FAQs on Joliet Junior College Operations

The latest details on Joliet Junior College operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Masks Optional Starting April 1

Masks will still be required in classrooms, the Shield Testing area, and large meeting spaces where distancing is difficult through the end of the spring semester.

  • Read More

    From JJC President Dr. Judy Mitchell (3-24-22)

    As a college community, we remain encouraged by decreasing positivity rates and increasing vaccination rates at the college and around our district. Your patience and empathy are what drives our success through these transitions.   
     
    I want to take a moment to thank the Emergency Response Team, led by Dr. Yolanda Farmer, for serving as the college’s COVID-19 campus operations advisory and resource team as we move through another phase of the pandemic. The absolute resilience I have witnessed within this campus community over the last two years is utterly remarkable.   
     
    As we previously communicated in February, JJC will move to a mask-optional environment on April 1. Masks will still be required in classrooms, the Shield Testing area, and large meeting spaces where distancing is difficult through the end of the spring semester.
     
    The reason we have waited to send this reminder is that we have been waiting to see if Governor Pritzker will renew the executive order requiring higher education institutions to have weekly COVID test or vaccination requirements. Unfortunately, we have not received any updates about the executive order. This means that beyond April 1, we will still require those entering campus to use a Cleared4 pass.  As we receive more information from the state, we will revisit campus operations related to the use of Cleared4 and Dr. Farmer will share these updates with you.  
     
    This upcoming phase of our campus operations will require us to work together as we bring with us different experiences and varying comfort levels. We know that wearing a mask is a personal choice. It is important that we extend empathy to one another and withhold judgment no matter what decision someone makes. We need to champion the community of care we have established and respect the choices of our colleagues.  
     
    Of equal importance is that the mask optional changes do not impact our other COVID-19 safety protocols including social distancing, contact tracing, on-campus testing, enhanced cleaning, and increased air exchange. 
     
    Thank you for helping us move through this new moment and upholding our core values.

Important COVID-19 Vaccination/Testing Requirements

In accordance with applicable COVID-19 Disaster Proclamations and Executive Orders issued by Governor Pritzker, all on-campus students and employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. All students attending classes onsite and all employees working on campus who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for any reason are required to provide a negative test a minimum of once per week. More details below. 

What to Know When Entering Campus

In accordance with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's vaccine or test mandate, which has been extended through May 28, the college has partnered with health verification system Cleared4 to easily allow students and employees to upload COVID vaccination cards, COVID test results, and to submit daily symptom checks. 

Watch: Using Cleared4

Watch: Scanning Your Access Pass

  • More on Vaccine or Test Executive Order

    From Executive Vice President Dr. Yolanda Farmer (5-04-22)

    Please be aware that Governor Pritzker's executive order requiring students and employees of higher education institutions be vaccinated or provide a weekly COVID test has been extended through May 28, 2022. 

    Read the Executive Order

    It has been encouraging to see the numbers of COVID cases go down nationally and locally. At JJC, we will continue to require students and employees have either a vaccine card in Cleared4 or upload a negative COVID test each week. As a reminder, we are currently operating in a mask-optional environment, with masks required in classrooms, the Shield Testing area, along with large meeting spaces where distancing is difficult through the end of the spring semester.

    There is much to be thankful for. Spring is here and graduation vibes are in the air! I can never say it enough--thank you for your collaboration as we move through this together.

  • Are you a JJC student, employee or regularly on campus?

    You'll need an Access Pass in order to enter campus. Here's how to get it: 

    • You will receive a personalized link from C4 via your JJC email and/or text message. Open the link to access your profile. Didn't receive a link or having trouble accessing the system? Email cleared4@jjc.edu. 
    • You'll be asked to complete a one-time confidential health survey.
    • After that, you'll need to answer one health question each day before arriving on campus.
    • Once you are cleared for work or class, you can open your daily "AccessPass."
    • When entering a campus building, hold up your pass to the hands-free scanner at the greeter table (The greeter will see your name and photo on their screen and verify you are cleared for campus). 
    • As an extra precaution, those entering campus will also need to have their temperature taken at the greeter station. 

  • Are you a visitor and rarely on campus?

    Access Passes from Cleared4 are not required for visitors who are rarely on campus, such as prospective students and/or parents, test-takers, and general members of the public who are not on campus at least once a week and not enrolled in classes.

    Visitors will still be required to follow existing social distancing and masking protocols, and have their temperature taken at the greeter station when entering campus. 

  • Need more information about Cleared4?

    • For a quick overview of the system, watch our videos: Using Cleared4 and Scanning Your Access Pass. 
    • For a list of frequently asked questions about Cleared4, including about privacy, visit the Cleared4 FAQ page. 
    • If you didn't receive a personalized link or have other questions about accessing or using Cleared4, email cleared4@jjc.edu (monitored M-F during normal business hours). 

     

Questions About Vaccine or Test Mandate

Questions about the COVID Vaccine

  • How will vaccination status be verified?

    JJC has partnered with health verification system Cleared4 to easily enter your proof of COVID vaccination, upload your test results, and more. This user-friendly service will help keep you, your families and everyone visiting campus safe and compliant with our current policies.

    This system goes into effect Sept. 20. Here's how it works: 

  • Will JJC be holding pop-up vaccination clinics?

    JJC has partnered with pharmacies since the summer to offer multiple onsite vaccination clinics, and will continue to explore future on-campus opportunities for students and employees.  

  • If I don't get vaccinated, what other options are there?

    Those who choose not to get the vaccine are required to get a COVID test once a week, effective Sept. 20, regardless of vaccine exemption. 

  • What does fully vaccinated mean?

    An individual is considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine. Students and employees that are on campus are required to get tested weekly until fully vaccinated.

  • Will the college require booster vaccine shots?

    The college is not requiring booster COVID vaccine shots at this time. 

Questions About COVID Testing

  • Where can I get a COVID test?

    JJC offers free COVID tests through our partnership with SHIELD Illinois, a saliva testing program through the University of Illinois. Appointments are required for community testing. Testing sites include: 

    • Main Campus (view map) | 1215 Houbolt Rd, Joliet*
      • Lower Level J Building (J004 and J006)
      • Points of entry: Buildings A, G, U, & J
      • *For JJC students, employees and community members
    • Romeoville Campus | 1125 W Romeo Rd, Romeoville*
      • First Floor, RMA 1019
      • *For JJC students and employees only
    • City Center Campus | 235 N Chicago St, Joliet*
      • Classroom 1030/Flex Space 1029 
      • *For JJC students and employees only

    Learn More/Schedule Test Appointment

  • How often will unvaccinated students and employees need to get tested?

    If you are unvaccinated you will be required to take a weekly COVID test, effective the week of Sept. 20. Those with an approved religious or medical exemption will still be required to take a weekly COVID test. 

    Please note, appointments are required for community testing. 

  • What type of weekly COVID test is required?

    JJC requires PCR tests. These tests are administered by SHIELD Illinois on the JJC campus, and through other clinics in the area. Rapid testing is not allowed.

    View Will County testing sites

  • How will weekly testing be tracked?

    Those taking weekly COVID tests will need to upload your results through the Cleared4 health verification system.

  • How do I upload my test results?

    Watch: How to Upload COVID Test Results

    • From your C4 account, select the “Upload Negative COVID-19 Test Proof” button.
    • Take a picture of your test result, or upload an image or screenshot of your test result.
    • Your result will be verified by C4. 
    • Continue to answer your daily health check question for each day you’re on campus. 
    • Only PCR tests will be accepted. At-home rapid tests cannot be accepted. 

  • How quickly will I receive the results?

    Results are typically received within 24 hours of the sample arriving at the lab. 

  • Do the tests cost money?

    SHIELD testing at JJC is free, as are clinic sites throughout Will County. 

  • Is the college allowing exemptions to testing?

    There is no exemption for COVID testing. Starting Sept. 20, the college will require anyone who is unvaccinated, regardless of vaccine exemption, to get a COVID test once a week if you are regularly on campus. 

  • Should vaccinated individuals still get tested?

    If you have not provided proof of vaccination, you must complete weekly COVID tests, starting Sept. 20. Students and employees that are on campus are required to get tested weekly until fully vaccinated.

    An individual is considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine.

    Those who are fully vaccinated typically do not need to be routinely tested. However, the CDC recommends that anyone with any signs of symptoms of COVID-19 get tested, regardless of vaccination status.

     

     

  • If I test positive for COVID, what are the guidelines for returning to class or work?

    Follow JJC’s existing COVID process after a positive COVID test, when feeling symptomatic, or feeling asymptomatic if you’ve been in close contact with a confirmed or probable COVID case.  

Still Have Questions?

General Operations During COVID-19 Pandemic

Find below answers to common questions on operations at JJC during the fall semester. 

  • What Hours Are You Open/Where Can I Enter Campus?

    When on campus, employees, students and visitors will be required to follow the safety measures outlined on this page.

    Spring Semester Hours of Operation (View full academic calendar):

    • Main Campus | 1215 Houbolt Rd, Joliet
      • A, J & U Buildings: Mon-Fri, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
      • G Building: Mon-Fri, 5:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sat 7 a.m. - noon 
      • Closed Sundays
    • Romeville Campus | 1125 W Romeo Rd, Romeoville
      • Mon-Fri, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
      • Closed weekends
    • City Center | 235 N Chicago St, Joliet
      • Mon-Fri, 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
      • Sat, 7 a.m. – noon
      • Closed Sundays

  • Am I required to wear a mask on campus?

    Effective April 1, JJC has moved to a mask-optional environment. Masks will still be required in classrooms, the Shield Testing area, and large meeting spaces where distancing is difficult through the end of the spring semester.

  • COVID-19 Positive or Suspected Case Report

    JJC has established a decision-making process when a potential case is brought to the college’s attention. This form is for members of the Joliet Junior College community (students, faculty, and staff) to report confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19.

    Complete COVID-19 Positive or Suspected Case Report

    View COVID-19 Status Decision Making Process

  • Number of COVID-19 Cases and Tracking

    The chart below tracks cases of students and employees confirmed to have contracted COVID-19, effective Jan. 3, 2022. Previous tracking periods can be found here.

    This chart will be updated as the college becomes aware of new confirmed cases. It shows positive cases for individuals who have recently been on campus or potentially in close contact with others on campus. In each case, the area undergoes additional deep cleaning and all individuals with potential contact are communicated with directly.

    JJC has established a decision-making process when a potential case is brought to the college’s attention, and a form for students, faculty and staff to submit for a suspected or positive COVID-19 case. Anyone experiencing any of the COVID-19 symptoms as outlined by the CDC are strongly encouraged to stay home.

    Confirmed COVID-19 cases at JJC are tracked weekly from Friday-Thursday.

    Joliet Junior College COVID-19 Confirmed Cases
          Current Week     (Feb. 4 - 10)       Cumulative        (As of Jan. 3)
    Students 3 19
    Employees 3 53
    Total   72
    Last updated: Feb. 11

     

    Previous cases of COVID-19 have been tracked since March 2020 at the start of the pandemic. For archived case numbers, visit our coronavirus advisory page.

  • When can I register for spring 2022 classes?

    Registration is open for the spring 2022 semester is open.

    • Start of spring semester: Jan. 17
    • Flex Start I: Jan. 31
    • Flex Start II: Feb. 14
    • Flex Start III: March 21

    New students: Apply here | View Additional Application Information

    Current students: Register here. 

  • Are courses online or in-person?

    JJC is offering in-person, hybrid, and remote classes. 

    • JJC’s lab courses will be face-to-face, including lab sections.
    • Six feet of social distancing requirements in classrooms. 
    • Size limits will be determined for each in-person class based on room capacity and every person being six feet apart.
      • Students can view how many spots are available when registering for each class. 
    • Some classes will offer hybrid options (Mix of face-to-face and virtual). 
      • Students can view frequency of face-to-face and online delivery when registering for each class. 
    • Class schedules will remain the same throughout the semester, unless COVID positivity rates increase and require more virtual work.

  • When are in-person and remote services available?

    Virtual student services will be available during business hours, with in-person appointments highly recommended. 

    • JJC’s lab courses will be face-to-face, including each lab section.
    • Some classes will offer hybrid options (Mix of face-to-face and virtual).
    • Student services: Virtual services available. In person appointments highly recommended. 
    • View complete academic calendar.

  • Are College Events On Campus?

    JJC is holding more in-person events on campus, as well as a mix of virtual events, in accordance with established safety measures and capacity limits. Visit www.jjc.edu/events or the college's social media pages (account links at bottom of web page), as well as specific department social media accounts to view upcoming events and locations. 

  • Is the college conducting employment searches?

    Joliet Junior College will continue to post job announcements and fill vacant or new positions at https://www.jjc.edu/about-jjc/college-leadership/administration/human-resources/jobs-careers/.

  • How do I connect with the college/ask questions?

    • JJC website and chat 
    • Main Switchboard: 815-729-9020
    • Information Desk: First Floor A-Building
    • Hours of Operation (Spring Semester):
      • Monday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
      • Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
      • Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
      • Thursday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
      • Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
    • View complete academic calendar.

College Offices and Student Support Services

Browse the information below get connected with JJC's various student support services.

Admissions and Recruitment

Adult Education and Literacy Services

Bookstore

Career Services

Disability Services

Dual Credit

Financial Aid/Veterans Resources

Food Services

International Students Services

Library

Lifelong Learning and Kids College

Mental Health and Wellness

Multicultural Student Services – Servicios Para Estudiantes Multiculturales

Professional Development and Career Training

Registration and Records

Scholarships

Student Accounts and Payments

Student Advising Center

Testing Services

Transfer Services

Tutoring and Learning Center

Veterans Resource Center