Lori Wyrebek: A Journey of Community Impact in Farmington Valley

Inside Farmington Continuing Education, A Journey of Community Impact and Shaping Lifelong Learners. Here is Lori Wyrebek’s Inspirational Story

Lori Wyrebek, the Farmington Continuing Education Coordinator, is a distinguished professional whose career has been marked by excellence and dedication. Her journey in the field of education is a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning and her ability to adapt to the community’s evolving needs.

A deep understanding of educational principles, innovative program development, and a keen insight into the needs of learners of all ages characterize Wyrebek’s career path. Her role as the coordinator for Farmington Continuing Education has allowed her to apply these skills in a way that significantly benefits the community. And not only for Farmington but the entire surrounding towns and beyond.

Under her guidance, the program has flourished, offering diverse courses catering to the community’s interests and professional development needs.

One of the hallmarks of Wyrebek’s tenure has been her ability to manage the myriad aspects of the continuing education program perfectly. She has successfully navigated challenges such as budget constraints, changing educational trends, and the need for digital transformation, especially in the wake of the digital era. Her leadership has ensured the program’s smooth running and led to its expansion and increased recognition within the educational sector.

Wyrebek’s approach to education is holistic. She recognizes that learning is a lifelong process and has worked tirelessly to create accessible opportunities for all, regardless of age or background. Her efforts have made the Farmington Continuing Education program a beacon of learning and personal growth, fostering a culture of knowledge and skill development that benefits individuals and the community.

I am so happy to introduce you to another gem from Farmington’s Heart, Lori Wyrebek.

Interview: Pinar Ozyigit
Photos: Debra Chute

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What inspired you to pursue a career in education, particularly in continuing education?

My inspiration to work in continuing education comes from the enthusiasm and engagement of learners of all ages, particularly the older population over 65 who want to be active. Many want to make new friends, stay healthy and active, and participate in community activities. These program offerings have allowed them to continue their personal or professional education in lifelong learning.

How has the Farmington Continuing Education program evolved under your leadership?

Under my leadership, the adult and youth enrichment program has grown to be the largest in the state of CT.  Before COVID, enrollments were over 4,800 a year and 860+ class offerings.  These numbers are currently moving in an upward trend. In addition, FCE has administered the enrichment program for Regional School District #10 for over 12 years allowing classes to be held at Lewis Mills High School in Burlington.

Can you share some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in this role and how you overcame them? 

The biggest challenge was the COVID pandemic which halted all in-person classes. Instead of conceding to the pandemic, the FCE program pivoted to offer online classes. This included our non-English (ESL) speaking students and GED / Citizenship preparation students.  Some enrichment instructors graciously offered their services for free, allowing participants and communities to come together and support one another physically and mentally.     

The common misconception is that taxpayers’ money funds Farmington Continuing Education, but that’s not true. Could you clarify how the program is financed and how the funding system works?

While FCE is a non-profit and part of Farmington Public School, the Continuing Education program is not funded by taxpayer dollars.  We are self-supporting, so any profits pay for the program’s expenses and staff salaries. FCE continues to search for additional funding, such as grants or business donations, to off-set operational expenses.

Wonderful to hear that. Congratulations to Lori. I want to ask you about digital transformation. How have you navigated the digital transformation in education, especially in the context of continuing education?

FCE strives to stay ahead of the curve of digital transformation with online registration and credit card processing. Program offerings include introduction courses on how to use a computer, Google, Excel, iPhone / iPad, and Powerpoint. Our website www.fpsct.org/fce is a resource for all our program offerings.  Updates and announcements are communicated through a weekly Sunday email blast highlighting upcoming classes, instructors, testimonials, and program successes.

Farmington Continuing Education has been in business for 52 years and serving the local community and surrounding towns. Over the years, FCE has supported life-long learning for residents of all ages.

Lori Wyrebek, Director, Farmington Continuing Education

In what ways do you believe Farmington Continuing Education has positively impacted the local community and surrounding towns?

Farmington Continuing Education has been in business for 52 years serving the local community and surrounding towns. Over the years, FCE has supported life-long learning for residents of all ages. This includes the various day trip offerings to explore museums, ball games, culinary experiences, food shopping, Bronx Zoo, Statue of Liberty, Metropolitan opera, and more.   

Where do you see the future of continuing education heading, and how is Farmington preparing for these changes?

The future of FCE is to continue to grow and serve the needs of the local and surrounding communities bringing in new course ideas and instructors. In preparation, a needs assessment will be conducted in the areas of people, marketing, trends, and changes to develop a strategic plan. 

How do you encourage and foster a culture of lifelong learning among your students?

Our culture of lifelong learning fosters a growth mindset, promotes curiosity and inquisitiveness, self-directed learning, and integrates technology and digital literacy. Classes are open to all students and offer discounted course fees on some classes to seniors (65+).

Can you share some data about student profiles?

FCE data shows the following based on student enrollment:

In our enrichment programs, most participants are in their 60s and 70s. Specifically, 32% are aged 60-69, and 23% are aged 70-79. Regarding gender, females make up the more significant portion at 66%, with males representing 34%.

In our adult education programs, which include ESL, GED, ABE, and Citizenship courses, student enrollment varies by age. Those aged 16-18 represent 6%, 19-24 year-olds makeup 11%, the largest group is 25-44 years old at 50%, followed by 45-54 year-olds at 14%, 55-59 year-olds at 8%, and those over 60 at 11%. Females are the majority of our students, accounting for 76%, compared to 26% males. Our programs reach students from 35 different countries.

This is amazing. As we see, women are so strong in lifelong education! So happy to see that. Lori, tell me what personal milestones or moments of pride you’ve experienced during your tenure at Farmington.

Continuing Education has successfully received CT Innovation grants and Interdistrict Multicultural Arts grants.  Many collaborations and partnerships have been established with the Hill-Stead Museum, New Britain Museum of American Art, Regional School District #10, Bristol Adult Education, Plainville Adult Education, and West Hartford Adult Education. Continuing Education also partners with the towns of Harwinton, Burlington, Canton, Avon, and Simsbury on the adult education state-mandated grant (ESL, high school completion, ABE CNA citizenship preparation). We are so proud of all of them.

All aboard to lifelong learning! Be passionate about the importance of education at all times and to all ages. Stay current with upcoming trends and topics of community interest.

Lori Wyrebek, Director, Farmington Continuing Education

What advice would you offer to educators new to continuing education or aspiring to impact this field significantly?

All aboard to lifelong learning! Be passionate about the importance of education at all times and to all ages. Stay current with upcoming trends and topics of community interest. Continually promote the Continuing Education program to encourage new instructors and student participation.

My advice is to educate the community and legislature on who and what adult education is. The legislature needs to continue to support and recognize the impact Adult Education has in the state and local communities. Statewide campaigns need to be developed to spread awareness and increase funding to support the need of servicing the influx of English as a second language (ESL) students.

As a woman in a leadership role within education, how do you think your perspective has shaped the programs and initiatives at Farmington Continuing Education?

My experience over the years in adult education has given me a greater perspective on lifelong learning.  Connections and partnerships with local community organization and area adult education programs have been an integral part of new program ideas and initiatives. 

How do you view your role as a female leader in inspiring other women and girls who aspire to careers in education?

My role as a female leader in education should inspire other women and girls with an interest in education. While many people associate a career in education with teaching a classroom of students, there are other career opportunities to consider such as administration, counseling, tutors and social work.  So, be sure to explore all interest areas including adult education.

Could you share some recommendations or advice for other women seeking a career path in Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education?

Lifelong learning is the ongoing pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons.  It is important for an individual’s competitiveness and employability as well as social inclusion, active citizenship and personal development. Adult Education allows the opportunity to come together, learn from one another and grow as a community. 

And last question: What is the process for becoming an instructor for those interested in teaching at Farmington, such as offering courses in languages like Russian or Mandarin or even specific culinary recipes? Are there particular qualifications or steps they need to follow?

To become an enrichment instructor with Continuing Education you don’t need certification, just a talent or hobby to share with the community.  If interested, submit a course proposal at www.fpsct.org/fce. A course catalog is available in the fall and winter/spring. CT-certified instructors for CT state-mandated classes (ESL, GED, ABE, citizenship) should complete an application at www.fpsct.org. For all questions, please call (860) 404-0290

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