The Area Learning Center’s classes have listened to many speakers bring information from the outside world.

Frank Babka discussed population issues as students viewed his videos from China, India and Sierra Leone.

Jared Strucker informed students about recent watershed projects in Pickerel Lake.

Sally Skurlin brought instruments used in medicine to demonstrate how skills and a science background is necessary to understand and heal the human body.

Dan Nash from the Soil and Water Conservation District showed slides about soil, and Emily Hutchins from the Department of Natural Resources spoke about wetlands.

Spencer Osterberg reviewed what forensic science is, how he used it in detective work and answered many questions.

Linda Kofstad breeds and has shown dogs. She brought her dog along to interest students in dog breeding.

The ALC students were led on a tour of the jail’s evidence room by Ted Herman.

Jenine Koziolek spoke about family issues and making positive choices about drugs and alcohol.

Karen Myerson represented the Humane Society and discussed animal welfare in Albert Lea.

Ilene Gosum from the Crime Victim’s Crisis Center gave information on how crime victims are supported in this community by the center.

Ben Mortensen, a detective from the Albert Lea Police Department, showed students slides of crime scenes and discussed eyewitness accounts.