Update March 12, 2020

At this time, all classes at GCC are running normally and as scheduled. That said, given the evolving nature of COVID-19 and out of an abundance of caution, GCC is following advice shared in a memo to all Executive Branch Employees, adopting some precautionary measures for the foreseeable future, effective March 11, 2020:

  • All work-related travel, both foreign and domestic, is to be discontinued until further notice. Staff with outstanding travel commitments or concerns about cancelling scheduled travel should bring such concerns to the attention of their supervisor. We also strongly encourage that you avoid any personal international travel. As previously stated, please review the revised CDC traveler guidance for travelers returning from Level 2 and Level 3 countries. These travelers are being asked to self-quarantine for 14 days; self-quarantine guidance is available at the aforementioned link. Additionally, as a reminder, GCC has prepared a voluntary Travel Reporting Form to report all applicable travel information. The reporting form can be completed and submitted electronically using the button at the top of this page.
  • Conferences, seminars and other events, scheduled and hosted by the College involving external parties, are to be held virtually or cancelled.  Regular internal business, including departmental meetings and committees, shall continue. Meeting organizers are encouraged to utilize alternatives like conference calls, WebEx and other group communication tools.
  • College-sponsored student travel has been suspended until further notice. Trips should be cancelled and/or meetings held remotely if possible.
  • Additionally, employees should not attend external work-related conferences, seminars or events. Alternatively, employees are encouraged to participate remotely.
  • As previously communicated, employees feeling sick with fever or flu symptoms should not come into work. Information available to date regarding COVID-19 indicates that the highest risk population includes older adults and individuals with serious chronic medical conditions. Employees in this risk group are encouraged to talk with their supervisors to review possible alternative work assignments. If you are concerned about the availability of sick time, please discuss with your supervisor.
  • Each of the above measures will be revisited in 30 days or sooner as circumstances dictate.

Everyone has a role to play in staying healthy. Please follow these every day preventative practices that we are all familiar with:

  • Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing (reminder posters have been placed around campus).
  • Maintain good personal hygiene, and avoid touching your face.
  • Frequently wash your hands – for at least 20 seconds – with soap and water (reminders have been put in all bathrooms on campus).
  • Though less effective, use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
  • GCC’s Facilities Department has increased the frequency in which they are cleaning campus classrooms, bathrooms and public spaces.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, or if you feel sick.
  • Stay home when sick! GCC Faculty/Staff:  If you have concerns about the amount of sick time you have available or of your ability to work from home, please contact your supervisor. Students, if you have concerns about missing class, please contact your professor.

The College will continue to monitor and track this evolving situation and follow the guidance of local, state, national and international health agencies as with other infectious diseases and public health concerns.

As new information emerges daily, please keep yourself informed of the latest developments. Visit the CDC’s Web site for the most updated information.

Important Links