Coronavirus Information & Resources

This page is used to update our campus community about the latest changes and information in response to COVID-19. Please see the Seattle Colleges COVID-19 Information page for additional information and the latest changes on Seattle Colleges response to COVID-19.
 


Masking Optional but Encouraged  Beginning April 4, masks will be “optional but encouraged” at Seattle Colleges. This aligns with the state’s higher education guidelines and King County’s Current COVID-19 guidance. Mask requirements, however, may be reinstated in the future if conditions change. They will continue to be required in some instances:  

  • Clinical and other health care settings and educational programs. 

  • For those who test positive and are returning to campus after isolation at home.  

  • For those who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. 

While masks will be optional and encouraged, please respect those who continue to wear masks for their own health, safety or comfort.  

Expanding Student-Facing Services  Beginning April 4, North will expand in-person student-facing services an extra day each week, adding Mondays. In person services will be available Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This includes all student-facing services, including instructional division offices. These days and hours are all subject to change, depending on the extent that COVID-19 cases fall or rise in the region.  

We are also adding a second day each week to expand virtual services into the evenings. These services, including Admissions, Advising, Financial Aid and Registration, are available until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, beginning the week of April 4. 

Other Protocols Remain in Place  While masks are optional, other protocols will remain in place:  

  • Continue to fill out the Daily Wellness Screening Form if you are coming to campus for instruction, services or work. This helps with contact tracing.  

  • Do not come to campus if you are sick, think you may have COVID-19, or have been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19.  

  • The current COVID-19 vaccination requirements for employees and students will remain in place.  

  • KN95 masks are available to students, faculty and staff at a variety of locations on campus, including the Security office (College Center); the Opportunity Center (front lobby, south entrance); Math and Sciences; Basic and Transitional Studies; Workforce Instruction; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the Library; and the Student Learning Center. Staff members at these units' main office/lobby areas can help in providing masks during in-person service hours.

  • Practice good respiratory etiquette (coughing or sneezing into the inside of your elbow) and wash hands frequently. 

While Washington state’s mask mandate ended March 12, nothing changes for North Seattle College students, faculty and staff through at least Friday, April 1. North’s entry procedures and protocols and vaccination requirements remain in place for now, and if anything changes, the updated information will be shared with everyone on campus.  

We anticipate 41% of classes for Spring Quarter will be on campus (either fully or hybrid), which is an increase from 25% for Winter Quarter. To help accommodate this increase in on-campus student activity, North will expand student-facing services an extra day each week, adding Mondays. Beginning April 4, services will be open Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This includes all student-facing services, including instructional division offices. These days and hours are all subject to change, depending on the extent that COVID-19 cases fall or rise in the region.  

We are also adding a second day each week to expand virtual services into the evenings. Beginning the week of April 4, virtual student services, including Admissions, Advising, Financial Aid and Registration, are available until 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Again, changes to masking protocols or vaccination requirements for Spring Quarter will be shared as they occur; however, nothing changes for now.  

In the meantime, here are some important notes:  

  • As referenced above, North’s entry procedures and vaccination requirements have not changed. If you are on campus, please complete the Online Daily Wellness Screening Form, preferably before you arrive on site.  

  • Zoom Zones are available on campus for students who need to participate in online activities or virtual classes.  

  • Information about parking is available on the North website.  

For the most current COVID-19 information as it pertains to North and the other district colleges, including the latest exposure data, please visit the Seattle Colleges website

Earlier this week, Gov. Jay Inslee announced he is moving up the date in which people will no longer be required to wear masks in public indoor spaces to March 12 (from March 21). However, as we communicated last week, nothing changes for North Seattle College students, faculty and staff at this time. 

The Governor’s announcement will not affect North Seattle College’s entry procedures and protocols and vaccination requirements. They will remain in place for now. The Governor’s Office has indicated guidance specific to higher education will be forthcoming. Announcements will be made when our procedures and protocols change.

In the meantime, here are some important reminders: 

  • Please be sure to review the updates shared in the March 1 email from Christel Olsen, Environmental Health & Safety Manager, Seattle Colleges. (In particular, read the latest information about isolation and quarantine guidelines.) 

  • COVID-19 self-test kits are available at the Opportunity Center (in the front lobby, south entrance, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Basic and Transitional Studies (second floor of the Instruction Building), and the Library. 

  • Masks are available to students, faculty and staff at a variety of locations on campus, including the Security office (College Center); the Opportunity Center (front lobby, south entrance); Math and Sciences; Basic and Transitional Studies; Workforce Instruction; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the Library; and the Student Learning Center. Staff members at these units' main office/lobby area can assist in providing masks during in-person service hours. 

  • As noted above, North’s entry procedures and vaccination requirements have not changed. If you are on campus, please complete the Online Daily Wellness Screening Form, preferably before you arrive on site. 

For the most current COVID-19 information as it pertains to North and the other district colleges, including the latest exposure data, please visit the Seattle Colleges website.

As communicated yesterday by the district, Gov. Jay Inslee’s recent announcement of the elimination of Washington’s COVID-19 indoor mask requirements on March 21 will not affect North Seattle College’s entry procedures and protocols and vaccination requirements. They will remain in place for now. The Governor’s Office has indicated guidance specific to higher education will be forthcoming. Announcements will be made when our procedures and protocols change.

A supply of KN95 masks is still available for faculty, staff and students who come to campus and do not have their own mask. These KN95 masks continue to be available for pickup at the Campus Security office (College Center) and the south entrance to the Opportunity Center for Employment and Education (OCEE). Note the Campus Security office is open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, and the OCEE is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please take only one mask per person for daily use if you do not have your own.

KN95 masks are also available at additional locations throughout campus. These include Math and Sciences; Basic and Transitional Studies; Workforce Instruction; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the Library; and the Student Learning Center. Pickup availability at these locations will be Tuesday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Important reminders   

  • In March, Seattle Colleges will begin a pilot program at all three colleges to conduct random audits to verify the vaccination attestation of students attending on-campus instruction. Selected by a random sampling process of student ID numbers, a small group of students who have already attested that they are vaccinated will be asked to upload their CDC vaccination cards for verification. Students will be notified of their selection by email and text. The goal is to make it as easy as possible for students to complete. A website is being developed with additional details about this process. 
  • For the most current COVID-19 information as it pertains to North and the other district colleges, including the latest exposure data, please visit the Seattle Colleges website
  • If a student or employee reports an exposure or confirmed COVID-19 case to you, please report the case immediately to healthandsafety@seattlecolleges.edu. This health-related information does not need to be reported to the campus Human Resources team. 
  • Identifying details about a confirmed case must remain confidential. If a case is reported to you, please do not share the information with students or employees. The H&S team is responsible for contacting individuals who have been potentially exposed and sharing the necessary information and next steps per public health protocols. Students have been and will continue to be reminded to contact the H&S team directly to report a potential or confirmed COVID-19 case.   

For more details on current protocols and procedures, please review Seattle Colleges COVID-19 Information.  

The federal government has launched its website for households to order four (4) free home COVID-19 tests for delivery to your residence. Please share the news and place orders at https://www.covidtests.gov/. In addition, Washington state announced it will soon be launching a web portal for residents to order COVID-19 tests. 

In other news, the district has updated the format of its online data report with COVID-19 case counts that will be updated weekly (usually on Mondays). A few things to note about the case count report:  

  • Data are provided in three sections:  
    • Confirmed Cases: This is the catch-all tally that includes off-campus cases Health & Safety was notified about. It would include employees and students who notified H&S about a positive test regardless of whether they were on campus during their contagious period. 
    • Confirmed Cases on Campus: This represents a tally of confirmed positive cases of individuals who were on campus during their contagious period.  
    • Suspected Cases: Tally of suspected cases that had not been confirmed with a laboratory COVID-19 test at the time of recording (and not necessarily on-campus during potential contagious period).  
  • Report URL: https://www.seattlecolleges.edu/coming-campus/covid-19-information-updates.
  • If you have questions about the report, email healthandsafety@seattlecolleges.edu

And just a few other reminders:   

  • In-person services for North Seattle College’s Student Services and other student-facing offices are currently suspended through Friday, Jan. 28. Please watch for communication the week of Jan. 24-28 that will confirm resumption of in-person services beginning Monday, Jan. 31, or provide information about a possible extension of the suspension. 
  • If a student or employee reports a potential or confirmed COVID-19 case to you, please report the case immediately to the H&S team: healthandsafety@seattlecolleges.edu.  
  • Identifying details about a confirmed case must remain confidential. If a case is reported to you, please do not share the information with students or employees. The H&S team is responsible for contacting individuals who have been potentially exposed and sharing the necessary information and next steps per H&S protocols. Students have been and will continue to be reminded to contact the H&S team directly to report a potential or confirmed COVID-19 case.  
  • If you do visit campus, it is important to fill out the Daily Wellness Screening Form before your visit. Filling out the form provides H&S staff with the information they need for thorough contact tracing.     

 For more details on our protocols and procedures, please review Seattle Colleges COVID-19 Information.   

Hello North Seattle College students,

This summer, NSC continues to offer Student Services by email, Zoom, and phone. Contact information for Student Services is listed here. Please reach out, we’re here to help!

If you’re not able to connect virtually, we are also offering in-person services this summer. Starting June 29, the following in-person services are available on Tuesdays from 10 am to 2 pm:

Admission
Advising
Bookstore
Cashier
Counseling
Disability Services
eLearning
Equity & Welcome Center
Financial Aid
Registration
Running Start
Seattle Promise
Student Leadership
Veterans Services

When you’re on campus, please follow our Health & Safety guidelines: wear a mask, follow social distancing, and check in when you arrive on campus. Please see the current Health & Safety procedures for more information.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Please note:
Advising help is for college transfer and professional/technical degrees and certificates. International programs, Watch Technology, ESL, ABE/High School Completion, Early Childhood Education and BAS program students should connect with their advisors through these departments.

If you’re visiting campus

  1. Please park in West parking lot: enter from College Way and 97th Street. 
  2. Check in at the Health Screening desk, located in the first floor of the College Center building. 
  3. Starting June 29, only the departments listed above will be open for in-person services on Tuesdays from 10 am to 2 pm.

Colleagues,

As we look ahead with optimism that progress is being made in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, we are providing a quick spring update and looking ahead at what a return to campus may look like in summer and fall.

Spring Quarter 2021
Seattle Colleges will continue to operate remotely for Spring Quarter 2021 with some limited in-person instruction following established health and safety protocols.

Returning in Summer and Fall
As more people become vaccinated and cases and hospitalizations decline, we aim to offer more in-person instruction and services to students in Summer and Fall Quarters. This will be a phased approach; defining how it will roll out will be a priority during Spring Quarter.

We are preparing and actively working to keep everyone safe. Our strong adherence to the protocols and best practices below enabled Seattle Colleges to operate limited in-person education and specialized training for hundreds of students while avoiding community spread on our campuses.

Learn more.

Members of the Seattle Colleges Community,

With the increase in COVID-19 cases in Washington and across the country, it is more important than ever to make sure we are following safety protocols and best practices to help reduce the spread of this virus.

If You Visit Campus
If you visit any campus, it is very important you fill out the Campus Access Form before and after your visit. Filling out the form – both before and after your visit– provides Health and Safety staff with the information they need for thorough contact tracing.

If You Don’t Feel Well
If you are not feeling well and believe you have COVID-19 or if you have come into direct contact with someone who has COVID-19, please stay at home and make arrangements to get tested.

If You Test Positive or Come into Contact
If you test positive for COVID-19 or come into direct contact (less than 6 feet) with someone who has COVID-19, please immediately notify HealthandSafety@seattlecolleges.edu and provide the following information:

1) Name, phone number, email address 
2) If you have been directed by a healthcare professional to self-isolate but have not been tested 
3) Date when your symptoms first began
4) If you appeared on campus (and which campus) within 48-hours before or while symptoms began

You will be contacted by Health and Safety. This personal health information does not need to be reported to your instructor and/or supervisor.

If You Are Asked to Quarantine 
Employees, if you are asked to quarantine by a doctor or by Health and Safety, there are COVID sick leave options available outside of your own sick leave. Resources on Inside Seattle Colleges include COVID-19 Leave Guidance (for Classified Staff) and the Families First Coronavirus Act (FFCRA) - Overview. Please contact your campus HR for more information and guidance on how to record your time.

Stay safe and stay healthy.

Dear students, 

This winter quarter,  North Seattle College will continue to offer most classes online, including labs, physical education classes, and most studio art classes. A limited number of programs may have courses that meet in person, including Pharmacy Technician, Watch Technology, Emergency Medical Technician, Medical Assisting, Art (Ceramic & Jewelry), Electronics/Mechatronics, Ironworkers Apprenticeship, Parent Education, and Nursing. Students should check the course schedule to find out if their course is meeting on campus and contact the instructor if they have questions.

Even though classes are online, NSC is here to help you continue your education and reach your goals. Instructors and staff are working remotely and are available to answer your questions. Please contact us if you need assistance. Right now, email is the best way to contact most instructors and departments.

Here are links to contact information and resources: 

Please note that Effective Nov 6, Student Services offices will be closed on Fridays at noon for ctcLink statewide technology conversion training.

Many of you are asking, what do hybrid, virtual and online course types mean?
This video explains the difference between each course type. The winter quarter schedule is online at myNorth, and the course type is listed for each class.

Other questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact your advisor.

We're working hard to make your online experience with North Seattle College meaningful and accessible. Please contact us if you need help to get ready for winter quarter classes.

Dear students,

This fall, North Seattle College will continue to offer most classes online, including labs, studio art classes, and physical education classes. A limited number of Career and Technical classes will meet in person, and students will be notified if their class plans to meet in person.

Even though classes are online, NSC is here to help you continue your education and reach your goals. Instructors and staff are working remotely and are available to answer your questions. Please contact us if you need assistance. Right now, email is the best way to contact most instructors and departments. Here are links to contact information and resources: 

Please check the COVID-19 Information & Resources page for additional information.

Many of you are asking, what do hybrid, virtual and online course types mean?
This video explains the difference between each course type. The fall quarter schedule is online at MyNorth.edu, and the course type is listed for each class.

Hybrid
A hybrid course combines in person, on campus instruction with online instruction. Check MyNorth to see the days and times you'd need to be on campus. 

Virtual
Virtual classes are also online and do not include coming to campus but are the most similar to in-person classes because they meet on specific days at specific times to allow for live interaction between students and instructors. You will meet through a platform such as Zoom to listen to lectures, participate in discussions, or complete other activities. All virtual courses will also include an online component. If you prefer live interaction, while still not having to come to campus, this is the best option for you.

Online
​Classes listed in the schedule as online do not have​ live interaction between students and the instructor. Your instructor will provide the course materials online, likely through Canvas, our online learning management system. These materials may include readings, video lectures, and activities. Of course, your instructor will be able to answer questions through email and may offer optional live office hours. If you like a lot of independence and a flexible schedule, this is a good option for you.

We’re working hard to make your online experience with North Seattle College meaningful and accessible. We look forward to having you in class this fall!

Dear colleagues,  

Higher education, effective Aug. 1, now has its own set of guidelines and compliance standards, separate from K-12 education and other businesses and industries, according to Gov. Jay Inslee and Washington state's Safe Start phased reopening plan.  

Our districtwide Health and Safety Team has incorporated this information into the latest version of our official Infection Control Plan (ICP). The ICP guides the decision-making of the Emergency Response Team—including the chancellor, college presidents, leadership teams, and working groups—as they plan for Fall Quarter and beyond.   

Fall Quarter 2020  
Our top priority continues to be the health and safety of employees and students.  As Fall Quarter nears on Tuesday, Sept. 29, we will continue to serve thousands of students with most instruction offered remotely, and some hybrid and limited face-to-face offerings—all observing public health and hygiene best practices outlined in the ICP. 

Most employees will continue to work remotely wherever possible. Access to campus buildings will remain limited and by appointment or approval. Any students, faculty, and staff who arrive at a campus for authorized purposes should follow the appropriate procedures and safety training requirements. Employees should contact their supervisor if they have any questions, or Human Resources if they require accommodation due to health concerns. 

While we strive to make consistent policy and procedure decisions across our district, our colleges—North, Central, and South—have different programs and levels of resources. 

College presidents, vice presidents, and deans are working to make decisions that fit their colleges and programs best while providing student services efficiently in ways that resources and health and safety guidelines allow.  

Information about each college’s program and student services offerings is available at the college’s COVID-19 informational website:  

Central: Student Services | Campus Entry Procedures and COVID-19 Updates 
North: Student Services | Campus Entry Procedures | COVID-19 Updates  
South: Student Services | Campus Entry Procedures | COVID-19 Updates  

Districtwide COVID-19 Updates 

We are grateful for the technology that allows us to continue to engage with one another and pursue our collective mission of delivering great instruction and service to our students. Thanks as always for your patience and diligence in working to keep everyone safe. 

District Communications 

Seattle Colleges is planning to begin phasing more in-person instruction and activities for fall 2020. Details of which courses are currently planned to be offered in person / on-line / hybrid are reflected in each college’s class schedule. 

Modifications to normal operating procedures will likely be required to address necessary health and safety considerations for students, faculty, and staff. Seattle Colleges continues to consult with public health experts to ensure the transition is made as smoothly and safely as possible. More information on the specific modifications will be announced throughout the summer.

Listed below are key dates for fall quarter.

September 29 – Fall quarter begins
October 12 – Last day to add/register
December 17 – Fall quarter ends

This afternoon, Friday, May 29, Governor Inslee gave an update of his Safe Start phased approach to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today’s announcement does not change current operations at North Seattle College or our plans for summer quarter.

Authorized employees and students enrolled in certain instructional programs or those seeking services by appointment are being admitted to campus in accordance with public health and social distancing guidelines. All other instruction and services are continuing through remote operations, and campus remains closed to the public until further notice.

Students with questions should contact their instructors. Employees with questions should contact their supervisors. 

We appreciate your patience and diligence in working to keep everyone safe. 

Beginning Monday, May 18, North Seattle College will admit the following groups to campus:

  • Faculty and students in approved Career and Technical programs
  • Essential staff, approved by their supervisor
  • Students that have confirmed appointments with Student Services 
  • All other instruction and services will continue remote operations and campuses will remain closed to the public.

Maintaining Public Health Guidelines:

North Seattle College is opening its physical locations in compliance with all public health guidelines. Those authorized to enter campus are asked to follow the processes, actions, and procedures below:  

  • Take your temperature at home – Please take your temperature at home each time you plan to come to campus. If you have a fever 100.4° F or above, or do not feel well, remain at home.  
  • Wear a face mask – You need to wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose. If possible, please bring your own. We have a limited supply on hand for those who do not have one. 
  • Check-in and check-out daily at established locations – Everyone entering and leaving a campus will be expected to check in and check out by completing a form (Students | Employees) at established entry/exit points.  Students must check-in at the Bookstore, and employees must check-in at the Security Office see the map below.
  • Take the Required Health and Safety Training – You will be expected to complete health and safety training that details recommended social distancing and hygiene best practices. 
    • Students will be required to complete the training in their classes with their instructors on the first day of class. 
    • Employees are required to complete the training before returning to campus or on their first day at campus. Employees can register to take the training online or view a pre-recorded video on Canvas. Anyone without a Canvas account may email dislrn@seattlecolleges.edu to receive one. 

      If you have additional questions, students should ask their instructors, employees should ask their supervisors.
      We appreciate everyone’s patience and diligence in working to keep everyone safe. 

Campus Entry map

North Seattle College is hoping to resume in-person instruction for the fall quarter. However, in light of the ongoing uncertainty, we will remain flexible to ensure compliance with public health guidance. Key dates for the fall quarter are listed below. Please note that the dates for fall registration have not changed.

Key dates

May 18

Fall registration for returning students

May 26

Fall registration for new students

Sept. 29

Fall quarter begins

Oct. 5

Last day to add/register – South

Oct. 12

Last day to add/register – North and Central

Dec. 17

Fall quarter ends

Summer quarter will begin as scheduled on June 29, primarily through online instruction. Programs requiring labs, face-to-face, and hands-on instruction, if offered, will be in accordance with public health and social distancing guidelines.

Summer registration for returning students will open May 18. Registration will open May 26 for new students.  Please see MyNorth for the list of summer courses and course information.

More information will be shared as it is available. 

Counseling Resources for Online Learning

The NSC Counseling Department is available to support to students during the transition to online learning and in the time of COVID-19.  

Looking for tips to be successful in your online classes?   

Research shows online students do best when they: 

  1. Choose/clear-off a consistent space for study
  2. Make a study schedule blocking times
  3. Put phone and messaging services on "silence"
  4. Check-in regularly/actively participate-- making a comment/asking a question on discussion boards
  5. Stay healthy--eat, sleep, exercise, schedule electronic visits with loved-ones. 

Please see the counseling website for additional tips for success in online classes.

Seeking additional counseling resources?

  • Please see the counseling website for Emergency, Crisis, Health, Behavioral /Mental Health resources.
  • Tele-consulting with a Counseling faculty member, about academic success skills, is available for currently enrolled students: nscccounselingcenter@seattlecolleges.edu.
  • Join the counseling faculty for the "Well-Being and Productivity in the Time of COVID-19" workshop on Thurs. April 30 at noon. Register through SLC Online Services via Zoom.
  • Need help identifying your career interests and college major, and with developing skills to meet your goals? Register for HDC100. 02: Personal Evaluation and Career Planning (2 credits) with instructor Jenny Mao. For permission to enter HDC100, email instructor jenny.mao@seattlecolleges.edu.
  • Visit the counseling website for additional information and support.

Dear Students,

The coronavirus pandemic has changed many things. But it doesn't change the exceptional achievements of our Class of 2020.

In years past, we have used our commencement ceremony to award degrees and celebrate our graduates. This year will be slightly different, but our passion and enthusiasm remain.

Uncertainty around the current pandemic has led us to cancel the June 25 in-person commencement ceremony. However, we are working with student leaders to evaluate options and alternatives to show love, appreciation, and admiration to graduates.

Make no mistake, we are determined to celebrate the Class of 2020 in a manner fitting of our students' hard work and perseverance. Graduates should apply for graduation in the normal manner.

Although things are different than we had planned, we encourage everyone to keep looking forward, remain hopeful, and show compassion and understanding for those in need.

Stay home, stay healthy, and an early "Congratulations!" to the Class of 2020 from all of us at Seattle Colleges.

Shouan Pan
Chancellor, Seattle Colleges       

Kurt Buttleman
Acting President, North Seattle College 

Pursuant to Governor Inslee’s updated date, May 4, for the Stay at Home order, North Seattle College will now be offering only online classes for Spring Quarter for all programs, April 13 - May 4. It is currently anticipated that the following list of programs may offer some in person instruction starting May 5.  

EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)
Watch Technology
Pharmacy Technician
Medical Assisting
Phlebotomy
Electronics
Engineering Graphics

Student Services will also only be offered virtually during this time. No in person services will be available until May 5 at the earliest.

Dear North Seattle College students,

Thank you for your patience and flexibility regarding plans for Spring Quarter. Spring Quarter classes at North will begin on Monday, April 13, and most classes will be online for the entire quarter. We believe this is the best way to continue spring classes while observing social distancing requirements and prioritizing the health and safety of the North Seattle College community.

Most classes will be online, including labs, studio art classes, and physical education classes. A few programs will require some on-campus instruction due to regulatory or accreditation requirements. More information about in-person instruction will be shared when it is available. We will continue to consider your health and safety and to follow the state and federal guidelines for disease prevention while planning requirements for Spring Quarter. By April 13, you should receive information from your instructor about courses and how the courses will be taught in the Spring Quarter.  You may also find specific information about your spring classes in the instructor notes section of MyNorth.

Programs with some on-campus instruction are as follows:
EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)
Watch Technology
Pharmacy Technician
Medical Assisting
Phlebotomy
Electronics
Engineering Graphics
Parent Education

We encourage you to plan your spring schedule and register for Spring Quarter classes now. Advisors are available by email to assist you with selecting and registering for classes. The college will have limited on-site services until further notice, but we are still available to answer your questions by phone or email.

North is here to help you have a successful spring quarter. Advising, Counseling, Disability Services, Financial Aid, Tutoring and other Student Services staff are available to help you transition to online classes and to help you continue your academic plan this spring. Please check departments’ websites for more information and updates. Additional resources to support you are found on the Online Classes & Technology Assistance page and the Emergency Resources for Students page.

For more information about ordering books for Spring Quarter, please check your email and the North Seattle College Bookstore site.

We will continue to send updates to your Seattle Colleges email address and update the North Seattle College COVID-19 website. Please reach out if you have questions or need assistance to prepare for Spring Quarter.

Dear North Seattle College community,

Since North moved to online classes and remote operations due to coronavirus, we have asked you to keep us informed about your health and your students’ health. With the number of confirmed cases in the state increasing, it felt like just a matter of time before we would hear news of a confirmed case from our community.

There have been a few reports of illness over the past few weeks, and unfortunately, we have now received our first reports of confirmed coronavirus cases. At this time, there are two reports of confirmed cases from our college community. Both people are resting and recovering.

These two community members were last on campus on March 4 and March 12, and we are past the 14 day required quarantine period since that time. Additionally, the campus was cleaned and disinfected after those dates. Students and staff who interacted with these two people have been informed of their exposure.

We hope that you are taking care of yourselves and your community. Please continue to prioritize your health, and follow the Stay Home, Stay Healthy guidelines. If you are ill, please follow the public health guidelines, and know that the college community is here to support each other.

Sincerely,

Kurt R. Buttleman, Ed.D.
Acting President - North Seattle College 
Vice Chancellor for Academic & Student Success- Seattle Colleges

Message to students and employees from the Seattle Colleges District:

In compliance with Gov. Inslee’s Stay at Home order, Seattle Colleges is closed to the public and only operating essential services at physical locations until midnight April 6. Supervisors will contact employees needed to operate these services.

Seattle Colleges will provide more information about operation and working conditions beyond April 7 as it becomes available.

Plans for Spring Quarter 2020 remain with the following modifications:

  • We will announce a new date for opening core student services—such as bookstore, registration, financial aid, admissions, and cashiering—soon. Remote (online, phone, etc.) services remain available.
  • The Spring 2020 Academic Calendar has been adjusted:
    • April 6 – Tuition due date (originally March 9)
    • April 13 – SPRING QUARTER BEGINS
    • April 17 – Last day to withdraw with 100% refund (less processing fee). Last day to add/register (South)
    • April 24 – Last day to add/register—instructor permission required (Central and North). Last day to change audit/credit status without instructor permission.
    • April 29 – Last day to withdraw without a "W" appearing on transcript.
    • May 2 – Last day to withdraw with 50% refund.  
    • May 13 – Development Day
    • May 29 – Last day to change/audit credit status—instructor permission required.  Last day to withdraw (no refund)
    • June 19 – SPRING QUARTER ENDS

Seattle Colleges remains committed to helping our students achieve their academic goals. We are balancing this with the need to keep our students and employees healthy and safe. This may require more modification to these plans. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

In the meantime, stay home and stay healthy.

Seattle Colleges Community,

This evening Gov. Inslee issued a “stay at home” order for the state of Washington. Seattle Colleges is working with government officials to determine a path forward. More information soon.

District Communications

Today, the Seattle Colleges announced that Spring Quarter classes will start April 13 primarily through online and alternative modes of instruction where possible. Programs requiring labs, face-to-face, and hands-on instruction will also begin April 13 at all campuses and locations. We will provide additional information about specific spring quarter classes and campus services when details are confirmed. Please continue to check this site for updates.

Please see the Seattle Colleges site for the full announcement.

North Seattle College operations will continue remote operations March 16-27. On March 30, the college will open for limited in-person student and business services, as health, government, and staffing requirements allow.

Message to students and employees from the Seattle Colleges District:

Seattle Colleges Community,

Seattle Colleges is planning for a Spring Quarter of instruction. The leadership team is actively working with our labor partners to determine the details and timeline. An announcement will be made no later than Thursday, March 19.

In the meantime, Seattle Colleges is focusing on establishing a list of core student and business services and opening those operations March 30, as allowed by Governor Inslee’s and public health guidelines.

District Communications

Message to students from the Seattle Colleges District:

Dear Students,

Today, Governor Inslee called for colleges and universities to transition to online and alternative modes of instruction, effective Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 26. Classes that cannot be offered online may operate with social distancing and essential campus operations can continue. This is consistent with our current operations for Winter Quarter through March 25.

We know you are thinking ahead to Spring Quarter and likely have many questions about it in light of Governor Inslee's comments today.

Seattle Colleges intends to deliver Spring Quarter instruction. Some details remain to be worked out, but our leadership team and faculty will be working together to make it happen. More detailed information about Spring Quarter will be provided next week.

We appreciate your patience and understanding.

District Communications

Chromebooks Available for Library Checkout for Spring Quarter Students

North Seattle College library is making a limited number of Chromebook laptop computers available to students to better enable them to continue their studies online, using Canvas. Eligible students may use the computers and return them at the end of spring quarter to the library. Computers will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until the supply is exhausted, so you need to act now.

To be eligible, you must:
•    Not have a computer at home to use.
•    Be registered for and taking for-credit classes spring quarter (including ABE, ESL and IBEST students). Not-for-credit continuing education classes are not eligible.
•    Have access to internet service at home.
•    Have received a referral form from one of the referring areas listed below.
Priority will be given to students who are also caregivers (children, other family members) and need to be home, and other students with substantial economic need.

To receive a referral for a computer, you need to contact one of the referral areas listed below who will verify your eligibility and issue a referral form. You will need this form to pick up your computer next week. Your referral staff will arrange to have your computer delivered to you at your home by an NSC staff member, maintaining social distancing.

To receive a referral form, contact one of the following referral areas immediately:
NSC Academic Advising, leanna.bordner@seattlecolleges.edu
NSC Student Financial Aid Office, NSCCfinancialaid@seattlecolleges.edu 
NSC/UWKC Benefits Hub, Jamie.lewis@seattlecolleges.edu
NSC Workforce Education Office, nworkforce@seattlecolleges.edu 
NSC Equity and Welcome Center, Dandre.Fisher@Seattlecolleges.edu  

Service updates:

The North Seattle College bookstore is closed today, Thursday, March 12. Hours for Friday, March 13 are to be determined.

The Wellness Center will be closed until further notice. Please check back for potential updates to the schedule.

Message from the President:

Dear North Seattle College community,

As we continue to adapt and respond to public health recommendations regarding the coronavirus, North Seattle College will be moving to remote operations starting Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27. North Seattle College will resume operations Monday, March 30, pending guidance from public health officials. The decision was made in response to the Public Health of Seattle & King County recommendation for employers to enable as many employees as possible to telecommute in order to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). 

All North Seattle College classes and campus services will operate remotely during the closure, and students and employees should not come to campus. Employees, please work with your supervisor to make arrangements to work remotely. The college will remain open through Sunday, March 15, which will allow time for you to prepare for remote operations.

Students should continue to work with instructors to finish winter quarter classes. Although our campus buildings will be closed, Student Services employees in financial aid, advising, the cashier’s office, etc. are working remotely and can still support students in registering for spring classes, and answering questions. The best way to contact each service at this time is through their department email found online. Students can also call and leave a message, and staff will respond as soon as possible.

At this time, we do not have a report of a positive coronavirus test from a North Seattle College student or employee. However, with safety and prevention in mind, we will use the closure to clean and disinfect classrooms, offices, and common areas. During the closure, our cleaning staff will need access to work space surfaces. We ask employees to please remove personal items, papers, food, and other materials from desk, shelf or table tops. Employees will be able to access their work stations until the close of business on Sunday, March 15.

We will continue to be in touch when we have something new to report.  Please look for email updates, and updates on our website: https://northseattle.edu/coronavirus. And, if you haven’t signed up for emergency alert messages, please do so now: www.getrave.com/login/seattlecolleges

Thank you for your flexibility and willingness to respond to this situation.

Sincerely,

Sincerely,
Warren Brown, Ed.D.
President, North Seattle College

The North Seattle College Food Pantry operations are temporarily suspended. We hope to re-open the first week of spring quarter, on Thursday, April 9, 2020, pending direction from the district and/or campus administration.

In the meantime, students, staff and community members may find food resources at area food banks including the Ballard Food Bank, Bethany Community Church, Wallingford-FamilyWorks Food Bank, Greenwood-FamilyWorks Food Bank, North Helpline-Bitter Lake, North Helpline-Lake City, Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, and the University District Food Bank. Additionally, the Equity and Welcome Center is currently operating on a 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. daily schedule and can provide grab-and-go items (soup, snacks, etc.) to students.

If you live outside of North Seattle, here are other food banks which may be near you: https://www.parenthelp123.org/resources/food-assistance-resources

The Student Learning Center is operating within its normal hours until further notice.

To help alleviate large gatherings of people and support students who may not want to come to campus, the SLC has two options:

  • E-Tutoring. This is tutoring offered both synchronously and asynchronously through the Western e-tutoring consortium. Access instructions are on the website.
  • Online Zoom tutoring with our in-house staff. Students can check the online schedule, and click on the link to enter the Zoom room with the tutor.

The Personal Statement Workshop online tomorrow on Zoom. Students can RSVP here. And they will be able to join the online workshop by following this link.

The Library, eLearning, Teaching and Learning Center, and Student Media Center have updated hours on their sites:


Dear Students,

Through continued review of the King County Public Health recommendations, conversations with our staff, and noting that we are nearing final exams, we have decided to suspend classroom instruction for one day, Monday, March 9, meaning no classes will be held at NSC on Monday.  At that time faculty will be working to create lesson plans for the remaining weeks of winter quarter that will reduce face-to-face class time. On Tuesday, March 10, classes will resume and your instructors will be in touch to share their plans for the rest of the quarter.  

Campus facilities and all student services will remain open to continue to serve you. Available services include the Child Care Center, Student Learning Center, Advising Office, Registration Office, Library, Business Office, and Wellness Center.

There are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among students or employees at any Seattle Colleges locations. The decision to suspend classroom instruction is intended to minimize the potential exposure to coronavirus by students, faculty, and staff. This follows our decision on Thursday to cancel public events at our campus involving more than 50 people.  If a COVID-19 case is confirmed, NSC will review our operational plan.

We will continue prioritize your health and safety and will be in touch with updates. Please check the Seattle Colleges informational site for the most up-to-date information: seattlecolleges.edu/coronavirus.

And, if you haven’t signed up for emergency alert messages, please do so now: www.getrave.com/login/seattlecolleges.

Thank you for your patience as we continue to navigate this situation, and please take care.

Sincerely,
Warren Brown, Ed.D.
President, North Seattle College