Dear EACC Students,

Just a few months ago, I would never have dreamed the world would be where it is today. I know this is a hard semester. You will make it through, and we want to support you the whole way.

The current health goal is to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. With that in mind, limiting access to campus is in your best interest.  Therefore, EACC will continue to engage in online or remote instruction as much as possible for the rest of the semester.

However, online instruction is not the full story for us. A one-size-fits-all education has never worked for EACC students, and this semester is no exception. We are engaging in many creative ways to deliver instruction to each of you.

We want to help you cross your finish line in the way most suited to you and your academic program. For example, some programs-such as Allied Health and applied tech programs-may hold some small "micro labs" for a limited number of students. This type of instruction will occur only when it is essential for students to meet their completion goals. Appropriate safety measures will be utilized.

We urge you to reach out to your instructors if you experience any difficulties. EACC's most important priority is accommodating students as individually as possible. If you are unable to access what you need in order to be successful, please email your instructor or Care@eacc.edu.

EACC has taken several steps to support you this semester. These include:

• A special email - Care@eacc.edu - has been set up for students. We want to make it easy for you to communicate with us. We have also reached out to you to inquire about your needs and will continue to do so. Please make sure your "Profile" information in MyEACC is correct so we can contact you.
• Wi-Fi is available on campus. Special signs mark where it can be accessed from your car. This is the safest way to access Wi-Fi. If you need log-in instructions, please call 870-633-4480 ext. 400.
• The EACC campus is not closed. The Wynne Center, the Betty Jo Hodges Student Services Complex, and the Computer Education Center are open for students. The number of people present at any one time will be limited. Please come to campus only if absolutely necessary. Screening and strict social distancing will be enforced.
• It is disappointing, but concern for your health means we must postpone commencement. It is clear that a large crowd will not be allowed to gather in May. We appreciate your patience while we explore options. Details will follow when finalized.
• There are special plans for secondary career center high school students. Students should communicate with their instructors and high schools, and Mr. Kevin Bingham, kbingham@eacc.edu or 870-633-4480 ext. 347. Concurrent credit students may contact Ms. Tobey Nichols tnichols@eacc.edu or 870-633-4480 ext. 407, as well as their instructors and high schools.
• NEW! EACC has extended the deadlines for applying to the practical nursing, registered nursing, rad tech, and paramedic programs. The website and social media have more information or you may email Lhutcherson@eacc.edu or call 870-633-4480 ext. 408.
• NEW! Beginning April 1, the "Little Free Library" on our campus will be converted to a "Little Food Pantry" for students. It is a red cabinet located in the small parking area in front of the Adult Education building, which is accessed via the gated drive on Newcastle. Students may drive-up at any time to pick-up food. Food may also be dropped off there if you are able to donate. If the Little Food Pantry is successful, we will add additional locations.

Although we are physically distanced, all services for students continue, either virtually, by appointment, or in small groups. These include:

• Testing
• Advising
• Registration
• Tutoring
• Financial Aid
• Student Services such as SSS/Trio and CPI.

Please contact Care@eacc.edu or the main switchboard 870-633-4480 about EACC services for students. We want to help!

As we make swift decisions to support your health and safety, we will keep you informed. We are committed to helping you complete your educational goals and to protecting your future.

When life returns to normal, we want you to have your best life to return to.

Sincerely,

Cathie Cline