As we reopen Glen Oaks Community College; many questions are being addressed. The college has been closed to the public since March 17, when all courses were moved to an online format and employees began staying at home to carry out their work. I am pleased to report that while this situation has been challenging, students received their instruction successfully and the college has continued to move forward on many fronts. These include new program development and revision, successful grant applications, revision of policies and processes, management of the CARES Act funding for distribution to students, campus capital project planning, and student services including advising, counseling, tutoring, and financial aid support.
The Board of Trustees has been very supportive of the needs that the COVID-19 has created over the past twelve-weeks. Without their input and guidance, it would have been more difficult to weather the challenges. Just one example of their investments was holding monthly meetings via the internet which required considerable planning.
Now that the college is reopening for employees to return to campus, plans for the fall semester are being developed. The actual return plan is a four-phase process, which allows for gradual opening and provides for protection of employees, students and the public. Like all higher education institutions; GOCC is planning for on-campus courses this fall but with adjustments being made to ensure the health of everyone. More courses will be offered in a hybrid format where portions of the class will be online and some in-seat. Some types of courses such as technical-lab based offerings must have face-to-face elements to carry out actual hands-on activities.
Of course, GOCC serves the community in many ways beyond direct instruction. These include hosting community meetings, providing special venues such as the Nora Hagen Theatre, Dresser Business Development Center, sports facilities, Hagen Farmstead, and Grand Concourse. Our ability to continue to provide these services to the community will be determined by the State’s guidelines in place at the time. We will make every effort to serve the community in even greater ways. Our mission is to serve all citizens of the region by “Transforming Lives and Advancing Communities.”
While the pandemic has been challenging for all, the college has continued to serve students and the community well and there is no doubt that this will continue. Please refer to the GOCC website at: www.glenoaks.edu for the latest information regarding college operation and services.
Thank you for your interest and support.