A New Era of Childcare and Education in Aroostook County
A groundbreaking initiative is taking shape in Presque Isle, Maine, as Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) prepares to launch a new childcare center. This development marks a significant step forward for the region, offering essential support to students, staff, and families across Aroostook County.
The project represents a unique collaboration between NMCC and ACAP, an organization dedicated to providing community support services. This partnership is the first of its kind in the area, combining educational resources with practical childcare solutions to address a pressing need.
Northern Maine Community College President Doug Binsfeld emphasized the importance of this initiative. “We’ve been working with a number of donors to meet a huge need in our community, both for our students and for the region as a whole,” he said. The center will be located on the north end of the campus in Crowley Hall, named after the college’s former president, Tim Crowley. The building is undergoing a complete renovation to transform it into a state-of-the-art childcare facility.
The new center will feature three distinct areas: an infant room, a toddler room, and a space for older children. These areas are designed to provide a safe and stimulating environment for young learners at different developmental stages.
ACAP will manage the operations of the center, but it also serves as a valuable learning resource for NMCC students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program. “This will allow students to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting, which is essential for their education and future careers,” Binsfeld explained.
For ACAP, the partnership offers an opportunity to expand its services while also supporting the next generation of educators. Megan Barnes, ACAP’s Chief Program Officer, highlighted how the center will benefit students. “Students will have access to each classroom and different age groups, allowing them to observe and understand the field better,” she said.
Once the needs of students and faculty are met, the center will open its doors to the broader community. “We’re prioritizing enrollment to ensure that we can meet the needs within the facility and also create opportunities for local families,” Binsfeld added.
The vision for this project originated from former NMCC President Tim Crowley, who saw the potential for such a facility to make a lasting impact on the community. The project has been made possible through the generosity of multiple donors, all united by a common goal: to support families, empower students, and strengthen Aroostook County.
The center is expected to open within the next few months, pending the completion of renovations and the installation of necessary furnishings. Once operational, it will include a spacious playground, further enhancing the learning and play environment for children.
This new childcare center is more than just a facility—it’s a symbol of collaboration, innovation, and commitment to the future of the community. It promises to provide critical support for families, enrich the educational experience for students, and contribute to the overall well-being of Aroostook County.
