KENNEBUNK — Last fall, The New School received a grant for an innovative program that will open its daytime classes to senior citizens at no cost. The Maine Community Foundation is a statewide nonprofit created by and for the people of Maine. The foundation is a philanthropic leader in building sustainable and vibrant communities for all Maine people.

 Being a community-centered high school, this grant gives the school the means to strengthen and deepen its ties to the community by expanding its program in offering free classes to senior citizens. TNS’s goal in offering classes to senior citizens is to connect multiple generations to strengthen community and to promote intergenerational and lifelong learning. Intergenerational learning (which is very popular in Europe) enhances socialization and health for seniors, helps teens to raise their academic performance and breaks down age-based stereotypes. The age variety contributes to the depth and diversity of information and experience on the issues presented for discussion and debate, making the class much more interesting. 

 All daytime classes at The New School will be open to seniors in 2014/15. Classes include languages such as ASL, French, Spanish and Latin, art classes, U.S. history and public policy, yoga, cooking, organic gardening and other core classes.  

The New School is an independent local high school that serves students from all over York and Cumberland County. It is a state-approved high school that meets the state learning results standards in new and innovative ways.  It is also a school of choice for Acton and Arundel students. 

Classes start on September 15. For more information about these programs or about admission to the school, please call 985-3745 or visit TNS website at www.tnsk.org. The New School is located on 38 York Street (Route 1) in Kennebunk.