Blue waves behind the words Coast Colleges in dark blue

Weekly News Brief | January 8, 2021
From the Office of Chancellor John Weispfenning, Ph.D.

Chancellor Weispfenning, blue jacket and blue tie, in front of the Coast District building

The post-holiday wave of the COVID-19 has reached the Coast District, both among those concerned for their own health and those concerned for loved ones. We have lost members of our staff to the virus, and we all join in extending care and compassion for those affected through this painful time.

As I stated earlier this week about the national turmoil, we will get past this COVID-19 surge and find a path back to health and prosperity. Vaccines are beginning to roll out in a process that will scale up and accelerate over the next few months.

It is likely, at least hopefully so, that more in-person programs and activities may be possible in the summer and fall of this year. Participatory governance forums and bargaining teams continue to do the work of navigating the crisis and planning for a deliberate staged return.

It will take more time, which is frustrating to all of us, but a return to normalcy is on the horizon.

Be well,

 John

John Weispfenning, Ph.D.
Chancellor

 

Precautions During the Pandemic Surge

Dark red field with viruses as imagined under a microscope, some prominently in the foreground with others in the background

As vaccination efforts scale up, now is the time for extra caution – so that as many as possible can benefit from the vaccine.

Coast District direction on reporting, self-isolating, and notification remains in place. Additionally, health authorities recommend the following for increased safety while on-site for work:

  • Wear a face cover while on-site. This is a districtwide mandate.
  • Keep a safe distance as much as you can, at least 6 feet.
  • Avoid sharing items with coworkers.
  • Clean and disinfect your workspace and shared equipment often.

Many in our District and communities live in large households of friends and loved ones, including households of multiple generations. Health officials recommend the following, particularly for large households:

  • Limit errands and choose only one or two people to do the essential errands for the whole house.
  • Keep your distance at home and avoid hugging, kissing, or sharing food or drinks.
  • Keep people separated from anyone who is sick. Try to keep any sick person 6 feet apart from others in the home and have them wear a face cover.
  • Avoid having visitors at the home.

These are difficult asks of our close families and loved ones. All of us are navigating extreme circumstances. We each do the best we can to protect ourselves and others. The guidance above is intended to aid in that effort.

 

Schedule, Week of January 11

Chancellor's Schedule
In the District, Monday through Thursday
Dr. Andy Dunn is Acting Chancellor on Friday

 

Wishing everyone a hopeful New Year!

 



publicaffairs@cccd.edu

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