Like most any organization, Blue Ridge Job Corps had to adapt quickly to the changing landscape amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, this meant all current students, save for a few with special circumstances, were transported back home, and away from the Job Corps campus. This eventually led to the implementation of distance learning, as students and instructors made the switch from in-person, hands-on training to virtual instruction. In November 2020, BRJC began the process of returning those students to campus, which required a methodical approach of small groups of students, COVID testing, 14-day quarantine, as well as changing from an open campus (students can come and go in the evenings) to a closed campus. Over the past several months, Blue Ridge has returned those students to campus, but was not yet allowed to enroll new students into the program, but that changed in June, 2021.
After careful consideration by the U.S. Department of Labor, Blue Ridge Job Corps became one of the first 13 Job Corps centers in the country allowed to enroll new students in 15 months. This new process of virtual enrollment allows these students to begin the program from home, where they are able to complete the “Career Preparation Phase” completely online. After 60 days of distance learning, they will then transition to the full on-campus experience.
There are currently 10 new students enrolled, and all are still within their 60 day distance learning period. While it is a major adjustment for many of them, they are making the best of it and are appreciative of the opportunity, especially after such a long wait. Two of the primary staff hoping to ease the transition are CPP Counselor BreAnna McGhee and CPP Instructor Michael Little. “Ms. Bre has been the biggest help to me throughout this process,” stated Frederickburg native Tyreesha Sanders, “and Mr. Little always takes the time to explain things if I don’t understand.” Jennifer Smith of Scottsville, VA also spoke highly of both staff members; “Mr. Little is so helpful, and Ms. Bre has been wonderful!”
Career Services Manager Kelley Crusenberry stated “We are all so very proud of this group of students as they enter into this very unique situation, and we are so excited to begin welcoming new students to campus very soon.”