Bishop State Community College will offer a traditional in-person experience for the Fall 2021 semester. Our campus remains committed to mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and providing a meaningful and rewarding on-campus experience. The College will continue to monitor public health scenarios and is prepared to adjust plans accordingly.
- Face Coverings: Given the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across our state and nation, Bishop State will require all individuals to wear face coverings inside all Bishop State buildings and classrooms for Fall 2021. Regardless of vaccination status, the policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors. Face coverings will also be required in closed recreation areas. Face coverings do not have to be worn while alone in private offices or when eating inside campus dining facilities.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: The COVID-19 vaccine is not required for students, faculty, and staff at this time, per the State of Alabama. Vaccinations are strongly recommended for all faculty, staff, and students. The COVID-19 vaccine is also available through numerous pharmacies and health care providers in our community.
- COVID-19 Reporting: Individuals with questions concerning COVID-19, who may be experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms, or have been exposed to the virus should contact their medical health care provider. All students are expected to self-report a positive COVID-19 test to Ms. Symentha McDonald by email at smcdonald@bishop.edu or phone 251-405-7017.
- Isolation and Quarantine: The College will continue to follow the CDC protocols for isolation and quarantine of students.
- Course offerings and how the courses are delivered will resemble a typical fall semester. The College will adhere to the CDC-recommended “Social Distance” guidelines.
- Modalities: The College’s course offerings and modalities will be similar to fall 2019 (pre-pandemic), which includes primarily in-person classes and various hybrid and online courses.
- Calendar: The academic calendar will return to normal, including traditional fall and spring breaks. Fall semester classes will begin Thursday, August 19, 2021.
- Athletic Venues and Campus Events: The College may limit the number of attendees at campus events. When limits are imposed, the information will be made public before and at the event.
We look forward to the fall semester and ask for your continued support in the fight against COVID-19. We are hopeful the 2021-2022 academic year will be successful and uninterrupted.
The top priority of the College in all decisions is the health, safety, and well-being of the campus community. As scientific knowledge of the coronavirus continues to evolve, the COVID-19 pandemic changes over time, and government and public health officials issue new orders and guidance; the College will update procedures and plans as needed. The College will follow all state and federal orders. It will adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and state and local public health to ensure the safest possible on-campus environment.