A new chapter has begun for Mid-State Technical College, which has now moved to a virtual environment to keep students on track to meeting their educational and career goals. Within a week and a half of the college-wide closure of its campuses to help slow the spread of COVID-19, the College rolled out online and other flexible formats for the majority of its course instruction as well as the delivery of student and community support services.

“I’m incredibly proud of the way our faculty and staff have stepped up during this challenging time, putting student needs front and center and tackling the many complexities of moving to a virtual format in such a short period of time,” said Mid-State President Dr. Shelly Mondeik.

Mid-State’s virtual college experience includes the following:

• Nearly three-quarters of all classes have transitioned to an online format until April 27 or until more information emerges on the COVID-19 situation. (Classes that cannot be delivered virtually due to the need for on-campus lab activity with specific equipment or clinical/practicums are expected to resume on April 27 but are also dependent on the COVID-19 situation.)
• Website chat feature at mstc.edu allows students to connect with support staff during the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. A website resource kit also provides quick FAQs and help 24/7 for students.
• I-CARE Support Line at 715-422-5430 lets students and community get answers to questions by calling and leaving a message for a timely call back. 

The following support services are currently delivered via phone, virtual/online delivery or a combination:

• Virtual and phone advising are available.
• Bookstore orders are accepted online and books are direct shipped to student homes.
• Disability services are available to discuss online learning accommodations.
• Counseling is available by phone or Microsoft Teams. 
• Financial aid and veteran services are available by email or phone.
• Technology support is available through the College’s IT Help Desk.
• Tutoring and academic support through the LiNK are available in a virtual format through Microsoft Teams.

“Mid-State prides itself on providing excellent care to our students, staff and communities, and these are just a few ways the College and Foundation have responded to meet the needs of our students,” said Mondeik. “Certainly, we know there are better days ahead, and together we and our students will be prepared for them.”

For more information and to learn other ways Mid-State is working to support its students during the COVID-19 closure and ensure they remain on track to graduation, visit mstc.edu/covid-19-coronavirus.