In an effort to respond to the needs of our community impacted by Tropical Storm Harvey, College of the Mainland will delay the opening of its fall 2017 classes until Monday, Sept. 11.

While classes will begin on Sept. 11, students will be able to visit the campus beginning Tuesday, Sept. 5, to register for classes, see advisors, and make payment arrangements.

Other college community services, such as the library, gymnasium and Child Lab, will open at regular hours starting on Tuesday, Sept. 5, as well.

With the college beginning classes two weeks later than previously scheduled, COM is pushing back payment deadlines for students enrolling with deferred payment plans.

The second installment for registered students who have made an initial payment will be deducted on October 5.

“We understand that our students, employees and communities have been affected by this devastating flood event, and we want to allow time for them to recover from Tropical Storm Harvey,” said COM President Dr. Warren Nichols.

Faculty are currently working on options for students to make up lost class time. Students will be able to make up classes via alternatives that fit their schedules, such as completing projects and special assignments at home or online.

Communications from the college, including class schedules and fall registration, will be distributed to students through email and text alerts. The best source of information is the college website, and its official Facebook and Twitter accounts.

We encourage our students to take care of themselves and their families. We look forward to the opening of classes on Sept. 11.