MxCC Offers Middle School Enrichment Academy and New College Classes at Meriden Center

In a move to expand services at The Meriden Center, Middlesex Community College is opening the Center on Saturdays this fall to offer compelling programs for residents. The College will bring back its popular Middle School Enrichment Academy and will offer college-level credit courses in computer graphics, algebra and American government for interested learners of all ages. Both the academy and the college courses begin September 19th. Enrollment information can be found at www.mxcc.edu or by calling the Meriden Welcome Center at 203-608-3050.

The Middle School Enrichment Academy for high-achieving students was begun several years ago in partnership with the Meriden School district. Last year, the Southington Public School district also participated. This year, MxCC revised the program to offer space for interested, high achieving 6-8th graders from Middletown and all other local towns (including homeschooled and parochial school students). The academy, which runs for five Saturdays, will include new courses on Meriden’s cityscape and architecture, 3D printing, and forensics. Tuition for the program is $200 and classes are held at The Meriden Center from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Availability is limited so interested students are encouraged to contact The Meriden Center as soon as possible.

“While forensics is always a popular topic for middle school kids, our faculty is looking forward to introducing them to the wonders of 3D printing and the importance of local architecture,” Tami Christopher, Meriden Center director, said. “The cityscape class is particularly exciting because it will tie in nicely with all of the economic development taking place in downtown Meriden, demonstrating to students how art and architecture work together to define the places where we live.”

The Saturday morning credit course offerings provide individuals an opportunity to start, continue, or return to college on a part-time basis. Students may also combine the Saturday courses with a weekday schedule to help them progress through a degree or certificate program. Credit courses are held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday beginning September 19 (with no class during the Thanksgiving weekend) through December 12.

“These Saturday courses are a great way for adults to learn new skills, or simply test the waters and see if they are ready to head back to school on a more formal basis,” Christopher said. “Of course, these classes are also a convenient and cost-effective way for current college students to earn credits. In both cases, we are happy to open the Meriden Center for their use and personal development.”