Fall Classes At Harper College To Remain 'Primarily Online'

PALATINE, IL — As schools across Illinois celebrate their 2020 graduates, Harper community college has already notified its students that things will look very much the same in fall 2020: Classes will be "offered primarily online," according to an email from Harper College President Avis Proctor sent to students Monday.

While registration begins May 29, students were informed that "most" fall courses will stick to remote learning, though some will include scheduled live meetings that require students connect to their virtual classrooms with a microphone and webcam.

"I know you are eager to return to campus and we are just as eager to see campus come to life again," Avis wrote in the email. "We know this has been a challenge and cannot express our appreciation enough for your flexibility, understanding and perseverance. Remember, we may not be physically together, but 'We are Harper' and we are here for you."

While the campus remains closed, the school plans to offer "blended courses" which include on-campus labs. Kimberly Pohl, the school's interim director of communications, told Patch in an email that courses which typically feature lab meetings include nursing, phlebotomy, radiologic technology, manufacturing, HVAC, culinary, chemistry and art.

Pohl added that all meeting will be capped at ten students and will include physical distancing, personal protective equipment and enhanced cleaning."We’re still finalizing details on how exactly the labs will be conducted to best ensure safety," she said.

Summer session courses will also be taught online.