Alerts

Please review the VC Vaccine Exemption Process document for more information.

Please remember to wear your mask on campus inside facilities and outdoors while close to others.  It is important to us to keep you safe!

Access the Student Vaccine Exemption forms.

Dear Pirate Crew, 

Covid Information:

• Below and attached are our latest COVID numbers, which continue to demonstrate Ventura College’s successful efforts toward keeping our employees and students safe.  Information received from the Student Health Center report only 1 active positive employee exposure as of yesterday.
• Ventura County is reporting 71.3% of our population 12+ are fully vaccinate and 78.5% have received their first vaccination dose.

Vaccination Clinic:

• I want to apologize for the no show of the contracted agency associated with Ventura County Public Health.  They were confirmed for the vaccination clinic on Sept. 16.  We are trying to work with them to find another date.
• VC is scheduled for a free vaccination clinic on Oct. 1 in Guthrie Hall from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm.
• Reminder that all employees and students will need to have completed their vaccination series by Oct 1 to be cleared by the Oct. 15 deadline. 

On-campus COVID Testing:

• COVID testing available every Wednesday and Friday through October 15, on campus from 9-1 pm to test employees and student in the Small Gym or Dance Studio 102 (AEC outside of small gym). 
• Everyone that needs to test is encouraged to register.  For the billing information section, do not click on “Cash” pay.  This service should be free of charge.   You will need to bring a picture of your medical insurance card if you have one.  Results should be available later in the evening or early the next day.  Registration is a one-time process.  The person coming to test should also bring the insurance card just in case.

Reminders:

Please stay vigilant with wearing your mask inside when not eating or not alone and wearing your mask outside when in close proximity to others.  Try to maintain 6-feet distancing with others whether you are inside or outside.  Frequently wash your hands or use sanitizing liquid.  Scan the QR Code using your MyVCCCD app when entering a building or classroom.  

Most importantly, do not come to work if you are sick or have been exposed to another person with COVID. 

Stay safe and healthy,  Kim

Dear Pirate Crew, 

Covid Information:

• Below and attached are our latest COVID numbers, which continue to reduce.  Information received from the Student Health Center report only 1 active positive student and 1 employee exposure as of yesterday.
• Ventura County is reporting 70% of our population 12+ are fully vaccinate and 78% have received their first vaccination dose.

Vaccination Clinic:

• To help you access the vaccine, we will be offering free vaccination clinics on Sept. 16, & Oct. 1 in Guthrie Hall from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm.
• Reminder that all employees will need to have completed their vaccination series by Oct 1 to be cleared by the Oct. 15 deadline. 

On-campus COVID Testing:

• COVID testing available every Wednesday and Friday through October 15, on campus from 9-1 pm to test employees and student in the Small Gym or Dance Studio 102 (AEC outside of small gym). 
• Everyone that needs to test is encouraged to register.  For the billing information section, do not click on “Cash” pay.  This service should be free of charge.   You will need to bring a picture of your medical insurance card if you have one.  Results should be available later in the evening or early the next day.  Registration is a one-time process.  The person coming to test should also bring the insurance card just in case.

Reminders:

• We need your help to continue to keep VC safe!  Individuals on campus who have not been screened, as evidence of not having a current wristband, need to be directed to the nearest screening station (East Parking Lot, ASC, or gym).  Roving monitors are on campus to assist you in directing individuals to screening stations.  Faculty please continue to remember to ask students to show you their screening wristband at the beginning of each class session. 
• To communicate any possible COVID exposure or symptoms, we ask that you complete the MyVCCCD app.  The Student Health Center nurses are regularly checking the app results and will contact you to ask follow-up questions and provide direction.  They have done a fabulous job protecting all of us during the pandemic.  Please be patient with our nurses as they are very busy trying to triage multiple situations. 

Please stay vigilant with wearing your mask inside when not eating or not alone and wearing your mask outside when in close proximity to others.  Try to maintain 6-feet distancing with others whether you are inside or outside.  Frequently wash your hands or use sanitizing liquid.  Scan the QR Code using your MyVCCCD app when entering a building or classroom.  Most importantly, do not come to work if you are sick or have been exposed to another person with Covid. 

Stay safe and healthy,  Kim

Dear Pirate Crew,

I hope you have a wonderful and restful 3-day weekend.  Labor Day is dedicated to celebrating the social and economic achievements of workers like you.  It is celebrated typically in the spring in many countries around the world, including Australia, England, Germany, Mexico, and New Zealand.  Traditional activities may include outdoor activities, picnics, parades, and more.  I hope you were able to enjoy some outdoor fun!

Ventura College  COVID numbers have improved with a total of two active positive cases, 10 exposures, and 2 in quarantine.  Fortunately, our safety processes are working.

Please remember that all employees and any students visiting or taking classes on campus will be required to be verified vaccinated by Oct. 15.  VC has a vaccination (Pfizer and J&J) clinic schedule on campus for Sept. 16 from 8-1pm in Guthrie Hall.  The College is trying to schedule another clinic around Sept. 30/Oct. 1 for an additional opportunity.  Please check the website for updates.

Thank you for your contributions to keeping our campus safe and your service to our students! 

Best wishes, Kim

Dear Pirate Crew, 

Thank you everyone who attended the COVID Forum on Friday.  I appreciate the candid questions and the sharing of feelings and concerns, in true family style 😊.   Be aware that we are all in a heightened state of anxiety right now and I think it is important to stay connected, informed, and patient with each other. 

Tomorrow (9/1), I have one of my regularly scheduled Koffee with Kim events in the morning at 9:00 am.  Phil Briggs will share the results of our lasted survey with over 1,200 responses from students past and present.  Also, we will continue our discussions related to COVID and other matters. 

Below and attached are our latest COVID numbers.  Thank you Adriana Parsons for your assistance with reporting and, most importantly, for helping to keep us safe.  As you can see, our current positive cases have dropped slightly to 4 students, with 9 people recovered.  Using our on-campus population numbers from last week, VC percentage of known exposures compared to the unduplicated number of people on campus weekly is lower at 1% (92/4224=0.02) and positive cases remain at less than 1% (4/4224=0.0009). 

Reminders:

We need your help to continue to keep VC safe!  Individuals on campus who have not been screened, as evidence of not having a current wristband, need to be directed to the nearest screening station (East Parking Lot, ASC, or gym).  Roving monitors are on campus to assist you in directing individuals to screening stations.  Faculty please continue to remember to ask students to show you their screening wristband at the beginning of each class session. 

To communicate any possible COVID exposure or symptoms, we ask that you complete the MyVCCCD app.  The Student Health Center nurses are regularly checking the app results and will contact you to ask follow-up questions and provide direction.  They have done a fabulous job protecting all of us during the pandemic.  Please be patient with our nurses as they are very busy trying to triage multiple situations.  Additional nurses are being brought in to assist them in their very important work.

Please stay vigilant with wearing your mask inside when not eating or not alone and wearing your mask outside when in close proximity to others.  Try to maintain 6-feet distancing with others whether you are inside or outside.  Frequently wash your hands or use sanitizing liquid.  Scan the QR Code using your MyVCCCD app when entering a building or classroom.  Most importantly, do not come to work if you are sick or have been exposed to another person with Covid. 

Vaccination Clinic:

To help you access the vaccine, we will be offering free vaccination clinics.  Check our website and social media for dates and times.

On-campus COVID Testing:

During the COVID meeting yesterday, many Pirate Crew expressed challenges with obtaining COVID tests and timely results.  Every Wednesday and Friday through October 15, the college will have LabLINQ on campus from 9-1 pm to test employees and students.   Wednesday’s testing will be in the Small Gym (see attached map) and Friday’s will be in Dance Studio 102 (AEC outside of small gym). 

If anyone that wants to test completes the online registration before coming to test, it should take only a minutes to test. Results should be available later in the evening or early the next morning.  Registration is a one-time process.  The person coming to test should also bring the insurance card just in case.

Everyone that needs to test needs to register ASAP at https://lablinqportal.com/PatientSignup.aspx?LabId=100   or open the ventura.png file (it’s a QR code attached) and they can register on their phone.

They will need a picture of their medical insurance card also for the registration.  For the billing information section, do not click on “Cash” pay.  This service should be free of charge.

I want to thank Jimmy Walker for taking the lead on making these arrangements.  Thank you!!!

Lastly, we are looking into mental health services for our employees.  I hope to have more information on this topic to share soon.

Stay Healthy and Safe,

Kim

*****************************

Kimberly Hoffmans, RN, EdD

President Ventura College

Dear Pirate Crew,

As of yesterday, VC had 6 positive Covid cases.  All of these individuals contracted the virus from exposures outside of the college.  At this point, no person-to-person transmission has occurred on campus due to our Covid safety processes.  Positive cases are resulting in higher numbers of exposures and a greater number of people needing to quarantine.  Due to the increased number of individuals on campus, it is not surprising that Covid cases are occurring.  See chart below and attached.  Fortunately, the percentages of known exposures compared to the unduplicated number of people on campus weekly remains low at 4% (172/4224=0.04) and positive cases are less than 1% (6/4224=0.0014).

We need your help to continue to keep VC safe!  Individuals on campus who have not been screened, as evidence of not having a current wristband, need to be directed to the nearest screening station (East Parking Lot, ASC, or gym).  Roving monitors are on campus to assist you in directing individuals to screening stations.  Faculty please remember to ask students to show you their screening wristband at the beginning of each class session.  See attached VC safety COVID practices for details. 

To communicate any possible COVID exposure or symptoms, we ask that you complete the MyVCCCD app.  The Student Health Center nurses are regularly checking the app results and will contact you to ask follow-up questions and provide direction.  They have done a fabulous job protecting all of us during the pandemic.  Please be patient with our nurses as they are very busy trying to triage multiple situations.  Additional nurses are being brought in to assist them in their very important work.

Lastly, please stay vigilant with wearing your mask inside when not eating or not alone and wearing your mask outside when in close proximity to others.  Try to maintain 6-feet distancing with others whether you are inside or outside.  Frequently wash your hands or use sanitizing liquid.  Scan the QR Code using your MyVCCCD app when entering a building or classroom.  Most importantly, do not come to work if you are sick or have been exposed to another person with Covid. 

Many thanks, Kim

Dear Pirate Crew,

With individuals returning from vacations and being out in the community more, VC has had a few on-campus cases/exposures to Covid.  See chart below.

To communicate any possible exposure to Covid, we ask that you complete the MyVCCCD app.  The SHC nurses are attentively checking the app results and will contact you to ask follow-up questions and provide direction.  They have done a fabulous job protecting all of us during the pandemic.  Thank you Adriana Parsons and Mary Jones!

Please stay vigilant with wearing your mask inside when not eating or not alone and wearing your mask outside when in close proximity to others.  Try to maintain 6-foot distancing with others whether you are inside or outside.  Frequently wash your hands or use sanitizing liquid.  Scan the QR Code using your MyVCCCD app when entering a building or classroom.  Most importantly, do not come to work if you are sick or have been exposed to another person with Covid. 

Many thanks,

Kim

Dear Pirate Crew,

We want to provide you an updated Ventura College dashboard for the Spring semester. To date, VC has had a total of ten positive virus infections in Spring 2021, nine students and one employee. We are pleased to report there are currently no active cases. Just a reminder, the dashboard is for students and employees that have come to campus. Individuals who may have been exposed to the Covid virus and have not been on campus are not included in these counts. Please see below for information on all the categories.

On behalf of the Executive Team, we wish you a safe and enjoyable rest of the semester and Summer break!

Take care,

Cathy Bojorquez

Dear Pirate Crew,

It has been a while since I sent an update on current COVID cases for employees and students who work or have classes in-person.  I am excited to report that Ventura College has no active cases or individuals in quarantine at this time.  See the remarkable details in the dashboard attached and below.  This is due to everyone’s continued vigilance with frequent handwashing, wearing a mask, social distancing, and other safety measures.  Also, I want to again thank Adriana Parsons and Mary Jones our Student Health Center nurses and our Facilities, Maintenance, and Operations Crew for diligently working to keep our Flagship safe.

Lastly, I want to invite you to our Captain’s Chat scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday, April 7) at 3:00 pm.  We are holding our “Kick Off” Facilities Master Planning meeting with our consultant Steinberg Hart and discussing the facilities measures and plans that Ventura College has developed to keep each of us safe as we phase back into campus next academic year.

I look forward to seeing you tomorrow! 

Kim

VCCCD Board Approves Mandatory COVID-19

Vaccinations for Students and Employees

Action would follow indoor face mask requirements in the District’s public spaces

Camarillo, Calif. (August 11, 2021)—After thorough discussion and research, the Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees unanimously approved the policy COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Employees and Students at its Aug. 10 meeting. The policy requires that everyone who accesses in-person, on-site campus/District programs or who participates in off-site District/college services in person will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The goal is to protect the health and well-being of students, faculty, staff, administrators and the communities VCCCD serves, as well as maintain higher education access and attainment for the District’s approximately 31,000 students.

Effective Oct. 15, the mandate allows time for unvaccinated employees, students and the public to complete two-dose vaccines. The mandate recommends immediate implementation with the vaccines the Food and Drug Administration approved under Emergency Use Authorization, including those from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson).

People with verified medical conditions or who have sincerely held religious beliefs that prevent vaccination can request an accommodation from District Human Resources.

Individuals who have not received a COVID-19 vaccination may be subject to other safety measures. Students enrolled in in-person classes for the fall semester will be required to change to online classes, if they are not vaccinated by the deadline.

“We are hopeful this mandate helps improve the vaccination rate in Ventura County, as we all hope for an end of the pandemic,” said Board Chair Joshua Chancer.

The Board is grateful for the input from Ventura County Public Health, which was incorporated into the approved policy to support achievement of population-level immunity throughout the District and Ventura County. As of Aug. 10, 66% of Ventura County residents, age 12 and above, are vaccinated (venturacountyrecovers.org/). According to experts, to bring the pandemic under control, about 85% of Americans will need to be vaccinated.

Locally and statewide, institutions of higher learning have implemented coronavirus vaccine mandates. The California Community Colleges has strongly recommended a vaccine mandate to help safeguard student/employee health and safety, and Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has ordered COVID-19 vaccination for all state employees.

“The District prioritizes the health and safety of its employees, students and the community,” said Chancellor Greg Gillespie. “This mandate, along with other COVID safety protocols we’ve been practicing since the beginning of the pandemic, will help keep our communities safe.”

The District will continue to adhere to indoor mask use following recommendations from the Ventura County Public Health department. Since mid-July, the department has urged community members to wear masks indoors in public spaces, regardless of their vaccination status, to reduce the spread of COVID and lower hospitalizations in Ventura County.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Delta variant caused between 80% and 87% of all COVID-19 cases across the country during the last two weeks of July—up from 8% to 14% in early June. The CDC continues to emphasize vaccines offer strong protection against serious illness or death.

Hello Students and VCCCD Employees,

The spring semester schedules of classes are being finalized and will be available in the next week. We want to let you know that Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura colleges will continue offering mostly remote instruction and student support services. It is important to communicate this information early to allow you to plan accordingly. Employee remote work will continue with only designated essential employees on-site. Thanks for all of the discussions and planning to prepare for spring semester instruction, student support, and employee work. 

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to persist and the decision to continue with remote instruction and work aligns with state and local guidelines and orders. California Community Colleges Chancellor, Eloy Oakley, recently communicated support for California community colleges to continue with online instruction into spring semester. The California State University system recently announced that their colleges will operate remotely throughout the remainder of the academic year; the University of California system is expected to make a similar announcement.  Many community college districts across the state have also announced the continuation of remote instruction, student support, and work through this academic year, including neighboring Los Angeles Community College District.  

The current status of remote work for employees will continue through the remainder of this academic year unless changes in pandemic conditions and orders from state and local government and public health change. Only designated essential employees will be working on-site. Each location will update the list as needed to accommodate more personnel on campus necessary for the limited on-site instruction that will be occurring. As we continue working differently, there may also be adjustments to work responsibilities to meet priorities and needs. Administration at each location will work with employees, Union representatives, and Human Resources as needed to address any unique individual circumstances. 

Please take time to review the VCCCD Operational Guidelines. This document has been reviewed by representatives of our various District constituent groups, the Board of Trustees, and legal counsel. The guidelines were further revised to align with the recent California Department of Public Health COVID-19 Guidelines for Higher Education and incorporate current Ventura County Public Health requirements. The guidelines provide the foundational operating details we are using to protect your health and safety. The document also describes steps in the re-opening process that we are working towards. We will be updating the document when needed to reflect important changes from state and local public health departments and the State Chancellor’s Office.  Please download and check out the MyVCCCD mobile app to see the Healthy Return to Campus feature that has been added. If you are working remotely, you might not need to use this tool now, but the mobile app also provides you with another source of helpful District and college information.  

The following key points have been shared earlier and will continue into spring semester and until further notice:

1.      Most courses and programs are being offered in online/virtual formats for fall semester 2020 with limited exceptions. 

2.      Some courses and programs that require on-site instruction due to certification/accreditation requirements or have no virtual alternative to provide required skill development may have limited in-person activities. 

3.      Any courses and programs requiring limited on-site instruction must complete a plan for approval. The plan must address how appropriate safety and health precautions will be met. Plan components will include personal protective equipment, physical distancing, limits on group size, and cleaning/disinfecting measures that will be incorporated with the instructional activities. The plans must also comply with the standards in current state and local government and public health orders. The plans must be approved by the college President and brought forward to Chancellor’s Cabinet for review. Plans approved by Chancellor’s Cabinet will be forwarded to Ventura County Public Health. Courses/programs that have already been approved by Cabinet Members and submitted to Public Health may continue.

4.      Counseling and all student services operations will continue to primarily work remotely. 

5.      Computer and learning labs may provide limited student access as long as operations address safety and health precautions as described in item 3 above. 

6.      College Child Development Centers will not be open due to current restrictions on the number of children per staffing requirements.

7.      College libraries will continue to operate mainly remotely.

8.      Student Health Centers will operate according to their current plans.

9.      Only designated essential employees will continue to work on-site to ensure the safe operation, maintenance, and cleaning of our facilities and the continuance of essential business services. In accordance with State and local orders, all employees and students on-site are required to wear facemasks.

10.  Colleges and the District Office will immediately begin evaluating work and service areas and install appropriate protective barriers and social distancing demarcations at student and public-facing counters and work areas in preparation for a phased-in increase of employees and students on-site that may occur later in the new school year. 

11.  Community markets at Oxnard and Ventura colleges may reopen with a reduced number of vendors and implementation of social distancing policies.

12.  No fall semester sports seasons are occurring. No decision has been made regarding status of sports for spring semester at this time. 

“We appreciate the ongoing support of the community as we continue to take steps to protect the safety and health of our students and employees while providing educational instruction and student support,” said Board Chair Bernardo M. Perez. “We are committed to helping our students fulfill their educational and career goals.”

The Board of Trustees and I thank you for your dedication and concerted efforts to provide quality instruction and support services to students and ongoing essential business, facilities, and maintenance operations. The pandemic has brought each of us a different set of challenges and we appreciate all you are doing.

Thanks for your efforts and please stay healthy!

Greg

Greg Gillespie, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Ventura County Community College District

761 East Daily Drive | Suite 200 | Camarillo, CA 93010 | (805) 652-5501

www.vcccd.edu | www.moorparkcollege.edu | www.oxnardcollege.edu | www.venturacollege.edu

Dear Colleagues,

Attached for your information is the recently released “COVID-19 Industry Guidance:  Institutions of Higher Education” document from the CA Department of Public Health. Operations across the District will follow these developed guidelines as we continue to implement actions to protect the health and safety of our employees and students.

We had recently completed a final draft of the VCCCD Operational Framework for FY21 that also provides foundational guidance for college and District operations under the pandemic conditions. Thank you to the representatives from constituents across the District for you input and review of this important operational document. The framework document is now undergoing final legal review and revisions to align with the recently released state document and a final version will be available within the next 10 to 14 days. 

As we begin fall semester next week, we continue with nearly all classes offered online and most services provided remotely. A limited number of employees and students will be on-site. Each college has detailed safety plans that have been shared and will be implemented. 

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thanks for all that you continue to do to serve and support our students during these unprecedented and challenging times. 

Greg

Greg Gillespie, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Ventura County Community College District

Ventura County Recovers

Public Health Orders

• July 16, 2020 – Ventura County Public Health Officer Order
• July 13, 2020 – Ventura County Public Health Officer Order | Statewide Public Health Officer Order
• July 2, 2020 – Ventura County Public Health Officer Order – Bar Closures
  July 2, 2020 – Ventura County Public Health Officer Order – Beach Closures
• June 25, 2020 – Ventura County Public Health Department issues modified health order Allows for reopening of additional sectors

• June 11, 2020 – Updated Public Health Order – Effective at 11:59 p.m. on June 11, 2020 | Español
• May 29, 2020 – STAY WELL VC Order – Safely Reopening Ventura County shall become effective at 11:59 p.m. on May 29, 2020
• May 22, 2020 – STAY WELL VC Order – Safely Reopening Ventura County (Amended May 22, 2020) | Additional Amendments
• May 20, 2020 – STAY WELL VC Order – Safely Reopening Ventura County (Amended May 20, 2020)
• May 12, 2020 – More Business Permitted to Reopen in County of Ventura
• May 7, 2020 – STAY WELL VC Order – Safely Reopening Ventura County
• April 22, 2020 – Eviction Prevention Resolution (Ordinance 4563)
• April 20, 2020 – Stay Well at Home Order – Updated | Essential Business List
• April 9, 2020 – Stay Well at Home Order – Updated | Appendix A Social Distancing Protocol Form
• March 31, 2020 – Modified Stay Well At Home Public Health Order
• March 20, 2020 – Stay Well at Home Order
• March 17, 2020 – Public Health Order
• March 12, 2020 – Declaration of Local Health Emergency

California Department of Public Health Guidance for Face Coverings

California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office

VCCCD COVID-19 Response Plan – Social Distancing

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization.

Many people infected with the COVID-19 virus can experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.  Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19.

For up-to-date information regarding the novel coronavirus including number of cases in the United States, see:

• The California Department of Public Health website or
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website 

Social Distancing

Definition

Social distancing is a public health safety intervention used to reduce the likelihood of transmitting communicable disease. Social distancing involves minimizing exposure to infected individuals by avoiding large public gathering venues, adhering to spacing requirements in the workplace, and following proper personal hygiene practices.

Step 1.  Standard Strategies for Effective Social Distancing: 

Practice at All Times

The goal of social distancing is to limit exposure to infectious bacteria and viruses during a communicable disease outbreak. The following strategies may be useful in conducting social distancing:

Adhere to public health hygienic recommendations by washing your hands after touching commonly used items or coming into contact with someone who is sick.

• Stay home when sick.
  • Remain at home until fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines.
  • Seek immediate medical care if symptoms become more severe, e.g., high fever or difficulty breathing

• Use “respiratory etiquette”.
  • Cover cough with a tissue or sleeve. See CDC’s Cover Your Cough page.
  • Provide adequate supplies within easy reach, including tissues and no-touch trash cans.

• Wash hands frequently.
  • Encourage hand washing (at least 20 seconds with soap and water) by students and staff through education, scheduled time for handwashing, and the provision of adequate supplies.
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces. Daily cleaning and disinfecting of high traffic areas.

• Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth and avoid rubbing your eyes.

• Properly dispose of anything that comes in contact with your mouth such as tissues or plastic eating utensils.

• Students and staff who start to develop symptoms on site will immediately go home and should contact their own physician or health care provider depending upon level of discomfort and type of symptoms.

• For students using the college Student Health Centers for primary care, please call the Student Health Center for advice and referral for care. Wear a mask covering your nose, mouth and chin when out in public. Avoid coming in contact with individuals displaying symptoms of illness.

• Stay at least six feet from the nearest person when out in public. ​​

Step 2.  Notification of VCCCD Implementation of Social Distancing Protocol:  

Occurs Following Ventura County Public Health Notification of a Health Emergency based upon Confirmed Community Transmission of COVID-19 in Ventura County or Cases Occurring in Surrounding Counties

Notification

Implementation of the VCCCD Social Distancing Protocol will continue to be communicated to employees and students by the VCCCD based on recommendations of public health authorities and assessment of circumstances

    Classes and Work

• To the extent possible, maintain a minimum distance between people of at least six feet. Adjust work and classroom spaces as needed.

• Message and format consistent informational flyers and posters will be distributed for posting at all VCCCD sites.

• Classes have moved to web-based and/or distance learning modes to continue instruction. Employees and students will continue to be notified of changes in advance.

• Colleges have obtained blanket exception from the CCCCO to offer additional classes in an online format.

• Employees may be required to participate in an alternate work schedule or alternate work mode. This includes working from home remotely using phone and computer or staggering work shifts to reduce the number of employees on site. These actions may occur depending upon local circumstances and directives from public health authorities. VCCCD employees will be notified should implementation of alternate work schedules and/or modes be implemented.

• Employees with identified critical functions to maintain District/College operations will be provided technology and access for remote work as needed.

Closures

The colleges and District office have closed due to circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will continue to be communicated to students and employees on the VCCCD website.

• The consideration of closures of locations or services at locations (e.g. childcare centers, libraries) has been discussed among District and College leadership. This ensured that decisions were made in a consistent manner across all District locations evaluating similar criteria and communicating actions in a timely manner to all students and employees.

• Venues where large amounts of people may congregate have been closed. Information on cancellation of college events and closings of any specific services will be regularly updated on the VCCCD website.

• Individuals should consult public health entities for closings on any public or private venues in their area.

• The colleges and District office have closed to the public due to circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will continue to be communicated to students and employees on the VCCCD website.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Recommendations for wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves or masks have been issued by public health authorities. If used correctly, PPE may limit some exposures; however, they should not take the place of other preventative interventions, such as proper hygiene practices.

Medical Countermeasures

Consult with a physician for recommendations on obtaining medical prophylaxis.

Immunocompromised and Other High Risk Individuals

Individuals with compromised immune systems, heart disease, pulmonary conditions, diabetes, and other medical conditions, are encouraged to consult with their personal physician to assess the safety of their workplace during an event that warrants social distancing. They can then work with their supervisor and Human Resources regarding required absences or accommodations.

Step 3.  Implementation of High Intensity Social Distancing Measures: 

Occurs Following Increased Community Transmission of COVID-19 Indicating a Growing Risk to the General Public and the Need for Additional Precautions to Contain Local Community Transmission.  These additional actions have been implemented:

• Communicate the implementation of high-intensity social distancing measures with faculty, staff, students and the community.

• Employees will be allowed to stay home if someone in their house is sick or school closures have occurred.

• Healthcare provider’s note will not be required for employees or students who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or to return to work. Healthcare provider officers and medical facilities will be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely way.

• Classes have been suspended and public areas or large gathering areas closed.

• Further expansion of alternative work schedules and modes to minimize the number of employees on site has occurred.

•  Events where people are in close contact with others for an extended period have been cancelled. Ventura County Public Health authorities has called for the cancellation of many different types of public events.

• Maximized actions to ensure continuity of education services through digital and distance learning options as feasible and appropriate.

• Provided alternative grading mechanisms including grades based upon work to date. CCCCO has provided these types of accommodations in past emergency situations requiring closures of colleges.

Campus Classes and Events

Question: Are my classes still taking place on campus?
Answer: the 2020 summer session will consist exclusively of online/virtual instruction classes. Information about the Fall semester will be posted as soon as it is available. 

Question: Are Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College, Ventura College East Campus, and the District Office still open?
Answer: No. Although classes are continuing online/virtually, our campuses and the District office are not open to students or the public. But our employees are still here to help you so please call or email us. 

Question: Is the Child Development Center closed?
Answer: Yes. The Child Development Centers on the Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura College campuses are closed at this time.

Question: What if I’ve never taken an online class before?
Answer: There are many resources and tutorials on how to use Canvas, the platform for online classes. Learn more here.

Question: Are there still events planned on campus?
Answer: No. All events have been canceled at this time. ​

Question: Will registration for fall classes continue?
Answer: Yes, Register through MyVCCCD. Please call our counseling or admissions offices for help, do not come to campus.

Question: I'm a Nursing student. What happens to my rotations and upcoming testing?
Answer: All nursing students are encouraged to contact their dean and faculty to receive the most up-to-date information. 

Question: I'm an International Student - how does this affect me?
Answer: SEVP has allowed our schools to move the F2F courses to online as a temporary measure, without penalty to F1 students. Students are allowed to travel as they would under normal circumstances, but they must be aware of the consequences of traveling. Travel restrictions are being implemented daily. We encourage international students to stay put until further notice especially if they are planning to continue their studies in the US. 

Student Services

Question: I'm feeling anxious and stressed about everything that's going on. With the Student Health Center no longer open on campus, can I still call them?
Answer: Yes. If you have medical questions or need mental health services, you can call your Student Health Centers. If you have a medical or mental health emergency, please call 911. Our Student Health Centers or other community resources can be reached at:

• Moorpark College: 805-378-1413
• Oxnard College: 805-678-5832
• Ventura College: 805-289-6346 ​
• Ventura County Behavioral Health Crisis Team: 866-998-2243
• Didi Hirsch 24-hour Suicide Hotline 877-727-4747
• USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work Tele-Mental Health
• Text "Courage" to 741741for FREE 24/7 for mental health support. 

Question: With campus and the libraries closed, what can I do to access the internet? ​
Answer: Comcast is offering two months of free internet to households with students participating in online classes. Click here to learn more. You can also call our campus libraries for additional tips.​

Question: What if I need help with an assignment or research paper?
Answer: Librarian services are still available. Contact them at:

• Moorpark College: 805-378-1450 
• Oxnard College: 805-678-5819
• Ventura College: 805-289-6482 

Question: Is my campus bookstore open?
Answer: All of our bookstores are closed to the general public, but you can shop online and enjoy free ground shipping on all orders. Visit your campus bookstore website

• Moorpark College Bookstore
• Oxnard College Bookstore
• Ventura College Bookstore

Question: Is tutoring still available?
Answer: All tutoring services are available online.
Visit your college website for more information

• Moorpark College Tutoring
• Oxnard College Tutoring
• Ventura College Tutoring

General Health Information

Question: Has there been an outbreak of COVID-19 at any of your campuses or offices?
Answer: Yes. However, our campuses and District Administrative Center have implemented strict COVID-19 protocols for students, faculty or staff who are coming on to campus. See the Healthy Return to Campus (link) for more information.

Question: How do I know if I’m sick and what should I do if I’m not feeling well?
Answer: If you’re not feeling well, please avoid public places and contact your primary care provider or clinic. If you begin feeling any flu-like symptoms (like a fever, cough, or shortness of breath), contact your local emergency room. Our Student Health Center is available for phone evaluations. Meanwhile, be sure to email your professor and keep them updated. It is generally advised that you not spend time in public spaces until you’ve gone at least 24 hours without a fever (and that 24 hours should also be without the help of any fever-reducing medication).

Employees and Student Workers 

Question: I’m a VCCCD employee and I’m 65+ years old and/or have underlying health issues (e.g., blood disorders, chronic kidney disease, asthma, chronic liver disease, compromised immune system, pregnancy in the last two weeks, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and other serious health conditions) that make me more susceptible to the coronavirus. Do I need to report to my office for work? 
Answer: No. In line with Governor Newsom’s March 15^th announcement, you should work with your supervisor regarding remote work options from home. You are not required to report to campus.

Question: If I'm working remotely, will I still get paid?
Answer: All employees (faculty, staff, student workers, and probationary and provisional employees), whether working on-site or working remotely from home, will continue to get paid for normal work hours throughout the duration of this situation. Details and work-plans will be communicated directly to you by your supervisor. 

Question: I’m a VCCCD employee with travel plans for work. Can I still go?
Answer: All non-essential travel has been canceled for now.

Resources

Question: How do I update my Emergency Alerts contact information?
Answer:

STUDENT

• Students may update their ALERTS information on the MyVCCCD portal
• Once you are in the portal, click the MyCollege tab then click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information.
• On the next screen, click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information and update your information

EMPLOYEES

• Employees may update their ALERTS information on the MyVCCCD portal
• Go to MyVCCCD portal
• Visit the Work Life tab – click on Personal Information.
• On the next screen, click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information and update your information

Question: Can I get FREE Internet?
Answer: We know that many students are challenged with finding the necessary tools that are needed in order to succeed with online classes. We understand that both Comcast and Spectrum are now offering free internet service for students who are not current customers. Visit their web page https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19 or call 1-844-488-8395 for more information

What else should I be doing?

1. Remember to keep an eye out for emails from faculty, the college or Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD).
2. Keep taking regular precautions to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands, avoid being around people who are sick, avoid touching your face, cough/sneeze into your arm, and wipe down regularly-touched objects and surfaces with disinfecting wipes and sprays.
3. For more information to follow at the Ventura County Public Health office and the VCCCD Alerts page.

If you’re not feeling well, please don't come to campus - contact your primary care provider or clinic. If you begin feeling any flu-like symptoms (like a fever, cough, or shortness of breath), contact your local emergency room. Student Health Centers are available for phone evaluations.

Be sure to email your professor and keep them updated. Please do not return to campus until you’ve gone at least 24 hours without a fever (and that 24 hours should also be without the help of any fever-reducing medication).

Public Health continues to recommend that the public do the following to protect themselves from all respiratory illnesses:

• Stay home when you are sick. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Limit close contact, like kissing and sharing cups or utensils, with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wearing a mask may help prevent people from spreading illness to others and protect people around you.
• Practice physical distancing – stay 6 feet away from people.
• Get a flu immunization to prevent influenza if you have not done so this season.

For more information, please call Ventura County Public Health Communicable Diseases at (805) 981-5101.

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) HEALTH CARE AGENCY INFORMATION  For  general questions about COVID-19 visit www.vcemergency.com or join the County of Ventura on Facebook. You may also call 2-1-1. If you have questions about your symptoms or possible exposure to the virus, your primary care provider is the best person to help you. Please call your primary care clinic, unless you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing. If you do not have a primary care provider, call the clinic or provider listed on your medical card if you have insurance. If you do not have insurance, click here to search for a clinic near you. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Español - Para preguntas generales sobre COVID-19, visite http://www.vcemergency.com/homepage-es o únase al Condado de Ventura en Facebook. También puede llamar al 2-1-1. Si tiene preguntas sobre sus síntomas o la posible exposición al virus, su proveedor de atención primaria es la mejor persona para ayudarlo. Llame a su clínica de atención primaria, a menos que tenga síntomas que pongan en peligro su vida, como dificultad para respirar. Si no tiene un proveedor de atención primaria, llame a la clínica o al proveedor que figura en su tarjeta médica si tiene seguro de salud. Si no tiene seguro de salud, haga clic aquí para buscar una clínica cerca de usted. Si tiene una emergencia médica, llame al 9-1-1 o vaya a la sala de emergencias más cercana.