JALC plans for in-person classes

CARTERVILLE - Registration for summer and fall semester classes at John A. Logan College has begun, and students are finding more face-to-face class options on the fall schedule.

As more southern Illinoisans receive the COVID vaccine, John A. Logan College officials have developed a plan to bring more people back on campus. According to College President Dr. Kirk Overstreet, faculty and staff have been planning a return to "normal" activities for some time, and the availability of vaccines has been a game-changer.

"We recently held an event in conjunction with the Bi-County Health Department where over 200 members of our faculty and staff received vaccinations," said Overstreet. "Our goal has been to have everyone back on campus by mid-May, and the vaccinations certainly make that possible."

According to Overstreet, faculty and staff have been working since the onset of the pandemic to ensure that the institution is helping students during these challenging times and are prepared to help students transition and move forward.

"Throughout our planning, we have focused on our version of the 3 R's of education: 'Return' to campus, 'Reimagine' education, and to ultimately help students 'Realize' their dreams," said Overstreet. "We believe that community colleges and in particular John A. Logan College are best equipped to help our current, former, and future students transition and adapt to the changes the pandemic has brought."

Overstreet emphasized that the College will continue to follow all mandates as more people return to campus.

"Our number one concern is the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff," said Overstreet. "At least through the fall semester, we will continue to require social distancing and masks on campus, and we will continue to have self-screening stations at our entrances."

Besides offering more face-to-face classes, the College will host an in-person graduation ceremony on May 13 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Grandstand. Graduates will be limited to six guests, and all social distancing and mask protocols will be in place. For details on registering for summer and fall classes at John A. Logan College, contact the admissions office at (618) 985-2828, Ext. 8298 or by email at registration@jalc.edu.