Terms/Classes

SOAR Course Schedules

Each year, SOAR offers courses during three separate programs (adult lifelong learning classes). All classes are carefully curated by SOAR’s all-volunteer Curriculum Committee, whose team members ensure a variety of options and presenters for each term. Each term includes academic-style classes and lectures that range from art and architecture to history and science, and from current events to travel and technology, and more!

SOAR’s Fall and Spring terms each include approximately 50 different classes over a six-week period in October-November and April-May. Classes are offered Monday through Friday, at either 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Most classes last 90 minutes. Members and non-members can select from a range of in-person and Zoom classes. All registered members will also be provided with YouTube links to classes which are recorded (not all are recorded for various reasons).

SOAR’s Winter Program presents a special deep dive into a specific era or topic. In the past, SOAR has explored the Industrial Revolution, the Harlem Renaissance, and other fascinating topics. Registration for the SOAR Winter Program includes all eight or ten classes, whether they are in-person at The Hawk Community Center or on Zoom. All registered members will also be provided with YouTube links to recorded classes.

In-Person Classes:

All SOAR in-person classes are held at The Hawk Community Center in Farmington Hills. Registered class members should plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled class time to check-in, say hello to old and new friends, and find a seat. SOAR’s classroom is located on the 3rd floor of the building. We suggest using the main building entrance, located at the south end of the east side of the Hawk. There is an elevator in the main lobby to take you to the third floor. Once you are at the 3rd floor, greeters will welcome you and direct you to the sign-in table and the classroom.

To make sure all of those attending classes can see and hear clearly, we have installed large screens and hearing loop technology.

Zoom Classes:

Many SOAR classes are broadcast live, on-Zoom. Members who have registered for the full Class Program will have access to all Zoom classes for that term. Those preferring to register for a single class will receive an email with the Zoom link(s) the day preceding the class.

Zoom 101: Understanding How to Use Zoom is available. This recording will familiarize you with Zoom’s features, including how to ask a question, how to spotlight the presenter, and additional settings that can enhance the experience.

YouTube and Surveys:

Registered members will receive a weekly email with YouTube links to the class recordings and to online surveys for that week’s classes. We ask you to take a just few moments to complete the course survey form. We highly value your input on the classes and instructors. Your feedback is used to help shape course and faculty selections, and to provide constructive feedback to our faculty.