COCC plans ‘cautious approach’ for winter term; a few more in-person classes

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Central Oregon Community College presented its plans for the winter 2021 term at its monthly board of directors meeting Thursday, with few changes to be made from its fall term.

"To continue to ensure the health and safety of its students, employees and community, COCC will largely maintain its fall 2020 operational, health and safety plans in the coming term," according to a Friday news release.

Wickiup Residence Hall will remain closed. Student services will continue to operate remotely. The college’s facilities will remain closed to the public, and access will be limited to specific college and community health-related programs. Employees who currently telework will continue to do so. 

With a dual focus on student safety and success, COCC will slightly expand its in-person course offerings for winter 2021.

For fall 2020, the college offered in-person instruction only for those courses that could not be taught remotely and which are necessary for a student to graduate.

In winter 2021, COCC will widen its in-person course offerings to include classes that cannot be taught as effectively in a remote environment (for example, some health and human performance classes or studio art). Under these guidelines, COCC will offer approximately 80% remote instruction in winter 2021.

COCC’s president, Dr. Laurie Chesley, shared with college employees, “Regionally, the COVID-19 transmission rates are not moving in a positive direction.”

The college said it once again considered a robust set of criteria when finalizing its winter 2021 plans, including the latest data from local public health authorities and national trends in school openings, as well as employee and student safety.

“I know these decisions impact each and every member of our COCC community,” added Chesley, “which is why the college leadership is continuing our cautious approach to the upcoming term.”