Samples are so important. A few purses, totes and aprons hanging near their patterns or put the pattern right in the pocket. Quilt samples on the walls with pattern and kit nearby. I love kits!
Nice size classroom where each person gets at least half of a table. Power strips on top of tables so you don't have to crawl around on floor. Knowledgable instructors. So helpful if they have you do all cutting before the class so you can get right to the sewing. I went to a class to learn machine applique and we never got that far.
Where are you located in Iowa? I have relatives in NW and central and I would venture beyond those areas as well.