Movement Afoot to Build Dorms at Some Community Colleges
BOSTON
Community colleges are looking at building dormitories in a move that could change the profile of institutions designed a half-century ago as commuter schools.
Administrators at the community colleges say student housing would offer a richer, more traditional college experience and add a more cohesive feel to student life.
The change could also prevent students from dropping out, some educators say.
“We have many students who would love to have affordable housing but don’t have it, and, as a result, work way too many hours and can’t attend to their studies,” says Dr. Robert Pura, the president of Greenfield Community College, which is planning to build student housing.
Mount Wachusett, Greenfield and Cape Cod community colleges are all seeking to build housing. The proposals are in the early stages, according to a recent story in The Boston Sunday Globe. Financing hasn’t been determined and designs haven’t been chosen. The state board of higher education, which plans to study the idea for six months to a year, must approve the residential construction.
“Housing could make it easier to pursue a degree or at least to advance through the system,” says Stephen Tocco, chairman of the state board. But state officials caution that the housing might not be appropriate for every campus.
— Associated Press
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