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Messages from the President: COVID-19

To our campus community - 

I am deeply saddened to tell you that two WVC employees have tested positive COVID-19. The Chelan Douglas Health District has asked that we do not release their names. These employees did ask that their WVC “family” offer ousupport and prayers. 

We have been in contact with the Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) to plan our next steps. Neither employee has been on campus since March 12, but we will focus sanitation in the areas where they worked. 

This is very difficult news to hear, but please do not panic and please know that we are working closely with health experts to do whatever we can to preserve your health and wellbeing. Our employees and students are what make WVC a great place to work and learn. You are and will always be our first priority.

Campus closure

As you know, the college is already closed to students and the public through March 30. We do not expect the closure to go on longer than expected, but we will revisit the decision to reopen depending on developments in the coming days and weeks. 

Spring quarter

Spring quarter is still scheduled to begin on April 13, with the majority of classes being offered online. All employees who can are being encouraged to make teleworking arrangements. Students and employees who will be on campus during spring quarter will be asked to continue practicing social distancing. 

Cleaning

WVC will continue sanitization as outlined by the Washington State Department of Health, focusing on high-traffic areas like classrooms, labs and common areas.

Practicing kindness, avoiding bias

During this difficult time, it is critical that we be supportive and understanding of each other. Be kind and patient with your peers and yourselves and know that we are working together to keep each other safe.

I’d also like to remind you that bias comes in all forms. In addition to avoiding bias on race or ethnicity, we should also be mindful to avoid bias toward sick people, high-risk people, healthcare workers or anyone else. Be respectful and know that everyone is facing their own difficulties in the face of this pandemic.

Thank you for your ongoing patience and flexibility as we navigate this new and complicated challenge. Please keep those affected by this pandemic in your hearts and minds.

Take care,

Jim

Jim Richardson, Ph.D.
President
Wenatchee Valley College