It's not just for learning Spanish or taking up the guitar - the South Orange/Maplewood Adult School, which will be 80 years old next year, is offering a diverse array of classes this fall to appeal to the creative, intellectual and physically fit.

Though many of the courses won't start until early October, registration has begun and early registration is encouraged, by logging onto the adult school website.

"We always have new classes," explained Director Sue Marcus, who said some of the new topics reflect emerging interests. There is a course on marketing one's self to employers and a course offered for elementary and middle school students to teach them organizational skills.

Marcus explained that the adult school also offers a number of learning opportunities through field trips - including a geological expedition that compares the geology of New Jersey to parts of Africa. In addition, college professors from Seton Hall University will be sharing their knowledge - one of the courses will be about impressionist artist Claude Monet.

The school also has a rich lecture series on contemporary topics - ranging from global and tax policies, to what's happening in Indonesia.

Discounts are available for students who enroll in both "Active Mind" and "Fitness and Recreation Courses," and for students who enroll in two "Active Mind" courses and also sign up for a "College for a Day" course. 

Some family courses are available - including a course for parents to take with their sixth and seventh-grade daughters.

And for the more traditional student - there are also typical course offerings of swim lessons, English as a Second Language, Driver's Education and computer courses.

Marcus said course catalogues should arrive in mailboxes by the end of this week, but there is no need to wait to register. Most courses take place at the Columbia High School campus or the South Orange Middle School.

For more information, contact the adult school at: 973-378-7620