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ALIR Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
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How is ALIR related to NEISD?
ALIR is an autonomous organization that operates on the property of and under the physical aegis of NEISD. We are part of their community education program but the responsibility for the day to day operation of our program resides with the governing council.
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Who runs ALIR?
ALIR is run by a governing council of 11 members elected by the whole membership. Anyone who has been a member for at least a year is eligible to run.
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What if I want to teach a class?
The curriculum committee is always looking for new teachers. If you are willing to teach a class you can contact any council member and he or she will see that your name reaches the right person.
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Is ALIR strictly an educational activity?
No. One of the main objectives of ALIR is to foster social interaction among its members. We have three luncheons each semester and an art show that allow for socializing, and we encourage members to get together in small groups away from ALIR to pursue mutual interests.
Course Information
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Is there a limit on the number of courses I can sign up for?
No, you can sign up for a class in every period of every day we are in session. This would come to 6 or 12 classes, depending on the session. However, because class sizes are limited and we have a lot of members, we ask that you don't sign up for a class that you don't really intend to attend. We want to have the maximum availability for people who really want to be in each class.
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Do I pay more if I enroll in more classes?
No. The fee for being in ALIR is fixed and not related to the number of classes you take.
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How many semesters are there each year?
Two full sessions plus an abbreviated three to nine-week summer session.
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How long is an ALIR semester?
Typically 12 weeks for the Spring and Fall semesters and 9 weeks for the Summer session.
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Who picks the classes that are offered by ALIR?
There is a curriculum committee that makes the final decisions. During the school year all members are invited to suggest classes that are not presently being given but they feel would be of interest to the membership.
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Are there any exams or grades?
No. The objective of the program is to enjoy discussing topics of interest with people who have lived long enough to have the maturity and experience to make it worthwhile.
Fees
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Do I pay more if I enroll in more classes?
No. The fee for being in ALIR is fixed and not related to the number of classes you take.
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If I want to attend ALIR but can't afford the tuition do I have any way to attend?
There is a fund maintained that can cover this situation. The decision would be made by the governing council.
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If I decide to drop out after the semester has begun do I get a refund?
Usually not. If dropping out is based on circumstances beyond your control an exception may be made at the discretion of the governing council.
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What is the cost of the program?
At present, it is a total of $85.00 per Spring or Fall semester. Of this, $75.00 goes to NEISD and $10.00 directly to ALIR. There is a $45 NEISD fee for the Summer session.
Membership
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If my spouse or significant other is younger than 50 but I am older, can he or she join ALIR if I do?
Yes, they can join.