By Laura Southers
Columnist

It would be nearly impossible for me to take a test among my classmates. I have accommodations through the Disability Resource Center for extended test time and the ability to use notes. Hence, I would be too embarrassed to take a test in a classroom full of other, more typical students. 

My educational focus area at Clackamas Community College is in Digital Media Communications, with a focus in journalism. Most of my classes have been in journalism, English or communications. My midterms and finals have usually been papers or projects. 

Ric Jenkerson in the CCC Testing Center. Photo by Jackson Arterberry.

I have only had one test, so I have only once used the Testing and Placement Services Center in room 240 in the Wachenco Welcome Center. 

I was put in their one private room. As a DRC student, I got “first pick of it,” as explained by Ric Jenkerson, lead testing and information specialist at the Testing Center. “But anyone can request this.” 

Jenkerson said the private room is also used for anyone with “high anxiety.” 

“You can tell when they walk in if they would probably do better in a private room where they can chill out,” said Jenkerson, who’s worked at CCC for more than two decades.

“I was only going to be here for a year, but this is my 26th year,” he said. He plans to extend his work “at least two more years, maybe longer. I like what I do. I love students. And I’m still physically able to do what I’m doing.”

The testing center has two other testing rooms, but they are much bigger; one has 21 seats and the other has 13. 

The CCC Testing and Placement Center. Photo by Jackson Arterberry.

Each space has a computer in the middle of a standard desk. Instructors can email their tests to the center.

All of the rooms have adjustable desks for wheelchairs. 

“The computers have programs like Kurzweil which reads the document out loud if you have headphones on,” Jenkerson said. Computers also have Equatio which reads aloud math equations. These programs are essential for students with visual disabilities.

If you would be more comfortable taking an exam apart from your classmates, contact the Testing and Placement Services Center.  Their email is: testing@clackamas.edu and their phone number is: 503-594-3283.