Officials in the distance learning program are stretching their academic wings next semester.

Beginning in the spring, Missouri Southern students who are members with the Missouri National Guard will be able to enroll in televised classes at 11 separate sites around the state.

“I thought it was an excellent idea,” said Dr. Jack Spurlin, vice president for lifelong learning.

The system was set up in order to help students in the Missouri Armed Forces to maintain their commitments to the Guard but not forget about their education. As part of their training programs, students enrolled can watch the classes at telecommunications community resource centers. These centers also have the ability to provide video conferencing.

“We have the capabilities to do interactive TV,” Spurlin said.

Classes offered in the spring include Oral Communications, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Beginning Math, Music Appreciation, U.S./State/Local Government and Introduction to Sociology.

Dr. Jerry Williams, director of lifelong learning, said the department has been planning to televise classes around the state for students in the Armed Forces for about a year.

“It’s a good opportunity for National Guard members,” Williams said. “So many of them are located in rural locations in which they don’t have access to the University.”

Enrollment is still a question for officials, however.

“So many Guard members are out of state, and many units are deployed around the world,” Williams said. “We’re not expecting a huge turnout the first semester.”

Televising classes around the state for Southern is nothing new. Police officers in training have been able to take classes through the criminal justice department. On average, 40-60 officers from around the state were enrolled.

“We’re always looking for better ways to serve our students,” Williams said.

He said the system works well for students in Missouri and those who are in another country.

“It will be rewarding for those who come home to have access to an education,” he said. “We’re glad to do anything that helps the Missouri National Guard.”