Welcome to the new year, and the winter term of 2022. As you are probably aware, the
concerns about the Omicron variant, and spikes in COVID infection rates and hospitalizations,
have prompted colleges and universities to exercise extra caution as we begin this
new term. After consultation with the Board of Trustees, District and college leadership,
faculty, staff and student representatives, I have directed the colleges to transition
current on campus and hybrid courses to online wherever possible.
Courses Transitioning to Online Where Possible
Your instructors will provide more specific direction for your particular courses during the winter term. Some courses that require in-person participation such as athletics, STEM and CTE programs, performing arts, and those requiring labs, field work, clinical rotations, and working studios will continue on-campus for fully vaccinated individuals. Those who are attending classes at the Ben Clark Training Center who are being tested weekly will also continue their hands-on training at the Center.Student Services
The full range of student support services including but not limited to tutoring, counseling, admissions and records, financial aid, student psychological and mental health services, library services, etc., will be available online, as well as in face-to-face mode. The objective is to continue offering the full range of student services, while keeping students, faculty and staff as safe as possible.Booster Shots Recommended
The emergence of the Omicron variant has caused a record-breaking rate of infection in the US. This variant is said to spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe that anyone with an Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated and don't have symptoms. At the same time, research shows that the FDA-authorized vaccines offer protection against hospitalization and death. The CDC is now recommending that all individuals 16 years of age and over, obtain a booster shot after the initial vaccine doses to reduce the chance of infection, COVID related complications, and the transmission of the virus. The Board's action on the CDC's recommendation will be communicated as soon as the decision is made.Safety Protocols for On Campus Classes and Events
All individuals who are eligible for the booster shots are strongly encouraged to get them as soon as possible. On campus, we will also continue wearing face masks, washing our hands regularly, cleaning and disinfecting facilities, and observing social distancing protocols when possible. Testing for COVID infections will also continue on campus and may evolve with new technologies as we move forward.Obviously, these are challenging circumstances. Our decision to transition classes online, is reflective of our continuing efforts to provide a safe workplace and educational environment.
Sincerely,
Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D.
RCCD Chancellor