I sympathize with the people on Holmes Road with their bridge in disrepair. Just come on out to the Peck's Road Causeway, Hancock area, and you'll see more barrels and barriers and one-lane lights in such a small area.
It's a shame that the city has let its infrastructure get that bad but mind you we've got bike paths and one-way roads and beautification on North Street. It reminds me of Atlantic City ,one block off of North Street and it turns into a city of disrepair with rising crime!
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Why Berkshire Community College Is Essential to Our Community
Berkshire Community College is central to the life of Berkshire County, and nothing demonstrates BCC's contribution to the community more than its ability to provide a trained, ready workforce. BCC is deeply connected to the needs of our Berkshire County employers, tailoring its academic programs to specifically meet their needs. The nursing program, for example, trains professionals in many nursing fields that keep up with an ever-growing demand. Meanwhile, BCC's workforce training certificates
cover high-demand employment areas, including social services, hospitality, manufacturing, engineering, education, computers and IT, business, Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders and more.
With free community college in Massachusetts, BCC attracts students from diverse backgrounds who are either entering the workforce for the first time, or who seek to gain or improve their skills and expand their careers. Free tuition supports students to succeed across the Commonwealth, and BCC is no exception. This past year, enrollment was up 13 percent. The number of students pursuing a certificate or degrees is up a stunning 73 percent over fall 2022.
Access and support
BCC's mission begins with access. Its welcoming environment draws students from across the Berkshires, the Commonwealth and beyond. That diversity is what makes the College special. Perhaps no one understands this better than outgoing BCC President Ellen Kennedy, who is retiring after 14 years of service to the College.
"Everything we do — every program we offer, every strategic plan we create, every building improvement we make — means nothing without access," Kennedy said. "The real meaning of community college is exactly what its name implies: a place for the community that welcomes everyone, regardless of where they are starting from, and gives them the tools to succeed."
Such supports are critical for student success, and it is an area in which BCC "truly shines," Kennedy said. From tutoring and mentorship to ensuring students have access to food and transportation, BCC makes it possible for students to complete degrees or certificates on their own timeline, including many who never thought it possible.
"We have students who haven't stepped foot in a classroom for decades, who never thought they would be going back to school, and who might be incredibly nervous at the prospect," she said. "Sometimes, those students might be working multiple jobs to make ends meet. They might struggle putting food on the table or finding care for their children or their parents or grandparents. Once we understand what a student needs, we act."
For 50 years the William Stickney Pittsfield Adult Learning Center has built its foundation on guiding learners through their winding story and on Thursday, 61 graduates have become part of this legacy. click for more
Pittsfield High School graduated 154 seniors on Sunday into a new chapter of their lives, and they were encouraged to take opportunities both exciting and frightening. click for more
The City Council has awarded almost $475,000 in Community Preservation Act funds to historic, open space, recreation, and housing projects. click for more
