AUGUSTA – Gov. John E. Baldacci proclaimed April “Community College Month” in Maine in recognition of the schools’ first year as community colleges. The celebration falls a year after the Maine Legislature endorsed the governor’s proposal to rename and broaden the mission of Maine’s former technical colleges to community colleges.

Maine’s seven community colleges have planned open houses, workshops and other special events during the month-long celebration. In addition, the system will highlight community college alumni through television PSAs and other activities.

John Fitzsimmons, system president, said, “Community colleges provide opportunities for people of all ages, economic situations and educational backgrounds. Our 95 percent placement rate means our students – from dislocated workers to recent high school graduates – will be well-prepared for good careers here in Maine or for successful transfer to four-year colleges and universities.”

In the past year, the colleges have partnered with companies all over Maine to add jobs or upgrade the skills of existing employees.

The seven schools are located in Wells, South Portland, Auburn, Fairfield, Bangor, Presque Isle and Calais. Off-campus centers are in Bath, Belfast, Caribou, Dover-Foxcroft, Ellsworth, East Millinocket, Houlton and South Paris.

For a list of activities, go to www.mccs.me.edu or call Central Maine Community College at 755-5275.