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Boston Center for Adult Education Makes Changes for the Future
Program looks to refine curriculum with new consolidated state of the art learning space

BOSTON,MA - August 17, 2007 - Since 1933 the Boston Center for Adult Education has provided unique educational and cultural programs for all who come through their doors. After nearly 75 years of filling this need in the community, the BCAE plans to continue their commitment to learning by refining their mission and consolidating space to make way for a new state of the art educational experience.

Since 1941, The Gamble Mansion at 5 Commonwealth Avenue has served as the main "headquarters" for the BCAE. After much consideration and careful analysis it has been decided that the building will be sold, and all classes and administrative services will eventually be moved to the center's other property at 122 Arlington Street.

"We knew it was time for change and we think this will be a very positive one," says PJ Blankenhorn, Executive Director for the BCAE. "The sale of 5 Commonwealth will allow us to completely renovate and update our space at 122 Arlington Street making it a state of the art learning center." Blankenhorn adds that they worked extensively with the Non Profit Financial Fund in coming to this decision. "After looking at the cost of operations, the maintenance of the building, and cost of appropriate upgrades it was decided that keeping the property would not be fiscally responsible."

The BCAE plans to sell the four story, 13-thousand square foot building to an individual buyer who will renovate the space into a single family home. "The building was originally built to be a home, not classrooms. We want to be sure the sale of this property is good for us and for the neighborhood," says Blankenhorn. She estimates that renovations at the 10-thousand square foot building at 122 Arlington will begin in January of 2008 and take approximately 9 months to complete. Updates will include classrooms outfitted with the latest technology, top of the line kitchens for culinary learning, art space with superior lighting and storage, overall systems upgrades and handicapped accessibility. The renovation will proceed with a "green concept" in mind, using environmentally friendly processes and materials whenever possible.

The building will eventually house 80% of current course offerings with the remainder made up in "off site" community partnerships. "We are excited to continue our relationships with individuals and business who have offered their space in the past, and we hope to expand these partnerships into other neighborhoods down the road."

Blankenhorn is confident that the plan will be executed smoothly and with very little disruption. "We are doing everything in our power to be sure learning is not interrupted during the transition. Classes will go on as listed and we will continue to look at what is best for everyone as we refine and refocus our curriculums and mission." She also notes that all functions that have been scheduled at the Commonwealth Avenue building will not be canceled. "Events scheduled through our functions director will go on as planned, however we will not be taking any new reservations for events after October 31, 2008."

The keys to 5 Commonwealth Avenue will pass to the new owners in January of 2009. "We know that this move is a necessary step in preserving the quality of what we do at the BCAE. We are excited to begin this new chapter in our history."

For more information on the Boston Center for Adult Education please visit www.bcae.org.

Boston Center for Adult Education
5 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02116
617 267 4430