Course Catalog > EXPLORING LIFE & LEISURE > Classroom on Wheels (COW)

Classroom on Wheels (COW)

CLASSROOM ON WHEELS is a school bus-based traveling classroom for half-day field trips throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The Classroom on Wheels Program provides an in-depth look into local businesses and industry, arts and culture, education, religion, government, social services, agriculture, and history in a way that one could not accomplish on one’s own. Students gain an appreciation of what goes into creating the quality of life we enjoy. Since 1974, Classroom On Wheels students have visited or learned about more than 1,300 places and people. These popular classes have gained a huge following of loyal students who love to learn about the area via field trips and lectures. Classes are held in the fall, winter, and spring.

We will use the COW (Classroom On Wheels) Bus this fall session. Students will be spaced out for safe distancing. When registering for classes, you will be asked whether you want to ride the COW bus or drive yourself to all class locations. (Directions will be included with the schedule.) Masks are required to be worn on the COW bus.

CLASS TOPICS FALL 2021

The Magic of Music - We will be joined by the Sarasota Orchestra to learn about the oldest continuing orchestra in the state of Florida. Each year the 76 member orchestra performs more than 100 classical, pops, chamber music, and community outreach concerts. You will be surprised to discover just how much there is to know about the operations of a professional orchestra! We will also hear about the orchestra's highly regarded music education program, which is a cornerstone of the organization's mission.

“The Roads Traveled to Sarasota County" - is a video of a play reading published by the Historical Society of Sarasota County. You will experience the timeline and know the people in the struggle to detach Sarasota from Manatee County to make it an independent county in 1921. Kathryn Chesley, who wrote and directed the publication, will join us for Q & A. (A donation has been made on your behalf for use of the video and facilities, and is included in your registration fee.)

The Thrill of Your Winning Bid – What goes on behind the scenes in preparing for an auction? How does an auction operate? How is an estate auction coordinated? You will meet Andrew Ford, who owns and operates Sarasota Estate Auction and sister company Sarasota Trading Company. He handles a wide variety of furniture, antiques, fine art, jewelry, Asian artifacts, sculptures, and collectibles.

From Tusk to Tail – When you think of Florida, you might not think about elephants. We will visit the Myakka Elephant Ranch, located near Myakka city, where you will see several Asian elephants and an African elephant. You will experience a conservation talk on these gentle giants. Bring your camera for close-up photos. (Admission is included in your registration fee.)

Venice Museum and Archives – housed in the historic 1927 Triangle Inn Building, offers a variety of exhibits. You will see historic photos that focus on the origin, the controversy, and the creation in 1921 of the county we call home. An additional exhibit will feature African Americans of the local area, many who helped build the streets, infrastructure, buildings and homes of Venice, Nokomis, and Sarasota. Another feature exhibit is on the History of Venice from the Indigenous People, to Webb and Knight Family settlers, to Dr. Albee, and the Nolan Plan for designing the community. In order to maintain social distancing in the small museum, half of the class will visit the near-by Monty Andrews Arboretum. The two groups will rotate halfway through the class.

Beauty All Around – We will visit Palmer Orchids, located near Myakka City, where we will learn about the many varieties of orchids and how to grow them. Following the presentation, you will have the opportunity to visit their 40,000 square feet of greenhouses. Bring your camera for some spectacular photos. Also, bring your mad money to purchase an orchid. (Admission included in your registration fee.)

Classroom on Wheels - includes admissions Class already in session...it is possible that the teacher may allow a late registration. Please call the office at 941-361-6590.

Item: COW1020 Brenda Lee Hickman

W 10/13/2021 - 11/17/2021

Wearing a mask is required while riding the COW bus.

Classroom on Wheels - includes admissions Class already in session...it is possible that the teacher may allow a late registration. Please call the office at 941-361-6590.

Item: COW1021 Brenda Lee Hickman

Th 10/14/2021 - 11/18/2021
Wearing a mask is required while riding the COW bus.

Register early to avoid disappointment, as classes will fill up quickly!

Some Title

Alert