WALLA WALLA-Students attending Walla Walla Community College can now make an appointment for an in-person, "mask-to-mask" tutoring session to use the computer lab, as well as other services at the College's Walla Walla and Clarkston campuses.

Restarting these in-person student support services was announced by President Chad Hickox on Thursday, October 29, during a State of the College address attended by more than 200 faculty, staff, and students via Zoom.

"One of the things we can be really proud of is that we continue to serve our students, even during this pandemic," Hickox said. "We're sending a message loud and clear that the College is here for the community. We're open."

Since Gov. Jay Inslee issued a statewide stay-at-home order in March, faculty and staff at Walla Walla Community College have found innovative ways to provide instruction, counseling, financial aid, and student assistance.

The College introduced its Warrior Flex instruction model this fall, with scheduled zoom classes that meet, are recorded and posted for later access. Students will see their instructors and classmates in real-time or have access to the class as needed to meet each student's needs. Select classes will meet face to face where hands-on learning is necessary. And as public health guidelines allow.

Following current guidelines, every employee, student, and visitor who comes to campus must complete required Covid-19 training and register with the daily visitor log. Visitors must wear a mask, follow directions for disinfecting spaces and keyboards and maintain appropriate 6-foot physical distancing.

The College continues to monitor the number of positive tests reported in the counties it serves and is in regular contact with public health officials. Hickox said students, faculty, and staff had all expressed a strong desire to return to campus for in-person instruction when it's safe to do so.

"We're having that conversation almost every day," he said. "However, we're really subject to how the virus is behaving."

In the meantime, Hickox praised WWCC faculty and staff for checking in with their students and making sure those who are struggling during this challenging time receive the appropriate mental health counseling or other assistance they need.

"Keep doing the great work you've been doing," he said. "We see your efforts, and we appreciate you."