What was once a place for kids to learn could become a place for adults to pursue certificates and test into college courses.

The Community and Economic Development Authority is working on a lease agreement with the Wareham School Department that would allow it to lease part of the building for a training and education center for adults.

"Wareham has some of the lowest educational levels on the South Coast. Even lower than New Bedford," Community and Economic Development Authority Director Salvador Pina told the Selectmen on Tuesday.

Pina said the center could be a vital resource for educating the local workforce.

Jennifer True, director of workforce development training at Cape Cod Community College, appeared before the board with Pina to discuss some of the services her school could offer in Onset.

In addition to remedial courses and testing, people could work to become qualified for new jobs through various certificate training programs.

"We're focusing on the skills that are currently in demand in Wareham and surrounding communities," said True.

True pointed out that while Wareham is one of the communities served by Cape Cod Community College, only 3% of students who attend the school are from Wareham.

"Wareham is part of our service area and it's under served," said True. "We're really focusing on communities over the bridge."

Pina is also in talks with Bridgewater State University and Upper Cape Tech to bring courses to Hammond.

Selectman Judy Whiteside was supportive of the idea, and noted that just getting to and from school can make getting a post-secondary education difficult for some people.

"One of the roadblocks for people in Wareham is transportation," said Whiteside. "I think it's great to offer this opportunity to people who can't drive."

Selectman Patrick Tropeano was on board as well: "Anything we can do to raise the level of education, we should do."

Pina says he has an agreement with the School Department "in principle" and is just working to hammer out the details.

The Boys & Girls Club is also looking to lease space in the building, but the space Pina is hoping to lease would be at the front end of the school, while the Club would take the back half of the school.

In all, the town's lease would be for five classrooms, two or three conference spaces, and what was once the school cafeteria. Pina said he is hoping to get the center up and running by September.