Post-Hurricane Irma FAQ For Students
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the affects of Hurricane Irma on classes, testing, financial aid, and more.
Q: I missed the deadline to register for a 12-week class. What can I do?
A: The add period for 12-week classes has been extended to 11:59 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22.
Q: I missed the TEAS test I was scheduled for when the college closed. Can I make this up and still apply for January admission to the Nursing Program?
A: The Testing Center called all students on Monday, Sept. 18, who missed the TEAS test to reschedule. If you did not receive a call, call the TLCC at 863.297.1033 in Lakeland or 863.297.1033 in Winter Haven to reschedule your test date. If you test at Polk State College, your results will be immediately posted to your student record for the application deadline on Sept. 22. If you test somewhere other than Polk State, immediately call ATI to request a transcript of your scores to be sent to Polk State. Submit documentation of your testing with your admission application.
Q: What if I missed or need to miss an assignment, quiz, or test as a result of Hurricane Irma?
A: Please communicate directly with your instructors regarding your situation. Faculty will work on each individual circumstance.
Q: What if I cannot attend classes?
A: Class attendance and participation are important to your success in college. Students who are unable to attend class should communicate with their instructors as soon as possible and ask about options to make up assignments, tests, or quizzes. If you are unable to make up work and continue in your class, you should speak to an academic advisor to discuss other options available to assist you.
Q: What if I missed the first class after the College reopened?
Students who missed class should communicate with their instructors as soon as possible and ask about options to make up assignments, tests, or quizzes. Do not simply stop attending class. If you are unable to make up work and continue in your class, you should speak to an academic advisor to discuss other options available to assist you.
Q: What if I am unable to continue in my classes and complete the semester? Should I withdraw from my classes on PASSPORT?
A: Students should always communicate with their instructors regarding their specific situation. If you feel that you are unable to continue, you should speak to an academic advisor to discuss your options. Withdrawing from classes has consequences that may result in students having to repay financial aid, and it may impact your future eligibility for financial aid. Please speak to an academic advisor before making any decisions.
Q: I am an international student. Will dropping or withdrawing from classes impact my status as an international student?
A: Yes. International students should contact Simmi Johnson in Lakeland at 863.669.2822 or sjohnson@polk.edu, or Mary Westgate in Winter Haven at 863.292.3758 or mwestgate@polk.edu.
Q: I am a veteran. Will dropping or withdrawing from classes impact my educational benefits?
A: Yes. Veteran students should contact Byron Lloyd at 863.298.6886 or bloyd@polk.edu.
Q: I receive financial aid. Will dropping or withdrawing from classes impact the status of my financial aid?
A: It may. Students should contact an academic advisor to discuss their options before withdrawing from any classes. Students may also contact Ronshetta Howell, Director of Student Financial Services, at 863.669.2955 or rhowell@polk.edu.
Q: Where can I get help with anxiety, depression, or other issues?
A: Students have 24-hour access to mental health counseling through the BayCare Student Assistance Program. Students can call 1.800.878.5470 to speak to a licensed counselor or make an appointment for face-to-face counseling. BayCare counselors are also available on the Winter Haven campus on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in WAD 159, and on the Lakeland campus on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in LTB 1274. To schedule an appointment, call 863.669.2309. Walk-ins are also welcome. All services are free and confidential.
Q: Where can I go if I need food?
A: Students in need of food can visit My Brother’s Keeper in Modular 1 on the Winter Haven campus or the food pantry on the Lakeland campus, located in the SALO offices on the second floor of the Student Center.
Q: Where can I go to take a shower?
A: Students may use the showers in the locker room in the Winter Haven Health Center (WHC) on the Winter Haven campus during normal business hours. In Lakeland, students may use the showers in the Lakeland Wellness Center (LWC) from Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Q: I am having trouble getting to campus. Is transportation available?
A: Citrus Connection buses have resumed their normal operations. All Polk State College students can ride Citrus Connection buses for free by showing their College student ID card. You can access route information at www.ridecitrus.com.
Q: My home Internet connection is down. Where can I go to access the Internet?
A: If you have lost connectivity at home or work, there are public locations where you can gain free access to the Internet. The College’s libraries and TLCCs are fully operational and have computers available for student use. You may view the hours of operation at www.polk.edu/library-tlcc-tutoring. In addition, we’ve compiled a list community locations that you may access at www.polk.edu/news/hurricane-recovery-resources.
Q: Do you know of community resources that are available to assist me?
A: To find available local resources, use United Way’s 2-1-1 Community Resource Directory at www.navigateresources.net/211CommunityResources, by phone at 888.370.7188, or text at 898.211. Polk State has also prepared a list of local resources to assist students, faculty, and staff in their storm recovery on and off campus. You may access the list at www.polk.edu/news/hurricane-recovery-resources.