SACO — Next week is the start of a new school year, and for University College at Saco students, school will start in a new building.
University officials announced earlier this year that after more than 25 years in a former mill building at Saco Island, the local distance education branch of the University of Maine System would be moving to the Saco Valley Shopping Center, at 4 Scamman St. in time for the fall semester.
Director Erica Watson, walked through the new location earlier this week, as workers were finishing up installation of technological equipment for classrooms.
Though there was some unpacking still to do, classrooms were set up, as was the lunch room, and the foyer was taking shape. It looked nothing like the pet store that once filled the space.
The new University College at Saco site is easy to find with a large, new sign on the outside. The space has large windows that overlook the parking lot, and walls are painted in soft blues and yellows.
“I like how cheery and welcoming the space is,” said Watson.
Watson said, so far, feedback has been positive. She said the new location is much more visible than the Saco Island location, and easier for people to find. Already, there have been visitors to the shopping plaza who have stumbled on to the school and came in to pick up a brochure or get information.
“I love it,” she said. “I think it’s far more accessible.”
University College at Saco offers more than 100 programs of study through the University of Maine system, including certificate programs as well as associate, bachelor and master degree programs.
“Students will receive the same great service and have access to the same great programs they did at the old location,” said Watson.
A handful of classes offered are taught on site, with most classes offered through distance learning, either online, interactive television or by video conference.
Some degrees can be completed on-site, while others may need students to take some classes at one of the university’s campuses across the state.
“It’s possible to be matriculated in Fort Kent and have never stepped foot there,” said Watson. “That’s pretty neat.”
The school provides support services found at campuses, such as academic advising.
“We’re a one-stop shop,” said Watson.
Along with the new space comes technological upgrades ”“ two new video conference units, a new server and a new phone system.
Classrooms range to accommodate different needs and include a 20-desk room, a two-desk room and a room with chairs centered around a conference table.
The new college center, at about 4,000 square feet, has slightly less than half the space of the former site on Saco Island.
University College had been reviewing its space requirements for each of its centers statewide, and as leases expire, the university has reduced the size of college centers when possible, according to university documents.
Women Work and Community, as well as York County Senior College, have also relocated classes to the new college center.
David Durkee, program director at Old Orchard Beach/Saco Adult Education, said in a prepared statement that he was pleased to hear about University College at Saco’s move to a new location and looks forward to strengthening the partnership with college.
“The new facility will be more centrally located and easily accessible for area community members,” he said.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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