College works to make sure lack of a computer or internet isn't a barrier to students' learning      

Approximately 10 percent of Clark College students need assistance with technology to be able to take their classes spring quarter. Because of the state “stay home” orders, all classes have been moved to online formats.

Students were encouraged to fill out a Technology Loan Program Request Form to help them get connected with the resources they need to navigate this transition–whether that’s a loaner laptop, a wifi hotspot, or other technical needs.

Laptops are being purchased through the college’s technology fee, which is managed by a committee composed of faculty, staff, and students. The funding will allow for 500 new laptops and 100 internet hotspots for students, in addition to loaner devices the college already had on hand.

To practice safe social distancing, the college is calling each student on the list setting up appointments to come onto campus to the O’Connell Sports Center to pick up the loaner laptop.

Because of high demand nationwide, the wi-fi hotspots that have been ordered for students are not yet available. The college has set up a wi-fi hotspot in the college parking lot “Orange #2” on the east side of the main campus. Buildings are not open to the public so students will not be able to use restrooms.

A different kind of spring term

Clark continues remote operations to comply with Governor Inslee’s “Stay Home Stay Healthy” order. Even so, college staff remain available by email and/or phone to enroll, advise, support, and answer students’ questions.

Dates and deadlines for tuition and drops have been pushed further out onto the calendar to provide students more flexibility.

“Despite the multiple challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has created, our dedicated Clark community is finding a way to overcome roadblock after roadblock on behalf of our students,” said Dr. Sandra Fowler-Hill. “We will walk with them working through issues and challenges every step of the way.”