Local students pursuing a degree through Chapman University College no longer have to share classrooms with the students of Pioneer Middle School, or any other school. After just seven months of construction, Chapman's new site opened to host its first classes this week. Two classes were held at the new site at 325 Mall Drive on Monday, and three more were held on Tuesday. By the college's fall term, which begins in August, director Glen Parsons expects to be hosting all classes at the new site.

About 300 students are enrolled at Chapman's Hanford location. The move will allow the college to consolidate administrative offices and classrooms in one location. With a larger facility, Parsons hopes to bring new academic programs and significantly increase local enrollment.

"I'm happy that we have our own building," said Haily Rustad, a liberal studies student of Chapman.

Previously, Rustad said she has attended Chapman classes at Armona Elementary School, Western Christian School and Pioneer Middle School.

Brent Sarver, another liberal studies student of Chapman, said he was just pleased to know he would now be sitting through class in an adult-sized chair. He added that he hasn't always fit easily into the chairs in elementary school classrooms where some Chapman classes had been held.

Sarver was also pleased that the new computer labs meant all students would have access to Powerpoint.

Mallory Spoelstra, who is studying at Chapman in pursuit of a multiple subject credential and masters degree, said it was far more convenient to have class at a consolidated location in Hanford and close to home. The new site is also good for the school because it should allow for more students to attend, Spoelstra said.

Parsons emphasized that new terms for Chapman begin every 10 weeks, and potential students can apply anytime online or at the new site.

The reporter can be reached at 583-2424.

(July 16, 2008)