Vol State Return Will Start Class Mainly Online

Cookeville and Livingston Vol State campuses will return to classes Monday through mostly online formats.

Cookeville Director Lori Richard said the only classes requiring hands on training or labs will meet in person. Students and staff will be required to wear masks and complete screenings when entering campus.

“We are committed to their (students) success,” Richards said. “And we are offering many extended support services. Some of the things that we are doing are E-Learn training sessions. Somebody may not be familiar with an online class format.”

Richards said Vol State implemented a technology loan program for any student lacking technology. A virtual help desk and online tutors are available. Each campus has the capability to contact trace COVID infections and notify any student possibly exposed. Richards said changes to campus include ventilation upgrades, plexiglass and one way entrances and exits.

“We do have of course in place  the six foot social distancing protocols. We have had to modify classrooms even,” Richard said. “Where classrooms used to hold 40 people, now can only hold 15 people.”

Richard said students will use zoom to meet at scheduled class times during the day. Screenings to enter the campus will be conducted online. Richard said results will go to the students email.

“Part of that screening to be on campus protocol is so we can do the contact tracing to make sure who might have been in contact with that student and who might need to quarantine,” Richard said. “We have a very extensive program.”

If a student believes he or she was exposed to COVID, contact your instructor of the in person class immediately. The instructor would then contact student services invoking contact tracing.