Nov 10th, 2020
Jackson State Community College administration announced that the college will continue the modified format adopted for the fall semester due to continued high infection rates of COVID-19. The college currently offers classes in online, FLEX, and hybrid formats.
"It was a difficult decision to not return to traditional in-person classes," said college president Dr. George Pimentel, "but the recent uptick in COVID cases and the beginning of flu season make the decision obvious. We don't want to put our students, faculty, and staff at risk nor do we want to be in the position of having to quickly move all classes back to an online environment." It was also noted that beginning the semester in an online environment will be sustainable and will promote a stable learning environment throughout the spring semester.
Traditional online classes have no changes in the method of delivery. The FLEX format utilizes a delivery platform such as Zoom, BlueJeans, Teams, etc. which meets on a regular class schedule and provides face-to-face contact between students and faculty. Students are required to meet for FLEX classes on the same schedule as they would for traditional in-person classes.
The hybrid format is utilized for classes that have labs requiring a hands-on component such as healthcare professions, engineering systems, computer information, organic chemistry, etc. Students with hybrid schedules meet for classes online and labs in person.
"We want students to know we are here to support them through this challenging time," said Pimentel. "Jackson State offices are open and accessible to students and the public by appointment." The appointment form is located at the top of the homepage at www.jscc.edu. All guests and students not enrolled in hybrid classes are required to schedule an appointment prior to coming on campus. Links to information about JSCC's phased reopening plan, campus screening, and appointment forms can be found at the top of the college's homepage at www.jscc.edu.
The college works to provide technology to students who need computers or internet access. A number of resources are available to students on the C-19 update page at www.jscc.edu/covid. Students needing additional assistance are encouraged to contact the college library@jscc.edu or 731-425-2609. Live chat is also available to students at www.jscc.edu/chat.
"We sincerely want to reopen all Jackson State facilities and restore a sense of normalcy to what has truly been a challenging situation for everyone," said Pimentel. "Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding during this time."