A University of Maine at Presque Isle program that serves “intellectually curious” local residents over 50 and believes in “learning for life” is presenting its Spring 2014 session, offering participants the opportunity to learn about everything from martial arts to meteorology. Spring classes are underway between March and May and, while some courses have begun, others will be held starting in April. To sign up for classes, contact Mary Lawrence at 768-9502.
Seniors Achieving Greater Education [SAGE] has worked for more than a decade to bring short courses in arts, sciences, current events, foreign affairs, and specialty areas to the region’s senior community. SAGE is one of 17 senior colleges in the Maine Senior College Network, and one of two senior colleges north of Bangor.
SAGE officials are offering more than a dozen opportunities this spring—on topics ranging from bookmaking and Tai Chi to the founding fathers of Maine and the plays of Arthur Miller. Learning excursions include trips to the Acadian Archives at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, the Ashland Loggings Museum, and Aroostook State Park.
Classes vary in length from three to eight weeks and are being offered through May 21. Individual classes generally meet once a week for approximately two hours and are led on a volunteer basis by SAGE members and guests. Course formats range from lectures and discussions to field trips and hands-on learning.
SAGE has no entrance requirements, grades or test, and no college background is needed. Another benefit is that course facilitators are local people who have deep love and knowledge of the subject they are presenting.
The cost that participants pay for the education and interaction they get is minimal. Membership in Seniors Achieving Greater Education is $17 per semester or $32 annually (Sept. 1-Aug. 31). There are additional fees for field trips and lab courses. Full or partial scholarships to take part in the program are available through a simple, friendly, and confidential process. SAGE members also have free access to most events sponsored by UMPI’s Student Activities Office, the student-run activity committee, by showing their membership cards.
For more information or to register for a class, contact Mary Lawrence at 768-9502. To view spring course offerings, visit www.umpi.edu/sage.