SVCC announces plans for returning to class
Published 12:10 pm Thursday, June 25, 2020
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Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) will resume a full schedule of classes this fall beginning August 24.
In what the college is terming its “HyFlex” approach to course delivery, class options (depending on needs of each discipline) may include a mix of in-person instruction, expanded online offerings, and a new “Zoom to Home” option.
Instruction will comply with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for physical distancing, hygiene and safety.
“While priority for in-person instruction will be performance-based classes and labs that cannot be delivered online, additional seated courses will be offered as room availability allows. SVCC’s Fast Forward workforce programs will be offered in small groups.
The college’s flexible approach allows for appropriate social distancing, while making alternatives available for those students who do not have adequate high-speed internet at home and, therefore, would not be able to participate in online or at-home Zoom classes.
“SVCC’s partnership with communities to establish off-campus centers, in addition to our Alberta and Keysville college locations, is a real benefit at this unprecedented time in our history, Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, SVCC president said. “It allows the college to offer students the flexibility to utilize classroom space and computer labs and to access high speed internet at various locations across the college’s 4,200 square mile service area, while complying with the appropriate guidelines.”
Although this is the plan now, Johnson said the outlook can change.
“We will remain nimble and adjust as needed,” Johnson said. “SVCC’s COVID-19 Task Force has a plan in place to pivot back to fully remote and online options if public health and safety requires it.”
Dr. Johnson is quick to point out that it will not be business as usual at SVCC. At all SVCC locations face coverings will be required, classrooms have been reconfigured to comply with social distancing, and there will be limited access to facilities.