More help for students on tap as spring semester approaches

Posted on: Nov 16, 2020 12:00:00 AM
In: District
Academics
Contact: Della Elliott della.elliott@gcccd.edu

Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges are preparing for the spring 2021 semester with a focus on supporting student success through the dual impact of the pandemic and economic uncertainty. 

The spring semester begins Feb. 1 with some intersession classes to be held Jan. 4-30 during the semester break. Registration begins Monday, Nov.16, for returning students, and Wednesday, Dec. 2, for new students enrolling at the East County colleges.

With most classes being held online, Grossmont and Cuyamaca College have found innovative new ways to offer instruction and serve students. They include:

• Virtual campuses for students at Cuyamaca College and Grossmont College that offer a repository of information and resources for students navigating online.
• Virtual help desks that offer Zoom sessions with student ambassadors to offer peer assistance on issues like applying for admission or filling out forms.
• Wireless access points in parking lots and open areas at both campuses to accommodate students in need of free internet access.
• Food drives for students in need because of the economic effects of the pandemic.
• Laptop and hotspot loaner programs at both campuses.
• Thousands of students have benefited from grants that were distributed as the result of funding the colleges received through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, along with grants from the Foundation for Grossmont & Cuyamaca Colleges, and other program and college funding.

“In these difficult times, it is important that our colleges remain steadfast in offering as many options as possible to help our students thrive, both academically and emotionally,” said Lynn Neault, chancellor of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.

She noted that online courses make it easier for a wider range of students to attend classes. For example, a San Diego State University student could find some Grossmont or Cuyamaca College courses that will fulfill university requirements at a much lower cost. A high school student who wants to get a head start on their higher education could take Grossmont or Cuyamaca College classes for free without leaving home.

A limited number of courses will be offered on-campus to accommodate labs and other classes that can’t easily be taught remotely, including nursing, allied health, and career technical education. Cuyamaca College is tentatively planning to offer 39 in-person classes in the spring compared to two for the current fall semester. Grossmont College is preparing to boost its on-campus classes from 52 currently to 73 for the spring.

For information about registration, schedules, and financial aid at Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges, go to gcccd.edu/now.

Volunteers help distribute ready-to-heat meals to Grossmont College students.