Taking classes online through Kaskaskia College will be a better experience as a result of $704,000 in new technology being added to 25 classrooms as part of the renovation of the HB, and L buildings.
College President George Evans says the new audio, camera, and smartboard equipment will be added as work is completed in each of the classrooms over the next two years.
“I’d say 80% of these classrooms will be designated what we call high flex where students can attend those classes in person or attend them from home outside of the normal Zoom delivery method where the instructor stands in front of a monitor and stares into a screen, whereas this is going to be a much more active classroom environment for those who choose to take those classes from home.”
Evans announced demolition for the upcoming renovation on the second floor of the HB and L building is underway with a goal of completion by the start of fall classes. The first-floor work will be completed next year.
The other large bid is for the removal and replacement of pavement, storm sewer, and lighting for the Vocational Annex Parking Lot north of the gym. Evans says the work has been moved up because the road and parking lot have deteriorated to gravel and the current lack of a sidewalk has resulted in several close calls of students being struck while walking down the road.
Work under the $751,000 bid awarded to Guinzey Construction of Ashley is expected to be completed by the start of fall classes.
The board also agreed to create a new math transition success coach to help with the retention of students having trouble with math courses.
