Dear KGI Students,

In the space of just a few days, a fast-moving virus has become a global pandemic, calling for rapid shifts in planning and execution.  I’m incredibly proud of how the KGI community has stepped up to meet the need.   We have many campus partners in this extraordinary time, and the spirit of cooperation is running high.

Through gathering the best information we can, and sharing differing viewpoints to come to sound decisions, we are tackling these challenges as a true community, and I want to take this time to provide you with some updates.

The KGI COVID-19 Task Force met this morning to evaluate the recent order and guidance by both the Los Angeles Department of Public Health and Governor Newsom.

Government Guidance

  • We fall under section 13(j) of essential businesses: Educational institutions (including public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities) for purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing essential functions, provided that social distancing of 6-feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent possible. (page 4 of LACDPH order)
  • Our current guidance does not change as a result of the two orders. We have, however, decided to adjust the potential date to return to work, which was initially April 6. Our new return to work date for faculty and staff will follow the end date of the order on April 20.
  • If there is a confirmed diagnosis in our community or within TCC, we will send a HIPPA compliant communication in consultation with the health department. The health department will work with the individual to determine if there is a risk to anyone within our community.  At this time, there are no confirmed cases at KGI or within The Claremont Colleges.

Facilities Updates

  • We are not restricting access to campus to maintain academic continuity and operational support in case there may be Wi-Fi bandwidth issues at your homes. If you need to come to campus, we ask that you follow social distancing and handwashing practices. All doors will be accessible with your KGI key card. We are monitoring attendance on campus by keycard access to ensure your safety and to monitor the campus for social distancing.

Zoom

  • Please see attachment, “For KGI Students—Learning with Zoom” for additional information on how to prepare for your online classes using zoom and obtain Wi-Fi and internet.  If you need technically support please email helpdesk@kgi.edu
  • Zoom video on how to navigate chat features, virtual backgrounds, raising your hand, etc. (approximately 30 minutes).
  • Zoom student feedback sessions will be scheduled for the week of March 23.  This will be an opportunity to share what has worked and what hasn’t. Calendar invites with zoom links will be sent next week.

Student Wellness

  • Your health and wellness is our top priority.  As you prepare for the online classroom, please take a moment to open the attached labeled, “Stress Management” for mental health tips and how to be productive at home. 
  • Monsour Counseling Center has taken their services online to help those in need. Additional information regarding a new telehealth service through TimelyMD will be shared next week.
  • If you have started an online support or interest group that you would like to publicize, please email student_affairs@kgi.edu so we can add it to the weekly Student Affairs Newsletter.
  • Melissa Scott, Beth Walkenbach, and Christy Billock are graciously offering several wellness activities to our community. They will be sending out Outlook invites, so you have the information for Zoom readily available.
  • Please see attached, “Resources for Students” to learn how Student Affairs (Academic Support Services, Career Services, and Student and Campus Life) can support you remotely.

Parking Permits

  • I’ve received a couple of emails regarding parking permits and it is not as simple as it may seem because it requires collaboration with many constituent groups (e.g. campus safety, student accounts, financial aid, etc.).  We are looking into how to settle it and make it right.  I thank you in advance for your patience.

Student Success Fund

Friendly reminder, information and resources are updated daily on the KGI Coronavirus webpage.

If there are specific questions or additional items you would like to see reported on, please send me an email or instantly direct message me through our KGI Student Affairs slack channel. Communication is absolutely key now, especially as we cannot just catch each other in the hallway.  Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

 

Be well,

Cynthia Martinez

Dean of Students

Back to kgi.edu/coronavirus page