Start the new year with a Northfield Public Schools Community Services class. Programs for students of all ages and abilities are available throughout the year.

GEMS Club (Girls Excelling in Math and Science) will be offered at all three elementary schools this season. GEMS offers girls in grades 3 to 5 an opportunity to explore math, science and technology with hands-on experiments and weekly problem-solving activities. Classes start as early as Jan. 24 and cost $55 for six weeks.

Get out and about with our cross-country skiing workshops, for beginner or intermediate level skiers. Students of all ages can get advice on technique, equipment and waxing while enjoying the trails of the Carleton Arboretum. Classes will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Jan. 26 and 27 for $24.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) will offer mini-sessions and special events this month, including Special Story Time with Mary Bleckwehl, a local childrens’ book author, and Marvelous Music and Movement Time. ECFE classes that begin later than January are also online and open for registration.

Benefit emotionally and financially from our conflict resolution series, whether in the workplace or at home. Debra Petersen, the director of the Rice County Dispute Resolution Program, will provide instruction in mediation strategies and everyday conflicts. Evening classes start on Jan. 31 and cost $29.

Visit Community Services or call 507.664.3649 for more information.

Northfield Public Schools Community Services includes recreation and enrichment programming, Early Childhood Family Education, driver education, KidVentures, EarlyVentures Learning Center, Connected Kids, Middle School Youth Center, Hand-in-Hand Preschool, Adult Basic Education and Project ABLE.