FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 9, 2004 
CONTACT: (850) 921-0384

Education Commissioner and Community Colleges Chancellor Visit Schools and Colleges Affected by Hurricanes

~~ Winn and Armstrong congratulate college on its efforts to help affected students ~~

DAYTONA BEACH – Education Commissioner John Winn and Community Colleges Chancellor David Armstrong today visited schools and community colleges in areas affected by Hurricane Frances. During a visit to Daytona Beach Community College, Winn and Armstrong congratulated the college's administration for its unique student-centered approach to hurricane recovery. The college announced it will offer students a “Fresh Start” by re-starting the college semester next week and allowing new students to enroll in classes until next Monday, September 13th.

“This innovative approach exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit of our community college system and demonstrates Daytona Beach Community College's dedication to student success,” said Commissioner Winn.

Daytona Beach’s enrollment – unlike that of other colleges – is mostly comprised of non-traditional students, many of whom work fulltime. “Fresh Start” enrollment, designed specifically for Daytona Beach Community College’s student population, relieves much of the post-hurricane stress and anxiety.

“We are working closely with every college in the Florida Community College System to evaluate the recent hurricanes' effects on students and faculty,” said Chancellor Armstrong. “Each institution has unique circumstances and every college president is working to find the right solution for their college.”

The Division of Community Colleges and Workforce Education is coordinating conference calls this week with the college's academic deans and business officers to discuss issues arising from the recent hurricanes and share best practices learned in recent weeks.

Winn and Armstrong also visited Seminole Community College, Turie T. Small Elementary in Volusia County, Discovery Elementary in Brevard County, Gifford Middle School in Indian River County, and Indian River Community College today to assess their needs and how the Department of Education might be able to assist in hurricane recovery.

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