Summer classes are in session, and Maine’s community colleges are reporting a 16 percent year-over-year jump in enrollment.

The Maine Community College System’s seven campuses are enrolling 669 more students this summer, boosting the enrollment total to nearly 5,000.

Central Maine Community College in Auburn has seen a 60 percent enrollment boost this summer, and York County Community College in Wells has seen its summer student population grow by 44 percent, according to the community college system.

In South Portland, Southern Maine Community College has grown 13 percent, to nearly 2,200 students taking summer courses.

In a statement, Maine Community College System President John Fitzsimmons said students were looking to upgrade their skills in a tough economy.

“As the economy begins to recover, it is critical that individuals, and the state as a whole, have the workforce skills necessary to compete for good jobs and attract new industry to Maine,” the statement said.


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