Come Get "Close Knit" With Us! As the autumn chill sets in, come find warmth in community creativity! Close Knit is a free, intergenerational workshop series and art exhibition designed to bring the Byron community together through the power of collaborative art. In these workshops, participants from Grades 3 through Adult will explore cozy, texture-rich mediums—like watercolor, clay, paint, and textiles—to create unique individual pieces. These pieces will then be stitched, woven, and assembled together into stunning community installations. No artistic experience is required—just a desire to create, connect, and celebrate the things that keep us warm. Exhibition Details Artwork created in the workshops will be part of the "Close Knit" community art exhibition at the Community Education Building from November 7 – December 12, 2026. Come see your own creativity hanging side-by-side with your neighbors' work in a beautiful celebration of togetherness. Join Us for the Opening Celebration! Mark your calendar for the Opening Reception at Discovery Day on November 7 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM! Bring the family, enjoy the cozy vibes, and see how close-knit our Byron community truly is. All workshops are 100% free, but registration is required to save your spot at the crafting table. Let’s make something beautiful together! Ages: Grades 3-12; Adults Instructor: Katie Schmitt ABOUT THE WORKSHOPS The Community Barn Quilt Mural Workshop - Mondays, September 21 & 28 at 6-7:30 pm Welcome to the Table Clay Dinnerware - Saturdays, October 3 & 10 at 9-10:30 am Cozy Sweater Painting - Friday, October 16 at 9-10:30 am Piecing Together the Prairie* - Monday, October 19 & Monday, October 26, and Tuesday October 27 at 6:30–7:30 pm Suspended Fiber Sculptures - Wednesday, October 22 at 6-7:30 pm *This workshop is for youth ages 12+ and Adults. All other workshop are open to students in Grades 3-12 and Adults. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

Learn essential life-saving skills on a flexible schedule! This hybrid course covers adult, child, and infant CPR, along with proper Automated External Defibrillator (AED) operation. Open to individuals 18+. How It Works: Step 1: Online Coursework (At Your Own Pace) — Complete the required self-paced online modules prior to attending the hands-on session. Link and login instructions will be emailed after registration. Step 2: In-Person Skills Check — Attend a fast-paced, hands-on practice and evaluation session to finalize your certification. Important Details: Online Requirement: You must complete the online portion before attending the hands-on session. Proof of online completion is required to participate in the in-person check. Byron Staff Reimbursement: Selected Byron Public Schools staff members may qualify for course reimbursement. Please contact Byron Community Education prior to registering for more information.

Join us for fun-filled After School Art Clubs where young artists will dive into exciting design challenges each session! From painting and sculpting to crafting with unique materials, students will explore a variety of artistic techniques while bringing their creative visions to life. Each session begins with sketchbook time, encouraging imaginative thinking before jumping into the daily art challenge—a hands-on project designed to spark curiosity and self-expression. Whether experimenting with color, texture, or form, every day offers a new opportunity to create, learn, and have fun! Perfect for budding artists who love to imagine, experiment, and make something amazing! Don’t miss out—sign up today! For after school classes held at the Community Education Center (630 1st Ave NW), students can take the Activity Bus to the CEC from the Primary or Intermediate Schools.

2026-27 Walking Passes are available for Byron School District residents who wish to use the Middle School or High School for indoor walking. Please register online or in-person at the Community Education Office.You will need to bring your drivers license to pick up your pass at the Community Education Office whether you register online or in-person. Office Hours: 8 am-3 pm.Thank you for helping us keep our buildings safe by registering for your pass. We hope you enjoy walking! Walking Pass Hours: 6–7 am and 4:30–7 pm Please note that walking is not available on non-school day and holidays. View the school calendar for dates. Locations: Middle School - 601 4th St. NWHigh School - 1887 2nd Ave. NW

Join the Byron High School Volleyball Teams and Coaching Staff for an exciting, high-energy 2-day camp designed to build skills and community connections! This camp focuses on fundamental skill development—including passing, setting, serving, and hitting—blended with fun team-building activities and interactive games. It is a fantastic opportunity for younger players to learn directly from the high school players, build confidence on the court, and form positive connections with the older student-athletes. As a special highlight, all camp participants will receive a t-shirt and an invitation to join HS players on the court for pregame during our BHS Volleyball Youth Night game in October! (Date TBD). Come train, play, and connect with the BHS volleyball program.

Skyhawks Baseball: Build baseball fundamentals—fielding, catching, throwing, hitting, and base running—in a fun, positive setting. Designed for beginners and intermediates, this program develops skills, confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Location: CEC Ball Fields Skyhawks Sports Academy teaches life skills through sports. For over 25 years, Skyhawks has specialized in bringing youth sports programs to children aged 2-14 in Minnesota. Skyhawks programs nurture a love for play through a variety of skill-based drills and fun games.

Skyhawks BaseballTots classes introduce your young athlete to baseball with focuses on motor skills, body control, and basics like throwing, hitting, and catching. Parent/guardian participation required. Please provide the name of the parent/guardian who will be attending class with your child at registration. Location: CEC Ball Fields Skyhawks Sports Academy teaches life skills through sports. For over 25 years, Skyhawks has specialized in bringing youth sports programs to children aged 2-14 in Minnesota. Skyhawks programs nurture a love for play through a variety of skill-based drills and fun games.

This casual, welcoming class invites adults of all skill levels to come and spend a fun evening making their books absolutely glitter. We provide all the faceted beads and supplies ✨💎, so you can relax, chat , and learn simple, effective ways to decorate your favorite book cover with maximum sparkle 💖📚. Don't forget the book you want to bedazzle!

Get ready to make your favorite story shine! In this fun, hands-on workshop, kids in grades 3–8 will learn simple, cool techniques to transform any book cover into a sparkling masterpiece. We supply all the shiny gems, bedazzling tools, and glittery beads. Bring your imagination and the book you want to decorate! Come hang out, craft with friends, and leave with a totally unique, ultra-sparkly book cover. Arrival & Schedule Grades 3–5: Take the activity bus straight to the CEC after school! You can hang out, eat a snack from home, and warm up with creative free-choice activities. Official Class Start: Group crafting kicks off around 3:10–3:15 PM as soon as the middle schoolers arrive.

Whether you’re a lifelong book lover or just looking to get back into reading, our book clubs are the perfect place to connect. We believe that a great book is even better when shared with good company! Join us for lively, low-pressure discussions where we share diverse perspectives, plenty of laughs, and a mutual love of storytelling. There are no quizzes here—just warm communities, friendly faces, and fantastic conversations. Please Note: Participants are responsible for obtaining their own copies of the books. You are welcome to read or listen in whatever format you prefer—whether that is a physical paperback, an e-book on your tablet, or an audiobook!📖 Book Club Options: Adult Book Club (Ages 18+) The Next Chapter Book Club (Seniors, Adults 55+, Retirees) Escape the daily grind and join us for a relaxed evening of great books and even better company! This club is a wonderful way to meet neighbors, share your thoughts on compelling stories, and enjoy a night out. When: 2nd Thursday of the month 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: Community Room (Room 101) Cost: $10 per session Upcoming Schedule & Themes: September 10 – Summer Wrap-Up & Book Planning The Book: The Swan Song (Book #4 of The Nantucket Series by Elin Hilderbrand). We’ll be focusing on this finale, but since many of us read the series over the summer, we will chat about Books 1–3 as well! Special Activity: We will be picking our reading list for the next four months. Bring your favorite suggestions! We’ll also have some fun get-to-know-you activities to kick off the season. October 8 (Book TBA on Sept 10) November 12 (Book TBA on Sept 10) December 10 (Book TBA on Sept 10) January 14 (Book TBA on Sept 10) Looking for a wonderful way to spend a weekday morning? If you love getting lost in a great story and enjoy the company of lively, friendly peers, this is the club for you! Designed specifically for active older adults and retirees, The Next Chapter is all about engaging conversation, shared laughs, and social connection. We explore a wide variety of crowd-pleasing reads. There are no quizzes or strict rules here—just a relaxed gathering where you can share your thoughts, swap book recommendations, and enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you read the whole book or just the first few chapters, come for the story and stay for the great company! When: 4th Tuesday of each month | 10:30-11:30amFall Dates: October 27, November 24, December 22, January 26Future Dates (Registration will open later): February 23, March 23, April 27, May 25, June 22, and July 27 Where: Community Room (Room 101)Cost: $5 per sessionFirst Session - September 22: What made your summer reading list this year? Join us for an open book share. Bring 1 or 2 titles you devoured (or abandoned!) over the season, give us your quick take, and leave with a fresh list of crowd-sourced recommendations for fall.

Ready to level up your game from casual fun to striking success? This 4-session clinic covers everything from fundamental techniques to competitive strategies in a supportive environment tailored for ages 8 and up. What You'll Learn The Fundamentals: Master how to choose the right ball weight and grip, proper holding techniques, basic release styles, and manual scorekeeping. Skill Building: Learn reliable techniques for picking up spares, reading different lane oil conditions, and exploring alternative release styles. Next Steps: Get introduced to local league bowling options and learn how high school bowling programs operate. Instructor: Dan Ziebell, League Secretary/Youth League Coach – Wildwood Class Details Ages: 8+ (Kids, teens, and adults welcome) Format: Four 1-hour sessions Location: Wildwood Sports Bar, 501 Frontage Rd NE, Byron Equipment: Use the bowling center's balls and shoes, or bring your own gear. Included in Registration: Professional instruction, lane time, ball rental, and shoe rental.

Join us for some fall fun. Costume contest, candy hunt, pumpkin carving, and games.

Pull up a chair, grab a warm mug, and let’s chat! Our Coffee Talks are short, casual gatherings designed to spark your curiosity and warm your morning. If you love learning something new without the pressure of a formal class, and enjoy sharing stories over a great cup of coffee, you’ll feel right at home here. What is a Coffee Talk? Think of it as a neighborhood living room. Each session features a brief, lighthearted introduction to a fascinating topic—ranging from local history and famous artists to cozy lifestyle traditions like the Swedish Fika. After a short, engaging presentation, the floor opens for relaxed conversation, storytelling, and social time.When: Offered every 3rd Thursday - September, October, November, December, January at 10-10:45 amPresented by Byron Community Education Staff. Why You’ll Love It: Zero Homework: There is absolutely no preparation or prior knowledge required. Just show up and enjoy! Bite-Sized & Social: At just 45 minutes, these sessions are the perfect, easy addition to your schedule. Warm Hospitality: Because no great conversation ever started on an empty stomach! At every one of our Coffee Talks, a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a selection of teas, and a delicious, themed sweet treat are always provided. Whether it’s the warm scent of cinnamon during our Scandinavian Fika chat or a festive peppermint touch for our holiday music session, we make sure there is always something delicious waiting for you. A Welcoming Space: Whether you come to actively share your thoughts or just prefer to sip your drink and listen to the conversation, there is a comfortable spot waiting for you. SEPTEMBER 17thMinnesota History: Tales & TriviaHow well do you know the land of 10,000 lakes? Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with us as we celebrate the unique, quirky, and heartwarming history of our home state. OCTOBER 15thChihuly: Glass, Color & Local ConnectionsHave you ever stared up in awe at a cascade of vibrant, twisting glass? Dale Chihuly completely revolutionized the world of glassblowing, turning a traditional craft into massive, colorful, and breathtaking works of public art. Grab a warm mug and join us for a visually stunning morning exploring the bold world of Chihuly. NOVEMBER 19thThe Art of Fika & HyggeAs the autumn chill settles into Minnesota, it’s time to embrace the cozy side of life! Nordic countries are consistently ranked as some of the happiest in the world, and their secret lies in two simple concepts: Hygge (the Danish art of cozy comfort) and Fika (the Swedish tradition of pausing for a warm drink and a treat with friends). Pour yourself a hot cup of coffee or tea and join us for the ultimate cozy morning. DECEMBER 17thHoliday Hits: The Surprising Stories Behind Your Favorite Seasonal SongsWe hear them every December, but do you know the stories behind the songs that make up the soundtrack of our holidays? Pour a warm cup of coffee and join us for a delightful, music-filled morning as we spin some tunes and unwrap the fascinating, funny, and heartwarming histories of four holiday classics. JANUARY 21stIsland Time: A Virtual Hawaiian EscapeReady to trade your heavy winter coat for a tropical breeze—even if just for 45 minutes? When the January freeze is at its peak, there is nothing better than a mental getaway to sunny shores. Leave your boots at the door and step into our "virtual beach house" for a warm, sun-drenched morning celebrating the beauty and culture of Hawaii! Come ready to swap stories of your favorite beach vacations, your dream tropical destinations, or simply your favorite way to soak up the sun. Sunglasses and floral shirts are highly encouraged!

Do you have a knitting project that’s been sitting in a basket? A half-finished quilt block waiting to be stitched?Or maybe you just want to create in the company of friendly neighbors?Welcome to Craft Circle—a relaxed, monthly, drop-in social hour for handcrafters of all kinds. There are no structured classes, instructors, or deadlines. Instead, we provide the tables, chairs, electrical outlets, and a warm atmosphere where you can make this space your own.How It Works: Bring Your Own Supplies: Work on knitting, crocheting, hand-sewing, leatherworking, fly tying, painting, air dry clay, paper crafts, sketching, whittling, or model assembly. Share & Connect: Work at your own pace, enjoy rich conversations, and share inspiration with fellow makers. Tidy Up Your Space: To help us keep our shared Community Ed room clean for the next group, please plan to spend the last few minutes of the session tidying up your personal crafting area. Registration: While the program is completely free, pre-registration is mandatory to ensure we have a comfortable seat reserved for you! Note: For crafters who paint or work with wet materials (paint, brushes), please keep in mind that there is no sink in the immediate classroom. Please bring your own water containers and utilize the restroom down the hall for filling or cleaning up. Additionally, because our classroom is fully carpeted, we kindly ask that you take extra care with liquids and consider bringing a small tray to protect the floor from accidental spills. Dates: 1st Wednesday of the Month Time: 10 am-Noon

This is the ultimate hands-on date night! Join us for a unique 2-hour experience where you'll twist fresh dough into incredible pasta and twirl clay into a beautiful pot. You'll learn practical skills by kneading, rolling, and cutting fresh egg pasta and whipping up a simple sauce (your choice of red or white). Then, move to the wheel where you'll be guided step-by-step to create your own small, hand-thrown ceramic pot (perfect for herbs or a small plant). Bring your favorite partner, friend, or spouse for a night of creativity, laughs, and delicious rewards! All materials, ingredients, and firing of your ceramic piece are included.

Looking for the perfect way to kick off your Saturday morning? Whether you are fueled by fresh donuts, curious about high-tech robotics, ready to smash a pickleball, or excited to explore stunning local art, there is a spot saved just for you at Discovery Day! This FREE community event is designed to bring all generations together—from toddlers to grandparents—for a vibrant morning of hands-on activities, sweet treats, and neighborhood connection. 🌟 What’s Waiting for You: Feast & Create: Stop by the Commons to fuel up with free donuts and coffee, then head over to the Culinary Arts Classroom to decorate delicious cookies and take home a tasty treat (while supplies last!). Move & Play: Grab a paddle for some friendly Pickleball in the Big Gym, or watch incredible student-built machines in action at the Byron Robotics Headquarters.Refresh your family game shelf in Room 126 at our Puzzle and Game Exchange, where every participant receives three tokens to take home "new-to-you" board games and jigsaws! Art & Impact: Walk through the beautiful "Close Knit" Art Exhibition in the Commons and learn about Byron Community Education's exciting Age-Friendly Minnesota grant project. You can also tour our local Food Pantry to see how this vital resource supports our community. Check out Wheel Throwing Demo in the Makerspace! Little Learner Fun: Enjoy cozy, playful moments with your kiddos during ECFE's Storytime from 10-10:30 am. Cost: Free!Who: All generations welcome—from toddlers to grandparents!Registration: Pre-registration is appreciated. Don't forget to grab a Discovery Day Passport when you arrive! Collect stamps as you explore the different rooms, try the activities, and view the Close Knit art gallery. Turn in your completed passport to be entered to win exciting local prizes, including: A Free Community Ed Class Voucher A Paint-Your-Own Pottery Kit And more! We can’t wait to see you there to explore, create, move, and connect!