August 6, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: August 6, 2020
Re: WSCC Fall semester 2020
SCOTTVILLE – The West Shore Community College Student Senate has issued a statement in support of wearing masks on the campus and to encourage other Covid-19 mitigation strategies.
The statement reads, "The Student Senate of West Shore Community College strongly supports practices designed to prevent the spread of the deadly COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. These include wearing face masks at all times while on the WSCC campus and in college facilities, routinely washing our hands and using hand sanitizer, and practicing social distancing. WSCC’s Student Senate is dedicated to preventing the spread of COVID-19 both on campus and in our community and we, therefore, recommend following CDC guidelines to preserve the health and safety of WSCC students, faculty, administrators, and their families."
Student Senate will provide WSCC-branded cloth masks to the student body free of charge during the first week of the fall semester.
"The science is clear. Masks work to prevent the spread of Covid-19," said Acting Senate President, Connor Grant. "As a Senate, we wanted to send a clear message in support of mask-wearing and other Covid-19 prevention measures. We hope all students will wear masks inside campus facilities and even outside at the college when six feet of distance isn't possible."
"Masks are a way of showing we care about each other at West Shore," said Senate Secretary Sam Gillette, "We need to take the proper steps so we can safely return to campus this fall and have face-to-face classes and events."
"I applaud the Senate for taking this stance," said Annie Jacobson, director of enrollment and student engagement and senate co-advisor. "As our student leaders, I think it's important the senate models courteous behavior for the rest of campus."
Student Senate currently meets remotely every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. Anyone wishing to attend may contact Senate Co-Advisor Dr. Matt Sanderson at mwsanderson@westshore.edu for directions.
July 31, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: July 31, 2020
Re: WSCC Fall semester 2020
SCOTTVILLE - West Shore Community College’s fall semester will include a blend of in-person and remote academic offerings for students, along with online support services and a phased plan for reopening the campus buildings to students and employees.
“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.
June 3, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: June 3, 2020
Re: WSCC Distributes CARES Act Funds to Students
SCOTTVILLE - This week, more than 470 West Shore Community College students will receive emergency federal funding provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to assist them with unexpected costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In late March, the CARES Act was passed by Congress and signed into law to provide economic relief from COVID-19. It authorized the U.S. Department of Education to provide funding for universities and colleges to award in the form of emergency financial aid grants to eligible students.
WSCC received $564,751 from the CARES Act, of which $282,376 is designated for emergency grants to students. The college will use the remaining funds to pay for other unexpected expenses due to COVID-19.
To be eligible for a CARES Act funding distribution, students must have been enrolled in the winter 2020 semester, be Title IV eligible for federal financial aid, and must not have already received emergency relief funding from the college.
“The pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption to our students and college operations,” said WSCC President Scott Ward. “While the college has provided free technology and other emergency assistance, we are grateful to be able to put these dollars directly into the hands of our students.”
Students who have no expected family contribution and are eligible for the maximum Pell grant amount will receive $400 from this fund, while students who are eligible for partial Pell amounts will receive $300. Students who are not Pell-eligible will receive $20 for each contact hour in which they were enrolled up to a maximum of $260.
In the wake of the pandemic, the West Shore Community College Foundation has supported urgent and emergent needs for students, and to prevent the ripple effects of COVID-19 from being a barrier to college persistence.
Several years ago, the foundation established an emergency fund which provides financial support to allow students to stay enrolled, and offer support for food, housing and other needs.
“Our students were already carrying a heavy load prior to COVID-19 and this pandemic has created more financial hardship in many of their lives,” said Thom Hawley, executive director of the foundation. “It’s important to recognize the challenges they face, their commitment to completing their education and we need to do everything we can, as a community, to support them through these trying times.”
On March 23, WSCC shifted classes for credit students to a remote learning format in less than one week’s time. Due to the pandemic, all summer semester classes are being offered online.
WSCC personnel continue to work remotely and limited campus operations are expected to resume in mid-June. In the interim, the college has established many online support services to assist students with specific needs resulting from the pandemic such as online advising, counseling and tutoring.
The summer semester is underway now through July 24. The fall semester runs from August 26 through December 13.
Anyone interested in donating directly to support the emergency student fund should visit the WSCC Foundation “donate now” web page.
May 28, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: May 28, 2020
Re: WSCC making alternate plans for performing arts groups
SCOTTVILLE – West Shore Community College Performing Arts is developing alternative plans for large-group rehearsals and performing events which were scheduled to start as early as August.
The plan includes continuing the suspension of all face-to-face WSCC Performing Arts events until October 12. This suspension includes weekly performing music ensemble rehearsals, theater productions, WSCC Performing Arts Series presentations, face-to-face community outreach and friend/fundraising efforts.
In recent weeks, the college’s performing arts team, in partnership with other area arts organization, has been developing alternative programming for the community.
From the beginning of Michigan’s stay-at-home order Ted Malt, Director of Performing Arts and Professor of Music, has been in contact with many presenting agencies, universities, regional K-12 educators, and performing arts directors to discuss the feasibility of upcoming group rehearsals and performances.
“As a performing arts program which unites many people through the arts within an academic year, health and safety are our first priorities. With the full support and advice of the college’s COVID-19 Task Force, we are developing a plan of action taking performing ensembles and performing arts events in an alternate direction. Our hope is these changes are only temporary replacements to our traditional offerings, but will serve as an important step to ensure the safety of our students and community both now and in the future,” says Malt.
A decision will be made in mid-August to determine whether face-to-face gatherings can be methodically reinstated after October 12, or any time prior. Pending this decision, performing groups will either be resumed or alternate programming will continue through December 2020. Periodic decision-making will continue until it is deemed safe to resume normal programming.
“These are not easy decisions in these uncertain times. Providing an alternate form of programming to represent what the College has offered in the past is no easy feat. It is my goal to ensure we don’t miss a beat under what are unprecedented times. It is my hope that our new normal returns sooner than later; nevertheless, I believe in being proactive. Having a plan in place ensures the continuation of our strong Performing Arts programs at the college.”
“The college will be providing our performing arts membership, donors, and the community more information on what ‘alternative programming’ looks like in the weeks to come,” Malt adds. “Any alterations to the Performing Arts, music, and theater COVID-19 action plan will be made based on strong evidence supporting the health and safety of our membership and community.”
Date: May 28, 2020
Re: WSCC cancels 5K mud run scheduled for July
SCOTTVILLE – West Shore Community College’s Muddy Fox Trot will take a hiatus for one year after organizers decided to cancel the race due to ongoing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.
The 6th annual family-friendly 5K mud run, with a boot camp style obstacle course, was scheduled for July 18, on the college’s campus. The fun run annually benefits the WSCC Foundation student scholarship fund.
“This is not the news we wanted to share with the community, but after careful deliberation, we believe this is the responsible action to take in order to keep everyone safe during the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic,” said Julie Page Smith, director of the college’s Wellness Center and an organizer of the race. “We are already looking forward to offering a muddy challenge to area runners in July 2021.”
Questions about refunds or cancellation of the race may be directed to Smith at
jsmith@westshore.eduMay 21, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: May 21, 2020
Re: WSCC plans for fall semester classes
SCOTTVILLE – Like most community colleges around the country, West Shore Community College moved to online-only instruction in March, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and college officials are expecting to resume limited campus operations by early June and a full array of class options for the fall semester. All summer semester classes will be offered online.
“We look forward to welcoming our students to the campus again this fall,” said WSCC president Scott Ward. “But there is a great deal of work to be done before then and we’re working to put the necessary protocols and safety measures in place to make that possible. Maintaining the safety and well-being of our campus community is always our top priority and the college will adjust all plans based on the current status of the health crisis.”
A task force, which has been meeting daily since mid-March, is reviewing various fall semester operating scenarios, but Ward stressed they are most focused on taking the necessary precautions that will allow students and college staff to return to the campus safely.
“We are being cautiously optimistic, and we will follow state and federal guidelines to protect our campus community. What those precautions and protections might look like is the focus of the task force.”
In the meantime, WSCC personnel are working remotely and continuing to assess the pandemic’s impact. The college has established many online support services to assist students with specific needs resulting from the pandemic such as online advising, counseling and tutoring.
“I am very proud of our students, faculty and staff who responded, with very short notice, to this new learning environment and we want to be reunited only when it is safe to do so.”
Ward added, “We know many people in our community are anxious, and some of them are hurting. We are assessing the needs of their college-bound students and we want to be there for them every step of the way.”
The summer semester begins June 1 through July 24. The fall semester runs from August 26 and ends on December 13.
Registration for the College’s summer and fall semesters is currently underway for first-time, returning, and guest students and will continue to the first week of each term’s classes.
May 19, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: May 19, 2020
Re: West Shore Adds New Online Capabilities and Summer Sections
SCOTTVILLE – With many current and potential college students stuck at home this summer and facing an uncertain fall semester, West Shore Community College (WSCC) has expanded its online summer offerings to provide advanced learning options for students looking to get ahead.
New sections of anatomy and physiology, general geology, introduction to statistics, and interpersonal communications have been added to the summer schedule after current sections of those courses filled to capacity.
Faculty in these courses are also using a variety of advanced technology to enhance the online learning experience. In the case of general geology, lab kits containing a variety of rock specimens have been developed and will be mailed to students’ homes. These kits will allow for at-home, hands-on learning and will be paired with online virtual field trips.
Anatomy and physiology 1, as well as the online summer offering of intro to chemistry, will utilize Labster software that provides students with a simulated lab environment in which they can conduct virtual experiments and test their knowledge.
“We are using these unfortunate circumstances as an opportunity to experiment with some really cool online learning technologies and techniques,” said Professor of Chemistry and chair of the sciences division, Dr. Sonja Siewert. “Our hope is that students who might not otherwise be able to take one of these science courses in a face-to-face format right now, no matter which college or university they are attending full-time, will still be able to take these courses from WSCC and get the quality of experience and knowledge they need.”
Dr. Mark Kinney, vice president of academics and student services, added, “This is a great opportunity for students who have recently graduated high school to get a jump start on their college career while they are stuck at home, for university students who want to save some money by taking these courses at WSCC during the summer and then transferring the credit, and for current students who want to continue to make progress on their education during the summer.”
The summer semester runs from June 1 through July 24. Registration is also open for the fall semester, which begins August 26 and ends December 13. As always, students who register early for classes have the best selection of courses. The full selection of summer and fall courses can be viewed under the “Course Search” tab on my.westshore.edu.
All students seeking financial aid must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, also commonly referred to as FAFSA. Information about the FAFSA can be found at www.fafsa.gov. Financial aid questions may be directed to the WSCC Financial Aid office at finaid@westshore.edu.
Guest students who primarily attend another college or university must submit the Michigan Uniform Undergraduate Guest Application, which can be obtained from their university or by emailing admissions@westshore.edu prior to registration.
New students or those who have any other questions can contact the Student Services Office at
studentservices@westshore.edu. Students can also schedule an online advising appointment by visiting
https://www.westshore.edu/admissions/advising-and-registration/.
May 15, 2020:
Curb side drop-off for borrowed laptops
The West Shore Community College Information Technology Department is asking students, who borrowed computers and related technology equipment during the Winter Semester, to return the equipment to the campus on:
Monday, May 18, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Tuesday, May 19, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Wednesday, May 20, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Employees from the Help Desk will receive the borrowed computers, at the designated times, in the Technical Center Building bus drop-off zone. Those delivering the computers are asked to practice social distancing protocols and remain in their car. All campus buildings will remain closed.
Any questions, contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@westshore.edu or by calling 231-845-5570.
May 6, 2020:
As a result of Governor Whitmer’s executive order extension, the West Shore Community College campus remains closed until May 15. College employees are working remotely and will respond to messaging as they are able.
Campus events
- All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through May 30, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
Graduation
- For those students who met the graduation requirements at the conclusion of the winter semester, the conferral of degrees will occur as scheduled and diplomas will be distributed early this summer.
Registration- summer and fall semesters
- Registration for the College’s summer and fall semesters is underway for first-time, returning, and guest students and will continue to the first week of each term’s classes. The summer semester runs from June 1 through July 24. The fall semester begins August 26 and ends December 13.
- Due to the current status of the coronavirus pandemic, all summer semester courses are scheduled in an online-only format. At a later date and if circumstances allow, additional hybrid and face-to-face sections may be added. There are also many online courses offered through Michigan Colleges Online.
- Registration and advising for the summer semester and registration for the fall semester is underway. Current students can register for classes online via my.westshore.edu and can reach out to an academic advisor at studentservices@westshore.edu. Current students and those who have applied within the past two years, may schedule an advising appointment at the following link:
- Fall/Summer 2020 Advising-Registration Appointments
- New students should apply and complete the acceptance email instructions on how to complete both the online New Student Orientation (NSO) and New Student Registration (NSR). Students will be directed to sign up for an advising appointment at the completion of the NSR.
- Students should contact a high school counselor for a transcript and test scores (SAT/ACT and PSAT for dual enrolled students) and send them to admissions@westshore.edu Currently, placement testing is very limited, however, a student will be allowed to enroll in ENG 111 (college level English) and MTH 121 (intermediate algebra) with an overall HS GPA of 2.8 or higher and an appropriate SAT score (MTH - 460-499; ENG – 340 - 449). Students wishing to take a math course higher than MTH 121 or were placed into ENG 051, must contact the Learning and Testing Center for an appointment to take the appropriate portion of Accuplacer. testingcenter@westshore.edu
- Students who are home for the summer and attend another college or university may also enroll in course work as guest students. Guest students must submit the MACRAO approved Michigan Uniform Undergraduate Guest Application to admissions@westshore.edu prior to registration
Communication
- Official communications from the college will be delivered via WSCC email, the WSCC app, and on this web site. Information will also be posted on social media. If an instructor plans to use an alternative means of communication, they will notify you.
Technology support
- For immediate technology concerns, email the help desk at helpdesk@westshore.edu or call 231-843-5570. The Help Desk provides support to students, instructors, and staff who are experiencing technical difficulties.
Student support
- If you are (or you know) a student with any kind of personal or academic need arising from the Coronavirus outbreak, you may request CARE Team assistance by completing the Coronavirus CARE form.
Bookstore
- You can both view and purchase your course books via the college’s virtual bookstore.
- Click on the button Let’s Get Started and follow the screen prompts. If you are planning to purchase, you will be asked to create a password and log-in before submitting to your cart.
- Student financial aid will be available to use on our virtual store for the summer semester beginning May 11, and ending at midnight on June 5.
- To find out what the virtual store offers and how to use the site, click here: Select the MENU button and then select the Help & Contact Us button. Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions and contact information for the college’s virtual store provider.
April 10, 2020:
As a result of Governor Whitmer’s executive order extension, the West Shore Community College campus remains closed until May 1. College faculty and staff are working remotely and will respond to messaging as they are able.
- Online academic instruction will continue until the end of the semester, May 1, and students will not return to the campus for exams. Instructors will determine details for final exams and communicate directly with students as soon as possible.
- All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through May 1, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
- WSCC’s commencement and related activities have been postponed. The college is exploring options for holding a commencement ceremony at a later date, but no decision has been made. For those students who have met the graduation requirements, the conferral of degrees will still occur on time and diplomas will be distributed early this summer.
- We recognize the conversion to online coursework is challenging for many students and the administration is currently working on adjusting policies and procedures to help students complete the coursework and assist those who cannot complete. Continue to speak with your instructor about your concerns. The college will be providing a variety of options to help reduce the financial and academic effects of this interruption.
- Even though K-12 schools have modified their academic year-end classes, dual enrolled students are responsible for completing the requirements for their college class (es). Direct questions, on specific classes, to the instructor or academic department office.
- All successfully completed winter semester classes will count toward degree requirements and graduation. For dual enrolled students, successfully completed classes will meet WSCC requirements, but may not meet high school requirements. Consult with your school district for more information.
- Most WSCC Student Services are available to help you. Email the office staff and they will determine the best way to meet your needs. studentservices@westshore.edu
- Due to the current status of the coronavirus pandemic, all summer courses are scheduled in an online-only format. At a later date and if circumstances allow, additional hybrid and face-to-face sections may be added. There are also many online courses offered through Michigan Colleges Online.
- Registration for the summer semester begins on April 13. Registration for the fall semester does not start until May 4.
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: April 10, 2020
Re: WSCC Commencement postponed
SCOTTVILLE –In response to Governor Whitmer’s executive order extension to remain at home, West Shore Community College is postponing its May 1 commencement ceremony, a decision taken by numerous colleges and universities across the country as a result of the coronavirus health emergency.
The college is exploring options for holding a commencement ceremony at a later date, but no decision has been made.
“Commencement is a highlight of the college experience for students and their families and a source of pride for the college. But, we must be responsible and take into consideration the health of the entire West Shore community. We look forward to the opportunity to honor our students’ accomplishments properly with a ceremony at a later date,” said WSCC President Scott Ward.
Online academic instruction will continue until the end of the semester, May 1, and for those students who have met the graduation requirements, the conferral of degrees will still occur on time and diplomas will be distributed early this summer.
All college sponsored public events or community meetings on the campus, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
Registration for the College’s summer semester opens on April 13, for first-time, returning, and guest students and will continue to the first week of classes. The summer semester runs from June 1 through July 24.
Due to the current status of the coronavirus pandemic, all summer courses are scheduled in an online-only format. At a later date and if circumstances allow, additional hybrid and face-to-face sections may be added. There are also many online courses offered through Michigan Colleges Online.
Online course schedules can be viewed under the “Course Search” tab on my.westshore.edu and advising sessions are available online or by phone conference.
New students or those who have any other questions can contact the Student Services Office at studentservices@westshore.edu
Registration for the fall semester is expected to begin no later than May 4th.
The college is providing updates on a WSCC website link –– www.westshore.edu/coronavirus that is updated as information becomes available.
April 7, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: April 7, 2020
Re: Register Now for Summer College Classes
SCOTTVILLE – Registration for West Shore Community College’s summer semester opens on April 13, for first-time, returning, and guest students and will continue to the first week of classes.
The summer semester runs from June 1 through July 24.
Students who register early for classes have the best selection of courses. Due to the current status of the Coronavirus pandemic, all summer courses are currently scheduled in an online-only format. Additional sections, including hybrid and face-to-face options, will be added, at a later date, if the circumstances allow. In addition, there are many online courses offered through Michigan Colleges Online.
Online course schedules can be viewed under the “Course Search” tab on my.westshore.edu.
All students seeking financial aid must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, also commonly referred to as FAFSA. Information about the FAFSA can be found at
www.fafsa.gov. Financial aid questions may be directed to the WSCC Financial Aid office at
finaid@westshore.edu.
Students who are home for the summer and attend another college or university may also enroll in course work as guest students. Guest students must submit the MACRAO approved Michigan Uniform Undergraduate Guest Application to
admissions@westshore.edu prior to registration.
New students or those who have any other questions can contact the Student Services Office at
studentservices@westshore.edu. Current students and those who have applied within the past two years, may schedule an advising appointment at the following link:
advising appointment sign up.
Registration for the fall semester is expected to begin no later than May 4.
March 24, 2020:
Letter from President Ward:
To read, click here.
March 23, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
Date: March 23, 2020
Re: Full campus shut down due to executive order
SCOTTVILLE – Today (March 23), Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order for the State of Michigan and the college is beginning a full campus shut down as of 12:01 a.m., on March 24. In response to the order, all of the college’s buildings are closed to the public through April 13. The order prohibits in-person work that is not necessary to sustain or protect life. College faculty and staff are working remotely and will respond to messaging as they are able.
Online academic instruction will continue until the end of the semester, May 1.
Registration for the summer and fall semesters has been postponed until further notice.
All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through April 30, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
Pending further actions by the governor’s office and Michigan Department of Health, after April 13, parts of the campus will be staffed in-person Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., through the end of the semester.
Following guidance from the CDC, as well as state and local public health authorities, a task force is meeting daily, via video conference, to focus on the college’s preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Coronavirus Response:
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order for the State of Michigan and the college is beginning a full campus shut down as of 12:01 a.m. on March 24, 2020. In response to the order:
- All of the college’s buildings are closed to the public through April 13. The order prohibits in-person work that is nt necessary to sustain or protect life. College faculty and staff are working remotely and will respond to messaging as they are able.
- Online academic instruction will continue until the end of the semester, May 1.
- A limited number of laptops are available, by loan for student use only, on a first-come first served basis. Call 231-843-5570, or email the help desk at helpdesk@westshore.edu, by 6 p.m., for more information. No requests will be accepted after today.
- If you are (or you know) a student with any kind of personal or academic need arising from the Coronavirus outbreak, please request CARE
- Team assistance by completing the Coronavirus CARE form.
- Registration for the summer and fall semesters has been postponed until further notice.
- All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through April 30, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
- Pending further actions by the governor’s office and Michigan Department of Health, after April 13, parts of the campus will be staffed in-person Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., through the end of the semester.
- Following guidance from the CDC, as well as state and local public health authorities, a task force is meeting daily, via video conference, to focus on the college’s preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.
- For the latest information, follow the CDC link.
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
E-mail: tahawley@westshore.edu
Web Site: www.westshore.edu
Date: March 19, 2020
Re: WSCC Goes Online – Buildings are Closed
SCOTTVILLE - President Scott Ward announced today, for the health and safety of West Shore Community College Community students and staff, effective Friday, March 20, any remaining face-to-face instruction has been suspended through April 5. Online academic instruction will continue until the end of the semester.
With an appointment, support services will continue to be offered to students on an emergency basis only. No family members will be admitted to the college’s buildings if an appointment is granted and appropriate measures will be enforced to protect the health of students and college employees.
Many of the college staff are working remotely and there are limited services in many of the college’s departments. Students should call ahead to determine if the services they need are available.
Currently, all of the college’s buildings are closed to the public through March 30. Online research resources can be accessed by viewing the library web site. The college has installed free Wi-Fi access, for public use, in parking lots near the Tech Center, Arts and Sciences Center, and Recreation Center.
“Our status will be reevaluated prior to March 30, at which time a decision will be made to either resume some operations or extend our closure,” said Ward. “I recognize the disappointments and challenges with the decisions we are making and the great uncertainty for the weeks ahead. We are doing our best to make appropriate decisions based on quickly evolving information.”
Pending further actions by the Michigan Department of Health, parts of the campus will be staffed in-person Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., through the end of the semester.
All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through April 21, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
Following guidance from the CDC, as well as state and local public health authorities, a task force is meeting daily to focus on preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.
For the latest information, follow the CDC link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
The college is providing updates on a WSCC website link –– www.westshore.edu/coronavirus that is updated as information becomes available.
March 17, 2020:
News Release:
Contact: Thomas A. Hawley, Executive Director of College Relations
Phone: 231/843-5803
E-mail: tahawley@westshore.edu
Web Site: www.westshore.edu
Date: March 17, 2020
Re: WSCC Campus Closes to the Public
SCOTTVILLE - To curb the potential spread of the coronavirus, West Shore Community College officials have decided to close all of the buildings to the public, through March 30, with the exception of students who have an appointment or are completing an approved lab section.
WSCC is reopening the campus tomorrow to students, by appointment only, who need to access support services. Appropriate measures will be enforced to protect the health of students and college employees. There are limited services in many of the college’s departments and students are urged to call ahead to determine if the services they need are available.
Following recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and state public health officials, in-person labs will be limited to 10 or fewer students. Students should work directly with their instructor for further instructions on how their classes will be conducted.
The Learning and Testing Center and a computer lab will be open and students should email or call to make an appointment. The library has been closed and online resources can be accessed by viewing the library web site.
Pending further actions by the Michigan Department of Health, the campus will be staffed in-person Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., through the end of the semester, with many employees transitioning to working remotely.
All college sponsored public events or community meetings, through April 21, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.
In support of the college’s decision to close buildings, the Michigan State University Extension office, located in the Recreation Center, is closed and extension staff will be working remotely and can be reached via email or phone.
The entire college campus was closed to the public, on Monday and Tuesday, to provide faculty and staff the time to move course content online. Classes already offered online will continue as planned.
“We are doing our best to maintain operations, however, staff have been instructed to work from home whenever possible. I want to thank our dedicated faculty and staff who are doing all they can to ensure students graduate on time and receive their degrees or certificates this spring,” said President Scott Ward.
Following guidance from the CDC, as well as state and local public health authorities, a task force is meeting daily to focus on preparedness and response to the coronavirus pandemic.
For the latest information, follow this CDC link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
The college is providing updates on a WSCC website link –– www.westshore.edu/coronavirus that is updated as information becomes available.