Alerts

Oxnard College students should email any exemption questions or forms to Dr. Deanna McFadden for medical exemptions (dmcfadden@vcccd.edu) or Dr. Oscar Cobian for religious exemptions (ocobian@vcccd.edu).

When you are on campus with an exemption, you will be required to wear a face mask and provide weekly negative COVID-19 test results.

Access the Student Vaccine Exemption forms.

• COVID Dashboard Page_10 11 21_0.pdf

• The VCCCD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the policy COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Employees and Students at its August 10, 2021 meeting to ensure the safety of employees and students on campus.

• The policy requires that everyone who accesses in-person, on-site campus/District programs or who participates in off-site District/college services in person will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a verified exemption, effective October 15, 2021.

  The Ventura County Community College District determined on October 4, 2021 that students can continue with their Fall classes by undergoing weekly COVID-19 tests. Testing will occur on campus. If a student has a negative test result, they can proceed to your class or event. If they are traveling between campuses, they will not need to be retested at each college. We will be providing information on testing soon.

  For the Spring 2022 semester starting in January, all students coming to campus will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, or have an approved medical or religious exemption. Register for online classes for Spring semester if you will be unvaccinated at the time the semester begins.

• “Fully vaccinated” means that 14 days have passed since your second shot of Pfizer or Moderna or 14 days have passed since your single dose of Johnson & Johnson.

• A fully vaccinated student will only meet this requirement once they have uploaded a copy of their vaccination card or approved exemption to the MyVCCCD app. This process can take time – students are encouraged to upload their vaccination card ASAP. After their cards are verified, they can claim their $100 voucher from the OC Bookstore through October 15^th.

• If you’re having difficulty locating your vaccination card, you can access it at this California state website: https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov

• Students may request a medical or religious exemption by visiting: https://www.vcccd.edu/COVID19

• Religious and medical exemptions are available, but not guaranteed, and can take time to process. These applications are thorough, require written documentation from a medical professional or faith leader, and must be submitted ASAP.

• There are no personal waivers for students to self-certify that they comply with the vaccine requirement. Some students are mistakenly under the impression they or their parents can request a "waiver" to not comply with the vaccination requirement. This is not accurate; students must submit a religious or medical exemption for approval.

• If a student’s exemption request is denied, they will be expected to be fully vaccinated by October 15 or follow our weekly testing regimen effective that date as well. Visit https://www.OxnardCollege.edu/alerts to access OC’s exemption forms. Religious exemptions must be emailed to Dr. Oscar Cobian (ocobian@vcccd.edu) and medical exemptions to Dr. Deanna McFadden (dmcfadden@vcccd.edu).

• If a student’s religious or medical exemption form is approved, that student must comply with the following:
  • Weekly Covid-19 testing if taking classes on campus or visiting OC offices.
  • Wear a mask on campus at all times.
  • If exposed to Covid-19, unvaccinated students must quarantine for 10 days. Consult with our Student Health Center by calling (805) 678-5832.
  • The student is responsible for making up classwork during the mandatory quarantine.

A student must have a “Sincerely held religious belief” in order to be considered for a religious exemption. The individual should identify their sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance that serves as the basis for their request for a religious accommodation. It cannot be based on political or social ideas. You must express the comprehensive nature of your religion and belief-system - not an isolated teaching. Lastly, the individual should explain the nature and tenants of their religious belief, practice, or observance that conflicts with the District’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

Religious exemptions will only be considered for the COVID-19 vaccine and will not include testing or masking requirements.

• The Ventura County Community College District determined on October 4, 2021 that students can continue with their Fall classes beyond the October 15^th vaccination deadline by undergoing twice-weekly COVID-19 tests. Testing will occur on campus. If a student has a negative test result, they can proceed to your class or event. If they are traveling between campuses, they will not need to be retested at each college. We will be providing information on testing soon.

VCCCD Fall Semester 2021 Scheduling and Operational Framework

VCCCD Fall 2021 Reopening Summary for Employees, Students, and the Public

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

What has Oxnard College already been doing to reduce the spread of the virus? 

For the past year, Oxnard College has taken important steps to mitigate health risks to personnel and students on campus. These efforts have followed guidance from Cal OSHA and other agencies, which are archived on the OC Alerts webpage. They include transitioning classes and staffing to online or hybrid formats, providing a robust COVID screening process, mandatory use of masks, regularly cleaning and disinfecting campus facilities, and requiring social distancing among other efforts. It is reassuring to know that designated essential employees in classified staff, faculty, and administrative positions have been working on-site throughout the pandemic and on-site instruction has already occurred in approved programs/classes. And while there have been limited exposures, those instances have been handled swiftly and safely and there have been no on-site COVID-19 transmissions.  Finally, we have been proud to partner with Ventura County Public Health to provide our community with free access to COVID testing and vaccinations here on campus.  We also partnered with Rite Aid in June 2021 to provide an additional vaccine clinic to OC employees, students, and the community.

Is Oxnard College being asked to return at rates higher than our sister campuses?  

No. The District Chancellor’s stated goal is to have approximately 50% of instruction and services at Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura colleges to occur on-site, including hybrid and high flex classes. Additionally, our library, counseling office, and all student services operations will prepare and provide a proportion of on-site face-to-face access to services and ongoing online access to services. The percentage of on-site or hybrid staffing will vary by disciplines/offices and does not indicate that half of all on-site instruction offered pre-COVID will be reinstated for Fall Semester 2021.  

Employees should contact Human Resources regarding exemptions to returning to work for medical reasons. Because many of our students are disproportionately impacted by the shift to virtual learning (with enrollments, success and retention rates all on a downward trajectory), a safe and partial return to campus will help us better serve students who are struggling.

What thresholds will be used to determine if on-site classes and services should shift online? 

We will adjust our plans as needed based on current guidelines from the CDC, Cal OSHA, the state, and local public health agencies. For more information, read pages 14-15 of the VCCCD COVID-19 VCCCD COVID-19 Reopening Plan 2021-2022.

What do I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms? 

Stay home. Contact your supervisor and complete the MyVCCCD COCID-19 Daily Screening Form. Provide your telephone number so that the OC Student Health Services representative can contact you to determine what additional measures may be needed.

What is the management structure at Oxnard College for developing our plans related to COVID-19?  

Oxnard College’s Incident Command Leadership Team (ICLT) has met since March 2020 to oversee the college’s response to the pandemic. It is facilitated by Captain and Professor Mike Ketaily and consists of representatives from across the campus including senate presidents, our student health center, the college’s executive team, and college deans. The group also frequently hears from local public health and emergency representatives. It meets monthly (or more frequently when needed) and oversees portfolios including: Operations (VP Chris Renbarger), Planning (VP Art Sandford and Dean Keller Magenau), Logistics (Dr. Luis Gonzalez), and finance (VP Chris Renbarger). The event commander for this group is Dr. Oscar Cobian who reports directly to President Luis Sanchez.  

The ICLT is informed by and works with a COVID-19 Transition Task Force which consists of a diverse and broader group of industry professionals from Oxnard College and the community including union and student representatives.  The committee reports to President Luis Sanchez and also meets monthly. Both groups are bound by guidance from Cal OSHA, the CDC, the State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD. 

Will Oxnard College issue a full plan for reopening? 

We are currently studying and relying on VCCCD’s guidelines as well as guidance from the CDC and Cal OSHA. Our Fall Reopening Plan will include OC-specific information and documents. It will be released in the weeks ahead. Any plan will be rooted in the most up-to-date information on public health and will be adjusted as required.

If I have a medical condition and am concerned about returning to on-site instruction, who can I contact? 

Please work with your dean, supervisor or manager, and union representative to engage VCCCD Human Resources in providing appropriate accommodations and possible exemptions.

What do I do if I believe I qualify for workplace accommodations due to increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness?  

Visit the VCCCD Human Resources page’s “Announcements and Important Information From Human Resources.” COVID-19 Workplace Accommodation Information and a Self-Screening Tool for Employees are provided there as well.

How are students faring with online instruction? 

Online learning has been challenging for many Oxnard College students. Our enrollments are down and our students are failing and dropping out in greater numbers in this (nearly) fully online environment. Historically, student success in online courses trails student success in face-to-face classes by 6-10%. Moreover, both retention (completing a course) and success (earning a grade of C or Pass) rates dropped by 4% from where they stood before the pandemic in fall 2019 to fall 2020. 

The decrease in student enrollments is due to many factors including students waiting for a return to on-site instruction, needing to work, and/or providing care to family members. The pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on low-income students and students of color. 

Is there a concern that students will not sign up for face-to-face instruction? 

Reports from students and research on similar populations demonstrates that the overwhelming majority of students are eager to return to face-to-face instruction and to do so safely. That data collection and research will continue throughout the year and our decisions will ultimately follow Cal OSHA’s latest guidance. 

Will Oxnard College develop unique and targeted plans to serve our most vulnerable students? What resources are being provided to these students? 

We are closely monitoring the disproportionate hardship our community is experiencing as a result of the pandemic and are committed to equitably supporting our students hardest hit by COVID-19. These efforts include promoting bilingual vaccination information, encouraging support for struggling students, and providing those students with financial resources among others to help them succeed.  

Since the pandemic first began, Oxnard College has supported students disproportionately impacted by the pandemic through emergency financial aid, food distribution, the expansion of our laptop and textbook loan program, partnering with the county to provide COVID testing and vaccines for South Oxnard families, and other targeted efforts through CARES Act funding. These resources are outlined on the OC Alerts page. These efforts, rooted in our resolve to support those who need it most, will continue to adapt and expand as we transition back to on-site instruction.
 

How will employees and students be asked to agree to the various social distancing and safety guidelines? 

Students and employees will be informed of Safe Return to Campus protocols via the college website, during the registration process, via campus signage, through college communications, and via the MyVCCCD pre-screening application (which must be completed by everyone on every visit and for which there are alternatives for individuals without a phone or internet). By completing the pre-screening app, visitors will be agreeing to abide by all health and safety protocols while on campus.

Will the District require employees to use their sick leave if they’ve contracted COVID? 

Please refer questions about your specific situation to your supervisor or manager. The The Human Resources Department will work with the individual employee's supervisor to determine the appropriate leave options available to that employee related to their specific circumstances.

Will the Oxnard Middle College High School return to on-site classes?  

Yes. The Oxnard Middle College High School reopened on-site classes beginning Monday, March 15, 2021 in accordance with health and screening guidance from the Oxnard Unified High School District (OUHSD). 

Will Oxnard College’s goal for on-site instruction and services in Spring 2022 be increased to 75%? 

We are planning for three different scenarios for Spring 2022 and will make changes in response to pandemic conditions as necessary between now and late September. The first scenario, (A) calls for a return to a schedule similar to what we had prior to the pandemic. The second scenario, (B) would mean keeping the status quo with a schedule similar to Fall 2021. The third scenario, (C) would require a return to nearly 100% instruction. Our course of action will depend on local, state, and national public health guidance.

Are face coverings mandated while on campus?

As of July, 2021, masks are required while indoors and are  voluntary outdoors.  Face coverings can be removed when eating, drinking or working individually in an office with the door closed.  Maintain a distance of at least six feet from other people when the face mask is removed for these situations.

Is Oxnard College tracking variants and what will be done if the public health situation should worsen?
We are coordinating with Ventura County Public Health to stay up-to-date on the latest information and their recommendations. Should the public health situation worsen, Oxnard College will continue to follow the guidance of federal, state, and local agencies.                                                  

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

Will there be a COVID screening process on campus for fall semester?  
Yes. Throughout the pandemic, the few on-site classes we’ve had have all used an on-site screening process and a pre-screening requirement through the MyVCCCD mobile app (with alternative options available for those without internet or phones). Anyone who has passed through the checkpoint is given a wristband. Additional screeners will be hired and screening stations set up to meet the increased need. To see what the screening process looks like for fall 2021 semester, watch this video in English or Spanish.
 

How will long lines of people at say a screening station be safely socially distanced?
Spacing demarcations will be placed in public areas of use to maintain social distancing. Additionally, having fewer in-person classes will help provide additional space for social distancing. This process has run smoothly and effectively for nearly a year. 

Will employees be responsible for conducting temperature checks or health screenings? No, they will not. Only those individuals who are trained for screening and whose programs are already conducting temperature checks should expect to continue doing so.  

Who should employees contact at Oxnard College if they test positive for COVID or have been exposed off campus?  

Please remain off campus and contact your supervisor who in turn will contact Dr. Deanna McFadden at 805-678-5032 or dmcfadden@vcccd.edu. For more information, read pages 15-17 of the VCCCD COVID-19 Reopening Plan 2021-2022.
 

Who should students contact at Oxnard College if they test positive for COVID or have been exposed off campus? 

Please contact your instructor and/or Dr. Deanna McFadden at 805-678-5032 or dmcfadden@vcccd.edu.
 

How will OC educate students and employees of the practices expected to maintain a healthy campus?

What protocols will be followed and who should be contacted if someone exhibits symptoms while on campus?  
The following protocols are in place should someone on campus experience COVID-like symptoms: 

A.  The MyVCCCD pre-screening app asks visitors to identify any potential symptoms before arriving on campus (every visitor is required to complete the app’s questionnaire before arriving on campus and there are alternative options for those without phones or internet). 

B.  Oxnard College will designate areas where students or employees who are exhibiting possible COVID-19 symptoms or have self-reported possible infection can be located temporarily (with physical distancing protocols) if they need to arrange transportation before departing campus.  

C.  If someone is exhibiting symptoms while on campus, contact Dr. Deanna McFadden at 805-678-5032 or dmcfadden@vcccd.edu. These symptoms may include: a) Fever b) Cough c) Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing d) Chills e) Muscle pain f) Headache g) Sore throat h) Loss of taste or smell  

D.  Should an individual be determined to be positive for COVID-19, Dr. Deanna McFadden will contact those who may have been exposed via email and phone. An exposure typically occurs by being less than six feet from an infected individual for 15 minutes or longer in a 24-hour period, even while wearing masks.

E.  Dr. Oscar Cobian and Dr. Deanna McFadden serve as Oxnard College's liaisons to the Ventura County Public Health Department, staff, faculty, students, and the public in receiving and disseminating information about individuals impacted by a COVID-19 diagnosis, while maintaining confidentiality as required by state and federal laws.  

F.  When possible, staff should temporarily close off areas used by any individual who may have been diagnosed with or possibly exposed to COVID-19, and not use that area before cleaning and disinfection has been completed by Maintenance and Operations staff. If practical, to reduce risk of exposure, staff will wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting. Staff will ensure a safe and correct application of disinfectants, using personal protective equipment and ventilation, as recommended by the manufacturer.  

G.  Advise students and employees, who have been asked to return home due to a COVID-19 diagnosis or a report that they may have been exposed to the virus, not to return until they have met CDC criteria for concluding home isolation. A medical note or negative COVID test are not required to return, instead an individual can return 10 days after the onset of symptoms as long as those symptoms are improving and the individual has not had a fever (without the aid of fever-reducing medication) for 24 hours. The following documents can be accessed at VCCCD COVID-19 Updates under Screening Checklist, Protocols, and Return to Campus Form:  

1. VCCCD Certification for Students Returning to In-Person Courses After COVID-19 Symptoms/Exposure  

2. VCCCD Checklist for Employees Conducting Student Temperature Tests and Screening for Symptoms of COVID-19.  

3. VCCCD Notice of Risks and Protocols for Critical Sector Course Students Regarding COVID-19  

H.  As is practical and available, instructors should arrange with students alternative access to instruction due to COVID-19 infection or possible exposure.

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

Will people visiting campus be required to wear masks? 

Yes. Our current policy of requiring the use of facial masks on campus is currently in place to align with Ventura County Public Health’s recommendations and Chancellor Gillespie’s July 2021 guidance.  While the June 17th, 2021, Revised CalOSHA COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards, and the VCCCD COVID-19 Prevention Program (CPP) do not require vaccinated (Verified) employees to wear masks, VCCCD and Oxnard College are committed to following County Public Health guidance.

How will mask wearing be enforced? 

Each person visiting campus must pass through our screening checkpoints where they will be reminded to wear their masks. Anyone who does not have a mask will be provided with one. If there is an issue in the classroom and someone refuses to wear a mask, faculty can call campus police at (805) 678-5805 to assist. To date, the campus police have not reported any issues with enforcing this policy.

Will OC provide PPE and cleaning supplies for employees working on campus? 

Yes. In accordance with CDC and CAL OSHA’s latest guidance, Oxnard College will provide employees and guests (vaccinated or not) visiting campus with proper PPE equipment and cleaning supplies. Masks will be required for employees every day on campus as long as it is required by state and public health guidance. Disposable surgical-style masks will be provided to any individuals who have not brought their own mask. N95 masks will be provided to medical professionals working in the Student Health Center, anyone working at a screening checkpoint, and upon request to employees with a documented medical condition that makes them highly vulnerable or unverified employees (these groups will need to coordinate with the Student Health Center for fit testing and training).   

Additionally, face shields will be provided to employees where requested or when required for certain activities. Gloves will also be provided when needed. Faculty teaching in-person courses can use face shields together with face coverings, which, to the degree possible, will be made available to provide increased protection against infection by phonological means. 

Additionally, classrooms and office spaces will be equipped with kits of cleaning supplies including gloves, wipes, cleaning spray, and paper towels and will be restocked regularly so that students and faculty can clean their areas if they choose to when they arrive (though they are not required to and custodial staff will clean and disinfect the rooms regularly).  

The district and college will continue evaluating work and service areas and install appropriate ventilation, protective barriers or face shields, and social distancing demarcations at student and public-facing counters and work areas in preparation for a phased-in increase of employees and students that is planned throughout the 2021 – 2022 academic year.

Are campus buildings being regularly cleaned? 
Are campus buildings being regularly cleaned?

Yes. Restrooms are cleaned three times daily, all classroom are cleaned at least daily. All custodial staff are trained for revised cleaning procedures and sign-off verification of cleaning. Additional custodial staff have been hired.

Additionally, cleaning kits are located in every classroom and public areas off all office buildings. They are stocked with disinfecting wipes, masks, gloves, and hand sanitizers. Cleaning supplies will be replenished. If you notice that a kit is low on supplies, please alert your dean or supervisor who will have M&O restock it. Look for a red crate located in public areas.

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

What is the maximum time a class can meet face-to-face per day? 

This will vary depending on the course, instructor, and classroom/lab space as well as activities. We are limiting lectures to no more than 75 minutes (1.5 hours in Banner); however, labs and activity classes will likely exceed that timeframe as they currently do.

Will Oxnard College’s goal for on-site instruction and services in Spring 2022 be increased to 75%? 

We are planning for three different scenarios for Spring 2022 and will make changes in response to pandemic conditions as necessary between now and late September. The first scenario, (A) calls for a return to a schedule similar to what we had prior to the pandemic. The second scenario, (B) would mean keeping the status quo with a schedule similar to Fall 2021. The third scenario, (C) would require a return to nearly 100% instruction. Our course of action will depend on local, state, and national public health guidance.

Will faculty be teaching two-day per week hybrid schedules? 

Parameters will be developed with the input of faculty, department chairs, deans, and union representatives. Our goal will be to maintain a safe working environment for all persons involved.

Will Oxnard College follow the same time blocks for scheduling as previous semesters?  
Yes, we will generally follow the same time blocks for lecture classes. Other programs that are physically more self-contained (e.g., Culinary, Auto, Dental), labs, and activity classes will have greater flexibility.

Will face-to-face classes be scheduled at night?  
Assuming health screenings and custodial staff can be scheduled in the evenings, night classes will be scheduled.    

Are there plans to provide instruction outdoors?  

All classes will be scheduled to meet in a classroom; however, there will be several “pop-up” locations available in which to hold classes outdoors, weather conditions permitting. Instructors who wish to hold class outdoors will be required to make arrangements with their division office. 

Will Oxnard College provide an in-person testing center on campus to help support exams for online/hybrid classes? The college will have an on-campus “testing center” in the mezzanine of Condor Hall in operation by mid-September. The center will be staffed by test proctors. Procedures for sending students to the center will be available by the end of August. 

Will substitute teachers be provided for face-to-face classes when an instructor is absent? Yes, whenever possible and given adequate notice and availability of qualified subs. Instructors should follow the established procedures per their division.

What steps will the college take for its physical education classes and athletics program?  

The college will look to the direction of the California Community College Athletic Association and follow the District’s guidance outlined on page 22 of the VCCCD COVID-19 Reopening Plan 2021-2022.

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

What if my office is too small to meet with students?
The use of office space for direct student services will start on August 2, 2021. Currently, the College is in compliance with Cal Osha guidance related to ventilation in the buildings and social distancing has been removed per guidance from the CDC and Ventura County Public Health. If employees have approved medical accommodations, we will provide classrooms and other spaces where confidential, safe, and one-on-one conversations can take place between students and employees (e.g., counseling, financial aid, etc.). 
 

What additional precautions will be taken for various student services offices?
In addition to the precautions and practices taken broadly for the campus as a whole, the college will also operate under the parameters outlined under the VCCCD COVID-19 Reopening Plan 2021-2022 for student services offices. For reference, here are the page numbers to reference in the planning document for the following offices/programs: 

1. Student Health Center, pages 22-23 
2. Library services, pages 23-24 

3. Counseling/Tutoring, pages 24-25 

4. ASG/Activities, page 25 

5. Admissions & Records, page 25 

6. Financial Aid, page 25 

7. Other services (TRIO, Transfer & Career Centers, EOPS, CARE, CalWORKS, Veterans Center, Child Development Center), page 26 

Will Oxnard College’s goal for on-site instruction and services in Spring 2022 be increased to 75%? 

No decisions for Spring semester 2022 have been made at this time. Any future commitments along those lines will follow local and state health guidelines.

What do I do if I believe I qualify for workplace accommodations due to increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness?  

Visit the VCCCD Human Resources page’s “Announcements and Important Information From Human Resources.” COVID-19 Workplace Accommodation Information and a Self-Screening Tool for Employees are provided there as well.

The responses below represent the most accurate information available at this time and will be updated to align with the most up-to-date laws and public health guidelines. Oxnard College is following Cal OSHA, CDC, State of California, Ventura County Public Health, CCCCO, and VCCCD guidelines for reopening. Additional FAQs will be added moving forward.

Which facilities and locations on campus will students and employees work in? 

Any on-site instruction or work planned for Fall Semester will only occur in buildings, offices, classrooms, labs, and performance and activity areas that meet ventilation and filtration requirements by July 31, 2021. The use of additional areas may be phased in during Fall Semester once conditions are met. No classified staff, faculty member, administrator, or student will be mandated or required to teach, provide services, work, or receive instruction/services in areas where required safety protections are not in place.

Does the OC Campus meet air quality standards for COVID-19? 

The campus meets and exceeds the Cal OSHA air quality requirements. All duct work has been cleaned and new MERV-13 level filters have been installed across the campus. LED UV-C systems, which destroy the virus and are above and beyond the Cal OSHA requirements will be installed across campus by end of August 2021. 

When will Oxnard College have incorporated modifications for fall semester 2021 in accordance with OSHA and public health guidelines?  

In accordance with VCCCD guidelines, all mandatory modifications and plans for fall semester 2021 will be in place and communicated by July 31, 2021. No classified staff, faculty member, administrator, or student will be mandated or required to teach, provide services, work, or receive instruction/services in areas where required safety protections are not in place. Additional modifications may be phased in during the Fall semester as additional safety and health conditions are met. 

Will classrooms and offices be reconfigured to allow for social distancing? How will this be done? 

In accordance with the June 17th, 2021, Revised Cal OSHA COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards, and the VCCCD COVID-19 Prevention Program (CPP), social (physical) distancing is no longer required so long as unvaccinated individuals wear masks indoors (see CPP page 13, section F.4.). 

Class offerings are being decreased by approximately 50% and class sizes decreased by 50% as well, which will allow more physical room for social distancing. The college is also looking into repurposing some of our larger spaces for classroom instruction (e.g., Performing Arts Building). Visitors and communal activities will be limited. PPE will be required, furniture moved when possible, and demarcations will be placed in rooms to designate clear entryways/exits as well as spaces where individuals can and cannot enter in order to provide space for social distancing.  

For more information, read pages 10-11 of the VCCCD COVID-19 VCCCD COVID-19          

Reopening Plan 2021-2022.

How will public restrooms be managed?  

Since social (physical) distancing is no longer required (see above), restroom capacity will not be limited. Masks will be required in accordance with the CPP and County Public Health guidance. Restrooms will be cleaned and disinfected at least three times daily (morning, afternoon and evening). Hand hygiene products will be restocked as needed, and all efforts will comply with Cal OSHA standards.

From: Ventura County Community College District <communications@vcccd.edu>
Date: Monday, October 4, 2021 at 11:27 AM
Subject: Communication to Students: Important Vaccine Requirement Update

Colleagues,

For your information, the following communication has been sent to all students.

• View the Student Communications Spreadsheet (sheet 2) for regularly updated statistics on emails and text messages sent to students.
• View the Sent Communications Folder for archive copies of emails and text messages sent to students.

Warmest Regards,

Ventura County Community College District

Public Affairs & Marketing | District Communications

761 East Daily Drive | Suite 200 | Camarillo, CA 93010

vcccd.edu | moorparkcollege.edu | oxnardcollege.edu | venturacollege.edu

From: Ventura County CCD <noreply@vcccd.edu>
Date: Monday, October 4, 2021 at 11:25 AM
Subject: Important Vaccine Requirement Update

The October 15, 2021 Vaccine Requirement is coming up soon, and we want to provide you with an important update for the Fall semester.

If you are not fully vaccinated by October 15 and are accessing in-person, on-campus classes, you can continue with your Fall classes by undergoing twice-weekly COVID-19 tests. Testing will occur on campus. If you have a negative test result, you can proceed to your class or event. If you are traveling between campuses, you will not need to be retested at each college. We will be providing information on testing soon.

For the Spring 2022 semester starting in January, all students coming to campus will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, or have an approved medical or religious exemption. Register for online classes for Spring semester if you will be unvaccinated at the time the semester begins. 

Remember, we’re here to help! Please visit VCCCD Alerts for more info or to access the medical or religious exemption forms. Each campus will continue holding free vaccination clinics. Visit your college’s website or social media to get info. Or visit the California Department of Public Health’s MyTurn page to learn about walk-in clinics or make an appointment.

Ventura County Community College District

761 East Daily Drive | Suite 200 | Camarillo, CA 93010

VCCCD.edu | moorparkcollege.edu | oxnardcollege.edu | venturacollege.edu

Good morning colleagues,

Thank you for continuing to help make students aware of the approaching 10/15 vaccination deadline. Please find FAQs regarding that requirement and process below. For additional information, continue to access OxnardCollege.edu/alerts.

Thank you,

Art Sandford, Ph.D.
Vice President of Academic Affairs | Oxnard College

________________________________________________________________________________

FAQs on the COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for OC Students  

What is the COVID-19 vaccine requirement?

• The VCCCD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the policy COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Employees and Students at its August 10, 2021 meeting to ensure the safety of employees and students on campus.
• The policy requires that everyone who accesses in-person, on-site campus/District programs or who participates in off-site District/college services in person will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a verified exemption, effective October 15, 2021.

How will the vaccine requirement impact students?

• Students who are taking classes in person or are visiting our campus or one of our centers for any reason must be fully vaccinated or have an approved exemption by October 15, 2021.
• Students who decide to not get vaccinated and do not have an approved exemption will be required to transition to classes on-line if available and access support services virtually.*
• Unvaccinated students will be required to access services and campus workshops remotely.
• Students needing to transition to an online class should contact their instructor or a counselor to learn what if any options may be available for any particular class. If they are not able to transition to an online class, they will be dropped.
• Student workers must comply with vaccine requirement by October 15 or receive an approved exemption. Student workers who do not comply by October 15 will be removed from their position on campus. A reminder will be emailed to student workers.
   

What does it mean to be fully vaccinated?

• “Fully vaccinated” means that 14 days have passed since your second shot of Pfizer or Moderna or 14 days have passed since your single dose of Johnson & Johnson. October 1^st is the last day someone can receive these vaccinations and still meet the deadline to be fully vaccinated.

• A fully vaccinated student will only meet this requirement once they have uploaded a copy of their vaccination card or approved exemption to the MyVCCCD app. This process can take time—students are encouraged to upload their vaccination card ASAP. After their cards are verified, they can claim their $100 voucher from the OC Bookstore through October 15^th.
• If you’re having difficulty locating your vaccination card, you can access it at this California state website: https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov

What is the process for medical or religious exemptions?

• Students may request a medical or religious exemption by visiting: https://www.vcccd.edu/COVID19
• Religious and medical exemptions are available, but not guaranteed, and can take time to process. These applications are thorough, require written documentation from a medical professional or faith leader, and must be submitted ASAP.
• There are no personal waivers for students to self-certify that they comply with the vaccine requirement. Some students are mistakenly under the impression they or their parents can request a "waiver" to not comply with the vaccination requirement. This is not accurate; students must submit a religious or medical exemption for approval.
• If a student’s exemption request is denied, they will be expected to be fully vaccinated by October 15. Visit https://www.OxnardCollege.edu/alerts to access OC’s exemption forms. Religious exemptions must be emailed to Dr. Oscar Cobian (ocobian@vcccd.edu) and medical exemptions to Dr. Deanna McFadden (dmcfadden@vcccd.edu).
• If a student’s religious or medical exemption form is approved, that student must comply with the following:
  • Weekly COVID-19 testing if taking classes on campus or visiting OC offices.
  • Wearing a mask on campus at all times.
  • If exposed to COVID-19, quarantining for 10 days. Consult with our Student Health Center by calling (805) 678-5832.
    • The student is responsible for making up classwork during the mandatory quarantine.
       

Dear Condor Family,

With your help, we have completed the first month of the semester here on campus without any instances of COVID-19 transmission. Nevertheless, we know the Delta variant continues to threaten our county and we must remain vigilant, particularly as the days begin to shorten and we spend more time indoors. 

To that end, it is critical that we continue to follow the following safety protocols:

1. Continue to wear your masks at all times indoors (unless you are alone in your office with the door closed). Please wear your mask properly, covering your nose and mouth. Wearing masks outdoors remains voluntary.
2. Fill out the MyVCCCD pre-screening app every day you are coming to campus with complete transparency and honesty about your symptoms (even if they are mild!).
3. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
4. Avoid close contact with others if possible (an exposure occurs when an individual has been within six feet or less of someone who tests positive for COVID-19, for a duration of 15 minutes or longer within a 24-hour period.).

I understand there are questions regarding what constitutes an exposure or confirmed case and how to then proceed. Please find the attached document with CDC guidance on these points (It is also pasted below). You can also continue to access the latest information at OxnardCollege.edu/alerts.

Finally, it is easy to develop “COVID fatigue” but we need to keep our guard up to protect the Condor nest, our vulnerable loved ones, and our surrounding Oxnard community. Thank you for your ongoing efforts to maintain a healthy learning and working environment.

Sincerely,

Vice President of Student Development, Oxnard College

_________________________________________________________

CDC Guidelines regarding confirmed cases & exposures (LINK):

Confirmed case:  A confirmed case occurs when an individual receives a positive PCR test.  Notification of an exposure is not communicated until a case is confirmed. If there is a confirmed case, exposure(s) are evaluated by OC’s Student Health Center in collaboration with Ventura County Public Health.

Exposure: An exposure occurs when an individual has been within six feet or less of someone who tests positive for COVID-19, for a duration of 15 minutes or longer within a 24-hour period.

If an exposure to a confirmed case happens, there are different guidelines for vaccinated versus unvaccinated individuals. They include:

Instructions if you are fully vaccinated (i.e., two weeks after second Moderna or Pfizer doses, two weeks after one Johnson & Johnson dose):

• You do not need to indicate on the MyVCCCD pre-screening app that you have an exposure if you have a blue pass (i.e., verified vaccinated).
• You do not need to quarantine after contact with someone who has a confirmed case of COVID-19.
• Get tested 3-5 days after your exposure to a confirmed case, even if you do not have symptoms. If your test is positive, isolate for 10 days.
• Wear a mask indoors in public for 14 days following exposure or until your test result is negative. Please note, VCCCD campuses and sites require that all vaccinated or unvaccinated persons wear masks indoors in accordance with Ventura County Public Health’s guidance. 

If you are not fully vaccinated: 

• Fill out the MyVCCCD pre-screening app indicating that you have been exposed to a confirmed case or develop symptoms. Do this prior to arriving on campus.
• Quarantine for 10 days and get tested immediately. If test results come back negative, get tested again 5–7 days after your last exposure or immediately if symptoms develop during quarantine.
• Watch for fever (100.4+◦F), cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
• If possible, stay away from people you live with, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.
• If you do not become symptomatic, quarantining ends 10 full days after exposure. A COVID-19 test is not required to return to work after a full quarantine.

Colleagues,

My thanks to each of you for helping to make this semester’s start a successful one. It’s been a joy seeing you and our students as I’ve walked around campus this week. 

I want to take this opportunity to reiterate an essential component of our maintaining a healthy campus this fall: If you feel sick, you absolutely must remain off campus. Completing the MyVCCCD app’s screening questionnaire before getting to campus can help flag any health concerns prior to your arrival. Additionally, if you find yourself not feeling well, please contact your supervisor by phone or email rather than coming onto campus.

Please also take the time to review the District’s attached message regarding our Board’s vaccine mandate (which will take effect on October 15^th). I understand a number of questions remain regarding the implementation of this policy and I expect the District to provide further details in the days ahead. Oxnard College will play a key and robust role in disseminating that information once it becomes available. 

I remain grateful to you all for your collective efforts to patiently and vigilantly follow our latest health protocols. Please continue to familiarize yourself with oxnardcollege.edu/alerts for the latest information. Together, our aim is to continue providing in-person classes and services within a healthy campus environment.

Thank you,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM

President | Oxnard College

July 15, 2021

Good afternoon colleagues,

I hope you’ve enjoyed your summer, spending time with family and friends after an extraordinarily challenging year. As you may know, Ventura County has seen great strides in combatting the pandemic, with infection rates dramatically reduced since our last update and over 70 percent of residents 12+ are now vaccinated. We’re especially proud to be supporting this effort by providing Ventura County Public Health with access to our PAB Conference Center where they are currently providing a free and walk-up vaccination clinic for our campus and community. Additionally, COVID testing through the County remains available in Lot H.

As we approach fall semester, I wanted to outline a few key developments for your awareness. These items, among others, are continuing to be worked on with the input of our COVID Transition Taskforce (consisting of classified, academic, managerial, and student representation throughout campus) and under the auspices of Chancellor Gillespie’s Return to In-Person Work Update dated June 29 (see first attachment). These developments include:

1. Variants: The COVID pandemic is not yet behind us altogether. There is a particularly pernicious variant (Delta) that is spreading around the nation and the world, requiring our caution and continued vigilance. We will continue to adapt and align our efforts with the latest guidance from state, federal, and local agencies, including the most current Cal/OSHA standards.  
2. Enrollment & success rates: The toll on students from this pandemic has resulted in declining enrollment rates and success rates. It is our duty to do all we can to help students get back on their feet as soon as possible.
3. Working on-site: To that end, the Chancellor’s email of June 29 requires all classified staff and non-instructional faculty to return to work in-person and full-time by Monday, August 2, 2021 (see attached email). All instructional faculty will need to report on-site according to the specifics of their contracts. Please work with your supervisor regarding details for your return. Our Incident Command Leadership Team has been making sure that such a return to campus is as safe as possible and in alignment with all state, federal, and local requirements, including the most current Cal/OSHA standards.
4. Screening process & face coverings: In order to meet all such requirements, and to ensure maximum safety protections for our students and employees, we plan to continue screening all visitors to the campus and its satellite locations each day. All students and employees will continue to complete the self-screening form on the MyVCCCD app, show their App Pass to campus screeners, and receive a wrist band. Also, you can now upload a copy of your vaccination card to the MyVCCCD app – please do so as soon as possible so that your card can be verified.

Currently, students and employees whose vaccinations have been uploaded to the app and verified will receive a daily wrist band and NOT be required to wear a mask while on campus, although they may choose to do so. 

Those who do NOT provide evidence of COVID vaccination through the app, or whose vaccination has not yet been verified, will receive an orange wristband and will be required to wear a face covering while indoors on campus. Additionally, these individuals will be required to provide evidence of a negative COVID test on a monthly basis. Further test results will be required if an individual experiences symptoms.

For the latest information on face coverings, please review the Chancellor’s July 15 guidance (see second attachment) and to learn more about the screening process, please carefully watch this video.  

5. Campus screening checkpoints: Screening checkpoints will be in operation at the following main-campus locations: Clock Tower, Administration Building, Performing Arts Building quad, and between the Student Services building and Condor Café. All visitors to campus MUST enter through one of these screening stations. Satellite sites will have their own screening stations as well.
6. Parking: Parking for students and employees will be substantially similar to pre-COVID parking. Most lots will be open and available, except for lots marked as closed due to temporary construction activities.
7. Cleaning: Custodians will clean restrooms and other common use facilities several times each day, and there will be cleaning kits available for all classrooms and multi-occupant offices.
8. Ventilation: All ventilation systems will be in compliance with the most current Cal/OSHA standards by July 30.

Finally, our next virtual Town Hall discussion has been scheduled for Wednesday, July 28^th at 10:00am (a calendar invitation will be shared with details). We will provide a planning update during this forum and look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime, we will remain vigilant in our preparations for a safe return to campus and eagerly await the start of a new semester. Enjoy the remainder of your summer!

Sincerely,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM

President

July 22, 2021

Good afternoon colleagues,

I hope you’ll join our virtual Town Hall next Wednesday, July 28^th at 10:00 am (the details are in your Outlook calendar). This forum will provide an opportunity to update you regarding the college’s plans for a safe return to campus as well as allow for questions and discussion regarding those efforts.

Additionally, I want to ensure you’re all aware of the Chancellor’s updated guidance for face coverings, issued Tuesday, July 20^th, where he selected to follow the County’s recommendation for wearing masks while indoors. Therefore, all persons – vaccinated or not – are required to wear masks while indoors at Oxnard College. There are some minor exceptions for eating, working in a private office, etc. Wearing masks while outdoors is voluntary. Please refer to the Chancellor’s attached email for further details.

Finally, everyone visiting the campus will need to continue completing the pre-screening app and passing through our screening checkpoints in order to obtain a wristband allowing access to the college for the day. For the time being, wristbands will remain the same for everyone regardless of vaccination status and a negative COVID test will only be required if a person has experienced symptoms (here are English and Spanish videos outlining our screening process). We continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated and to upload proof of your vaccination to the MyVCCCD app. If you prefer to have your vaccination card verified in person, please visit with Andrea Ingley on Wednesday, July 28^th from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm in the President’s Conference Room of the Administration building (additional details on that process can be found in the second attachment).

Sincerely,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD. LLM

President

I look forward to seeing you at next Wednesday’s virtual town hall. Enjoy your weekend.

From: Ventura County Community College District <communications@vcccd.edu>
Date: Monday, June 14, 2021 at 2:43 PM
Subject: Student Communication: Free Pfizer vaccinations @ Oxnard College, June 21

Colleagues,

For your information, the following communication has been sent to all active OC students.

Register for a free Pfizer vaccine at Oxnard College Monday, June 21, from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. (please use org code LSWWL).

This vaccination clinic will be provided at our gym for all OC students, employees, and your families as well as community members who are 12 or older.

We’ll also have a food truck with free food for our first 100 guests! Register for your free vaccine here. Use org code LSWWL.

It’s more important than ever to get vaccinated. Just last week, the White House shared that the Delta variant – a highly infections COVID-19 strain – is spreading rapidly among young people between 12 and 20 years old in the United Kingdom. So if you’re young and haven’t gotten vaccinated yet, now is the time to step up to protect yourself and your families. Register today for our free vaccination clinic and use org code LSWWL. Let's keep our campus and community safe!

Regístrate para recibir la vacuna Pfizer gratis en Oxnard College el lunes 21 de junio, de 12 p.m. a 4 p.m. (por favor utiliza el código LSWWL).

Esta clínica de vacunación estará localizada en nuestro gimnasio para todos los estudiantes o empleados de OC así como para sus familiares o cualquier miembro de esta comunidad que tenga 12 años o más. 

¡También tendremos comida gratis para nuestros primeros cien invitados! Regístrate para obtener la vacuna gratuita aquí. Usa el código de organización LSWWL.

July 22, 2021

Good afternoon OC students,

As Fall semester approaches, we want to update you regarding our efforts to provide a healthy campus environment. COVID variants are causing some alarm regarding the public health situation and so we are taking key steps to provide you with access to the tools and information needed to stay safe:

COVID Vaccinations & Testing at OC

Free COVID vaccines, Saturdays - Mondays, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. & Thursdays - Fridays, Noon - 7:30 p.m. 
No appointment necessary. State-sponsored. Operated by LHI, a federal health services business.

With the Delta variant quickly spreading and infecting young people, it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Ventura County Public Health to provide on-campus COVID vaccinations and testing. No appointments are required for the vaccine clinic, which provides free Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccinations and is located in the Performing Arts Building’s Convention Center. We’ll soon be introducing some exciting surprises for vaccinated students – stay tuned!

You can also make an appointment for a free COVID test in Parking Lot H. Whether you’ve been vaccinated or not, if you’re experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested!

OC Campus Screening App & Checkpoints

Puedes ver en español aquí.

Visiting the OC campus soon? Watch the video below for the latest information on our COVID-19 screening process. The video also outlines key steps we recommend for uploading your vaccination card using the MyVCCCD app. Anyone experiencing symptoms will also be required to upload a copy of a negative COVID-19. We are following Ventura County Public Health’s recommendations; therefore, masks are currently required for all students and employees for indoor events and classes. This applies to everyone, whether you are vaccinated or not. Wearing masks outdoors is voluntary.

Student Services are Back on Campus

We’re back! Oxnard College is now offering limited in-person services for students on campus. Stop by the Student Services Building for help from Admissions & Records, Financial Aid, and our Welcome Center from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and online on Fridays. We're continuing our virtual support as well! General counseling continues to be available to students remotely through August 2 and can be contacted at 805-678-5816. 

Starting August 2, ALL Oxnard College student services offices will open their doors to serve you! Our offices will be open from August 2 - 20, from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Thursday, and Fridays until noon (we’ll be closed Friday, August 13 due to training). Additionally, you can chat directly with a counselor or financial aid team member for help registering for classes on the following Saturdays: August 7, 14, and 21 via Zoom. Visit our OC Saturday webpage for more information. OC students can also apply for emergency aid ($1,000) if impacted by COVID-19. So whether you need help registering for classes, applying for financial aid, or identifying helpful resources, we’re here to help you in person and online. Stop by to get the help you need!

Student Emergency Grants

If you have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for a CARES Act Emergency Grant. Eligible students enrolled for the Fall semester in 6 or more units may be awarded $1,000. Monitor your MyVCCCD email throughout August and September for an invitation to apply for a CARES emergency grant. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information at 805-678-5828 or ocfinaid@vcccd.edu.

Registration  

It’s not too late to register for additional classes this Fall semester. We have new online and in-person classes starting each month. Check out our open class list! Have you found the class you want and need help with registration? Click here for live assistance. Not sure which classes to take? Counselors are available to assist you at 805-678-5816, or you can visit the counseling webpage. Now is a great time to reimagine yourself at Oxnard College!

OC students,

Thank you for participating in today’s Student Town Hall regarding OC’s planning for Fall semester. We were glad to hear from you and to share some of our ongoing efforts to prioritize a safe and gradual return to campus. We also wanted to share the following resources with you, which were mentioned during today’s zoom call:

1. We want your input on how our COVID Emergency Relief Fund dollars can best be used to support students. Give us your ideas here.
2. We want to continue hearing your thoughts on what a safe return to campus this fall might look like. Tell us how you’re feeling about this transition here.
3. Stay up-to-date with Oxnard College’s latest resources and communications regarding our response to the pandemic. Visit OxnardCollege.edu/alerts.
4. Anyone over the age of 16 can get their vaccine now. Vaccines are safe and essential to getting our community back to the day-to-day lives we all miss so much. Sign up for your vaccination today!  

Thank you again for joining us this afternoon!

James Schuelke, Director of Outreach & Marketing | Oxnard College

Colleagues,

I want to once again thank those of you who participated in last week’s town hall discussion regarding our plans for fall semester. With the Biden Administration recently exceeding its own goal of distributing 100 million vaccinations in 100 days and its commitment to making vaccines available to all adults no later than May 1^st,  I feel increasingly optimistic about what the future holds. Here locally, I’ve been proud of our campus for helping the county provide COVID tests to local families and have been especially encouraged to see Ventura County and the State of California working to equitably distribute vaccinations to communities hardest hit by the pandemic.

As a reminder, no classified staff, faculty member, administrator, or student will be mandated or required to teach, provide services, work, or receive instruction/services in areas where required safety protections are not in place. In accordance with VCCCD guidelines, all modifications and plans for fall semester 2021 will be in place and communicated by July 31, 2021 (with many of them being finalized and shared before then). Those plans are being developed in part by the COVID Leadership Group and COVID Workgroup, both of which meet monthly and include representatives from throughout campus including classified staff, faculty, deans, students, and our executive team; we’ve also recently invited AFT and SEIU representatives as well as department chairs to contribute.  

Although we are working toward the Chancellor’s district-wide goal of returning approximately 50% of on-site classes and services for the fall semester, should the public health situation worsen, we will follow health guidelines and pivot our work back to virtual platforms as needed. It is ultimately easier to plan for on-site and hybrid instruction then transition them back online if needed than to do the reverse (e.g., a hybrid course will by definition already have a canvas shell in place even before a potential pivot to fully online instruction should conditions worsen). Moreover, by preparing ourselves to provide limited on-site instruction and services again, we are better serving our students who have been disproportionately impacted by online learning and the pandemic (i.e., enrollments are down 11% with many students stopping out and retention and success rates have dropped by 4% from where they stood pre-pandemic). This is in part why OC’s Associated Student Government officers have advocated to see a partial return to campus this fall (ASG and our IE office are coordinating on a survey). 

Finally, below are some resources that were referenced during the town hall:

1. Attached is a copy of the PowerPoint deck that was used for last week’s town hall.
2. Here’s the video Dr. Oscar Cobian and Dr. Deanna McFadden shared outlining our COVID screening process in both English and Spanish.
3. Vice President Chris Renbarger shared a YouTube video link on ventilation, filtration, and UV which can be watched here.
4. For a list of resources, the public health and regulatory guidelines we are following, and a list of FAQs regarding our plans for fall, please visit OxnardCollege.edu/alerts. The site also now includes a link to the COVID Leadership Group’s written objectives from meetings spanning the past year (thanks to Professor and Captain Mike Ketaily for developing and sharing these documents). Please continue to share your questions with department chairs, deans, and union representatives.

We look forward to sharing our full plan for reopening later this semester and appreciate all of your work to round out this challenging spring semester in the meantime. Our next employee town hall is scheduled for May 3, 2021, 12:00pm – 2:00pm, via Zoom (the Outlook invitation with Zoom link will be mailed out soon). 

Please remember, we encourage you to make an appointment and get vaccinated to protect your health as well as others. Thank you again for your steadfast commitment to our students during this difficult year.

Sincerely,

Luis P. Sanchez, JD, LLM, President

Oxnard College students,

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

General Information: 

• 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 (such as 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 Lot B you must be screened at our Health Screening tables before entering the campus. Please watch this video before 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. 

If you have an on-site class, while visiting campus you must:  

• 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. Do not congregate with others and please maintain at least a six-foot distance. 
• Download & complete the Healthy Return to Campus app and questionnaire before arriving on campus. After completing the survey, if you see a:
  • Yellow pass pop up on your screen with the message "You are Clear,” proceed to your campus screening location for temperature check and a green pass; or
  • Red pass pop up on your screen with the message "You cannot come to campus,” please remain away from our facilities. You may call our Health Center to address your situation at 805-678-5932.
• Visit our screening checkpoint near the clocktower (see map). This station is open from 8:00am – 4:00pm, Monday through Thursday. Free parking is available in Lot B.  Also, be sure to scan the QR code of every location you visit while you’re on campus. Watch this video to learn more about what to expect when you arrive. 
• On-site students 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. 

Please keep in mind that despite our best efforts to screen all students and employees who visit our campus, there is no way to fully guard against 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 bilingual Welcome Center at (805) 678-5907.

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

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you have enjoyed a safe and restful holiday respite. Although there will likely be deep challenges yet ahead, I am optimistic that this year will be better than last, and I am energized by the work we have ahead of us to help our students get back on their feet, on their way to fulfill their dreams and their potential. But we must continue to be safe and cautious for a while longer, as we wait for an effective vaccine to be widely available, and while the rates of Covid-19 infection continue to surge. Therefore, unless you are an “essential worker” who cannot perform their job remotely, I urge you to continue working from home and to ONLY visit the campus when absolutely necessary. In all instances when you must visit the campus, I would urge you to follow these protocols:

1. Notify your supervisor of your plan to visit the campus and obtain their approval;
2. Your supervisor should, in turn, inform Lt. Cesar Romero, Jaime “Robert” Romero, and David Gardner of your plans so that they are not surprised by your presence;
3. Visit the  campus only from Monday through Thursday when our Covid screening stations are in operation (generally from 8AM to 4PM);
4. Complete the VCCCD app questionnaire before proceeding to the screening station;
5. Note that the main screening station has moved. It is now between the café and the Student Services Building. There is still a secondary screening station in the Administration Building;
6. Be sure to scan the QR code of every location you visit while you are on campus;
7. Stay only as long as necessary to accomplish your task, and visit only the facilities essential for that task;
8. Observe all of the usual Covid safety practices: wear a mask, keep an appropriate distance from others, wash your hands thoroughly and often, etc.

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

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.

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.