Community colleges in the Fresno area will continue online distance learning in the spring, an early – and surprising – departure from other higher education institutions in the region.
The State Center Community College District announced Thursday that the spring semester classes will be taught mostly online, owing to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Fresno City College, Reedley College, Clovis Community College, Madera Community College, Oakhurst Community College Center and the Career and Technology Center are all part of the district.
The only students allowed on campus will be those who are in laboratory classes that require in-person instruction.
“Our number one priority remains the safety of our students, faculty and classified professionals,” said Chancellor Paul Parnell. “In striving to be part of the solution to reduce COVID-19 cases, the district has remained in constant contact with local public health officials.
“The input we had from all of our constituent groups to go online for fall, along with the input from local public health officials helped in our decision to remain primarily online for spring. For those classes that will meet face-to-face, i.e. police, fire, nursing, etc. we will continue to practice social distancing, wearing of facial coverings and proper hygiene.”
