COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms and do not know that they are infected. That’s why it’s important for everyone to practice social distancing (staying at least 6 feet away from other people) and wear masks in public settings. Masks provide an extra layer to help prevent the respiratory droplets from traveling in the air and onto other people.
References:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). 2020. [cited 2020 Aug 24]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#Basics
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). 2020. [cited 2020 Aug 24]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
Barstow Community College is carefully monitoring the evolution of this pandemic and following recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and the California Department of Public Health. In accordance with those recommendations:
We need you to help keep our campus safe and healthy.
The following sites are recommended for accurate, up to date information.
FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION
Date: 03/30/2020
Contact: Amanda Simpson
Barstow Community College
(760) 252-2411 x7348
asimpson@barstow.edu
Innovation in Action at Barstow Community College
Combatting COVID-19 on a Regional Basis
Barstow, CA – March 30, 2020 – When Barstow Community College (BCC), received a call from the Barstow Community Hospital asking if BCC had face masks like the N95 version that they could donate from their welding program or college maintenance operations, things were put in motion fast.
Collaboration is Key
After reaching out to California Community College’s regional director for business and entrepreneurship, (a division of the state’s Strong Workforce initiative), it just so happened that Lisa Kiplinger-Kennedy had recently come across an open-source code for 3D-printing. A team, headed up by Dr. Crystal Nasio, Career Education and Workforce Development at BCC, was assembled and James Lee, Career Technical Education, used the equipment available at the college’s Makerspace to create a prototype.
Making a Positive Impact
The prototype was a huge success and received approval from the Barstow Community Hospital Infection Control Director, as well as others in the region. Through this collaborative effort, innovative thinking and great entrepreneurship, the teams have secured an initial purchase order for 5,000 Face Shields and more is expected. Barstow Community College, Victor Valley College, and other community colleges in the Inland Empire are currently partnering to fulfill this order, and are also in talks with High Schools and others in the community to help speed up the production.
How You Can Help
Barstow Community College is donating cost of labor, use of equipment and expertise, and have also contributed $5,000 dollars towards materials. If you know of someone with a 3D-printer who would like to assist with the production of the Face Shields, or would like to support in form of sponsoring this initiative, please contact Lisa Kiplinger-Kennedy (contact details below).
Lisa Kiplinger-Kennedy
Phone number: (760) 954-5334
Email: LisaK.Kennedy@vvc.edu
Dear Californian,
I am reaching out to our California community college students with my warmest wishes for your health and wellness during these difficult times.
Our 115 colleges are working tirelessly to help you and your families get through this crisis, and they will play a critical role in our state's recovery. With all of us working together and following public health directives, we can help keep Californians healthy.
Let there be no doubt, the critical educational mission of California’s community colleges continues. Our colleges are converting in-person courses to online to provide you with the instruction you need to improve your lives and the lives of your families.
I want to thank you for all you are doing to support each other and to adjust to this new normal of online learning. We are focused on making it as easy as possible for you to stay enrolled and continue your education.
I realize that for many the switch to online learning is not an easy one. Switching to an online environment can seem confusing or overwhelming. Thankfully, your community colleges have a series of interactive videosthat can help prepare you for an online environment. You can watch them at your own pace, revisit them when needed, and be ready to learn online.
Your local college is reaching out with details about changes at each local institution. In addition, my office has produced a COVID-19 web page with answers to questions frequently asked by students. Visit the “students” section of this web page for guidance about financial aid, tips for online learning, ways to access broadband, and more.
While we are in a unique situation, your success is our top priority. I know that in addition to your educational goals, many of you are performing essential jobs that are helping to keep our state running during this crisis. Thank you!
This is a challenging situation, and we are asking everyone stay calm and follow public health guidance to maintain the safety of yourself and your family. Be well.
Sincerely,
Eloy Ortiz Oakley
The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office is working closely with the governor’s office, the California Department of Public Health and local colleges to mitigate effects of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Chancellor’s Office is committed to providing accurate and timely information during this crisis. This information is current as of 3 p.m.
STATE AND NATIONAL DECLARATIONS
President Trump today declared a national state of emergency. The move will allow the administration to utilize the Stafford Act, the federal law that governs disaster-relief efforts, to provide emergency funding to state and local governments. Districts and colleges should document costs related to responding to the outbreak.
Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday, March 12 issued an executive order on enhancing California’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. This executive order details plans for mass gatherings, unemployment and disability insurance and the ability to hold public meetings via teleconference (Brown Act and Bagley-Keene Act). Click this link to read the full executive order.
RESOURCES
The Chancellor’s Office continues to support colleges as they work to protect students, staff, faculty and administrators. Please visit the Chancellor’s Office COVID-19 webpage for a comprehensive list of resources, answers to frequently asked questions and collateral materials.
California Community Colleges faculty, staff and administrators can also find COVID-19 resources and information within the Vision Resource Center. Create an account or log in. Under the “Connect” menu, visit “All Communities” and look for the “CCC | COVID-19 Resources, Tools and Discussion” section. Click “Join Community” to access the content within. For online instruction support requests, please contact CVC-OEI.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING
The March 16 meeting of the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges will now be held via video conference from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. We encourage the public to watch the board meeting online and submit written public comment to the Board of Governors liaison, Christina Castro.
ONLINE INSTRUCTION
Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley on Wednesday, March 11, held a webinar with college presidents about transitioning to face-to-face course instruction. Resources available to help faculty, staff and students during this transition include:
• CVC-OEI Emergency Preparedness Resources
• Instructional, Student Services and Shared College Resource Information
• Student Online Readiness Modules
In addition, the Chancellor’s Office has posted guidance on Attendance Accounting for conversion to distance education.
STUDENT SUPPORTS
The Department of Education has issued this guidance regarding continued payments for Work-Study and impact of school closures on financial aid.
The Chancellor’s Office is pursuing an opportunity for emergency funding to be able to provide laptops to foster youth in college who are unable to otherwise access one. We do not know yet if we will be able to obtain this funding, but if we are able to, we are trying to get a sense of the need. If you have a need for laptops for foster youth to be able to participate in classes online, please complete this form.
ATHLETICS
The California Community College Athletic Association has immediately postponed practices outside of regularly scheduled classes as well as competition for all spring sports. Read more on the decision.
OTHER INFORMATION
We understand this is a difficult time. A UCSF psychologist has tips on staying clearheaded if you’re feeling anxiety over the coronavirus.
Here is a quick update on the Coronavirus and how the State of California is responding to help workers and employers:
CORONAVIRUS BY THE NUMBERS IN CALIFORNIA (as of 3/11/2020):
Of all the confirmed positive cases:
HOW THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA IS HELPING WORKERS AND EMPLOYERS:
Workers
Sick or Quarantined
If you’re unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a Disability Insurance (DI) claim. DI provides short-term benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.
For guidance on the disease, visit the California Department of Public Health website.
Caregiving
If you’re unable to work because you are caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a Paid Family Leave (PFL) claim. PFL provides up to six weeks of benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.
Reduced Work Hours
If your employer has reduced your hours or shut down operations due to COVID-19, you can file an Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim. UI provides partial wage replacement benefit payments to workers who lose their job or have their hours reduced, through no fault of their own. Workers who are temporarily unemployed due to COVID-19 and expected to return to work with their employer within a few weeks are not required to actively seek work each week.
However, they must remain able and available and ready to work during their unemployment for each week of benefits claimed and meet all other eligibility criteria. Eligible individuals can receive benefits that range from $40-$450 per week.
Employers/Small Business Owners
Workplace Health and Safety
For information on protecting workers from COVID-19, refer to the Cal/OSHA Guidance on Coronavirus.
Businesses and employers can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for help with planning and responding to COVID-19.
Reduced Work Hours
Employers experiencing a slowdown in their businesses or services as a result of the coronavirus impact on the economy may apply for the UI Work Sharing Program. This program allows employers to seek an alternative to layoffs — retaining their trained employees by reducing their hours and wages that can be partially offset with UI benefits. Workers of employers who are approved to participate in the Work Sharing Program receive the percentage of their weekly UI benefit amount based on the percentage of hours and wages reduced, not to exceed 60 percent.
Visit Work Sharing Program to learn more about its benefits for employers and employees, and how to apply.
Potential Closure or Layoffs
Employers planning a closure or major layoffs as a result of the coronavirus can get help through the Rapid Response program. Rapid Response teams will meet with you to discuss your needs, help avert potential layoffs, and provide immediate on-site services to assist workers facing job losses. For more information, refer to the Rapid Response Services for Businesses Fact Sheet (DE 87144RRB) (PDF) or contact your local America’s Job Center of CaliforniaSM.
Tax Assistance
Employers experiencing a hardship as a result of COVID-19 may request up to a 60-day extension of time from the EDD to file their state payroll reports and/or deposit state payroll taxes without penalty or interest. A written request for extension must be received within 60 days from the original delinquent date of the payment or return.
For questions, employers may call the EDD Taxpayer Assistance Center.
For more information on the Coronavirus, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website by clicking here.
I will keep you informed as this situation develops.
It is an honor to represent you.
Directs Californians to follow public health directives including canceling large gatherings more than 250 people
Order removes waiting period for unemployment and disability insurance for Californians who lose work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak
Readies state to commandeer hotels & medical facilities to isolate & treat COVID-19 patients
Allows local and state legislative bodies to hold meetings via conference calls while still meeting state transparency requirements
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a new executive order further enhancing California’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Governor’s order:
The full executive order can be found here.
Last night, Governor Newsom and state public health officials announced that gatherings should be postponed or canceled across the state until at least the end of March. Non-essential gatherings must be limited to no more than 250 people, while smaller events can proceed only if the organizers can implement social distancing of 6 feet per person. Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should be limited to no more than 10 people, while also following social distancing guidelines.
“Each of us has extraordinary power to slow the spread of this disease,” said Governor Newsom in announcing the state’s new policy last night. “Not holding that concert or community event can have cascading effects — saving dozens of lives and preserving critical health care resources that your family may need a month from now. The people in our lives who are most at risk – seniors and those with underlying health conditions — are depending on all of us to make the right choice.”
State Efforts to Assist California Workers
California will continue acting swiftly to help workers hurt by COVID-19. Affected workers can visit the Labor & Workforce Development Agency’s website to review what benefits are available to them. For instance,
All Community Guidance Released from CDPH:
The California Department of Public Health has consolidated state guidance on how to prepare and protect Californians from COVID-19 in a single location. This includes guidance for:
What to Do if You Think You’re Sick:
Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care provider or local public health department first before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
California’s Response to COVID-19:
We have been actively and extensively planning with our local public health and health care delivery systems. Here are some of the things we are already doing:
The California Department of Public Health’s state laboratory in Richmond and 18 other public health department laboratories now have tests for the virus that causes COVID-19. Eighteen of them are currently conducting tests, with the others coming online soon.
For more the most up to date information on COVID-19 and California’s response, visit the CDPH website.
##
TO ALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Dear Colleagues,
Today the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued revised Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines for institutions of higher education. These guidelines replace the department’s Feb. 11, 2020 communication and provide more detailed protocols for implementing mitigation measures up to and including closure of campuses if necessary. All colleges should be actively implementing the measures described in Scenario 1 of this document and should work in close coordination with local public health agencies if measures described in Scenarios 2-4 are deemed necessary. In addition to this updated guidance for colleges and universities, the CDPH also issued guidelines for mass gatherings (defined as events in which large numbers of people are within arm’s length of one another other, but typically exclude office and commercial environments). Please share these documents with your leadership team and take action to ensure you are prepared to implement each scenario if required.
My team continues to work closely with state public health and emergency planning officials and will continue to keep you updated. Please continue to monitor the Chancellor’s Office COVID-19 web resources page for additional guidance and information.
Thank you for your continued leadership.
Eloy
Eloy Ortiz Oakley
Chancellor, California Community Colleges
Regent, University of California
1102 Q Street, Suite 4400
Sacramento, CA 95811-6549
Phone: 916.322.4005
Email: eoakley@cccco.edu(link sends e-mail)
Twitter: @eloyoakley
Documents Attached: CDPH Guidelines for Institutions of Higher Education, CDPH Guidelines for Mass Gatherings
TO ALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Dear Colleagues,
Late yesterday, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a state of emergency in California to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The emergency proclamation includes provisions that protect consumers against price gouging, allow for health care workers to come from out of state to assist at health care facilities and give health care facilities the flexibility to plan and adapt to accommodate incoming patients. It provides local public health agencies more flexibility in declaring and renewing health emergencies. The proclamation requires of the state Office of Emergency Services to release updated guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools no later than March 10. My office will provide you with the updates to the existing guidelines as soon as they are available. Please share this proclamation with your leadership team and legal counsel as you continue to refine response plans.
Earlier this week, state officials announced the release of more N95 masks to address shortages caused by COVID-19. In addition, the state this week secured expedited capacity to test for the virus from the CDC.
I want to stress that state public health officials still categorize the public threat of COVID-19 as low and do not recommend cancellation of public events. I have visited several colleges this week and continue to be impressed with the calm, thoughtful and highly professional response to this event. Your close coordination with county public health agencies is to be commended.
Please continue to check the Chancellor’s Office COVID-19 web resources page for information on emergency planning, advice for those experiencing possible symptoms (stay at home and contact your health care provider or local public health agency), crisis communications strategies, tips for containing the spread of the virus and travel recommendations for study abroad programs. My office is also working with the leadership of CVC-OEI to prepare guidance for colleges in the event that expanded online instruction is necessary to continue teaching and learning at our colleges if that is required.
At the federal level, Congress appears close to approving an $8.3 billion emergency funding package that would help development of new treatments, boost funding to purchase medical supplies and provide more than $400 million in grants to states and localities for preparedness within 30 days. This is in addition to the $20 million that Gov. Newsom has requested from the Legislature to respond to this crisis. The federal package includes about $3.1 billion to purchase medical supplies for state and local health departments to beef up the Strategic National Stockpile, the largest national repository of emergency treatments. It will also provide additional resources for states and assist federal efforts to develop vaccines and therapeutics, as well as hospital preparedness. Another $300 million would help the government buy vaccines and treatments once they are approved.
Thank you again for your leadership, and we will continue updates as needed.
Best,
Eloy
Eloy Ortiz Oakley
Chancellor, California Community Colleges
Regent, University of California
1102 Q Street, Suite 4400
Sacramento, CA 95811-6549
Phone: 916.322.4005
Email: eoakley@cccco.edu(link sends e-mail)
Twitter: @eloyoakley
TO ALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Dear Colleagues,
The Chancellor’s Office continues to work with other state agencies to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak. Public health officials continue to classify the threat posed by COVID-19 as low, but we understand the uncertainty surrounding this outbreak and its tendency to produce some anxiety. The Chancellor’s Office is relying on the professional assessments of the California Department of Public Health as the primary source of information and guidance on COVID-19 for our system. As previously stated, colleges are urged to follow the guidance the department drafted for colleges and universities and to work in coordination with local public health officials on any local responses that may be required. Attached you will find a general Q and A document about COVID-19 as of March 2.
We have developed a web resource that provides direct links to tools and information developed by CDPH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and other governmental public health agencies. You will be able to find information that is updated daily on the status of the outbreak and travel restrictions as well as resources related to developing emergency operations plans at higher education institutions, crisis communications guidance and tips, as well as other materials. We will continue to update the web resource and include a link to it in the Chancellor’s Office Today’s News communication that distributed four days a week for the foreseeable future.
Thank you for your leadership, your preparedness and your dedication to our students.
Eloy Ortiz Oakley
Chancellor, California Community Colleges
Regent, University of California
1102 Q Street, Suite 4400
Sacramento, CA 95811-6549
Phone: 916.322.4005
Email: eoakley@cccco.edu(link sends e-mail)
Twitter: @eloyoakley
Dear Barstow Community College Family:
Following my communication sent to you late last night citing the Governor’s “Stay at Home” order, I want to thank all of you for continuing our college’s amazing transition toward nearly full remote instruction, support and operations.
Many of you will be receiving this communication from your remote work locations. Thank you for your quick responsiveness to this transition to remote working that began Wednesday morning. There are some mission-critical staff on campus making sure that the administrative functions of the college continue uninterrupted, and I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to these colleagues.
Our IT professionals prepared and distributed over 100 laptops to staff to take with them to their remote locations, and they did so with the utmost skill, professionalism and efficiency. Business office professionals are making sure that payroll continues without interruption and that the District’s financial obligations are met. Our Maintenance and Operations teams continue to ensure that the campus facilities are secure and operational for our mission critical teams. Financial Aid staff are making sure that our students’ critical financial resources continue to be made available. Our caring Human Resources professionals are ensuring that the benefits and resources available to all of us are known and easy to access. Of course, our Public Information Office team is doing a fabulous job keeping our COVID-19 webpage current and is using multiple media to provide timely, accurate and helpful information to the public, our students, and the college community. My executive team has been with me each step of the way, along with our dedicated managers, some on campus and some working remotely, to coordinate, communicate, and support their teams.
Executive Vice President Kane sent an email this morning to all faculty with the following announcements:
Please know that our Board of Trustees have been in close communication with me as each executive order is announced, and with their strong support and commitment to all of us, we have been able to mobilize ourselves swiftly to address the needs of our students, faculty and staff.
I am grateful for the Board’s support, as well as for the support of our faculty and classified leadership. I and my executive team will continue to work closely with our CSEA, BCFA, and Academic Senate presidents to listen to the needs of each of the groups they are so responsibly and caringly representing. I am grateful for the lines of communication that these leaders have established and I know are committed to keeping open.
I could not be more proud of Barstow Community College than I am at this time. We are leaps ahead of many of our sister colleges because of all of you. I am already hearing of the innovative ideas that our faculty, staff, and student leadership are generating to embrace our new reality with the same courage, commitment and care that our college has become known for with every challenge presented to us.
Please stay safe. You and your families are in my prayers. We are all in this together.
With warm appreciation and regards,
Eva
Dear Barstow Community College Family:
Based on Governor Newsom's "stay at home" order issued tonight to go into effect at 12:01 am tomorrow, Friday, March 20th, the district needs to ask all those employees who have not been identified as "mission critical" to college operations, to stay at home tomorrow. Most faculty and staff are already working remotely, and I thank everyone for their coordinated efforts in making this happen.
Please note that those "non-mission critical" staff who I am directing to stay at home tomorrow and who cannot do district work from home, will be on paid administrative leave until further notice. This situation is changing so quickly that we need to determine all options available to our employees under these unprecedented conditions. I want everyone to know that their pay will not be adversely affected by the administrative leave that must be issued in order to comply with the Governor's most recent order.
If you were working on campus today (March 19) and are uncertain whether you are considered "mission critical," please contact the Vice President over your area to find out.
Faculty who have asked about coming on campus to utilize their offices will only be allowed to be on campus Friday, March 20. If you need things from your offices, please immediately arrange to get what you need. You will not be allowed to return after Friday.
Thank you for your patience and support during this time. We will do all we can to support you while adhering to the requirements under which we operate as a public agency.
Sincerely, Eva Bagg,
Ph.D. Superintendent-President
Barstow Community College
Dear BCC Family:
I write to provide everyone the most current planning and action steps the college is pursuing as we monitor multiple sources of information about the COVID-19 pandemic and work together to address this unprecedented challenge. I want to reiterate my appreciation for your patience and understanding as plans change. We want to provide as much clarity and constancy in our communications as possible, but given the circumstances, it is crucial that we adapt to stay as far in front of the situation as we possibly can in the best interests of everyone’s safety and well-being.
First, although we expected it would be a matter of time, the very first case of novel coronavirus was reported this afternoon by the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health. The patient, a 53-year old female, presented herself to the Kaiser Fontana emergency department three days ago with symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Despite this first case, the Acting County Health Officer announced today that even in light of this first case, “The health risk from COVID-19 to the general public in San Bernardino County remains low at this time, but everyone is strongly urged to engage in practices that reduce the risk of spread.”
Consistent with this messaging, on Tuesday, March 10, the San Bernardino County Acting Health Officer and the Board of Supervisors declared a local health emergency and, in an effort to protect the public from the possible spread of the virus, on Thursday, ordered the immediate cancellation or postponement of gatherings of more than 250 people within the county until further notice.
Other notifications received since late last week include:
What we are doing at BCC to protect our college community and our families:
As a reminder, please take the normal steps advised during cold and flu season:
Please consult our COVID-19 webpage frequently for updates.
I will continue to keep you posted on changes as we remain proactive with this situation. And please feel free to contact me directly with any concerns or suggestions as we work together to provide the utmost care and support to our college family.
Sincerely,
Eva
Dear Barstow Community College:
The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is of paramount importance. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several days ago the college’s executive leadership, working with the Board of Trustees, assembled an Emergency Preparedness Team, and plans are in motion to protect the college community today and over the days and weeks to come. Even though there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in the Barstow Community College District or the County of San Bernardino, we are taking proactive measures to protect the health of the campus community.
As of Thursday, March 12:
Postponement of District-Sponsored Events
In accordance with the latest guidelines received from the California Department of Public Health, effective Monday, March 16, events sponsored by Barstow Community College where the public have been invited will be postponed. This action is to reduce the number of events where a large mass of people gathers and to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
District Travel
BCCD is halting all college-sponsored travel, including previously approved travel, until further notice. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis by BCCD executive leadership.
Specific information from college departments:
Instruction – Executive Vice President Karen Kane sent an email late this afternoon to all faculty with detailed instructions about the delivery of courses and training for faculty and students during the week of March 16 - 21. This entails a mandatory meeting for faculty on Monday, March 16, at 1:00 pm in the Performing Arts Center. Faculty, please watch for this email which will also be posted on the college’s COVID-19 website.
Student Services – The college is prepared to offer remote counseling sessions. Online tutoring will be available. Enrollment services will be prepared to process paperwork, including Financial Aid disbursement, and can assist both faculty and students remotely.
Administrative Services – Our Facilities staff will be working with campus personnel to address any concerns you might have for your workspace. All common-space surface areas and touch areas, such as handles and door knobs, are currently being disinfected by an EPA-approved sanitizing and disinfecting spray. During the week of 3/15 to 3/20, our custodial crew will do extra disinfecting work in all of the classrooms that are not being utilized. If your individual office space needs disinfecting, please put a work order in so we can take care of you.
In addition to the disinfecting work, hand sanitizer stations are being purchased and will be available in each building. Personal sanitizer devices will also be made available within a week or so.
Human Resources – Laura Benson, Human Resources consultant now working on campus, will be sending a communication via email regarding sick leave that will also be posted on the COVID-19 website.
Public Information Office
What To Do Before Monday, March 16
Please sign up for the Viking Text Alert System. We will keep you posted regarding any critical updates via this text alert system. Even if you feel you already signed up, we recommend doing so again at the link below:
Please know that we appreciate your patience as we navigate this extraordinary situation together. We are striving to serve you and to provide our students with a healthy and supportive learning environment while protecting the well-being of our community.
Sincerely,
Eva
To address the pressing financial need of students due to the disruption of campus operations from coronavirus, Barstow Community College was awarded $778,404 to provide emergency financial aid grants directly to students.
“Signed Certification and Agreement for CARES Act”
Barstow Community College has determined that approximately 1147 students met Title IV eligibility requirements and were not solely online students.
To be a Title IV-eligible student under Section 484 of the HEA, the student must:
All students enrolled in spring 2020 classes at BCC were notified on May 8 to submit a Needs Assessment online; 624 submitted a complete request for assistance of which 259 students were eligible for CARES funding.
YOU can make your counseling appointments from your BCC portal now. Click here to view the tutorial.
Dear Student,
I hope this email finds you well during the COVID-19 crisis. We understand that many things are uncertain, but hope you know that you can rely on Barstow Community College to consistently bring you educational opportunities. The Chancellor’s Office of the California Community College and the Department of Education were granted authority to relax some regulations that impact your education and we wanted to share these key points with you for your consideration. As always, we encourage you to speak with a counselor before making any decisions to ensure your best path forward and your continued academic success.
As you know, we have transitioned our spring semester completely online and have made the important decision to do the same for the summer semester beginning June 1. Registration for summer will begin April 27 and we will send a notification as soon as the summer schedule is posted online.
Pass/No Pass Grading
Incomplete/In Progress
Course Repetition
Excused Withdrawal
Student Financial Aid Liabilities for Dropped/Failed Classes
Emergency Funds for Students in Need
Financial Aid Eligibility
TLSC:
Anissa: 760-678-0176 9am-6pm M-F
Courtney: 909-327-2077 8am-7pm M-TH
Crystal: 760-678-0117 8am-5pm M-F
Gloria: 760-678-0142 8am-1pm M-F
Library:
John: 909-375-1720 8am-5pm M-F
Jennifer: 760-563-2213 8am-1pm M-Th
*also available by email at
TLSC@barstow.edu and library@barstow.edu
Department Contacts
Admissions & Records welcome@barstow.edu
Academic Affairs jelagha@barstow.edu
Adult Education erivera@barstow.edu
Business Office businessoffice@barstow.edu
Counseling bcounselor@barstow.edu
Financial Aid welcome@barstow.edu
General Inquires info@barstow.edu
Human Resources HR@barstow.edu
Library library@barstow.edu
Special Programs EOPS@barstow.edu
Student Life jgarcia@barstow.edu
Student Services gbasinger@barstow.edu
TLSC TLSC@barstow.edu
Transfer Center transfer@barstow.edu
Veterans Services vets@barstow.edu
Workforce Development cte@barstow.edu
Q. How can I schedule an appointment with my counselor?
All Counseling appointments are available via phone and/or Confer Zoom meeting.
Schedule an Appointment: Click Here
Q. What can I do to improve communication?
Please make sure your phone number and email are updated and correct in your BCC portal. To update your personal information, simply fill out the form provided at:
http://www.barstow.edu/Pdf/AR_Fllable/PersonalInformationUpdate.pdf
Q. When I can apply for the R.E.B.O.U.N.D. program?
R.E.B.O.U.N.D. application is now open for students who is taking classes for the second nine week session
Deadline to join the R.E.B.O.U.N.D. program is March 27th, 2020.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the program please contact Student Success Advisor, Sabrina Alcantara at salcantara@barstow.edu or 760-282-4193
Q. How Can I schedule an appointment with my R.E.B.O.U.N.D. Student Success Advisor?
To schedule an appointment with Student Success Advisor please contact
Sabrina Alcantara at salcantara@barstow.edu or 760-282-4193
**Please make sure to mention R.E.B.O.U.N.D. when scheduling the appointment
Q: What about R.E.B.O.U.N.D. program requirements?
All program requirements can be completed through your Canvas Dashboard.
Q. How can I get my text book?
Our bookstore is still up and running. Though their doors are locked, they are still committed to serving our college and students.
Please email at bookstore@barstow.edu or 1487mgr@follett.com and take advantage of the Free Shipping for online purchases!
Promise Program
Q: How do I contact the Barstow College Promise Office and speak to the advisor?
A: Barstow Community College is closed to the public and to students. Students can contact the Barstow College Promise Student Success advisor at evalencia@barstow.edu or send general questions to welcome@barstow.edu
Q: What about program requirement?
A: The following program requirements have been waived:
Barstow College Promise students still must complete 30 units by the end of the summer 2020 session with a minimum GPA of 2.0 in order to be eligible for a second year of Barstow College Promise.
Q: I am not very comfortable with e-mail and prefer to talk to the Barstow College Promise Advisor face to face. What are my options?
A: Students can download the free and easy-to-use “Zoom” app on their smartphones to video conference with the Student Success Advisor. Appointments can be set up via e-mail contact evalencia@barstow.edu
Q: Can I still use my textbook voucher to get a book from the bookstore:
A: Yes, the Viking Bookstore is still serving Barstow College Promise students by email. Students will need to fill out the Bookstore Authorization Form and email the form to bookstore@barstow.edu. Ground shipping is free. Please refer to the Viking Bookstore Website at www.barstowshop.com to see prices and book availability.
Hello Vikings,
During the COVID-19 campus closure, the Financial Aid Office will continue to operate remotely to support you during the campus closure. The Financial Aid Office does not anticipate any disruption to financial aid disbursements.
The remaining 50% for the spring 2020 semester will be processed earlier than anticipated to help support students during this time of crisis. It will take approximately two weeks for the refund checks to be produced after the disbursement occurs. Due to the crisis and the physical closure of our campuses, financial aid checks cannot be picked up. Please ensure that your address is correct in your student account as that is the address we will use to mail your refund check.
Classes are scheduled to resume on Monday, March 23. If you plan on dropping courses, please do so early to ensure that we have not refunded you financial aid that you may not be eligible for. If you drop classes after we disburse to you, we encourage you to contact us so that we can review your account and determine if you will be in overpayment. We do not anticipate the federal government changing regulations are governing dropping classes and overpayments despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
For additional information regarding the COVID-19 campus closure, please visit our Web Site at www.barstow.edu. There is a page dedicated to COVID-19 providing you with constant updates.
We encourage you to check out the Financial Aid section of our Web Site to get you the financial aid answers you need to the questions you have, and to access other Financial Aid resources.
The Financial Aid Office is working remotely, continuing to process federal and state financial aid. We are working remotely regular work hours of Monday through Thursday, 8-6 p.m. and Friday from 8-12 p.m.
The best way to communicate with the Financial Aid Office during this time is via email. You can email us at finaid@barstow.edu. We typically have a 24 hour turnaround time regarding email responses; however, email responses may take up to 48 hours during this time. Please send us an email using your BCC student email address with your full name, student identification number (B number), and the questions/problems you might need assistance with.
You can still review your financial aid status, missing documents, and view your financial aid awards through your mybarstowportal. Once you submit a document, please give our office
7-10 business days to process.
Be sure you are checking your Barstow.edu student email regularly for updates and important information.
Thank you.
Financial Aid
SPS FAQ
Q: Are the offices open? How can I contact staff members?
A: Barstow Community College is closed to the public and to students. Students can communicate with SPS staff via e-mail only:
EOPS/CARE: eops@barstow.edu
CalWORKS: calworks@barstow.edu
ACCESS/9 Line: access@barstow.edu
VETS: vets@barstow.edu
YESS: supportservices@barstow.edu
Q: How can I get my services?
All textbook and transportation assistance will be provided via mail only. We will be contacting students today and tomorrow (March 19-20) via phone asking if you would like your services mailed to you or not at all. You have until 10:00am Friday, March 20 to inform our office if you would like your remaining textbook and transportation assistance. Failure to respond to us by the deadline will result in you forfeiting your transportation assistance. Please make sure your current personal information (phone and mailing address) is updated here.
** New Information: Unfortunately due to the stay at home order SPS was not able to mail out services. Services will be held and given out as soon as we are able to safely return to our offices on campus.
Meal vouchers will not be available the remainder of the semester.
Q: What about program requirements?
A: All requirements for all programs are WAIVED for the rest of the semester. You do not have to turn anything in to receive services.
Q: I am not very comfortable with e-mail and prefer to talk to staff face to face. What are my options?
A: Students can download the free and easy-to-use “Zoom” app on their smartphones to video conference with staff members. Appointments can be set up via e-mail.
Q: When do I return my books?
A: Please keep your books until the end of the semester.
Q: Can I still utilize the food pantry?
A: Unfortunately, due to recent updates to COVID-19 protocols, the Food Pantry will remain closed until further notice. Please check your student e-mails for food resources.
Q: How do I turn in documents to staff if I cannot go to campus?
A: You may scan in and e-mail documents. You can download the free “CamScanner” app through your smartphone for quick, easy, and free scanning.
Online Learning/Canvas FAQs
Q I don’t know how to login to my online classes. What should I do?
A All online classes are presented through Canvas, a learning management system. To get to Canvas, login to BCC’s Single Sign-On Portal at https://login.barstow.edu/ using the login credentials provided to you. Once logged in, select the Canvas tile/icon and then select the Canvas class you want to access. If you need assistance on how to login to the Single Sign-Portal or Canvas, please email the Teaching and Learning Support Center (TLSC) at TLSC@Barstow.edu.
Q I can’t see my Canvas class. What should I do?
A Due to the Corona Virus situation, all classes have been delayed one week and will be offered remotely. Classes begin or resume on Monday, March 23. You should be able to access your Canvas classes at 12:01 AM on Monday, March 23. If, on March 23 you still don’t see your Canvas class, please send an email to the Online Office at DG_OnlineOffice@Barstow.edu.
Q My Teacher never set-up his/her Canvas shell. How should I be contacted? What should I do?
A All Canvas shells have all been created. However, students cannot see or access them until the start of the term. Due to the Corona Virus situation, all classes have been delayed one week and will be offered remotely through Canvas. At 12:01 AM on Monday, March 23, 2020, all Canvas classes will be accessible to students. If you do not see your Canvas class by Monday, please contact the Online Office at DG_OnlineOffice@Barstow.edu. Also remember to check your BCC email address often. Use it to communicate to your Instructor or to the College.
FAQ: TLSC Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I’ve never taken a class online and need help logging on to my account and navigating Canvas, who should I call?
A: You can call the Teaching and Learning Support Center at 760.252.7288, make sure to leave a voicemail including your name, B number, and callback number so we can assist you. You can also email us at TLSC@barstow.edu for more immediate assistance.
Q: Can I still meet with a tutor even though the campus is closed to students?
A: Absolutely, we have tutors available via ConferZoom, NetTutor, and over the phone. You can schedule a tutoring appointment by emailing us at TLSC@barstow.edu or leaving a voicemail at 760.252.7288. When calling or emailing, please be sure to include your name, B number, a callback number, as well as what subject you need assistance with.
Q: I am new to Canvas and need help getting set up. What do I do?
A: Email TLSC@barstow.edu with name, B number, and a contact number we can reach you at. We will contact you to set up a ConferZoom appointment with one of our tutors who can walk you through this process.
Q: Can I still do ConferZoom appointments if my computer does not have a camera or microphone?
A: Yes, you will still be able to hear the tutor through the speaker on the device that you are using. You will be able to see the tutor on your screen and can mirror your screen so the tutor can see what you are working on. You will also be able to ask questions through the chat function on the ConferZoom window.
Q: What happens after I schedule an online appointment with a tutor?
A: You will be emailed a link to connect to the ConferZoom appointment to your student email. You will click the link a few minutes before your appointment is scheduled to start.
Q: What if I do not have a computer for ConferZoom?
A: You can ConferZoom via your cellphone simply by clicking the link that you are emailed.
Q: Is the TLSC still hosting workshops? Can I still get help from my professor?
A: Yes, there will be a link posted on the TLSC Canvas shell so that you are able to remotely attend faculty-led workshops via ConferZoom.
Q: I cannot get into my single sign on portal, what do I do?
A: Email us at TLSC@barstow.edu with your name, B number, and a picture of your ID.
Q: I only have a cell phone and do not have access to a laptop or desktop computer. How am I supposed to access my classes and do my work?
A: Canvas has an application that can be downloaded to your mobile device so that you are able to access your classes easily on your phone. There are also free Microsoft online applications accessible through your student email that you can use to get your homework done and submit to Canvas.
FAQ: Library Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I normally checkout textbooks for my classes from the library and don’t know how else to access them. What are my options?
A: Confirm with your instructor. Many books have open educational resources or digital copies available. If you know the publisher of the book in question, many textbooks have supplemental online resources. If you are in an English or History class, many of the readings will already be available online given that many have passed their copyright date.
Q: Where can I find resources for my research paper?
A: You can find library electronic resources at Barstow College Library Electronic Resources.
These resources include e-books, journal articles, and streaming video. All resources except for Learning Express, where you create your own free account, are accessed using your B number. Your instructors have been sent detailed information on how to access and search within each resource. Instructions will also be posted on Canvas.
Q: I have library books out. When are they due?
A: They are now due at the end of the Spring semester, May 17th, 2020. Please do not put your books in the outside book drop at this time.
Q: I have a question about how to use the library resources.
A: You can email us via your Canvas by accessing the Library course page, or directly email kfreeman@barstow.edu. Questions will be answered between 10 AM - 6:30 PM M-Th and 8 AM-5 PM on Fridays. Questions that come in over the weekend will be answered on Monday.
Q: I normally checkout textbooks for my classes from the library and don’t know how else to access them. What are my options?
A: Confirm with your instructor. Many books have open educational resources or digital copies available.
If you know the publisher of the book in question, many textbooks have supplemental online resources under their publishers name.
Dear Students,
The F-1 Visa program normally does not allow students to remain in the U.S. if they are doing online education. Due to COVID-19, the government is providing flexibility so students with F-1 Visas will be able to switch to online learning temporarily. We have received guidance from the Department of Homeland Security that allows students to continue this semester’s courses online without jeopardizing their immigration status. This means that you must continue to be enrolled full-time and be making normal progress toward the degree. Regardless of where you are participating in online classes, your immigration status will remain active. Please note that this is a temporary accommodation in place until this health crisis ends and in-person classes resume.
Remember that when classes resume in person you must return to campus to maintain your immigration status. If you complete your Spring semester abroad then you are considered full-time enrolled until the end of the semester and then you are entitled to your annual vacation.
We are aware that many international students at Barstow Community College will be impacted by travel and public health concerns due to COVID-19. The decision whether to return to your home country is a personal one and should be considered carefully, in consultation with family when possible. We want you to be where you will feel most comfortable in the coming weeks. As you all know, we are in uncharted territory regarding international mobility. It is impossible to predict if and when further restrictions will be put in place by the U.S. Administration for travelers returning from high risk countries. If you plan to travel outside the U.S., we recommend that you continue to monitor travel updates by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
If you choose to return to your home country or have additional questions, please contact Heather Minehart, Dean of Enrollment Management and Services at hminehart@barstow.edu to discuss your visa status.
Students:
Barstow Community college is now going to “physical closure.” This means as of today, March 18, 2020 at 8:30am, the college campuses will be closed to the public and to students. Classes, services, and college operations will continue remotely. Classes set to begin remotely on 3/23 will begin as scheduled.
You should have received a Viking Text Alert this morning at 8:14am. If you did not receive make sure you sign up for the Viking Text Alert System to remain up to date on important information.
You may qualify for free WiFi from Spectrum.
STUDENTS: In an attempt to make the transition process to online courses seamless for all students, your Barstow Community College Teaching and Learning Support Center will be offering workshops from 8am-6pm every hour on the hour tomorrow, March 17, and Wednesday, March 18. These workshops will be geared towards helping students navigate Canvas, Outlook, ConferZoom, and other online resources. We care about our students and their success throughout this process of change to distance learning and are here to offer support in any way we can. Please feel free to call the BCC main campus TLSC at 760-252-7288 or email TLSC@barstow.edu with any questions.
STUDENTS:
While there are no known or reported cases of the COVID-19 (Corona-virus) at Barstow Community College or the surrounding area, with an abundance of caution, Barstow Community College is extending the current spring break until Monday, March 23rd. The college is open, but there will be NO CLASSES until March 23rd. Please do not come on campus unless you absolutely need to, or are invited for special online training.
Please watch your email and view the college website and other BCC social media sites, for up-to-date information regarding the college’s response. Make sure to sign up for the Viking Text Alert System:
It is our goal to keep you safe, without disrupting instruction.
Make sure to make note that classes will resume on March 23, 2020.
2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave
Effective March 29, 2021
Covered Employees in the public or private sectors who work for employers with more than 25 employees are entitled to up to 80 hours of COVID-19 related sick leave from January 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021, immediately upon an oral or written request to their employer. If an employee took leave for the reasons below prior to March 29, 2021, the employee should make an oral or written request to the employer for payment.
A covered employee may take leave if the employee is unable to work or telework for any of the following reasons:
o Caring for Yourself: The employee is subject to quarantine or isolation period related to COVID-19 as defined by an order or guidelines of the California Department of Public Health, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or a local health officer with jurisdiction over the workplace, has been advised by a healthcare provider to quarantine, or is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and seeking a medical diagnosis.
o Caring for a Family Member: The covered employee is caring for a family member who is subject to a COVID-19 quarantine or isolation period or has been advised by a healthcare provided to quarantine due to COVID-19, or is caring for a child whose school or place of care is closed or unavailable due to COVID-19 on the premises.
o Vaccine-Related: The covered employee is attending a vaccine appointment or cannot work or telework due to vaccine-related symptoms.
Paid Leave for Covered Employees
o 80hoursforthoseconsideredfull-timeemployees.Full-timefirefightersmaybeentitledtomore than 80 hours, caps below apply.
For part-time employees with a regular weekly schedule, the number of hours the employee is normally scheduled to work over two weeks.
For part-time employees with variable schedules, 14 times the average number of hours worked per day over the past 6 months.
o Rate of Pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave: Non-exempt employees must be paid the highest of the following for each hour of leave:
Regular rate of pay for the workweek in which leave is taken
State minimum wage
Local minimum wage
Average hourly pay for preceding 90 days (not including overtime pay)
o Exempt employees must be paid the same rate of pay as wages calculated for other paid leave time.
Not to exceed $511 per day and $5,110 in total for 2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick leave.
Retaliation or discrimination against a covered employee requesting or using COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave is strictly prohibited. A covered employee who experiences such retaliation or discrimination can file a claim with the Labor Commissioner’s Office. Locate the office by looking at the list of offices on our website (http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DistrictOffices.htm) using the alphabetical listing of cities, locations, and communities or by calling 1-833-526-4636.
Copyright © 2021 State of California, Department of Industrial Relations. Permission granted to display, perform, reproduce and distribute exclusively for nonprofit and educational purposes, and may not be used for any commercial purpose. All other rights reserved.
March 20, 2020
Faculty-
By now you are aware that Governor Newsom issued a “stay home” order effective at 12:01 this morning, currently in effect from 3/20 – 4/17. The “stay home” order allowed 24 hours for businesses/government operations to make arrangements to gather what they needed to work from home. Dr. Bagg sent an email last night stating that faculty and employees could come to their offices today to gather essential paperwork. Please take advantage of that accommodation today if needed.
There are new updates for how we will operate going forward:
You have been mighty in your efforts this week to convert face-to-face lectures and labs to an online delivery system. I realize how frustrating and uncomfortable this has been. Our Instructional Designers will be working throughout the weekend to assist you. Interim Dean of Instruction and Learning Support, Tim Botengan is conducting individual and group Zoom meetings to offer assistance. Email him for an appointment time, if you need the additional help. (rbotengan@barstow.edu)
For the disciplines with labs that are not easily translatable to online lab work-- we are working to come up with solutions that fit the parameters of licensing agencies and program guidelines. The Chancellor’s Office is also seeking guidance and flexibility in this area. Please keep in close contact with your area’s consultant/supervisor, Dr. Crystal Nasio (cnasio@barstow.edu) and interim Dean Economic and Workforce Development, Lisa Holmes (lholmes@barstow.edu). I realize it is difficult when students are asking questions and there are no answers. We will provide answers and options as we have them.
I know these are trying times, not just for the transition of the way we deliver instruction and services, but for you and your families as well. We need to continue to remain calm and be present for one another. You have been magnificent in your offers to help. Keep reaching out for help. I will be communicating daily with updates and news. Nance Nunes-Gill, Senate President and Dr. Beverly Ranney, BCFA President are answering your questions and letting me know where the District needs to support you. I so appreciate their leadership during these trying times. Have no doubt, we WILL get through this.
We are in this together and will continue to watch out for one another as we work together for the good of our students.
Karen
Barstow Community College---The Little College that CAN!
#BCC- LittleCollegethatCAN
VPN/Remote Desktop Instruction Guide (PDF)
Additional remote training sessions will be scheduled as needed
This training session provides an overview of the Canvas Learning Management System and the CCCC ConferZoom video conferencing tool. It is recommended for faculty who are new to online learning, Canvas, or CCC ConferZoom. Faculty completing Session I should also complete Sessions II and III.
This training session builds upon the ideas and concepts learned in Training Session I to create various components of a Canvas course. It is recommended for faculty who may have taught using Canvas or other LMS, but have little or no experience designing a Canvas course. Faculty completing Session II should also complete Session III.
This training session introduces the use and integration of videos into Canvas, specifically YouTube videos and videos created with CCC ConferZoom. This training session is recommended for faculty who are familiar with and have taught online courses using Canvas, but want to integrate CCC ConferZoom for office hours and/or to present video lectures.
CHANGE….CHANGE….CHANGE….CHANGE….CHANGE….CHANGE…
Faculty-
This communication is to let you know of a CHANGE to the previous email communication from me and current information on the website.
The MANDATORY face-to-face meetings scheduled for Monday at 1:00 pm and another one at 6:00 pm, have been changed to MANDATORY CCC CONFERZOOM meetings only.
Please do NOT come on campus on Monday 3/16. We will be providing all the information you need via ZOOM.
There are still no reported or confirmed cases of the corona-virus associated with Barstow Community College or in the county, but with an abundance of caution, and with the rapidly changing protocols for social distancing, we will conduct the Monday 3/16 meetings via CCC ConferZoom.
Zoom links will be sent to all faculty Monday morning. There will be a separate link and call-in information for the 1:00 meeting and 6:00 meetings. This communication will come from Dean, Tim Botengan.
For those who need additional training and assistance with technology, and/or conversion of a face-to-face class into CANVAS, a training schedule for Tuesday, 3/17, will be available and sent to you by email on Monday. We anticipate that these trainings will need to be done ON CAMPUS in small group settings.
For faculty who teach lab courses, such as KIN, Sciences, COSMO, Trades, Art, etc—your area Deans will be working with you to decide how best to proceed with teaching your labs.
As a suggestion, for those of you who already teach fully online classes, you may want to notify and remind your students that they do not begin or resume until Monday 3/23, along with all other college classes moving to online.
As a reminder, the college is OPEN and operational. We are only moving instruction off campus to help contain and “flatten the curve” of the pandemic. Thank you for remaining flexible and patient as we continue to decide the best course of action to keep you, our students and staff healthy and safe, while continuing the work of the college. We are in this together.
Respectfully-
Karen Kane
Executive Vice President, Academic Affairs and Student Services
Associate Faculty-
We appreciate and understand that many of you are unavailable to attend the stated Monday, 3/16, 1:00 pm information/training meeting.
To that end, we will be doing another training/information session on Monday, 3/16 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm in the PAC Main Theater.
We will not be zooming that meeting, but will be emailing and posting a training schedule (with some zoom trainings) Monday evening.
The majority of the training will take place during the day and early evening on Tuesday, 3/17. Your area Dean will be in contact with you about the trainings.
Please keep watching your email and visit the college COVID-19 information pages on the website.
We look forward to seeing many of you on Monday, 3/16 at 6:00 pm.
Respectfully-
Karen Kane
Executive Vice President, Academic Affairs and Student Services
Dear Faculty and Staff,
We appreciate your patience as we plan and respond to the rapidly evolving situation regarding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). As stated in Dr. Bagg’s email earlier, Barstow CCD has no confirmed cases of COVID-19 and we continue to carefully monitor the developments and follow the advice of the agencies she noted.
That said, I have gotten several questions from employees specifically about sick leave. The top two are addressed below in the form of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). We will build on these FAQs during the coming days and post them on the website for future reference.
Q. If I get sick and need to take off from work what paid leaves can I utilize?
A. If you are feeling ill, please do not come to work. You should stay home. Follow the “call-in” procedure you currently use to inform your supervisor of your absence.
Take care of yourself, follow up with your health care provider, and follow their directions. Contact the HR department if your illness is extended beyond 3 days.
Leave benefits vary depending on employee groups but in general you will be able to use accrued sick leave or other leave balances to remain in paid status. Full-time faculty, part-time faculty, administrators, staff, temporary classified employees and student workers earn sick leave each month that they are in paid status. If you are unsure of your current sick leave balance, please contact Paulette in the Human Resources department, 760-252-2411 x7477.
In the rare case that you are medically quarantined, or absent due to COVID-19 the district may provide additional paid leave as appropriate.
Leave, and leave entitlement can be complicated, so I encourage you to reach out to me, lbenson@barstow.edu or Kim Young at kyoung@barstow.edu for more information.
If you are directly affected by COVID-19, our first priority is to ensure that you are taking care of yourself free of worry about whether or not you will be paid. I plan on working with the respective unions to explore options to ensure you remain in paid status.
Q. I am over 50 and heard that I am considered an older adult and may be at greater risk of contracting COVID-19 – what should I do to protect myself?
A. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), preliminary data suggests that older adults and persons with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems might be at greater risk for severe illness from the virus. If you are an older adult or you suffer from a chronic medical condition or otherwise compromised health, you should seek and follow the advice of your health provider.
Moreover, you may request a reasonable accommodation that allows Barstow CCD to explore options for you to telecommute or find other reasonable options for you to work without compromising your health. My office will process your request promptly.
Please send me your questions that are particular to issues concerning your employment and/or welfare benefits. You may also contact your respective union representative to discuss concerns about your working conditions. Additionally, I welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your particular situation.
Sincerely,
Interim Vice President of Human Resources
Laura Benson
March 12, 2020
Faculty-
As of today, March 12th, Barstow Community College and the surrounding areas still have no reported confirmed cases of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus). We continue to follow the advice of the CDC, the San Bernardino County Department of Health, the Chancellor’s Office and the Office of the Governor of California.
The college is not closing at this time, and remains fully operational. However, as things are rapidly changing, we need to prepare and train to move instruction off-campus.
Even though there are no known cases of COVID-19 at BCC or the immediate community, we will be following protocols for containment and “social distancing.” The safety and well-being of the Barstow Community College community is our first priority and our plan for this pandemic outbreak is designed to be flexible and fluid.
To facilitate social distancing by minimizing the number of students on campus, BCC will move from on campus, face-to-face instruction, to online instruction. To assist all of you with this transition, CLASSES WILL BE SUSPENDED for one week (3/16-3/20) in order to provide the necessary training and time for all of us to prepare to go fully off-site and online. Using the Canvas course delivery software, instructors will be taught to move their courses online and begin teaching remotely. CLASSES WILL RESUME in remote/online fashion on 3/23.
Students will be notified of the one week delay/suspension of courses. All face-to-face courses will be moved online to begin by March 23, with remote instruction remaining in effect until at least April 20th.
There will be a MANDATORY meeting for all full-time faculty on Monday, March 16th; 1:00 – 5:00 pm in the PAC Theater. Associate faculty who can attend are welcome. You do not need to be on campus prior to 1:00 pm unless you choose to be in your offices. On Monday, we will be answering questions and outline the trainings that will take place throughout the week. We are meeting in the PAC Theater so that you may sit 6 feet from your nearest neighbor, if you choose.
The Barstow Building at Fort Irwin will be closed all next week while courses are suspended. Faculty who teach at Fort Irwin will go through training on the Main campus. Staff assigned to Fort Irwin will report to the Main campus.
Of note:
Many higher education conferences have been cancelled in the last two days. Moving forward we will not be approving any district sponsored travel (conferences or meetings). If you have been approved for district travel and the conference has NOT been cancelled, we will look at these situations on a case-by-case basis.
Based on the protocols from the Governor’s Office, all student activities scheduled for 3/16 – 4/20 will be cancelled.
Instruction:
The College will provide training for the conversion of hybrid and face-to-face classes to a fully online format through Canvas and ConferZoom.
Office hours will be conducted via ConferZoom.
The College will work with faculty in regard to lab/activity classes, and those that may not be easily convertible to a DE format. These will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Students will still have access to online tutoring, online proctoring, online Library databases, and other online resources.
TRAINING:
Monday, March 16th—PAC Theater. 1:00 – 5:00 pm
Mandatory meeting for all Full-Time faculty. Associate faculty are welcome. A training schedule will be distributed and posted on Monday.
Student Services:
The college is prepared to offer remote counseling sessions
Online tutoring will be available
Enrollment services will be able to process paperwork (including Financial Aid disbursements) and be able to assist both faculty and students remotely .
TO DO Before Monday:
Please make sure you sign up for the Viking Text Alert System. On March 11 at 12:15 pm a test of the Viking Text Alert System was conducted. If you did not receive a text message you are not currently signed up. Please sign up here:
If you are in contact with students, please let them know that classes will resume Monday, 3/23/20. We are also in communication with our students to let them know the same.
Please check your email often. As you are aware, this is a very fluid situation. We will share the most up-to-date information as we have it.
Please monitor and check the college website information for COVID-19. All communications will also be posted on that page.
I know there is a lot of conflicting information and speculation circulating nationally and globally about this situation. I appreciate your patience as we move through this together. Please understand that we are being proactive for the best interests of our students and our staff. I look forward to seeing you at the initial training on Monday, 3/16.
Karen Kane
Executive Vice President, Academic Affairs and Student Services
Copyright 2021 Barstow Community College. All Rights Reserved.