Message from the President
As you may have heard this afternoon, the Governor extended the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order in our state through May 4. This means that we should be remaining at home except when we need to do an essential activity, such as buying food or going to a doctor’s appointment.
With our spring classes already transitioned to online instruction and our campus operating remotely, we are well prepared to weather this storm a little longer so that we can all do our part to help reduce the spread of this virus. Here are a few updates to help you prepare for the start of spring quarter next week.
What should students do on Monday, April 6, the first day of the quarter?
All students will take a mandatory eLearning training during the first week of the quarter called “Getting Ready for Online Learning” to help them be successful in a fully online environment. The training is designed to help both students who are new to online learning and those who have taken an online class before. Students will spend at least 5 hours in the training and will receive an email on Friday, April 3 with instructions about how to complete it throughout the week.
Between April 6-9, staff in our eLearning Services and Technology Support Services will also offer daily video chat support sessions and will have extended service hours from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. to help students with their questions.
What if students don’t have access to a computer or the internet?
- Laptops – We have laptops for students who need them! Students may borrow a laptop for the entire spring quarter on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority consideration for students who do not otherwise have a device to access online classes. Laptops will be mailed to student addresses when they email elearning@shoreline.edu and provide the following information: First and last name; Student ID number; Whether you need a laptop or webcam; Mailing address; Proof of registration in a spring 2020 class.
- Internet Access – Students in need of internet access may find several free and low-cost options by contacting their mobile phone or home internet provider. For example, Comcast has made their Wi-Fi hotspots free and is offering temporary free home access to some low-income customers. T-Mobile is supplying free data to allow customers to use their phones as an internet hotspot.
How do students order textbooks if the Bookstore is not open?
All textbook and course materials may be ordered online at the Follett Bookstore website. The Bookstore is offering free shipping on all orders except those delivered to the states of Alaska, Hawaii, and international countries.
Is there a New Student Orientation for spring quarter?
Yes, our orientation has moved online! Students who are new to Shoreline this quarter are invited to visit the New Student Orientation web page, which will lead them through a self-paced Orientation module online. The first week of the quarter is a perfect time for new students to go through the Orientation so they learn what resources are available to support them at Shoreline. (Please note that new international students already attended a separate virtual orientation for spring quarter and do not need to complete this one).
What else could I be doing to help my community while I am staying home?
Just because we have to stay apart doesn’t mean we can’t stand together. Now, more than ever, we need to count on each other for help, support, and understanding. No matter who you are, what you do as an individual impacts the health of the entire community, and what we do as a community impacts all of us as individuals. You should:
- Stay connected. Staying physically apart does not mean losing connections to family, friends, and community. Set up calls with those you regularly see in person. Call, email, and text friends and acquaintances to ask how they’re doing and how you can help.
- Support local businesses. If desired, order meals for delivery or pick-up. Look for small businesses that can ship online orders for the things you need.
- Be a good neighbor. Put together an email list for your apartment building, neighborhood, and friends and family. It makes it easier for people to contact and support each other.
Although we are staying at home longer, please remember you are not alone. All college students and employees in our state are going through this unique and unparalleled experience. We are all in this together, and we’ll get through this together.
With care,
Cheryl Roberts, Ed.D.
President
