Kirkwood takes precautions with in-person classes

WASHINGTON - Gloves, masks and social distancing allow Kirkwood Community College students to get valuable hands-on experience.

Kirkwood offers a variety of 'career academies” where students get hands-on experience learning engineering, construction, automotive repair and more.

Director Tera Pickens said the students learning in a lab with an industry expert is critical. While some courses and lessons can be held online, courses such as welding and plumbing have to be done in-person.

The school had added additional safety measures such as masks, gloves and hand sanitizing. Tools are also sanitized after each use. When there is necessary lectures, the students are spread out in larger classrooms.

The school has not had to change any coursework or eliminate any classes. Enrollment has also stayed consistent to previous years in the hands-on programs, Pickens said.

Pickens said in the past there were more field trips and industry tours, but this year the students are seeing virtual presentations and tours.

'The students are here and excited,” Pickens said.

While the schools is thankful they were able to hold in-person lessons, Pickens said the students are happy to have the opportunity.