Student populations in general are getting older, and the grad students we want to attract are older and more likely to have children. Plus, more and more prospective faculty are asking about child care nearby. Nursing mothers especially need to visit their babies. It became clear some time ago that faculty, staff, undergraduates, and graduate students all need satisfactory care for their children. An on-campus center may look very different from what's available locally.
Parents work odd hours and odd days, and often both spouses are working.
Michigan Tech plans to expand and remodel student housing within the next three years, and near the top of the wish list is a new childcare center. Located in new construction behind McNair Hall, the planned center will be bright, warm, and inviting, with options for all ages of preschoolers. And we'll also have classes for younger and older preschoolers. Needless to say, we're pretty excited. Nutini's daughter will be in elementary school if and when a new center is built, but she anticipates a brighter day for other MTU parents.