Fall semester 2020

“We look forward to welcoming our students to the campus this fall,” said WSCC president Scott Ward. “We are taking a very measured and thoughtful approach to the fall semester, and we’re working to put the necessary protocols and safety measures in place to make it possible. Maintaining the safety and well-being of our campus community is always our top priority, and the college will adjust plans based on the current status of the health crisis.”

The semester will open on August 31, as originally scheduled, and final exams will conclude on December 18.

Many courses are being offered in a blended format so students benefit from real-time connections with faculty members along with the flexibility to complete work on their own schedule. A variety of support services will also be available to students.

On-campus academic instruction will account for approximately half of the college’s total curriculum and will include course-related activities requiring in-person, lab-based instruction and the use of specialized computer hardware and software.

Disciplines in which some on-campus instruction will take place include the health professions, lab sciences, and occupational programs. Due to the uncertainty of the future impact from the Coronavirus, classes currently scheduled to meet on campus may change to a hybrid or online format.

Due to a high number of online and hybrid courses, students may need more access to dependable technology, which includes a laptop or personal computer, web cam, stable internet access, and software specific to classes. Students who need technology support should complete a Coronavirus CARE form at https://www.westshore.edu/campus-life/care-team/.

The college will follow Michigan Department of Health, District Health Department #10, and Center for Disease Control recommendations regarding the use of personal protective equipment in the instructional and laboratory settings. The college will also monitor updates from the Governor’s office and adapt its operations as new information, guidance, or direction is announced.

In accordance with Michigan Executive Order #2020 – 147, masks are required to be worn on campus and accommodations will be made in accord with the order. Students seeking accommodations should contact Julie Dill in the Student Services office; jdill@westshore.edu or call 231-843-5942.

To assure social distancing guidelines are being met, the college has prioritized the buildings, classrooms, and laboratories that are most critical for in-person student learning, and staff has begun modifying those areas. To reduce the possibility of the spread of the virus, several cultural and community events will be held virtually rather than in-person through the fall months.

The college’s reopening plan calls for enhanced cleaning and disinfecting in high-use areas, and access to some buildings may be limited to specific entrances and exits. The college has implemented a daily screening process for employees, and screening will be required for participants in specific programs and activities. The college will work with the District Health Department #10 for reporting, testing, tracing, and quarantining in the event a student or employee reports symptoms.

For students who have already registered for the fall semester, the college will be offering a virtual Campus Connections event prior to the start of classes to help orient students to the campus and help them adjust to college operations during the pandemic. Details for the virtual Campus Connections will be announced soon.