Alerts

August 11, 2020

We have been busy preparing for the fall semester and would like to share how you can help Oxnard College maintain a safe and healthy campus:

• Most of our classes will be offered online; however, some select classes and programs will still be offered either fully or partially on-site. Please check our schedule of classes carefully to see if your classes are online or on-site. If in doubt, check with the class instructor or your counselor. Be sure to read the additional points below if you are visiting any Oxnard College facility. 
• Most student services will be offered online (e.g., counseling, admissions and records, financial aid, etc.). Very few services will be offered in person, so please contact those offices directly by phone or email before visiting campus. 
• Our Library (LRC) will have very limited access. Please see the LLR website for further information. If you are visiting our campus for any reason, including taking an on-site class, please note that parking will be restricted to Lots A and B, and you must be screened at our Health Screening tables before entering the campus. Please watch this video for more information on that process. Parking is free and no permits are required. 
• Every on-site class has a waiver for students to sign. If you don't receive this waiver from your professor in advance of the first day of class, please contact your professor who should provide it either digitally or in-person on your first day. 
• While on campus, you will need to: 
  • Wear a face covering at all times. If you have a documented health concern that prevents you from wearing a covering, please contact your professor through Canvas and our Student Health Center at (805) 678-5832 to discuss appropriate accommodations. 
  • Only stay on campus for as long as is necessary to attend class, visit the library, or access our limited Student Services. 
  • You may not linger on campus or congregate with others, and you must maintain a six-foot distance from all others. 
  • Our goal is to keep everyone in our college communities healthy and safe during this unprecedented time. We have added a “A Healthy Return to Campus” screening app to the MyVCCCD mobile app. The MyVCCCD Mobile App is not just for students – it’s a great resource for employees too! If you have not yet downloaded the app, visit the Mobile App information page for instructions. If you are returning to your work site, beginning on Monday, August 17, you will be required to login to the MyVCCCD app and complete the Daily Health Status Screening form before arriving on campus. There are several questions to answer, including entering your temperature. Based on the answers you provide, you will be given: 
    • a green pass with the message "You are Clear" to proceed to your campus screening location; or
    • a red pass with the message "You cannot come to campus."
  • If you receive a GREEN pass, we will see you on campus! Check the Oxnard College Campus Map for Daily Health Locations at the top of the building menu on the left side of the campus map page. When you arrive on campus, wear a face mask and proceed directly to one of the Daily Health Check locations where a temperature check will be conducted by a trained screener.
• Students who are taking on-site classes will be expected to help clean and disinfect their own areas of the classrooms or labs where they work. Supplies and guidance will be provided on-site. own areas of the classrooms or labs where they work. Supplies and guidance will be provided on-site. 
• Please keep in mind that despite our best efforts to screen all students and employees who visit our campus, there is no foolproof method to prevent the possibility of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, if you are concerned about the possibility of infection, we urge you to stay home, take your classes online, and wait until an effective vaccine is available. Attending on-site fall semester classes at Oxnard College is strictly voluntary. 

Please continue to visit our OC Alerts page for the latest information about Oxnard College's response to COVID-19. If you don't see your questions answered, contact us or call our Welcome Center at (805) 678-5907.

Thank you for your cooperation! We look forward to supporting you throughout the semester.

August 21, 2020

Colleagues,

Beginning next week, Oxnard College will add an additional COVID screening checkpoint for employees visiting our main campus. In addition to our current checkpoint for students and employees located near the clocktower, there will now be a checkpoint in the Administration building available for employees only. If you are accessing either of these checkpoints, please download and use our pre-screening app before arriving on campus to help expedite the screening process.

OC primary screening sites:

• Location: Near the clocktower (close to South Campus Road and Entrance Road)
• Intended for: Students and employees who are either essential or are involved in on-site instruction.
• Parking: Use Lots A or B
• Times: M-Th, 8:30am-5pm
• Location: Administration building’s ground-level lobby
• Intended for: Employees with a pressing need to grab something from their office, check their mail, etc. Not intended for students.
• Parking: Use Lot G
• Times: M-Th, 8am-5pm

If you’re passing through one of these checkpoints, please continue to follow the guidance below:

1. Please note that you must be screened at our Health Screening tables before entering the campus. Please watch this video for more information on that process. Parking is free and no permits are required.  

2. While on campus, you will need to: 

A. Wear a face covering at all times. If you have a documented health concern that prevents you from wearing a covering, please contact your dean or supervisor and our Student Health Center at (805) 678-5832 to discuss appropriate accommodations. 

B. Please access the campus through one of our designated checkpoints. Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes early. 

C. You will need to download our MyVCCCD mobile app so that you can complete a brief self-assessment survey whenever you visit Oxnard College. Please complete the app’s questionnaire prior to arriving on campus. Visit https://www.vcccd.edu/mobile for more information and to download the MyVCCCD mobile app on Apple and Android devices. 

D. Only remain on campus for as long as is necessary. Do not linger or congregate with others, and maintain a six-foot distance from all others.  

3. Please keep in mind that despite our best efforts to screen all students and employees who visit our campus, there is no foolproof method to prevent the possibility of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, if you are concerned about the possibility of infection, we urge you to speak with your supervisor and develop alternate plans.   

4. Continue visiting our OC Alerts page for the latest information about Oxnard College's response to COVID-19, including guidance that has been sent to students. If you don't see your questions answered, please contact us here or reach out to your supervisor.   

Thank you for your help in keeping our campus a safe learning and working environment for all.

Best regards,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM

President | Oxnard College

August 14, 2020

Hello Oxnard College colleagues,

I want to thank you for your patience and understanding as we finalize plans for an unprecedented semester. As you know, a majority of our classes will take place online while a select few courses will occur on-site with robust precautions set in place.

Please note that starting Monday, August 17, any employee visiting campus for any reason will be required to enter through our COVID checkpoint. But please, if you are not an essential employee or an employee involved in direct instruction, do not come to campus during the first week of classes (8/17 – 8/21). This will help ensure our transition is as smooth as possible. Along those lines, if you have an OC computer that is approaching the 90-day reactivation period Mike Alexander has previously emailed about, you may consider visiting campus with your computer prior to Monday.

Beginning the second week of the semester (8/24 and on), if you need to pick up office supplies, campus mail, retrieve something from your office, etc., please park in Lot G (by the Admin Building) and enter through the Admin building’s lobby where employee screening will be made available (days of the week and times for that checkpoint will be communicated closer to 8/24). 

For those employees who are essential or are involved in direct/on-site instruction beginning next week (8/17 – 8/21), please follow the guidance below: 

1. If you are visiting our campus for any reason, including teaching an on-site class, please note that parking will be restricted to Lots A and B, and you must be screened at our Health Screening tables before entering the campus. Please watch this video for more information on that process. Parking is free and no permits are required.  

2. While on campus, you will need to: 

          A. Wear a face covering at all times. If you have a documented health concern that prevents you from wearing a covering, please contact your dean or supervisor and our Student Health Center at (805) 678-5832 to discuss appropriate accommodations. 

          B. Please access the campus through the screening checkpoint off of South Campus Way, next to the clock tower. Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes early. Additional checkpoints will be announced after our first week.  Check the Oxnard College Campus Map for Daily Health Locations (click on  “# Daily Health Check – Lot A & B” located at the top of the menu on the left-hand side of the campus map page).

          C. You will need to download our MyVCCCD mobile app so that you can complete a brief self-assessment survey whenever you visit Oxnard College. Please complete the app’s questionnaire prior to arriving on campus. Visit https://www.vcccd.edu/mobile for more information and to download the MyVCCCD mobile app on Apple and Android devices. 

          D. Only remain on campus for as long as is necessary. Do not linger or congregate with others, and maintain a six-foot distance from all others.  

3. Please keep in mind that despite our best efforts to screen all students and employees who visit our campus, there is no foolproof method to prevent the possibility of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, if you are concerned about the possibility of infection, we urge you to speak with your supervisor and develop alternate plans.   

4. Continue visiting our OC Alerts page for the latest information about Oxnard College's response to COVID-19. If you don't see your questions answered, please contact us here or reach out to your supervisor.   

Thank you for your cooperation as well as your steadfast commitment to making this a safe semester for our students and one another. 

Best regards,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM

President | Oxnard College

Oxnard College has drafted our own operating plan, trying our best to align our plans with the more general and constantly evolving State and County guidelines, and congruently with our District’s  Operational Framework. Our plan was drafted based upon weekly meetings of our COVID response committee, comprised of approximately 25 faculty, classified staff members , administrators, and students, as well as representatives from the City’s Fire Department and the Middle College on our campus. Please keep in mind that we are all still scrutinizing the State’s recently-released guidelines to ensure our Plans coincide with those guidelines. None of us have faced a global pandemic of this nature before, and it is likely that our Plans will need to change as conditions change and as guidelines from the State and County change. Our ultimate goal is to offer the vast majority of our classes online and have most of our employees work remotely, to protect the safety and well-being of our students and employees until a vaccine is available and this pandemic is safely behind us. Only those classes and programs which cannot be conducted fully online (due, for instance, to licensing and accreditation requirements), and only such work as cannot be performed online, will take place on campus, and even then under rigorous safety protocols.

If you have a temperature of 100.4 (or higher) or have answered yes to a COVID-19 screening question, you will need to leave campus and follow these guidelines:

1. You should return home and isolate yourself.

2. Call your primary care provider or clinic where you receive services and report your symptoms.

3. Follow your primary care providers advice.  They will determine if you require COVID-19 testing and advise you where to go.

4. Oxnard College Student Health Center will need to approve your medical clearance before entering any building on campus.

5. Consult with your faculty member about on-line work assignments while off campus.

6. If you have questions about your screening or would like to talk to a health care professional after being asked to leave campus, please call the Oxnard College Student Health Center (805) 678-5832 or (805) 678-5032 during regular business hours: 9am-5pm from Monday-Thursday and 9am-12pm on Fridays.  You can also email the Health Center with health related questions at ochealthcntr02@vcccd.edu. Emails sent on Friday or over the weekend will receive a response on Monday.

Ventura County COVID-19 testing sites and information is available through VC Emergency (805)465-6650. You can also dial 211 for a Ventura County’s 24/7 Resource Hotline.

August 14, 2020

To our Oxnard neighbors,

As our community and nation continue to grapple with the fallout from COVID-19, Oxnard College has worked busily to prepare for a fall semester unlike any we’ve experienced before. This semester, our plans are to offer the vast majority of our classes online and to have most of our employees work remotely in order to protect the safety and well-being of our campus family and community until a vaccine is available and this pandemic is safely behind us. Only those classes and programs which cannot be conducted fully online (due, for instance, to licensing and accreditation requirements), and only such work as cannot be performed online, will take place on campus, and even then under rigorous safety protocols which we have implemented in coordination with local officials, campus partners, and our District office. 

We are proud that our facilities often serve as a space for our community to access. We encourage you to enjoy time with family and friends as you walk or jog along the perimeter of the campus, from South Rose Avenue to East Bard Road. Please refrain from using any of our physical facilities for the time being. 

These efforts will help our institution keep you, your families, our students and staff safe. For additional information on our plans, please visit https://www.oxnardcollege.edu/alerts. 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We’re all in this together!

Best regards,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM

President | Oxnard College 

Helpful links:

1. REGISTER FOR CLASSES
2. FREE COVID TESTING FOR RESIDENTS
3. OXNARD COLLEGE ALERTS
4. INFO ON OUR SCREENING PROCESS
5. LIBRARY HOURS

A nuestros vecinos de Oxnard,

Mientras nuestra comunidad y nuestra nación continúan luchando contra el COVID-19, Oxnard College ha trabajado arduamente preparándose para un semestre como jamás hemos visto. Para este semestre, nuestros planes son ofrecer la gran mayoría de nuestras clases en línea y hacer que la mayoría de nuestros empleados trabajen desde sus casas para proteger la seguridad y el bienestar de sus familias y de todo el personal de nuestro campus hasta que haya una vacuna disponible y esta pandemia se acabe. Solo las clases o programas que no se pueden dar completamente en línea (debido a los requisitos de licencia y acreditación, por ejemplo), y solo el trabajo que no se puede realizar en línea, serán impartidos en el campus, e incluso entonces bajo rigurosos protocolos de seguridad implementados en coordinación con funcionarios locales, asociados del campus y nuestra oficina central del distrito.

Estamos orgullosos de que nuestras instalaciones frecuentemente sirvan como un espacio de acceso para nuestra comunidad. Los animamos a disfrutar tiempo con familiares y amigos en caminatas a lo largo del perímetro del campus, desde South Rose Avenue hasta East Bard Road. Por favor absténgase de utilizar cualquiera de nuestras instalaciones por el momento.  Estos esfuerzos ayudarán a nuestra institución a mantenerlos seguros a ustedes, sus familias, nuestros estudiantes y a nuestro personal. Para obtener información adicional sobre nuestros planes, visite https://www.oxnardcollege.edu/alerts.

Gracias por su comprensión y cooperación. ¡Estamos todos juntos en esto!

Atentamente,

Luis P. Sánchez, JD, LLM

Presidente | Oxnard College

Enlaces Útiles:

   1. REGÍSTRESE PARA CLASES

   2. PRUEBA DE COVID19 GRATUITA PARA RESIDENTES

   3. ALERTAS DE OXNARD COLLEGE

   4. INFORMACIÓN SOBRE PROCEDIMIENTO DE REVISIÓN EN EL CAMPUS

   5. HORARIO DE LA BIBLIOTECA

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

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

The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus that was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, and is now being spread widely in other parts of mainland China, and is now present in many countries worldwide including the United States. While new cases were initially linked to Hubei Province, China, at this time public health considers being anywhere in China in the past 14 days a risk factor for novel coronavirus infection.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, current global trends indicate that the virus may spread worldwide causing a pandemic.  There are presently nearly 600 confirmed cases in the United States including cases in California.

The virus causes respiratory illness. 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 at https://www.deph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/nCOV2019.aspx; or
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

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.It is important for students to call before coming in to minimize exposure to Health Care Center staff, other students, and college employees.

• Face masks are most useful for preventing disease spread when they are worn by people who have symptoms. This is why people are asked to wear a mask at doctors’ offices and hospitals if they are coughing or sneezing.

• Avoid coming in contact with individuals displaying symptoms of illness.

• If working in close proximity to other individuals, attempt to keep a distance of approximately three feet from the nearest person while working.​

​​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 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 three and preferably 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 may be suspended or moved to web-based and/or distance learning modes to continue instruction.Employees and students will be notified of these changes in advance.

• Colleges will apply for and obtain 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 could include work 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 should that need to occur.

Closures

One possibility of enacting social distancing procedures is the closure of venues where large amounts of people may congregate or closure of specific services e.g. childcare centers. For more information on closing, refer to the VCCCD website. VCCCD employees will be notified should broad scale alternative work accommodation and schedules be implemented.

The colleges and District office may also close depending upon circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will be communicated to students and employees on the VCCCD website.

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

• Closure of venues where large amounts of people may congregate will likely occur.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 may also close depending upon circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will 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 will be 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 will be considered once this status is confirmed by Ventura County Public Health.

• 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 may be temporarily 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 will occur.

• Our locations may need to close if there are high rates of absenteeism among employees that make it difficult for safe and effective operations. A call for large scale closure would happen only if there was significant community transmission that could not be well-controlled through other strategies or to follow directives from public health authorities.

• Modify, postpone, or cancel large campus events. Events where people are in close contact with others for an extended period will be cancelled or modified should there be significant community transmission in a particular community or many different communities. Public Health authorities may call for cancellation of many different types of public events.

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

• Provide 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.

On-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: When will classes resume?
Answer: All Summer 2020 summer classes will be online/virtual as well. No classes will physically take place on campus from March 16 through the end of the Summer 2020 session. To help us provide you with additional updates, we highly suggest that all students and employees update their emergency contact information. See the RESOURCES section at the bottom of this page. 

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.

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

Fall Semesters

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. 

General Health Information

Question: Has there been an outbreak of COVID-19 at any of your campuses or offices?
Answer: Yes. On March 21 we learned that a Moorpark College student had tested positive for COVID-19 (i.e., Coronavirus). This is the first and only known confirmed case of COVID-19 at Moorpark College. This student last visited the MC campus on Monday, March 9, and has since received medical care in Los Angeles County.  On March 26 we learned that a Ventura College student recently tested positive for COVID-19. This is the first and only known confirmed case of COVID-19 at Ventura College and the second within the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD). This student last visited the VC campus on Tuesday, March 10.  VC Public Health is aware of this case.

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. There’s always 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.
• 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.
• Facemasks are most effective when used appropriately by health care workers and people who are sick.
• Get a flu immunization to prevent influenza if you have not done so this season.

If you have recently traveled to China and are experiencing flu like symptoms, please call Ventura County Public Health Communicable Diseases at (805) 981-5101.

Oxnard College students,

With the majority of Oxnard College’s classes now being offered online, here are some of the services and resources available to help you succeed. If you are struggling with technology, mental health, finances, online classes, food, or anything else, please review this page to learn about the help you can access. If you don't see your questions answered, contact us here or call our bilingual Welcome Center staff at (805) 678-5907.

Dado que la mayoría de las clases de Oxnard College ahora se ofrecen por internet, aquí están algunos de los servicios y recursos disponibles para ayudarte a tener éxito. Si tienes problemas con la tecnología, la salud mental, finanzas, clases en línea, comida o cualquier otra cosa, revisa esta página para obtener información sobre la ayuda a la que puedes acceder. Si no ves respuestas a tus preguntas, contáctanos aquí o llama a nuestro personal bilingüe del Centro de Bienvenida al (805) 678-5907.

Student services contact information:

●       Welcome Center: 805-678-5907, ocinfo@vcccd.edu

○       Our Welcome Center is here to answer all your questions about Oxnard College. This office guides you on a step-by-step process of how to apply for college and can refer you to any campus resources.

●       General Counseling: (805) 678-5816

○       Helps students plan their educational plans, career interests, and personal concerns.

●       Student Health Center: 805-678-5832, ochealthcntr02@vcccd.edu

○       Provides students with remote telehealth counseling and services for physical and mental health concerns. Call 911 if experiencing an emergency.

●       Financial Aid Office: 805-678-5828, ocfinaid@vcccd.edu

○       Offers financial resources to help students with the cost of college.

●       Library Resource Center/Tutoring: 805-678-5819, ocreference@vcccd.edu

○       Offers many services including a loan program for textbooks, laptops, and calculators. Also provides tutoring services and limited computer lab access for OC students.

●       Student Activities Center (Associated Student Government): 805-678-5187

○       Provides students opportunities to share in college governance, interact with professionals, and participate in social and cultural activities.

●       Basic Needs: 805-678-5187

○       Provides students with a gateway to a wide range of resources including snacks, food pantry, and housing referrals.

●       Admissions and Records Office: 805-678-5810, ocadmissions@vcccd.edu

○       Oversees admissions, registration, and all student records. Offers convenient access to registration, grades, classes, the Oxnard College catalog, and financial aid information.

●       Educational Assistance Center (EAC): 805-678-5830, oceac@vcccd.edu 

○       Supports students with verified disabilities by determining and providing reasonable accommodations, auxiliary aids, and support services.

●       CalWORKs: 805-678-5887, occalworks@vcccd.edu

○       Provides educational resources and support to student-parents.

●       Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS): 805-678-5827, oceops@vcccd.edu

○       Provides academic and financial support to students whose educational and socioeconomic backgrounds may prevent them from successfully attending college.

●       First Year Experience (FYE) Center: 805-678-5952, octitlev@vcccd.edu

○       Provides resources, networking, and mentorship to first-time students at Oxnard College.

●       First Step Center: 805-678-5907

○       A one-stop resource where students can get help with picking a major, degree options, and support with registering for classes.

●       Veterans Resource Center: 805-678-5845, america_barroso1@vcccd.edu 

○       Provides services and networking opportunities to veterans, active duty service members, and reservists.

●       Dream Resource Center: 805-678-5295, ocdreamcenter@vcccd.edu 

○      Provides a safe space and resources for Dreamers or undocumented students. Proporciona un espacio y recursos seguros para los estudiantes indocumentados o Dreamers.

●       Campus Bookstore: 805-986-5826

○      Provides textbooks, school supplies, snacks, and OC gear.

●       General information: 805-678-5800

○      Provides directory information.

●       Career Center: 805-652-7779, occareer@vcccd.edu

○      Helps students with career exploration, internship opportunities, and workshops on everything from resume building to interview coaching, and more.

●       Transfer Center: 805-678-5035, octransfer@vcccd.edu

○      Provides workshops and direct assistance to help students establish their plans for college transfer.

●       OC STEM: 805-678-5262, ocstem@vcccd.edu

○      Provides tutoring and additional support to students seeking careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

●       Oxnard College Foundation: cowens@vcccd.edu

○      Provides scholarship opportunities and laptop grants for OC students.

Mental & Physical Health:
If you have questions about your physical health or have been feeling down or anxious, you can call our Student Health Center at 805-678-5832, email them at ochealthcntr02@vcccd.edu, or visit them online. They are available to help with your physical and mental health needs. However, if you are having a medical or mental health emergency, please call 911. Additionally, if you have been exposed to COVID 19 and have questions about health services in the community, please contact our office. Here are some additional mental health resources:

●       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 741741 for FREE 24/7 for mental health support.

Financial Aid:
Financial Aid opportunities exist to help students with everything from purchasing laptops to covering the cost of tuition and even helping if you’ve lost income due to COVID19. We also have a limited number of OC Emergency Grants to help. Contact our Financial Aid office to learn what resources you qualify for at 805-678-5828 or ocfinaid@vcccd.edu.

Here are some external resources for getting financial support:

●       I Can Afford College

●       Filing an unemployment claim with the State of California

●       COVID-19 Parent Application for Financial Assistance for Emergency Child Care

Online Classes/Canvas:
Need help navigating your online classes? Be sure to enroll in our canvas orientation. Additionally, here are some great resources from our State Chancellor’s office explaining Canvas, and some more info about online classes from OC as well. Be sure to check out this great article on how to be an engaged online student as well.

Food and Housing Insecurity:
Contact 805-678-5187 to speak with a representative of our Basic Needs Center for updates on food distribution and referral to community food pantries. If someone does not answer, please leave a message with your contact information and we’ll get back to you soon.

Food Share Ventura County is a great local resource, providing groceries to local families in need. Students can also apply for money to cover monthly groceries through CalFresh.

If you’re experiencing housing insecurity, look through these resources provided through the City of Oxnard.

Internet Access:
From 7am – 7pm, Monday through Saturday, Oxnard College students can access our WiFi from parking lots A and B, near the clocktower on the Oxnard College campus. Please remember that social distancing is crucial, so please stay in your vehicle while accessing our network so that we can continue to provide this service.

Additionally, several companies throughout California are offering free or low-cost internet access to students during the COVID-19 pandemic:

Computers/Software/Textbooks:
OC students have access to materials and equipment from the library including laptops, textbooks, books or calculators. OC students can request to borrow these materials/equipment here. Another option for first-time students is to borrow a laptop through our First Year Experience program - learn more here. The Oxnard College Foundation is also helping students purchase a Dell laptop. Finally, we also have a limited number of OC Emergency Grants to help with your needs.
Students who cannot otherwise access a computer, may use desktops in our Library’s computer lab (room LLR-101). This space is limited to a maximum of 10 persons. 

Oxnard College students and educators can also sign up for Microsoft Office 365 for free. This package includes Word, Excel, Powerpoint, OneNote, and more. Make sure you’re logged into your MyVCCCD portal and visit this link to begin downloading.

Tutoring & Testing:
Tutoring is available through Zoom. Click here to learn more.

If you struggle with a visible or invisible disability, reach out to our Educational Assistance Center (EAC) - they will work with you and your professors to accommodate your needs. Invisible injuries might include hearing impairments, autism, learning disabilities, and mental health or intellectual challenges, among others. Please contact the EAC at 805-678-5830 or oceac@vcccd.edu. You can also access audiobooks and alternative media through the EAC by contacting John Elmer at jelmer@vcccd.edu or by phone at 805-678-5117.

Research:
Need help researching documents for a project? Our librarian services are available to help. You can contact them at 805-678-5820, email them at tstough@vcccd.edu or bthompson@vcccd.edu, or visit them online.

Unemployment/Disability Benefits:
While Oxnard College does not have any on-site unemployment or disability benefit services, there are several external resources you should look into. For the fastest service regarding disability benefits, access your claim information or file a claim online through State Disability Insurance (SDI). You can also contact Employment Development Department (EDD) representatives at 1-800-480-3287 for Disability Insurance or 1-877-238-4373 for Paid Family Leave, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Unemployment Insurance is an employer-funded program that provides partial income replacement when you become unemployed or have your work hours reduced and meet all eligibility requirements. This California website will help guide you through the claim filing process.   

Additional Resources:
The California Community College system has an extremely thorough list of resources and FAQs for community college students throughout the state. This site includes everything from financial aid resources to information on options for affordable food and helpful tips on how to succeed online. Their site is available in English and Spanish. They also have a similar webpage for staff.

If you’d like more information on what’s happening with COVID-19 here in Ventura County, check out the Ventura County Public Health office. Additionally, there’s more information on OC’s response to COVID-19 on our Oxnard College Alerts page.

Finally, if you’re new at Oxnard College, check out this YouTube channel with helpful videos about how our programs and services can help you.

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.