G.O.A.L. Program Loans 30 Laptops
During the fall semester 2016 at PVCC, the library introduced the G.O.A.L. program which allowed 30 students who meet financial aid requirements to use laptops for their homework outside of school. Students who qualify have to be enrolled in at least six credits, including one face-to-face class on the main campus. Another deciding factor is how much a student’s family contributes according to their FAFSA calculation.
Applications for the next semester will be available during the spring semester of 2017, according to Jacqueline Carrell. The students who had laptops in the previous semester have first consideration. Otherwise, computers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The application process can take from a few days to a few weeks. After reviewing each application, the library will choose applicants who will then need to sign a contract.
Before students can receive the laptop, they must go to an orientation session. Students who are on academic probation are allowed to apply and be approved for the G.O.A.L. program, but the library website says that they have to meet with a retention advisor.
If students drop a class and are taking fewer than six credits, the students have to return the laptops. If the students do not turn the laptop in 72 hours, then they must pay a fee of $5 per day.
All laptops that are being borrowed in the spring semester must be returned by May 8, 2017. If they are not returned by 9:30 p.m. on May 8, 2017, there will be a charge of $5 per day late, according to a notice on the laptop.
Along with a fine, the student will not be allowed to receive their grades, transcripts, or diplomas until the laptop is returned, according to the contract. The contract also states that if the laptop is past due by seven business days then the student is not allowed to use the G.O.A.L. program in any future semesters.
When asked if the G.O.A.L. program has been a success since it has started, Jacqueline Carrell said that “it had been a success so far.” So if a student needs a laptop and does not have the means to buy one, go to the library and ask about the G.O.A.L. program.
