May 05 Tuesday
Join us for a two-session, hands-on workshop series where participants will learn the practical skills and thoughtful approach needed to complete meaningful oral history interviews. Rather than just hearing about the process, you’ll actively practice it—guided step-by-step by Virginia Siegel, Director of Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts at the University of Arkansas.In the first session, we’ll explore the foundations of oral history: interviewing techniques, ethical considerations, how to develop effective questions, and how to use field recorders with confidence. Between sessions, you’ll put your new skills into action through a short “homework” assignment—recording a brief oral history with a friend or family member. In the second session, we’ll come back together to reflect on your experience, discuss challenges and successes, and learn best archival practices for preserving audio interviews.Whether you’re documenting family stories or community history, you’ll leave with the tools and understanding to ensure those voices are heard and preserved for generations to come.
Traveling on your own can be one of the most rewarding ways to see the world -- if you know how to prepare. This class is designed for anyone curious about solo adventures, whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth. Diane O’Neal, who has traveled to over 43 countries (solo), and Susan Cunningham, an independent travel agent, will cover practical packing strategies that lighten your load, essential safety tips to help you travel with confidence, and a curated list of travel companies and suppliers who welcome and cater to solo travelers. Expect an interactive session with real-life examples, resources, and time for Q&A so you leave feeling inspired, equipped, and ready for your next journey
May 06 Wednesday
: Join Fayetteville’s Active Transportation Manager, Matt Mihalevich, for an in-depth overview of the planning and development of Fayetteville’s trail system. This course will cover key aspects of trail development, including funding strategies, design considerations, property acquisition, construction methods, and long-term maintenance.Special focus will be given to Fayetteville’s newest trail projects, including the Midtown Trail and the Mission Blvd. Trail, offering insights into how these additions integrate with the city’s broader active transportation network.Following the classroom session, participants will take part in a guided walking tour of the recently completed sections of the Razorback Greenway through the Ramble, providing a firsthand look at the trail design and implementation. For the walking tour portion, please wear comfortable shoes. Activity Level: 1.
Discover the fun and challenge of Mah Jongg, a centuries-old Chinese tile game that’s gaining popularity across the U.S.! This beginner-friendly course introduces the game’s fascinating history and teaches official rules and strategies based on the National Mah Jongg League standards.Participants will learn through a mix of lecture, discussion, and guided game play, all led by experienced instructors from the Springdale Senior Center. They will cover everything from tile recognition and rules to strategy and scoring, with step-by-step guidance designed for newcomers. Enjoy a supportive, social setting where you can ask questions, get hands-on help, and build your skills with fellow learners.It’s fun, social, and great for brain health. Come join us and start your Mah Jongg journey -- no experience needed!
In this class we will apply basic drawing principles to the study of Heads after past artists. Constructive drawing will be discussed in analyzing artists such as Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Raphael and more. Topics will include Structure, Shape, and Proportion. Artists will be discussed, short demo given, and exercises to work on. Personal 1-on-1 instruction offered throughout.
All levels welcome and supplies will be provided. Students are welcome to bring their own as well (drawing boards, tabletop easels, etc.)
May 07 Thursday
Embrace the journey of aging with confidence and vitality! Join Vicky Willis, a certified Yoga instructor and OLLI’s Yoga Guru, in this transformative program designed specifically for those looking to enhance their well-being as they age. Through slow, precise movements rooted in Yoga, participants will systematically stretch and condition their muscles, providing essential support to aging joints. This program focuses on four key areas: strength, flexibility, agility, and balance; fundamental elements for healthy living that can help eliminate morning stiffness and improve overall mobility.Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket, blocks, a yoga strap, and a yoga mat, and to wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. Join us to foster a healthier, more active lifestyle as you embrace the changes that come with age! Activity Level: 1
Kick up your heels and join the fun -- no partner needed! In this energizing line dancing class, participants will learn choreographed steps to a variety of music styles, from country classics to pop favorites. Whether you’re brand new to line dancing or just brushing up on your moves, we’ve got you covered. Each session starts simple and builds at your pace, so you’ll feel confident and comfortable every step of the way.Led by a friendly and experienced instructor from the Springdale Senior Center, you’ll get personalized guidance, a welcoming group atmosphere, and the added joy of moving together gether in sync. It’s not just a class -- it’s a community. Along with step-by-step instruction and repetition to build muscle memory, you’ll boost your coordination, improve cardiovascular health, and sharpen your mind -- all while having a blast! Our instructor will break down each routine, offering tips and encouragement in a supportive and upbeat environment.So come for the music, stay for the smiles, and leave with a spring in your step! Let’s dance, laugh, and move together -- one step at a time. Activity Level: 1
May 08 Friday
: Visit the studio of master woodworker Matt Buell. Observe as he takes you through the various steps needed to convert raw material into finely crafted furniture. Buell’s unique designs feature sensible, fluid lines that flow naturally, creating a warm and organic aesthetic. Although eclectic at heart, many of his works have been characterized as mid-century modern with a subtly traditional undercurrent. Clients proudly display his works in homes, businesses, and municipal buildings such as the Fayetteville, Arkansas City Council Chambers. Buell has also been commissioned by large import companies as a freelance furniture designer, some of which you have probably seen in well-known larger chain stores
May 09 Saturday
In this workshop we will focus on a single long-pose figure drawing. Gesture and form will be a main focus. Other principles covered will be Relationships, Proportion, Shadow Mapping, and Light/Shade. We will draw in half-hour bouts during these three hours.
1-1:30 PM: Intro, lecture, demo, sketchbook + art book tour
1:30-4 PM: 25-min bouts + 1-on-1 instruction
All levels, supplies provided
Live Model will be present, 18+ only
May 11 Monday
Irish Slow Session is for those who would like to learn Irish tunes and songs. The hour before each Irish Session we’ll learn a few new tunes and tips on how to jam in the Irish Sessions.Every 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Check the Folk School calendar for more information.