This article appears for archival purposes. Any events, programs and/or initiatives mentioned may no longer be applicable.
As of Tuesday, March 11, Governor Doug Ducey announced a state of emergency in Arizona regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Additionally, recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include minimizing interactions in large social settings such as colleges.
In response to this, the Maricopa County Community College District's (MCCCD) Spring Break is extended to Friday, March 20, 2020, for on-campus in-person classes. Students in these classes should not report to campus/classes between now and Friday, March 20, 2020. This includes Hybrid classes and scheduled clinicals. Classes currently being taught or scheduled to begin next week online will continue as scheduled. Students in dual enrollment classes should check with their high schools regarding attendance requirements. Maricopa faculty, staff, and administration will report back to work on Monday, March 16, 2020, and use the week to prepare for academic continuity. All other district and college operations and services will continue as usual until further notice.
This decision is meant to reduce the possibility of COVID-19 spread throughout our community and protect those who are more susceptible to severe illnesses and, at the same time, ensure legitimate opportunities for student academic progress leading to successful course completion.
During this time, Maricopa faculty and staff will be developing options for alternative forms of delivery for in-person classes. Options may include delivery online.
Additionally, MCCCD's Continuity Response Team (CRT) remains in daily communication with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the Arizona Department of Health Services, and the CDC. The CRT's primary function is to ensure the well-being and safety of the Maricopa community and establish protocols to identify and quickly respond to potentially dangerous illnesses.
The CRT has prepared information and recommendations to assist College leaders, managers, and supervisors in addressing concerns related to COVID-19. The guidance applies to all 10 Maricopa Community Colleges, skill centers, and campus locations.
MCCCD is acting in accordance with State and County Public Health Officials if we feel we may have a student or employee with 2019 novel coronavirus. Local and state public health staff will determine if the patient meets the criteria for a Person Under Investigation for 2019 novel coronavirus.
"This is a time of anxiety and uncertainty. Thank you for your patience and perseverance as we work through the changing landscape caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, MCCCD Interim Chancellor. "We will continue to take as many precautions as necessary in order to protect our community while maintaining our students' academic momentum."
The Maricopa County Community College District takes this very seriously. We are continuing to monitor the outbreak closely.
Please continue to check our website for timely updates and advisories.