defintiely don't start with an expensive camera as you may not use it enough to justify the price.

If you go online and buy a used mid range dslr, and a decent lens. You can get away with spending very little to try and get into the hobby.

I started with a nikon d3100 which is worth like 100-120 bucks now on ebay it seems. And I love it and still use it often.

Starting with a bit of a crappier camera will make you a better photographer as well. Just remember you will be shit at first and don't blame the camera because it's cheap:) you are just truly shit at first and it's possible to get great shots with any lower-midrange camera. Takes longer than you think to get anything good.

In terms of classes just watch YouTube. There are some great classes.