Both campuses of Carl Albert State College (Poteau and Sallisaw) will temporarily shift to virtual operations in response to the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8th. As a community committed to the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff, we believe this precautionary measure is essential to ensure a seamless and secure learning environment during this extraordinary celestial event.
“The solar eclipse is anticipated to generate significant interest and excitement within the community, said President Jay Falkner. “To allow students and staff to fully experience and appreciate this natural phenomenon, CASC will transition to virtual operations on April 8th. This decision is made to prevent a disruption of instructional delivery, and encourage everyone to safely witness the eclipse and to reduce any potential challenges associated with in-person activities during this unique event.”
During the virtual operations period, all classes and administrative functions will be conducted online. All courses utilize Blackboard shells for assignment and curriculum delivery from faculty to students, as well as for students to submit their work as needed. Faculty members will provide clear guidance on how to access virtual classrooms, and students are encouraged to reach out to their instructors for any additional support needed. Administrative offices will remain reachable through virtual communication channels, ensuring that all essential services and support are accessible to our community.
Food service and dorm operations: Café 1507 staff will have ready-to-heat meals prepared for all residential students on April 8th. Housing staff will provide access for all students at designated times. All residential students will be provided brunch and dinner. Café 1507 will be closed to the public on April 8th. Out of an abundance of caution, meals will also be prepared and available for Tuesday, April 9th and will be made available to all residential students.
Campus safety: All campus police officers will be on hand on April 8th. All parking lots will be blocked off beginning Sunday evening, April 7th. Any non-CASC visitors will be asked to leave. Patrols will be boosted on Friday night April 5th, Saturday night April 6th, and Sunday, April 7th. If eclipse-watchers park or camp out on campus, they will be asked to leave.
Visitors will not be permitted to park at or camp out on campus property at any point for any reason. There are no fundraising activities planned by any campus group or organization.
Regular updates will be shared through our official communication channels, including email, social media, and the college website.
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our students, faculty, and staff during this unique and exciting period. By embracing the virtual format temporarily, we aim to prioritize the safety, well-being, and educational experience of our community members.
For further information and updates, please visit our website at www.carlalbert.edu or contact our Communications Department at marketing@carlalbert.edu.
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