. 12, 2025
Class fee $59 / Materials fee $0 Total $59
Personal Safety continued on next page
RHINO TACTICAL DEFENSE TRAINING: SELF DEFENSE BASIC (3 HRS.)
This innovative and realistic approach to self-defense will teach life-saving skills you can apply immediately. You will learn in this dynamic and fun hands-on training: mythbusting common self-defense ideas, how to avoid looking like a victim, the criminal’s secret formula, how to build your self-confidence, defending against grabs and strikes, how to turn everyday objects into improvised weapons and anti-abduction strategies. The program benefits everyone regardless of their age, gender, experience or current physical condition. Open to students ages 13 and up.
Sat 10:00 AM–1:00 PM May 10, 2025
Class fee $75 / Materials fee: $0 Total $75
NEW - STAY SAFE: SENIORS & THOSE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES (2 HRS.)
Are you ready to take charge of your safety? Equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge to protect yourself in today’s world. Discover practical tips for staying safe in everyday situations. Topics include: securing your home both inside and out from criminals, staying safe while traveling, personal protection devices, keeping your identity and credit safe and more!
Tues 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Mar. 4, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
NEW - STAY SAFE: PARENTS & CHILDREN (2 HRS.)
Are you ready to take charge of your family’s safety? Equip yourself and your children with the essential skills and knowledge to protect themselves in today’s world. Discover practical tips for staying safe in everyday situations. Topics include: car travel, kids in public, Internet safety, keys, safe rooms, home emergencies – fire and burglary, and more!
Tues 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Mar. 18, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
NEW - STAY SAFE: DRIVERS & TRAVELERS (2 HRS.)
Are you ready to take charge of your safety while traveling? Equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge to protect yourself while traveling by car within the US or traveling abroad. Discover practical tips for staying safe in everyday situations. Topics include dealing with car breakdowns, dealing with road rage, Ubers, hotels, air travel and more!
Tues 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Apr. 1, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
NEW - STAY SAFE: HOMEOWNERS & HOME TECHIES (2 HRS.)
Are you ready to take charge of your safety at home? Equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge to protect yourself in today’s world. Discover practical tips for staying safe in everyday home and online situations. Topics include how to safeguard your identity, Internet safety, home lighting, alarms, home defense plans and more!
Tues 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Apr. 15, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
NEW - STAY SAFE: PERSONAL PROTECTION DEVICES (2 HRS.)
Are you ready to defend yourself if necessary? Use of pepper sprays, stun guns, walking canes, tasers, personal alarms, guns and more will be discussed. Topics include: selection, use, training, legality, liability, effectiveness and many other topics related to the use of personal protection devices.
Tues 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Apr. 29, 2025
Class fee $29 / Materials fee $0 Total $29
HEALTH / WELLNESS
PERSONAL TRAINER CERTIFICATION COURSE HYBRID (32 HRS.)
VIRTUAL LECTURES + IN-PERSON PRACTICAL SKILLS LABS
Polaris Career Center has partnered with World Instructor Training School (W.I.T.S.), to offer the Personal Trainer Certification Program. Whether you are a new fitness professional, an experienced trainer, or someone with interest in learning more about the field, our program will equip you with the skills you need to become a Certified Personal Trainer. Turn your fitness passion into a profession! Our NCCA Accredited program qualifies for 3 college credits towards a degree. The scheduled virtual lectures are led by our 5-star instructor. Topics cover 15 hours on anatomy, exercise physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, nutrition and more. The in-person practical skill labs (held at Polaris Career Center) allow you to role-play and review essential “hands on skills” to master assessing clients, stretching, warmups/cool downs, exercise analysis and programming design. The course includes the national test vouchers and access to our online CPT course to review lectures and labs. W.I.T.S. optional 30-hour employer internship (Level 2 Certification) helps you network with local businesses. Students must purchase a required textbook prior to the start of class. Call 440-891-7646 for more information.
Virtual Lectures (at-home on your own device):
Sat 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Feb. 1 – Mar. 1, 2025
In-Person Practical Skills Labs (on the Polaris campus): Sat 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Feb. 1 – Mar. 8, 2025 (no lab 2/15)
National Exam Date (held at Polaris): Mar. 15, 2025
Written exam 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Practical exam 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Class fee $745 / Materials fee $0 Total $745*
*Payment plan available
YOGA (5 HRS.)
Eat lightly, dress for comfort in movement; bring a blanket or yoga mat and a cushion for sitting.
Mon 6:00 PM–7:00 PM Feb. 3 – Mar. 10, 2025 (no class 2/17)
Mon 6:00 PM–7:00 PM Mar. 17-Apr. 14, 2025
Mon 6:00 PM–7:00 PM Apr. 21-May 19, 2025
Class fee $65 / Materials fee $0 Total $65
RESIDENT DISCOUNT
The residents of Berea, Brook Park, Brooklyn, Fairview Park, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township and Strongsville will receive a $5 discount on the tuition (class) fees listed.
T’AI CHI CHIH (12 HRS.)
Nothing is more important than knowing how to circulate and balance the Intrinsic Energy, the Vital Force of the Body, known as Chi in Chinese. The rewards in GOOD HEALTH, WISDOM, SERENITY, AND LONGEVITY are great for the one who learns the ancient principles and applies them in a modern way.
Wed 6:30 PM–8:30 PM Mar. 5 – Apr. 9, 2025
Wed 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM May 7 – June 11, 2025 Class fee $95 / Materials fee $0 Total $95
LEARNING TO LOVE YOURSELF! (2 HRS.)
Understanding the need for self-love is a continuous road of self-discovery. This class will educate you on how to fully love and accept yourself while teaching people how to treat you.
Mon 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Mar. 3, 2025
Mon 6:00 PM–8:00 PM May 5, 2025 Class fee $45 / Materials fee $0 Total $45
“LET GO AND CARRY ON” 10 STEPS TO OVERCOME ANXIETY AND FEAR (2 HRS.)
Why do we experience fear? Anxiety? Worry? Does anxiety, fear or worry affect your ability to have the relationships you desire? Learn about emotional freedom in 10 steps and in-class techniques. Understand what fear is and what it is doing to us until we decide to do something about it.
Mon 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Mar. 10, 2025
Mon 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM May 12, 2025 Class fee $45 / Materials fee $0 Total $45
HEALTH THROUGH PLANT-BASED EATING
PATH TO TRUE HEALTH & WEIGHT LOSS (2 HRS.)
Are you a yo-yo dieter or quick to try the newest fad diet? Do you lose weight only to gain it back? Learn why this happens. Discover why it is important to shift your mindset from weight loss to health and learn how to lose weight in a sustainable and health-promoting way.
Thurs 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Mar. 6, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
HOW TO EAT PLANT-BASED: SET UP FOR SUCCESS (2 HRS.)
Transitioning to an optimal diet involves work. You will learn what to keep in your pantry, how to shop, and other tips for creating a personal environment that will nudge you into healthy eating.
Thurs 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Mar. 27, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
HOW TO EAT PLANT-BASED: MEAL PLANNING & COOKING (2 HRS.)
You know how to cook beef but how do you cook plants? In addition to learning how to plan meals in advance, you will develop a list of resources, meal ideas and cooking strategies to begin creating simple meal options.
Thurs 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Apr. 3, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
THE POWER OF CHICKPEAS (2 HRS.)
Learn about chickpeas and their health benefits. Discover how to cook using chickpeas and how they can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. You will leave with samples and the recipes.
Thurs 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Apr. 10, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
NEW - BLUE ZONES & US (2 HRS.)
There are five areas in the world where people have lived healthy lives until 100+ years old. Discover where and why this happens. Learn how to apply this information to your own life to help you live longer and better.
Thurs 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Apr. 24, 2025
Class fee $35 / Materials fee $0 Total $35
LANGUAGES
BEGINNING SPANISH (10 HRS.)
Enjoy learning the second most-spoken language in the U.S.! Through a combination of interactive activities, exercises, and fun conversation, you can develop basic skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish. This class covers essential vocabulary, grammar structures, and common expressions to enable you to communicate in everyday situations.
Tues 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Feb. 4 – Mar. 4, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
INTERMEDIATE SPANISH (10 HRS.)
Enhance your conversational skills and deepen your understanding of the language through engaging lessons and real-world practice! Prerequisite: Beginning Spanish
Tues 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Mar. 18 – Apr. 15, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
ADVANCED SPANISH (10 HRS.)
Elevate your Spanish proficiency in our Advanced class, where you’ll master nuanced conversation, more complex grammar, and cultural insights through immersive activities and dynamic discussions! Prerequisite: Beginning and Intermediate Spanish
Tues 6:00 PM–8:30 PM Apr. 29 – May 27, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
BEGINNING SIGN LANGUAGE (15 HRS.)
Learn how to communicate with the deaf in this introductory course to American Sign Language (ASL), the language of the deaf. Learn proper finger spelling techniques, proper receptive skills, various modes and language styles, communication topics and deaf culture.
Thurs 6:00 PM–8:30 PM Feb. 6 – Mar. 13, 2025 (off-site 3/13)
Class fee $165 / Materials fee $45 Total $210
INTERMEDIATE SIGN LANGUAGE (15 HRS.)
Textbook from Beginning Sign Language is required. Prerequisite: Beginning Sign Language
Thurs 6:00 PM–8:30 PM Mar. 20 – Apr. 24, 2025
Class fee $165 / Materials fee $0 Total $165
ADVANCED SIGN LANGUAGE (15 HRS.)
Textbook from Beginning Sign Language is required. Prerequisite: Beginning Sign Language
Thurs 6:00 PM–8:30 PM May 1 – June 5, 2025 (off-site 5/8)
Class fee $165 / Materials fee $0 Total $165
BASIC ARABIC (18 HRS.)
Embark on your journey into Basic Arabic, where you will master the alphabet, recognize words, and perfect your pronunciation. Engage in fun, interactive practice to strengthen your skills in Classical Arabic. Join nearly 700 million speakers worldwide and use its classic form to uncover the connection to different Arabic dialects.
Wed 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Apr. 2 - May 7, 2025
Class fee $195 / Materials fee $0 Total $195
WRITING
MAKING MONEY WITH FREELANCE WRITING (6 HRS.)
If you would like to write for a living—or as a side gig to make extra cash—this course will walk you through how to get your first writing assignments plus how to build a plan to help you reach your writing goals. Taught by full-time freelance writer Kelly Boyer Sagert.
Mon 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Apr. 14 – Apr. 28, 2025
Class fee $75 / Materials fee $0 Total $75
FREELANCE EDITING (6 HRS.)
Discover how to polish a writer’s work for publication and gain additional knowledge and skills for the field of freelance editing.
Mon 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM May 5 – May 19, 2025 Class fee $75 / Materials fee $0 Total $75
BAKING & PASTRY ARTS
NEW - CRÈME PUFFS (2 HRS.)
Learn the quick and simple steps to create heavenly crème puffs, where light and airy pastry shells cradle rich vanilla cream, all baked to golden perfection.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Feb. 8, 2025
Class fee $39 / Materials fee $10 Total $49
NO BAKE DESSERT (2 HRS.)
Don’t want to turn on the oven? Let’s make some easy recipes that we assemble in class, and you will take home, refrigerate and enjoy! All supplies will be available at the time of the class.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Feb. 22, 2025
Class fee $39 / Materials fee $20 Total $59
SCONES AND IRISH SODA BREAD (3 HRS.)
Easy scone recipes that are a welcome treat any time of year! Bring a container to carry home your scones.
Sat 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Mar. 15, 2025
Class fee $49 / Materials fee $10 Total $59
NEW - STRUDEL (2 HRS.)
Experience the joy of making strudel, where layers of delicate, flaky pastry envelop a warm, filling of fruit and sour cream, baked to a golden brown.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Mar. 29, 2025
Class fee $39 / Materials fee $10 Total $49
MINI DESSERTS (2 HRS.)
Let’s learn the techniques and have fun with easy-to-make mini desserts that are a wonderful touch to any dinner or party! We make one mini dessert in class.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Apr. 5, 2025
Class fee $39 / Materials fee $20 Total $59
PREPARING TIRAMISU (2 HRS.)
Learn to prepare Italian Tiramisu using Italy’s best ingredients! Enjoy a sample in class and take one home for another day.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Apr. 26, 2025
Class fee $39 / Materials fee $20 Total $59
TRADITIONAL PIE CRUST (3 HRS.)
Easy pie crust recipes that can be used with a variety of pie fillings. Using Marie’s family recipes, we will make a traditional pastry crust and graham cracker crust filled with puddings. Learn the various techniques for perfect pie crusts that you can make at home with fruit fillings.
Sat 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM May 3, 2025
Class fee $49 / Materials fee $20 Total $69
CAKE DECORATING
CAKE DECORATING I (10 HRS.)
For the beginner – learn basic techniques of cake icing, making decorator buttercream, basic borders and writing. Learn flowermaking and piping skills. Use parchment cones and pastry bags correctly. You will need to bring supplies to all of the classes. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists. Polaris will provide icing for Class 1.
Tues 6:30 PM–9:00 PM Feb. 18 – Mar. 11, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
CAKE DECORATING II (10 HRS.)
Build on the skills you learned in Cake Decorating I or brush-up on long-forgotten skills. Learn advanced flowermaking, torte-making and cake stacking techniques. You will need to bring supplies to all of the classes. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/ supplylists. Prerequisite: Cake Decorating I.
Tues 6:30 PM–9:00 PM Apr. 1 – Apr. 22, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
ARTS/CRAFTS
DRAWING
& PAINTING
BEGINNING ACRYLIC PAINTING (21 HRS.)
Join this class and learn from an artist how to work with acrylics and paint a realistic work of art that you can call your own! A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists.
Mon 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM Feb. 3 – Mar. 17, 2025 (no class 2/17)
Class fee $145 / Materials fee $0 Total $145
THE JOY OF PAINTING – BOB ROSS OILS
(ALL LEVELS) (21 HRS.)
In this class you will complete six paintings—each one more advanced. You will need to bring supplies to the first class. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists.
Wed 6:00 PM–9:30 PM Feb. 5 – Mar. 12, 2025
Class fee $145 / Materials fee $0 Total $145
WATERCOLOR PAINTING (18 HRS.)
Whether you have painted for years or have not touched a brush since first grade, this class has something for you. You will explore landscape, seascape and still life. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists.
Mon 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Mar. 24 – Apr. 28, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
INTRODUCTION TO DRAWING (18 HRS.)
Learn to simplify the basic steps of drawing and build on to your skills to complete a realistic work of art that you can call your own! A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists.
Wed 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Mar. 19 - Apr. 23, 2025
Class fee $125 / Materials fee $0 Total $125
SEWING
NEW - HEMMING & MENDING (5 HRS.)
Do you need to replace the elastic in a skirt or hem up a pair of pants? Bring in any fabric item that needs to be repaired or hemmed and begin that repair in class. Bring your sewing machine if you have one, but a sewing machine is not required for this class. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/supplylists.
Thurs/Mon 6:00 PM-8:30 PM Apr. 10 & 14, 2025
Class fee $55 / Material fee $0 Total $55
HOW TO USE YOUR SEWING MACHINE (3 HRS.)
Did you buy a sewing machine and then you weren’t quite sure how to use it? Bring your machine, foot pedal, power cord, machine accessories, thread and manual to this workshop. We will cover all the functions of your machine and get you on the road to sewing.
Sat 10:00 AM–1:00 PM Apr. 26, 2025
Class fee $45 / Materials fee $0 Total $45
SEWING 101 - NOVICE (10 HRS.)
Create three different projects while you are learning to sew! Bring your sewing machine, power cord, bobbins, foot pedal and user manual to classes. The instructor will provide materials for a project on the first night. A supply list can be found on our website: www.polaris.edu/ supplylists.
Thurs/Mon 6:00 PM–8:30 PM May 1 – May 15, 2025 (no class 5/8)
Class fee $115 / Materials fee $5 Total $120
HOME & GARDEN
BASIC FLORAL DESIGN (16 HRS.)
Learn all the basics of becoming a floral designer including proper techniques and design elements to make a variety of arrangements. Each student will take home what they make in class. The designs include mound, triangle, L-shape designs, a dozen roses vased, vase and basket arrangements, corsage and boutonniere-making, proper wiring techniques, bow-making, novelty containers, and much more.
Tues/Thurs 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Feb. 18 – Mar. 18, 2025 (no class 3/13)
Class fee $160 / Materials fee $200 Total $360
LANDSCAPE DESIGN (15 HRS.)
Learn the design process a professional uses to create a plan. Use principles of design, basic drawing techniques, plant selection and discussion of common design issues to transform your home landscape. This class is taught by a landscape architect. Please bring photos and plans of the project you want to work on for the first day of class.
Sat 9:00 AM–12:00 PM Feb. 22 – Mar. 22, 2025
Class fee $195 / Materials fee $0 Total $195
FERTILIZING YOUR LANDSCAPE (2 HRS.)
All plants need the right nutrients. Learn from a landscape architect how best to fertilize your lawn, trees, shrubs, garden or flower beds. Learn how to read a soil report, different fertilization techniques (conventional vs. organic), what time schedule would be best and how feeding your plants can better your landscape. Identify the types of weeds and how to eliminate them.
Sat 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Apr. 5, 2025
Class fee $55 / Materials fee $0 Total $55
DEER RESISTANT LANDSCAPE (2 HRS.)
Even though deer are beautiful animals, they tend to wreak havoc on many plants we invest in for our yards. Learn the basics of deer-proofing your garden and develop a list of plants that are less prone to deer damage.
Sat 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Apr. 5, 2025
Class fee $55 / Materials fee $0 Total $55
THE ART OF PLANT SELECTION (4 HRS.)
This class will cover techniques for selecting plant material. Learn to utilize color, texture, form and layering to enhance the beauty of your landscape and create four seasons of interest. The class will start with a classroom portion and move to a nearby garden center for the second half. Students are responsible for their own transportation to the garden center. This class is taught by a landscape architect.
Sat 9:00 AM–1:00 PM May 3, 2025
Class fee $65 / Materials fee $0 Total $65
GENERAL INTEREST
GETTING PAID TO TALK: AN INTRODUCTION TO PROFESSIONAL VOICE-OVER (1.5 HRS)
Live Web-Based Workshop
From audiobooks to advertisements and beyond, recorded voices are heard everywhere! In this one-night, live online class, your instructor will take you behind-the-scenes in the voice-over field for a fun and realistic look at how that business really works. You’ll gain inside perspective on developing skills, learn how to leverage your voice’s strengths and interests, and more. Because this class is live, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions! Additionally, there will be a chance for a one-on-one script read with the instructor at the end of the class. Registered students will receive a link to join the class through their email.
Wed 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Mar. 19, 2025
Mon 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Apr. 28, 2025
Class fee $55 / Materials fee $0 Total $55
General Interest continued on next page
PREPPING FOR EMERGENCIES (2 HRS.)
Power goes out. A big storm hits. Stuck home for whatever reason? Are you prepared to stay healthy and comfortable for 72 hours? A week? A month? Here we will prioritize what we need to outlast any occasion. Food, Water, Shelter, Sanitation and First Aid are key elements of life. Leave with checklists and ideas for improving your ability to make it through such events easily.
Sat 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Apr. 26, 2025
Class fee $55 / Materials fee $0 Total $55
ACCREDITATION
Polaris Career Center Job and Career Training programs are accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, 7840 Roswell Road, Building 300, Suite 325, Atlanta, GA 30350, Telephone: 770.396.3898/FAX: 770.396.3790, www. council.org. Avocational programs/courses are neither accredited by the Council, nor qualify students to receive Title IV financial aid. As a member of the University System of Ohio, Polaris Career Center is governed and approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education. All Job & Career Training instructors are qualified practitioners in their area of instruction with a minimum of three years of related work experience and have teaching permits through the Ohio Department of Education.
Polaris Career Center
7285 Old Oak Boulevard Middleburg Heights, Ohio 44130-3375 440.891.7600 | www.polaris.edu
In accordance with Title VI of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Polaris Career Center’s policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, ancestry, economic status, military status, or age in its educational programs, activities, services or employment policies. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of legally acquired genetic information. If you are having a problem or have questions or concerns regarding compliance, contact Central Administration at 440.891.7617.
CANCELED COURSES
The Adult Education Department must cancel courses that do not attain the required minimum enrollment. The Adult Education Department reserves the right to cancel, discontinue, postpone, or combine courses before or at the first class meeting. Attempts are made to contact all students whose courses have been canceled. In the event a class is canceled, a full refund of the registration fee will be given.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Polaris Career Center is totally accessible to students with disabilities. Contact the Adult Education Office at 440.891.7600 prior to arrival for parking instructions, reasonable accommodations and/or elevator location information.
SELF-SUFFICIENT LIVING (2 HRS.)
What does it take to live a self-sustaining lifestyle? What foods can you easily grow, trade for, or make? Topics include food preservation, food & water storage, supplies to stock up on in times of abundance and what we can provide during shortage. Leave the class with a guide to build a self-sustained lifestyle.
Sat 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Apr. 26, 2025
Class fee $55 / Materials fee $0 Total $55
DISCLAIMER
Certain risks may be involved in each course described herein. Polaris Career Center shall not be liable for any loss or injury whatsoever to persons or property arising from participation in any course described herein. By registering for a course, the registrant acknowledges the assumption of those risks and releases Polaris Career Center from any liability whatsoever. Specific courses or activities may require registrants to sign a separate waiver of liability and release. Students enrolled in courses offered through the Adult Education Department are subject to Polaris Career Center regulations and policies including those pertaining to student conduct and discipline.
SENIOR CITIZENS DISCOUNT
Senior citizens will receive a 10% discount on the published tuition fee (discount does not apply to material fees) for Continuing Education and Special Interest classes. Note: Senior Citizens include persons over the age of 65 who can produce proof of age and identity.
POLARIS CAREER CENTER SCHOOL CLOSING
In the event high school classes are canceled, adult education classes will meet as scheduled. If adult education classes must be canceled because of inclement weather or other conditions, the school will post a notice on the school’s website.
WITHDRAWALS AND REFUNDS
Full refunds will be issued when a class is canceled by the Adult Education Department, or previously made payments may be applied to another class. No refunds will be issued after the first class meeting. A $10 cancellation fee will be withheld from all refunds. Books and supplies/materials are non-refundable. If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited within 45 business days on the credit card initially charged. Any refund that totals $1 or less will remain on the student’s account as a credit balance.
1098-T TAX FORM POLICY
1098-T Tax forms will be provided per Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Guidelines. Students must contact the Administrative Coordinator by January 31 to receive a 1098-T form for all Continuing Education classes.
2024 POLARIS Board of Education REGISTRATION IS EASY!
President
Mrs. Michelle Bissell Strongsville City School District
Vice President
Mr. Rocky Neale Brooklyn City School District
Mr. Doug Schwind Berea City School District
Mrs. Jennifer Bolander Fairview Park City School District
Mr. Terry Groden North Olmsted City School District
Mrs. Kelly Walker Olmsted Falls City School District
Mrs. Laura Wolfe-Housum Strongsville City School District
Superintendent
Mrs. Diane Xander Polaris Career Center
Treasurer
Mr. Mike Robinson Polaris Career Center
ONLINE:
Real-time, online registration is available for all Continuing Education classes. Go to polaris.edu/register and enroll!
PHONE:
Register by phone with a credit card. Call 440.891.7600 during office hours.
IN PERSON:
Anyone may register in-person for any class, but Job & Career Training program registration is in-person only.
FAX:
Send fax to 440.891.7642 with your credit card information.
DIRECT BILL:
Companies/organizations registering employees for classes will be invoiced upon receipt of written documentation. Call Kim Grieco at 440.891.7646 for details. If paying by check, please make check payable to: Polaris Career Center.
ADULT EDUCATION OFFICE HOURS
January 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025 Mon.– Thurs. 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Fri. 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
July 1, 2025 - August 18, 2025 Mon. – Thurs. 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM Fri. 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Note: Evening office hours are not available when evening classes are not in session. This occurs during holiday periods and between semesters.
7285 Old Oak Blvd.
Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
440.891.7600
www.polaris.edu
Automotive Service Technician*
Cardiographic Technician
Cosmetology Academy*
Dental Assisting*
Facilities Maintenance*
Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R)*
Manicurist
Medical Assisting*
Medical Billing and Coding*
Phlebotomy Certification
Police Academy*
Practical Nursing*
Precision/CNC Machine Technology*
Welding*
*Financial Aid Eligible Programs (For those who qualify)
Follow us on:
www.polaris.edu | #PolarisMeanJobs
THURS, JAN. 9, 2025 THURS, MAY 8, 2025 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
