Tyler students,
As you know, the situation involving the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is rapidly evolving. To date, there have been nine presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Virginia.
Although the threat remains low, health experts advise everyone to remain vigilant and to take steps to protect themselves, their families, and their communities. This includes frequent handwashing; covering coughs and sneezes; disinfecting frequently touched surfaces; staying home when you are sick; and self-quarantining and self-monitoring after traveling to a CDC-defined Level 3 country where COVID-19 is widespread.
These preventive actions also include social distancing, a practice in which you place greater distances between yourself and others; avoid handshakes and physical greetings; and take other precautions to try to prevent possible exposure to and transmission of the virus.
After monitoring and reviewing guidance related to these preventative measures and out of an abundance of caution, John Tyler Community College is taking the following steps to enact social distancing practices and to reduce the number of people on our campuses:
Classes Cancelled March 16 – 17
The college is cancelling all classes on Monday, March 16 and Tuesday, March 17, so its faculty and staff can finalize preparations to start remote instruction beginning on Wednesday, March 18
Class Changes from March 18 – 28
- From March 18 – 28, classes that are normally taught in-person or are hybrid will shift to a fully remote instructional format.
- Students who do not have access to an electronic device and/or internet services should inform their instructors immediately so they may attempt to work with you individually.
- The goals will be for all students to have the opportunity to complete the semester, meeting all of the learning outcomes within their respective classes.
- Instructors will communicate with their classes no later than Tuesday, March 17 at noon.
- For students who are in classes that require labs, simulation work, clinicals, etc. that cannot be easily transitioned to remote instruction, faculty will be working to determine best methods for each class and will communicate with you by Tuesday, March 17 at noon.
- Students who need access to computers, printers and the internet may still come to campus at this time. Computer stations in the libraries on both campuses will be available for use. The college will be implementing social distancing practices in the library, so please pay attention to posted signs.
- During this time, college email should be regularly monitored, as it will be the primary form of communication for important information and updates.
Classes after March 28
If the college determines it needs to continue this alternate class meeting approach beyond March 28, the college community will be notified by March 26.
College Campuses to Remain Open
- The college’s Chester and Midlothian campuses will remain open and operational, so students will have access to all of Tyler’s support services. Information on how to access student services remotely will be sent to students by email on Tuesday, March 17.
- Faculty and staff will maintain their regular work schedules unless otherwise notified.
Recent Travelers
John Tyler Community College is monitoring and following CDC guidance related to travelers.
- As of today, March 12, the CDC has issued Level-3 Travel Health Notices for China, most of Europe, Iran and South Korea.
- As per CDC guidance, those who have recently traveled to CDC-defined Level 3 countries must self-quarantine, self-monitor, and practice social distancing for 14 days.
- The college requests any student or employee who has recently travelled to a CDC-defined Level 3 country to adhere to the CDC’s self-quarantine guidance.
- Clinical sites are requiring their employees who’ve recently travelled to these countries to follow CDC guidelines. These sites hold students to the same requirements as employees. Students should talk to their instructor if they have any questions.
- It is important to note, the countries given a Level 3 designation may change as the situation evolves, and information will be posted on the CDC’s travel page.
College-sponsored Travel/Trips Postponed
All college-sponsored group travel scheduled to take place between March 16 and April 5 is postponed until further notice. If you were scheduled to participate in an upcoming trip, please stay in contact with your trip organizer.
College-sponsored Events and Activities
The spring semester is a busy time of year for events and activities. As the situation evolves, the college may alter plans for these events. Changes to event plans will be shared by email and on www.jtcc.edu.
COVID-19 Resources
For the latest information on COVID-19, including updates on the virus, steps to protect yourself, symptoms, steps to report a possible exposure, and more, visit VDH and CDC websites.
John Tyler Community College is committed to your well-being and to meeting your academic and support needs during this evolving situation.
Since circumstances can change rapidly, we will be regularly communicating with you about what’s happening at Tyler. I ask that you monitor your email for those updates. You may also find important information on our Health and Safety Planning web page at www.jtcc.edu/covid-19.
Thank you for your flexibility, understanding and patience.
Please take care.
Edward “Ted” Raspiller, Ed.D.
President