NC Community College System and NC Department of Public Instruction joint statement of support for NC’s public school students

In the uncertain times created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the NC Community College System and the NC Department of Public Instruction are working collaboratively to ensure that North Carolina students continue to have high-quality educational opportunities. North Carolina’s community colleges are open-door institutions, committed to serving all students in pursuit of higher education and workforce preparation beyond high school.

“Many of our graduates had concerns that this crisis could disrupt their next steps,” said Mark Johnson, State Superintendent. “I am proud of our work with the community college system to help students move forward with their education. Community colleges’ open-door admission policies ensure that any student will be eligible, regardless of test scores and grade point averages. Graduates should not let this pandemic disrupt their next steps.”

“Despite the upheaval of the past few months, we want students to know that we will do everything possible to serve them and ensure that their future educational path is a smooth one,” said Peter Hans, president of the NC Community College System. “Community colleges are beefing up advising and career services to help students as they navigate their way forward.”

Although the health crisis has raised many questions regarding college admissions, the NC Community College System and the NC Department of Public Instruction want to reassure students that the disruption that occurred in the spring of 2020 won’t delay or negatively impact their path toward further education and career opportunities. While we continue to adapt instruction to meet the current challenges, our priority is to support North Carolina’s students as they continue their education.