This semester, the Adult Evening School will offer a total of 36 courses. "[Each year], we try to grow the program. We've added a lot of classes in the past two years," said Mike Ciampa, Adult Evening School Principal.

Courses cover a wide range of subjects, some of which are academic in nature, but most are taken or solely for enrichment. The goal of the courses at the evening school is to provide members of the community with low-cost classes about topics which they would enjoy, according to Ciampa.

"We're offering some academic classes to high school age students who need high school credit. There's Math, Science, English, and Social Studies," said Ciampa. In addition, this semester Biology will be added to the mix.

Monetarily, "Classes vary," said Ciampa. Courses cost $150, on average, although, various classes require additional materials, at an extra cost. Conversely, courses shorter in duration cost less.

"We're also offering some courses that offer certifications. We have courses that offer the 10 hour Safety Certification. We have First Aid and CPR. We're offering Driver's Ed right now – that's a little bit more expensive. That certification will go towards your insurance," said Ciampa. In addition, a real estate certification course is available. After having completed that course, individuals may take the real estate salesperson license exam.

Introductory computer and internet courses are available, and are intended for senior citizens.

Interestingly, the bulk of the program is enrichment for adults. Of the 36 course offerings, 30 of them are non-academic. Graphic Arts, Web Design, and African drumming, are among classes offered "straight for enrichment." Furniture Making and Culinary Arts have proven extremely popular recently.

Many people enjoy courses at the Adult Evening School in a social sense, according to Ciampa.

Ciampa is considering offering "one day type classes" that may pique local interest. Possible topics may include the history of Somerville and the history of sports.

Members of the community may contact Mike Ciampa with any ideas for new courses at, somervilleeveningschool@somerville.mec.edu or (617) 625-6600 x6159.

"I'd love to have things like quilting and scrapbooking and other arts and crafts type things, as well," said Ciampa. "I think that people would sign up for them. I think our cost is reasonable, and we have a great facility here at Somerville High School."