from Dr. Patrick Tompkins

Dear Your Eastern Shore Students,

FIRST, A CAUTION

Here on the Shore we saw a tremendous spike in COVID-19 cases in the last week. Your Eastern Shore Community College keeps all those affected by the virus in our thoughts and in our hearts.

Please be sure to follow the latest CDC guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. Also please review these instructions for guidance on what to do if you feel ill.

REMINDER: CASH MAY BE HEADED YOUR WAY

The federal CARES act provides funding for some students. These funds do not have to be used for school expenses. You may be eligible for some of this funding, but your information must be current in our records. Here’s how to check and update it: 

MyESCC > SIS > Student Center > Campus Personal Information. Then update your physical address, phone numbers, and personal email address.

THE FINISH LINE

Hey, you’re almost at the end of the semester—classes end in just two weeks! Your Eastern Shore is immensely proud of you and your perseverance during this very difficult time. Our goal is for every student to complete, and we’ll do everything we can to get you there. 

Remember to contact your teachers or Student Services if you need help finishing the semester: studentservices@es.vccs.edu.

GRADUATION

Speaking of completing, many of you will have completed your career studies certificate, certificate, or associate degree this spring. Although we have postponed the commencement ceremony, we have not postponed graduation! You will receive your diploma at the end of May. 

STATE COVID-19 RESOURCES

The Virginia Department of Social Services has launched a resource page and app that will link you to resources and benefits for food, childcare, healthcare, housing, unemployment insurance, and more.

Here’s the website: https://covid.virginia.gov/.  The app is available in your app store:  COVID VA app. 

FOOD DISTRIBUTION

The food bank in Tasley is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

This week, food will be distributed to the public at Northampton High School on Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and at Taylor and Fulton Packing Shed in Mappsville on Friday, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

DON’T LOOK BACK

Face forward. The virus is treacherous for sure, but you can decide to keep moving forward! Register now for summer and fall. If there’s a class you need that’s not on our schedule, let us know by responding to this email.

For assistance with advising and enrolling, you can contact either your faculty advisor or our lead advisor, Sheryl Williamson:swilliamson@es.vccs.edu.

YES! WE CARE ABOUT YOU

Remember, YES! stands for Your Eastern Shore. That means this college, the entire community, and the land we call home. When you stay safe, you keep the rest of us safe.

Take good care,

p…

Patrick Tompkins, Ph.D.
Vice President
Academic, Student, & Workforce Programs