Clatsop Community College (CCC) is set to significantly enhance its learning environment by increasing the number of HyFlex (Hybrid-Flexible) classrooms from three to 14. This expansion, announced on September 5, 2025, is made possible through generous donations from the CCC Foundation, local residents Mike and Laura Brosius, and an anonymous donor who contributed $50,000.
According to Beth Van Elswyk, Director of the CCC Foundation, HyFlex classrooms provide a more engaging educational experience than traditional online formats. “It’s not Zoom. It’s much more interactive in that you’re still going to have a classroom feel, even if you’re at home,” she explained. This innovative classroom design allows remote learners to participate in classes live, while also offering the option to access recorded sessions at their convenience.
The introduction of these classrooms aims to improve accessibility for a diverse range of students, including those with jobs, childcare responsibilities, or those residing in remote areas. The initiative was inspired by a particular case when a pregnant nursing student was unable to attend classes in person. Van Elswyk noted, “There was a student that was pregnant, and so we said, ‘hey, let’s put that (HyFlex) in the nursing area’ … that way she was able to take that class and finish it from home.” This personalization reflects the college’s commitment to accommodating unique student needs.
Setting up a single HyFlex classroom, including necessary equipment and installation, costs approximately $7,000. CCC President Jarrod Hogue highlighted the importance of this expansion in a recent press release, stating, “One of the priorities in our new strategic plan is improving student access. Hybrid instruction, supported by high-quality classroom audio and video, allows us to provide greater flexibility for students balancing work, family, and transportation challenges.”
The new HyFlex equipment is expected to be installed and ready for use by Winter Term 2026. As educational institutions continue to adapt to changing student needs, Clatsop Community College’s initiative stands out as a progressive step towards creating a more inclusive learning environment. This expansion not only reflects the college’s dedication to enhancing educational accessibility but also underscores the growing trend towards hybrid learning models in higher education.
