By Lookout Staff

November 18, 2013 -- Spend this winter learning French, how to mediate or exactly what goes into California's public works projects at Santa Monica College's Community Education Winter Session.

With registration now open, members of the surrounding community can start signing up for classes, which start in early January, covering topics a varied as health, auto repair French and animation for kids.

“The winter session is the perfect time to honor New Year’s resolutions and for living well,” said Alice Meyering, Program Coordinator of Community & Contract Education.

“That’s why we are offering a whole range of classes geared to our theme of ‘Living Well,’ from Mind and Body courses to Fitness and Relaxation to Health and Safety,” she said.

The list of classes that fall in the category of “Living Well” goes on.

“You could even say that our 'Women’s Auto Workshop' is about living well as students pursue wellness on the road and self-sufficiency,” said Meyering. “And we’re offering classes on financial well-being, such as ‘Smart Money Fundamentals’ and ‘Living Trusts.’”

There is also “Introduction to Basic Mindfulness,” which teaches students how to meditate.

But for those not inclined to mediation, there plenty of other options, like a new certificated “Secrets of Public Works Projects Series,” beginning on January 11.

Combined with a course on “Prevailing Wages: Tips You Need Before You Bid,” the series is “crucial for the construction business,” Meyering said.

“We want contractors to learn about complex wage regulations so they can keep on track and maintain healthy profits,” she said, which is especially important “with more than $100 billion of approved California public works projects at stake.”

For those more artistically inclined, Community Education offers a “strong listing of photography workshops,” said Meyering.

“Winter is one of the few times that 'Black & White Printing' is scheduled, or students can sign up for hands-on Southern California photo safaris, including the new 'Night Lights @ Santa Monica Pier,'” college officials said.

There are weekend excursions, a new French pronunciation class and even an animation class for kids from eight to 13-years old.

To register, call (310) 434-3400 or go to http://commed.smc.edu.