Dear KGI Students,

I hope this week’s spring break allows some moments of rest and reflection.  The KGI COVID-19 Task Force met this morning to discuss the current situation as it relates to faculty, staff, and students. I wanted to share important updates discussed. Please remember that all updated information and answers to your questions can be found on the KGI website. The gold bar on the front page of our website is a quick and easy way to access the website if you misplace the link.

  • There are reports that students at other TCC campuses have flu-like symptoms. The TCC Student Health Center has testing kits on hand, and is only testing students who meet the criteria for a test. As of 5:00 pm, Student Health Services has tested two individuals for COVID-19. This does not mean those students have been diagnosed with coronavirus, just that they have been tested. The TCC Coronavirus Response Team meets at 8:00 a.m. every morning to review each campus and give updates from the Health Center. We do not have any KGI students who have been tested or diagnosed at this time.  
  • After significant discussion and caution, the 2020 Commencement ceremonies will be temporarily postponed. The task force believes that the ceremonies are a celebration not only for our students, but also for friends and family members (parents, grandparents, etc.).  Some of who are in the most vulnerable populations for COVID-19 exposure. Therefore, we want to postpone the ceremonies until large gatherings are deemed safe. We will reschedule with no less than 3 months’ notice to graduates and their families to allow an appropriate length of time to facilitate any necessary travel. Student Affairs will continue to keep you updated as we have more information.
  • There is currently a petition circulating the campus demanding tuition and parking refunds. The Task Force has decided to deny the request for any refunds on parking because our campus is not closed, and students can still access our parking and buildings as needed. Tuition refunds will also be denied.  Both WASC and the Department of Education(DOE) have published information for higher education institutions on the approval to offer distance education to accommodate students on a temporary basis.  It is important to note that the DOE is allowing institutions to provide online education in order to not disrupt the spring semester. Tuition will remain intact as the education is not disrupted since online education is provided. Per federal regulations, if a student decides to withdraw, they will be subjected to the Return of Title IV (R2T4) funds process.  Additional information is available on our FAQ’s website.

I have also attached a great piece by Steve Kosslyn, KGI Trustee regarding online learning in response to some students doubting distance education. I hope we can all be there for each other virtually as a community and continue to come together to make sure we are all taking good care of each other with grace, patience, and intellectual creativity. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. 

We will continue to keep you updated as important information develops.

Be well.

Cynthia Martinez
KGI Dean of Students

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