Email to campus employees
Thursday, March 26, 2020, 4:39 p.m.

Good Afternoon LSC Campus Community-

LSC administration has received some questions about the Governor’s Order so we wanted to clarify a few key points.

In his Stay At Home order, Governor Walz noted that both K-12 and Higher Education are essential services, allowing our students to continue their classes and move forward toward their educational goals. The portion of the order that covers this is found on page 8 under q: The Executive Branch and w: Education.

At Lake Superior College, our top two priorities are the safety and health of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as helping our students to successfully complete their semester.  All classes have been modified to comply with CDC and Minnesota Department of Health recommendations regarding social distancing, including those that require that classes continue in-person in a modified way. In addition, our facilities team is cleaning and sanitizing our buildings according to CDC recommendations.

Key Points:

• We are open and here to support student success! We have limited hours and limited staff physically on campus but we have been, are, and will remain open as a campus. We have a lot of services available online and great work being done remotely. The expectation is that students, current and prospective, will be welcomed on campus and will be able to receive the support they need online and/or in person, using social distancing and best practices.
• Classes at Lake Superior College will resume on Monday, March 30, and will be offered through alternative delivery methods through the end of Spring Semester 2020.
• The Governor’s Order exempts Minnesota State colleges and universities as an essential service. In fact, the Chancellor has made it clear the expectation is that we will keep campuses open in an attempt to both support current and prospective students as well as to help assist and support our local communities. Lake Superior College has waived our usual application fee through April and adjusted registration dates to support prospective students, displaced workers and others being impacted by this pandemic.

As President Rogers said in an email yesterday: “Governor Walz issued a two-week stay at home order for Minnesota that at the same time exempts essential services such as grocery stores, gasoline stations, and higher education institutions, including UMD, CSS, and LSC. Travel to, and work performed at, these exempted and essential services is allowed. To be clear, this does NOT really change much for LSC at this time since we…all of YOU…have already geared up for minimal operation of our campus, with most services and classes already shifted to distance technologies.”

We continue to update the www.lsc.edu/coronavirus with the latest information. All messages from President Rogers are posted on her website as well. If you have questions, concerns or information you’d like to share on the website please send those to info@lsc.edu.

Email from Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra
March 25, 3:30 p.m.

Dear students,

Today, Governor Walz announced an official “stay at home” order for all Minnesota residents. This means that we are to stay home and limit movements outside of our homes to only essential needs. However, as part of his order, the governor has declared educational activities and services as essential, which means the 37 colleges and universities of Minnesota State are exempt from this order. Campus-based essential services will be staffed by a limited number of employees on campus in order to follow social distancing protocols and all other safety precautions. However, students can still access the campuses for needed services not accessible from home. Instruction will resume, as scheduled, on either March 30 or April 6 as previously announced. All classes will be delivered using alternative modes, and campuses will remain closed to the public, but let me be clear – you can access your campus for services that you are unable to access from home, but campus staffing will be limited.

Our top two priorities remain protecting the health and safety of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as helping our students to successfully finishing the semester. In the coming days, Minnesota State campuses will be moving their students to an online experience or an alternative method of delivery that is consistent with CDC guidelines. My request is that you have patience; faculty, staff, and campus leadership have been tirelessly working to make this possible. As you might imagine, an effort like this is not without challenges.

Please watch your email for information from your instructors regarding delivery of your particular classes. I know each day brings serious news. The situation we are in is unprecedented for all of us. We will get through this together. We will continue to share additional detailed information in the coming days. For now, the most important thing is to take care of yourself and your families.  As you know, we can all further protect ourselves and others by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Practicing self-care by eating a healthy diet and taking time to rest
• Frequently cleaning all commonly touched surfaces
• Avoiding large gatherings
• Staying home if you are sick

If you feel you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, The Minnesota Department of Health recommends:

1. 1. Stay at home for at least 7 days, and for 3 days with no fever and improvement of respiratory symptoms – whichever is longer. (Your fever should be gone for 3 days without using fever-reducing medicine).
   2. Use the CDC website on how to Care For Yourself at Home with COVID-19.
   3. If your household contacts were exposed to you while you had symptoms, they should try to stay home as much as possible for 14 days.
      1. They should closely monitor their health, and if symptoms occur, they must isolate themselves. More guidance on this can be found here: MDH COVID-19 Basics
      2. Use the CDC website for How to Minimize Spread.

Thank you, stay safe, and stay strong.

Devinder Malhotra Chancellor

All employee email from LSC President Patricia Rogers

March 25, 2020 2:31 p.m.

Dear LSC Colleagues:

Today Governor Walz issued a two-week “stay at home” order for Minnesota that at the same time exempts essential services such as grocery stores, gasoline stations, and higher education institutions, including UMD, CSS, and LSC. Travel to, and work performed at, these exempted and essential services is allowed. To be clear, this does NOT really change much for LSC at this time since we…all of YOU…have already geared up for minimal operation of our campus, with most services and classes already shifted to distance technologies.

So, todays’ campus update is really a call to greatness for each and every one of us. Reminder: Lake Superior College is committed to taking the steps necessary to protect the health and safety of all students and employees, while also enabling students to complete spring semester and progress their educational goals.

Think about it: the way we react to this crisis right now will set the tone for Lake Superior College’s future. The way we handle our educational institution right now, and particularly how we respond to students’ needs online and on campus, will greatly influence our ability to attract and retain students in the coming summer and spring. We can already anticipate groups of people who will be making critical decisions about their future.

For example: Displaced Workers and Adult Learners. This national crisis will have a tremendous impact on the economy. That unfortunately creates many displaced workers, and people who will want to prepare to move into new jobs quickly. We can anticipate that State and Federal funding will include funding to ramp up workforce development and training. Our trades programs align exactly with what these people will likely seek. The American Association of Community Colleges is working on legislation and lobbying efforts in anticipation of this great need. See the attachment entitled: Update on Stimulus Efforts.

And another example: High School Students Making Different Choices. In addition to displaced and adult learners, high school students are also making different choices. The Chronicle of Higher Education ran an article this morning discussing the results of a massive survey on high school students’ plans. From the Chronicle brief

“One in six high-school seniors who expected to attend a four-year college full time before the coronavirus pandemic say they will opt for something else.”

“College administrators knew that the new coronavirus would interfere with prospective students’ plans. A new survey, conducted by the higher-ed consulting firm Art and Science Group, found that one in six high-school seniors who expected to attend a four-year college full-time before the pandemic now say they will choose a different path. Here’s what else the survey found:

1. 1. • Three out of five students said they were concerned about their ability to attend their first-choice colleges.
      • Of the 17 percent of students who didn’t think they would enroll full time at a four-year college, a majority expected to take a gap year or enroll part time in a bachelor’s program.
      • About 32 percent of students said they were considering less-expensive institutions.”

LSC is well positioned today to be the choice for students seeking part-time educational options. We are a great choice for the 32% of surveyed students seeking “less expensive” options, knowing that LSC’s liberal arts and sciences programs are top of the line choices.

To promote LSC as the right choice for all, VP Daniel Fanning and his team have just launched a large marketing campaign that waives our application fee through April, with registration dates moved up to better accommodate these new students.

What this means right now:

First, LSC must remain open and operational unless the Chancellor or Governor orders full closing of campuses. As of right now, the Governor has made a decision that all higher education is essential, and that we must continue with our already established minimal operations plan (Minnesota State and the University of Minnesota system and the private colleges association are all following this option). That means we must be responsive to all LSC students, particularly those who are already disadvantaged. That means there will be some safe face-to-face interactions that must happen to meet the needs of all students. Supervisors are working out their final plans.

Second, we want our employees to be safe, and have taken measures to move most of our work to virtual media wherever possible. And we have some face to face (F2F) options in classes and for student services with carefully orchestrated physical distancing. We have plans in place to reduce the campus footprint by closing areas that can then be deep cleaned and locked. We will reduce building hours, provide very limited café and bookstore hours and services, provide computer access for students with physical distancing and cleaning, and shift the library to a mostly online access. Remember, our top priority is: Lake Superior College is committed to taking the steps necessary to protect the health and safety of all students and employees, while also enabling students to complete spring semester and progress their educational goals.

It is a tall order, but it is absolutely crucial that we get it right, since our reaction right now so greatly impacts our future. Making our campus as welcoming as we can while still practicing physical distancing and other technology options ensures our success for our summer online courses and our upcoming fall semester.

It seems, though, that the obstacles to success are our own attitudes, behaviors, and assumptions.

Call to Greatness:

We are in no way doing “business as usual.” The actions we are taking are a big departure from our normal spring semester, revealing a variety of reactions from people. I know some folks are feeling quite anxious and have no easy way to alleviate those feelings. We do have EAP services available online at: https://mn.gov/mmb/segip/health-and-wellbeing/eap/ and I encourage you to use that amazing service if needed, as it is a part of our benefits as state workers. In addition, I did find a nice short article on how to address COVID-19 anxiety with a few useful tips: “If Coronavirus Scares You, Read This to Take Control Over Your Health Anxiety” In The Guardian by Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett:

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/if-coronavirus-scares-you-read-this-to-take-control-over-your-health-anxiety?utm_source=emailsynd&utm_medium=social

Your physical and mental health are critical and important to me and to every member of the LSC community. We depend on each other to be supportive and positive. And rising to greatness in this peacetime emergency is also about calling on our best selves and our best behaviors. How each of us handles this crisis reveals both the challenging and the great behaviors we choose to present. I am calling each of you to greatness.

Specifically, the greatness behaviors we must choose right now are expecting and practicing clear and factual communications. Mis-communications, rumors (like the one I heard the other day about martial law being declared in Wisconsin), or well-meaning attempts to fill in missing facts can create obstacles that become harmful to our work.
I shared the following with our LSC union leadership members on Monday of this week, and I share it with all of you today:

1. 1. 1. We need ALL campus leadership (administrators, union leaders, key faculty and staff) and every employee to please help control rumors, mis-information, and general over-reactions. It is a very human response to uncertainty that leads some into speculation and undo suffering about “what if” scenarios. It makes some folks decide that everyone else is not doing their job. Innocent (or deliberate) voicing of opinions as facts translates into hurtful criticism and puts unnecessary stress on those who are trying to do their work, make adjustments, and plan for next steps. I am thinking of the GMWs, student affairs staff, and others who have reported such stresses being placed on them by well-meaning, but uninformed or mis-informed, colleagues.We need everyone to focus on their own work, keep informed through our website, and realize all aspects of the campus operation will be monitored and adjusted as the situation changes or new data is revealed. Stirring people up with “what if…” or “why aren’t you doing this job the way I think you should…” is really not helping those who are already stressed and anxious.
      2. To ensure consistent and clear communication, we must have messages coming from the president and cabinet, and not from multiple sources that usually do not have all of the current data and facts. I am calling you to greatness here: Please do not try to take on such messaging yourselves. I know each of you is dedicated to helping students and your colleagues and you really are trying to offer comfort. Comforting each other and listening is encouraged, but we must as much as possible have campus communication messages come from sources that have all of the known facts. The appropriate campus communication sources are from my office and/or from VP Fanning’s office, and what is posted on our website https://www.lsc.edu/coronavirus .That said, we DO want our campus community to have a place to voice their ideas, concerns, questions. Some folks may want to have a place to send the latest rumor they have heard so they can be reassured about what is real. That place is info@lsc.edu That email address is carefully monitored and information is quickly passed to the appropriate place, including appropriate campus committees that may need to work on plans or updates. Messages from me, VP Fanning, the system office, CDC updates, MDH updates, and so on are added to the website: http://www.lsc.edu/coronavirus on a regular basis, sometimes multiple times a day. Rise to the call for greatness and refer all questions, concerns, ideas, and so on to info@lsc.edu .
      3. Do not be afraid to tell folks gently, but firmly, that you need more space between you and the person if someone seems to be moving too close. Remind folks that we are not shaking hands at this time, though we want to be welcoming. And no, we are not hiring security guards to enforce physical distancing.
      4. PLEASE ask your questions at info@lsc.edu Send your ideas and suggestions to info@lsc.edu Encourage others to send their ideas, suggestions, worrisome rumors, and questions to info@lsc.edu.

And finally on another note, a few of you asked what three books I am reading right now. Well, as I mentioned, I am reading Erik Larson’s “The Splendid and the Vile.” I am also just about finished with Bill Bryson’s “The Body” and Curt Brown’s book entitled “Minnesota 1918: When Flu, Fire, and War Ravaged the State.”
Sheesh, who knew my reading choices could bring on the COVID Virus…oh wait, that’s a wild rumor. But just in case, I am going to start Dennis Staples’ new book: “This Town Sleeps.”

Stay well, stay positive, keep informed, and always rise to GREATNESS!

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

President Rogers’ message to students
Tuesday, March 24, 2020, 11:38 AM

Dear LSC Students:

We are moving quickly toward the start of the rest of spring semester, beginning next Monday March 30th…unless of course we hear otherwise from the Governor. It has been quite an interesting couple of weeks, and quite busy for everyone.

Your faculty have worked hard along with LSC’s fantastic support staff, IT folks, web team, and others to move to alternative methods for classes and services to ensure that you will be able to finish your spring semester. They really care! All of us care about you at LSC! We hear your concerns and worries. And we are doing our very best to get you through spring semester in fine shape.

The campus wi-fi is on, there are spaces for you to spread out and we will have computers set up with the appropriate distances in case you do not have a computer or need a device.

We will have limited services and building hours (630am-6pm), but know that we are open and can help you. Student Services, such as advising and financial aid, remain open with limited staff/limited hours. We recommend calling or emailing ahead and setting up an appointment when possible. You can now schedule virtual meetings completely online with staff in departments including advising, counseling, financial aid, technology help desk, TLC and more. Those links and the most current updates are all available on the website: lsc.edu/coronavirus. This will give you updates on building hours, library, food service, and more.

Now I know many of you are quite sad about the changes to your classes and even your schedules. I know you will miss hanging out with friends and taking part in activities long planned for spring. I know that for some of you, commencement was a major lifetime event, the capstone of your career at LSC and the celebration of your hard work. We know you are disappointed. We hear you, and we know this is a big change. And we will find a way to honor you. Stay tuned to our website for updates.

Until then, be healthy. Be in touch with your instructors and advisors, and let’s get ready for Monday.

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

Update on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Related Schedule Change
Thursday, March 19, 2020, 4:24 PM

Good Afternoon LSC Employees –

This morning our talented HR team received updated information from the Minnesota State system office to ensure employees will be paid without disruption. They have provided the following summary:

Supervisors –
• It is assumed the majority of your employees who can be are now and should be telecommuting/working remotely. To ensure some parts of campus remain open so that we can continue to serve students the best we can, some employees will also be on campus periodically. Minnesota State system office has requested HR offices to track the approved telecommuting schedules. There is no need to complete an official telecommuting form. This is for internal tracking only and should be submitted to HR via email. Please contact HR if you have any questions or concerns.
• Should an established workday schedule need to be modified, HR would need to be notified of the schedule change.
• In every case, employees and supervisors must work out schedules that provide minimum time on campus for those duties/roles that must be performed for the campus.
• In some cases, employees may work 100% of their time on campus, but will have staggered schedules or different shifts based on the needs of the department to provide coverage – as determined by the supervisor. They are eligible for shift differential and should consult HR and their supervisors.
• If an employee requests an alternate telecommute shift, shift differential may apply. Example – day care centers are closed and the employee will work from 4:00 am to 12:00 pm, and the shift differential would apply.
• Some employees on the regular payroll may not have work (or enough work) that allows them to telecommute or work at a distance for longer periods of time. A separate code has been established and added to employee timesheets of CVD. This code is to be used for the following
o Example 1: employee A usually works 100% on campus. Due to the changes in LSC’s operations, employee A is assigned to work 2 hours on campus per day, and has 3 hours assigned at a distance. The remaining 3 hours should be coded on the timesheet as CVD.
o Example 2: employee Z must meet students two days per week on campus. Employee Z has no broadband or technology access to work at a distance. Employee Z codes the other three days work periods as CVD.
o Example 3: employee H has an assignment to an area that has been closed by the campus administration. Employee H’s timecard records all regularly scheduled work hours as CVD.
o Example 4: employee X works from home full 8 hours coded on timesheet as REG
o Illness or caring for a dependent with an illness code as CVD
o Self-isolation (as approved by supervisor) code as CVD
• An employee’s day could consist of part CVD and part REG.
• We are not requiring medical documentation to telecommute at this time. We were originally told it would be needed, but that has since changed.
• It is ok and encouraged to reassign work as needed, cross-train, etc.. to keep employees working where we can. We expect the supervisor to help arrange and manage that, and to communicate with the administrator in charge of the department.
• Due to the Governor suspending provisions related to work schedules and locations, you have flexibility to utilize employees in the work locations and schedules needed for continued operations.
• Temporary employees should be allowed to continue working until their assigned end date. If there is no work for them, they also receive pay under CVD. But do not extend assignments if not needed (supervisors should consider using current employee for the work).

All Employees –
• As of March 18, the CVD code will be available for you to code your timesheet appropriately. This code should be used to cover time when you’re not engaged in regular work duties, on campus or remotely, but would regularly be available to work. (See examples above.)
• Intermittent employees will be paid up through your already established scheduled hours through March 30.
• Employees on temporary assignments will continue as agreed upon and will follow the above rules.

If you have any questions, please contact your supervisor, administrator and/or LeAnn Ulvi in the HR department at (218) 733-1068 or leann.ulvi@lsc.edu.

This and other updates continue to be posted at www.lsc.edu/coronavirus. Thank you for your continued cooperation, patience and dedication to the institution!

Message from LSC President Patricia Rogers
Thursday, March 19, 2020, 9:22 AM

Dear LSC Colleagues:

It is a very quiet campus here today on the hills above Lake Superior. Yet I know there is so much work already underway by 7am. Plans are moving forward, people are shifting to distance work lives (and maybe already finding it challenging to cope with pets, kids, and significant others in your new work space). Supervisors are working hard to adapt work duties to distance alternatives or to find different work on and off campus for those who may not have enough work or proper technologies for distance work.

Those of us who must have some physical presence on campus to perform our duties are practicing “social distancing” and other recommended strategies. Many people quickly learned to set up Zoom meetings (Thanks, Stacy Leno!) and to think creatively about how best to handle students and others who must come to campus for tours, advising, tutoring, wi-fi, and so on.

I have to say here that I have never liked the phrase “social distancing” as it seems to conjure images of shunning, isolating, and even a form of xenophobia. That of course not how we behave or treat each other at Lake Superior College.

This morning, during my usual 4:30am scan of higher education online journals, I came across an article from The Chronicle of Higher Education written by Goldie Blumenstyk entitled “Coronavirus Crisis Underscores the Traits of a Resilient College.” Yes, the article is likely of great interest to all of you and I include for your reading pleasure. But what really caught my eye was the closing personal note at the end of the article. Ms. Blumenstyk says:

“I’ve read and heard a lot of good advice this week on how to cope. No doubt you have, too. The bit that has stuck with me the most came from one of the rabbis at my synagogue here in the D.C. area, Sid Schwarz, who counseled that we rethink the notion of social distancing. Continue to practice “physical distancing,” he said, but also “social solidarity,” by making extra efforts to support folks in our various personal communities.” (article attached as a PDF)

Yes! Social Solidarity. That is the very essence of how we must support, help, and respect each other. This is how we will move forward, with social solidarity and willingness to stay focused on how we bring our best selves to this crisis and to our lives beyond this crisis.

We all chose the field of academia because we wanted to improve the world and change lives. Our work as maintenance workers, support staff, office workers, teachers, administrators, tutors, advisors, librarians, retail staff, and so many more ALL contribute to our common calling to improve lives and change the world. You are accomplishing that by doing your best, avoiding rumors, and treating each other with respect. We succeed when we reduce the drama that often accompanies times of uncertainty: humans tend to fill in the perceived gaps with stories and wild assumptions that lack solid facts. We will succeed by staying in communication, sticking to the facts, working together even when there is physical distance between us, and staying positive.

Keep up to date on LSC’s response and any new updates by accessing this website: www.lsc.edu/coronavirus. Send questions, comments, and ideas to info@lsc.edu. You might also wish to review the Minnesota State website: www.minnstate.edu/coronavirus/index.html that has more resources.

Through our new operations plan that shifts us from primarily on-campus to limiting (but still providing) F2F time on campus to support our students, we have an opportunity to save lives and slow the spread of COVID-19. Follow the health protocols.

But…every time you see “social distancing” think instead that for our LSC community, this practice is “physical distancing with social solidarity.”

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President

Update from Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra
Wednesday, March 18, 2020, 3:37 PM

Colleagues,

The work you all are doing to address the COVID-19 pandemic is an incredible lift.  Today during the Board of Trustees meeting I shared the vast scope of the work needed at every level throughout the system to meet our two priorities of keeping students, faculty, and staff safe, and helping our students to finish the semester successfully.  I thought you might wish to hear my remarks, which you’ll find here.

Thank you for everything you are doing during these difficult days.  We are a hard working bunch, and together we will get through this.

Best,
Devinder

Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor

Update from LSC President Patricia Rogers
Wednesday, March 28, 2020, 9:05 AM

Dear LSC Colleagues:

As I mentioned in yesterday’s update, things continue to move quickly and adjustments must be made. “Keep Calm and Carry On” also means that we remain ready to make adaptations to the plan as the situation changes. During yesterday’s Minnesota State system call regarding COVID -19, the Chancellor directed campuses to ramp up our efforts to move more people into working from home and/or to reduce physical time on campus. He requires that our plans for these changes in schedules to be as complete as possible by Friday March 20th.

Thanks to all of you, LSC has already been moving these plans along, and beginning today we will move more quickly to make it happen.

Think of this as a shift in our “default” campus operations:  Instead of the default position being that employees come to campus and we make exceptions for those who need accommodations (doctor’s notes, etc.), the new default is people will work from home or other distance options and we make exceptions for those who absolutely need to be on campus to perform a portion of their duties.  This of course includes having staff on campus for services to students, facilities, and F2F components of classes.

What this means right now:

Staff: Supervisors and staff must ramp up their planning for alternative distance work, work from home, changes in shifts, alternative duties, etc. that help reduce time on campus. These schedules and work assignments must be approved and agreed upon with supervisors or Vice-Presidents. Supervisors will move people to these alternatives as much as possible, given there will still be “bare bones” operations and functions that must continue on campus to ensure that students can complete their semester. That means they will likely rotate people in positions such as facilities, advising, library, bookstore into some on and off campus work assignment. These new schedules will start this week or when classes resume on March 30th, depending upon the work duties.  I am asking that the staff and supervisors work on finalizing the new schedules and plans together right away.

NOTE: For those who have childcare concerns, health concerns, immune system challenges, and so on, there is no longer a need to provide a doctor’s note. That requirement was under our previous operational practice of accommodating and assigning off-campus work. Again, we are changing our “default” to accommodating those who must be on campus to perform certain aspects of their work.

Administrators: I am asking our administrative team to move as much of their duties and obligations to work from home alternatives whenever possible. This includes the work of administrative assistants and others on their teams. We know some of that work, such as signing papers and forms, will likely continue as usual and will require some time on campus to complete. Yes, there are technologies for documents, but we do not have those available at the moment.

System ITS staff are working with campus CIOs and IT teams to open some of the daily system-wide software such that VPN would not be necessary. Please discuss your needs for computer access and access to specialized software and network drives with Steve Fudally.  Please be patient with our IT team as work in IT is changing almost hourly!

Faculty: The great news is our faculty have already been diligently working to move the academic programs into alternative formats. They have training sessions, video sessions, planning, and other activities going on this week and next. They have already been following a set of guidelines that are listed below:

In determining the appropriate alternative course delivery approach for each course, academic leaders should work with their faculty to explore the options below, listed in priority order:

1. Migrate the course to an online format within D2LBrightspace.
2. If option 1 is unviable, migrate the course to an alternative synchronous format such as ZOOM or other conferencing technologies.
3. If option 2 is unviable, migrate the course to an a-synchronous format, using email correspondence or other forms of non-synchronous technology or communication.
4. If the full course cannot be delivered in one of the above manners and must retain a face-to-face component, the course must be adapted to reduce contact time, ensure social distancing, and reduce personal interactions and/or contact time. Strategies for this adaptation include, but are not limited to:

1. 1. 1. 1. • Moving non-applied components of the course to one of the formats enumerated above
            • Reducing hours in the lab/classroom
            • Implementing special safety and separation precautions (i.e., minimum of 6 feet buffer zones, etc.)
            • Splitting of sections into smaller groups
            • Expansion of lab availability, staggering students across time

Assessment and Final Examinations

1. 1. 1. 1. • Course assessments and final examinations must be adapted to the new method of instruction.
            • Face-to-face assessments and final examinations should only be used for those limited courses that cannot be fully delivered in a non-classroom format.

Finally, please remember: the building is not closed. We practice social distancing for meetings, training, or gatherings that must take place F2F. We use technologies to connect when possible, including the phone. Our work has just shifted to a different emphasis and practice. We are now working mostly away from campus, yet still educating our students, providing services they need, helping each other perform our duties and preserving the high level of excellence we hold dear here at LSC.

That said, please be kind to yourself and others. Know that we all may make a few mistakes as we make these shifts in operations, and that’s OK. Help each other, support each other, and stay healthy.

Carry on.

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

Update from Minnesota State system office/Bill Maki, Interim Vice Chancellor for Finance and Facilities

RE: Size of Gatherings and Commencement
• Effective immediately and according to current MDH and CDC guidelines, any gathering must have less than 50 people if social distancing can be adhered to. If possible, please adhere to the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America by avoiding social gathering in groups of more than 10 people. This is effective until you receive further guidance from us.

• Spring 2020 commencements at all colleges and universities are canceled. We know there is interest in having a virtual or online way of acknowledging spring graduation. Given our priorities of safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of our faculty, staff, and students, along with enabling students to complete the spring semester and progress towards their educational goals, please recognize that this is appropriately prioritized after these two goals.

Update from Lake Superior College President Patricia Rogers
Tuesday, March 17, 2020, 12:55 PM

Dear LSC Campus Community:

Interestingly enough (at least to me!), I am currently reading Erik Larson’s latest book “The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill.” The parallels between the rapidly changing situation that is COVID-19 in the USA and the rapidly changing situation of the early days of World War II in England are striking.

As Churchill experienced, it seems as though communications are sent with the latest plan, only to find conditions have changed and new adjustments must be made. Vendors trying to take advantage of our confusion or panic or fears bombard our social media and email. Rumors abound, and “perfect solutions” are pitched with just the right amount of sympathy and helpfulness, all offered at a new low price. My email is full of such messages trying to stampede us into buying services that will magically make it all better. Well, the hard truth is, we have many challenging days ahead. And there is no magic solution.

And yet, we do have each other and many very talented people ready and willing to fight what seems to be a shifting unseen enemy. People who are meeting (safely) and planning for a variety of contingencies and scenarios. People coming together to plan and prepare. Churchill also noticed that the best assurance of success was with the people and their planning. In his speech to the House of Commons on June 4, 1940, Churchill said:

“I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and if the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once again able to defend our Island home, to ride out the storm of war, and to outlive the menace of tyranny…”

People planning and preparing. The good news is that we have many tools already available to us, and we have willing and talented people who can help others learn to use these tools. We also have options for small group F2F interactions if needed. We can have staggered schedules to accommodate various student needs.

For some folks, the need to be 100% online is a reality and necessity. We are working with them to make that feasible and workable. For others, partial time at the campus is perfectly doable and highly practical, and some of us will be primarily on campus to keep things moving and grooving, unless of course the order is given to close. We are not there yet.

In all cases, people are pulling together to do their best for students and each other within these changing conditions. Will everything we do be perfect? Nope. Will we have courses or services that just don’t measure up to our high standards? Yup, and we will still do our very best, even as we criticize ourselves.

Kelli Hallsten Erickson’s email to the faculty today summed this up so beautifully: “you are a human being, doing the best you can.” I, too, have full confidence in our LSC community and the talents, creativity, and willingness to “ride out the storm” doing and being the best we can. You are amazing, and thank you for that!

Keep calm, and carry on. Keep on truckin’ and keep on keepin’ on.

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

Dear LSC Campus Community: Faculty, Staff, Students:

Yesterday you should have received a communication from Chancellor Devinder Malhotra, the leader of our 37 state colleges and universities that make up the Minnesota State system. Chancellor Malhotra has officially extended spring break by one week to help our faculty and staff better prepare to shift classes and services to alternative distance methods, alternative schedules, or limited face-to-face options.

For Lake Superior College, this means classes will officially begin again on March 30, 2020. The spring semester will end at the scheduled end date. This helps avoid further disruption of short courses, summer sessions, and personnel considerations.

What this means right now:

Faculty and Students:

• Between now and March 30th, our faculty are making adjustments to their courses as well as shifting to alternative methods. They will inform you of how to access your courses before March 30. Our faculty and staff have stepped up to ensure a quality educational experience no matter which methods are used to deliver the courses. They are also working to make certain that students who may not have access to technologies or alternative transportation are still able to attend their courses and finish the semester.
• For those students in hourly programs, the faculty and Deans are working to ensure that you have the required contact time. In some cases, there may be other adjustments we will do to ensure your hours. We will have more conversations with the faculty and staff associated with these programs over the next two weeks and will get that information to you as soon as possible.
• Our student services staff and our IT staff will likely have alternative schedules and options for virtual work as appropriate, with those schedule conversations first happening with supervisors. Those conversations are happening this week and next to better prepare for students’ needs, as well as continuing some of our regularly scheduled activities such as small tours, limited group work, etc.

LSC Employees:

• For staff and administrators who have work duties that require us to be on campus at least during the majority of the time, we will have deeper conversations with your supervisors and the Vice-Presidents in charge of these areas to develop fair and equitable schedules and work duties that provide maximum safety for all involved.
• Faculty are working with Deans on scheduling alternatives for other duties along with their class schedules.
• See the attached “Be Ready Minnesota” for travel and other guidelines.
• In all faculty and staffing considerations, we will ask the leadership of the various bargaining units to work closely with their constituencies and the supervisors and Vice-Presidents to create a safe, equitable, and LSC-quality teaching, learning, and working environment.

And finally, I know this situation is stressful and confusing at times. We are working diligently on keeping you informed through email, social media, and our website : https://www.lsc.edu/coronavirus/.

Stay in touch with the current updates through these various channels, or feel free to call the main campus at (218) 733-7600.

Stay safe, stay positive, keep supporting each other and we will make it through this historic national emergency with all of the “can do” energy that is the essence of the Lake Superior College community spirit. Thank you!

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

Message from Chancellor Malhotra:

Colleagues,

These unprecedented times require us to think differently about the work that we do and the services that we offer. Many aspects of this issue continue to evolve and create a fluid and challenging situation. Know that the feedback we are hearing from you, students, and the campus leadership are being taken into consideration as we identify the work ahead and make the necessary adjustments.

Regardless of the changing circumstances, our priorities will always remain the same:
• To safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of our faculty, staff, and students
• To enable students to complete the spring semester and progress toward their educational goals

To that end, it is critical that during this time of great uncertainty that we enhance all communication channels and work together on the above mentioned priorities. I also ask for your patience during this time. The information set is changing at a pace that we have not experienced before. Just this afternoon, CDC issued the recommendation that for the next 8 weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

I wanted to share with you steps we are taking to adjust to this rapidly changing environment.

Academic Continuity of Operations

The portfolio of academic offerings our 37 colleges and universities provide is diverse not only in their focus but also in the instructional methodologies used. In light of the concerns that we have heard from campuses, we will extend the preparation time for faculty and staff by one additional week. Instruction will resume on March 30. For the five colleges currently on spring break this week, they will also receive additional time and will resume instruction for students on April 6.

Staffing Continuity of Operations
As we continue our work towards helping our students finish the semester, we must stay focused on their health and safety and that of our faculty and staff. It is important that maximum flexibility is required of both employees and supervisors. We must look at how we can do our work differently and provide services for students while also supporting our colleagues and partners. Be cognizant of the following parameters as you work with your teams to accomplish the needed work:

• For the duration of this outbreak, all campuses are expected to be mindful of faculty and staff health and safety needs, and make accommodations for those individuals with underlying medical conditions that may make them more vulnerable to COVID-19, as well as those who may live with and/or care for such individuals, or those with children home from school. Similarly, there will likely be some faculty and staff without these conditions who are for other reasons anxious about returning to the workplace and interacting with others, particularly those who may have recently traveled. Campuses are expected to make every effort to accommodate employees and allow them to work from home whenever feasible.
• For employees whose job responsibilities do not lend themselves to telework, options include adjusting work schedules or staggering shifts, where appropriate, to increase social distancing.
• Where possible, phone or video conferencing should be used to limit the size of meetings and to continue to engage those faculty or staff who may have alternative work options in place to remain engaged.
• We can predict increased employee absences due to an individual illness, to care for family members, or respond to the temporary closure of K-12 schools. We need to plan ahead, cross-train to cover essential tasks and work through your continuity of operations plan.

The State provides confidential counseling resources to employees who are struggling with life matters that impact their personal well-being. Employees who are experiencing significant stress related to this matter may choose to utilize these resources. More information is available here: https://mn.gov/mmb/segip/health-and-wellbeing/eap/eap-work-life.jsp
Additional resources and guidance for state employees for travel and the necessary precautions after returning from travel out of the state or the country can be found on the Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) BeReadyMN website here: https://mn.gov/mmb/be-ready-mn/infectious-diseases/covid-19.jsp

If you have questions regarding exposure as a result of travel, Minnesota Department of Health asks you to call (651) 201-5414 or (877) 676-5414 for guidance.

I deeply appreciate what you all do to support our students and colleges and universities each and every day. It is your creativity, passion, commitment, and energy which will enable us to overcome these challenges and provide the needed resiliency to successfully navigate our campuses through these difficult times.

Best,
Devinder
Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor

Message from Lake Superior College:

As we continue to receive updates from the Minnesota State system office, we will continue to share updated information with you via email, on the website www.lsc.edu/coronavirus, and through other official communication channels including LSC’s official social media.

Last week you received email updates from Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra and Lake Superior College President Patricia Rogers. Their messages, as well as other updated information and resources, are all available on the website www.lsc.edu/coronavirus.

Here’s a quick summary of information that has been shared over the past few days:

1. 1. 1. 1. • LSC’s spring break has been extended an extra week and classes will now resume March 23 March 30. That means there are no academic classes, on campus or online, until March 23 30 – including labs and all other academic associated course work. Administrators, faculty and staff are spending this time exploring alternative modes of course delivery as well as adjusting campus learning spaces to ensure the safety of the campus community.
            • Once classes resume on March 23 30, some classes will be delivered in a different way. Not all classes will necessarily be moved to online courses, although some will. Instructors and academic deans are figuring out the best options for each specific course, through all 90+ programs offered at LSC, and will be contacting students with that updated information in the coming week.  This may take several more days, so we ask for your patience. Many options are on the table including moving classes that can be moved online to the online format, meeting via zoom, alternative assignments, and possibly even still having some classes meet in-person but taking actions to reduce the size of classes and ensure health and safety. This will largely depend on the individual class, requirements of that class/program, and instructor. Again, instructors and academic deans are working on that now and will be contacting students to let them know the plan once it is confirmed. Several instructors have already started that communication, and others will be doing so in the coming days.
            • While there will be no academic classes during this week of extended spring break, campus is open. To be clear, campus is not closed. Most campus and student support services will remain open and appropriately staffed during this extended spring break, except those that were already planned on being closed during break (such as the Tutoring and Learning Center and the Wellness Center, those will remain closed as they were last week). Student Services, such as advising and financial aid, will remain open. The Customized Training and Continuing Education (CECT) department is still open and programs are still running as planned, although some adjustments will be made to promote health and safety. The LSC Store will remain open Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The LSC Café will be open Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., serving only coffee and snacks. The LSC Library will be open Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Once classes resume on March 23 March 30, hours will likely be adjusted once again and that information will be shared.

New information related to travel that was just shared from Minnesota State system office as of this morning:

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their Novel Coronavirus Travel Information where most countries in Europe have now been designated along with China, Iran, and South Korea at Level 3 (Warning, Avoid Nonessential Travel) and the rest of the world, including the United States, has now been designated at Level 2 (Practice Enhanced Precautions) as a Global Outbreak Notice.

With the number of individuals returning from spring break after either international or domestic travel, the Minnesota State system has asked all campuses to share the following update which goes into effect immediately:

All travelers that are returning from a Level 3 country must stay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health, and practice social distancing.  The full guidance from the CDC is located at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-europe.

Travelers returning from other countries or from domestic travel need to monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning from travel.  Travelers that are sick with fever, cough, or have trouble breathing should stay home and call ahead before seeking medical care.  The full guidance from the CDC is located at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/alert/coronavirus-global.

If you are a faculty or staff member that needs to self-quarantine or stay home to monitor your health after traveling, please communicate with your supervisor – and if you have further concerns/questions please also contact your academic dean and/or the administrator (VP) who oversees your area.

If you are a student that needs to needs to self-quarantine, stay home to monitor your health, or needs accommodations to self-quarantine, please communicate with your instructor, and if you have further concerns/questions please also contact your advisor and/or Dean of Students Wade Gordon at wade.gordon@lsc.edu or (218) 733-7656.

If you have questions regarding exposure as a result of travel, Minnesota Department of Health asks you to call (651) 201-5414 or (877) 676-5414 for guidance.

We will continue to provide updates as they become available and will continue to put the latest information on the website www.lsc.edu/coronavirus. Please communicate directly with your instructors and/or supervisors, but if you have general questions and/or concerns please send them to info@lsc.edu and our dedicated team will make sure they get to the appropriate contact.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this unique and challenging time. Overall, there has been an overwhelming and inspiring spirit of cooperation and unity this past week. That says a lot about you all, our campus and our community. Thank you!

During the extended spring break (March 16-20), the LSC Store will remain open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. The LSC Cafe will be open Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., serving only coffee and snacks. The Tutoring and Learning Center and Wellness Center will remain closed during the extended spring break.

From Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra:
Minnesota State is continuously reviewing a range of strategies to limit the spread of COVID-19 and its impact on our campuses and the communities in which we live and serve. I am committed to taking all steps necessary, in consultation with administrative and statewide faculty leadership, to protect the health and safety of our faculty, our staff, and our students. I am also tremendously grateful to all of the faculty and staff for the sacrifices you have had to make, as well as for the hard work you have engaged in to address this challenging and dynamic situation.

All faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to heed the guidance of the Minnesota Department of Health, and in particular, staying home when sick, covering your cough, and practicing good hand hygiene.

Today, I am announcing that the 32 Minnesota State colleges and universities that are currently on Spring Break will suspend classes March 16-22, with classes resuming March 23 (this includes Lake Superior College). The five Minnesota State colleges that have Spring Break scheduled the week of March 16-20 will suspend classes March 23-29, with classes resuming March 30.

While there will be no classes during each campuses’ extra week, administrators, faculty, and staff will spend that week exploring alternative modes of delivery and adjust campus learning spaces to ensure the safety of our communities. All campuses, including residence halls, dining facilities, and student support services, will remain open and appropriately staffed, including student workers. Our goal is to accommodate students and help them continue their education despite interruptions caused by COVID-19.

Minnesota State-Related Travel
Minnesota State suspended all school and business-related international travel effective February 28. In addition, we are now suspending all out-of-state business travel for students, faculty, and staff, effective March 16. For in-state travel or other events, please carefully assess, along with supervisors, the conditions of destination communities to carefully consider the potential risks to yourself, participants, fellow students, families, and friends. Event hosts and coordinators should also be engaged in this assessment. If you choose to travel, ensure you have essential items you might need if you are not able to return immediately, such as medications, laptops, or other items needed to continue your studies.

Campus Cleanliness
The cleanliness of our campuses is a key element in keeping our faculty, staff, and students healthy. The facilities and maintenance teams at all the campuses are adhering to updated guidance from the CDC to ensure comfortable and save campuses within which to learn.

Large Events
All events or other gatherings totaling more than 100 attendees are cancelled until May 1, and the situation will be re-evaluated. The diversity of our student body and employees is one of our greatest strengths. As such, we are committed to ensuring welcoming and supportive campus environments for all of our students, faculty, and staff. It is vitally important we work together, follow the practices recommended by public health officials, and proceed with preparedness, calm, and understanding.

Once again, thank you for your hard work and your efforts to deliver an extraordinary education even during these challenging times.

For more information, continue to visit the Minnesota State website and your college/university website.

Sincerely,

Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor

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Dear LSC Campus Community:

Lake Superior College administration is in frequent and regular communication with the Minnesota State system – as well as government agencies, healthcare providers, fellow higher education institutions, and other community partners – regarding how the coronavirus (COVID-19) will impact our system and campus community. The safety of our students and employees is our top priority and we will continue to monitor the situation diligently and provide updates as they are available.

We will provide new and/or updated information on our website , along with additional resources and health guidance. We encourage everyone to check this site regularly and we will also provide updates via email, LSC’s official social media sources, and/or through campus leadership. We also encourage everyone to avoid misinformation regarding LSC’s actions concerning classes, travel, and so forth. Please rely only on confirmed information provided by LSC administration, which will be provided on our website and through our various official email and social media channels.

At this time, the only universal and direct impact to institutions within the Minnesota State system, including Lake Superior College, is that all international travel has been suspended as of February 28, until further notice by the Minnesota State system. Those directly impacted at Lake Superior College have already been contacted about this and are working with department leaders to make alternative plans.

We encourage everyone to take necessary steps to ensure your own health and safety, as well as those around you, including practicing respiratory (coughing and sneezing) etiquette and hand hygiene.  Additional hand sanitizers have been made available throughout campus and additional and deeper than usual cleaning, including sanitizing hand rails, is already underway by the LSC facilities team during this week of spring break. We would like to thank the team for their dedication and for their continued efforts!

If necessary, we are prepared to take additional precautions and actions which could potentially include moving more classes to an online format but at this time there are no immediate and confirmed plans to do so. We have been discussing contingency plans just to be safe and prepared, but hope that will not be necessary. However, if it does become necessary we will be prepared for a smooth transition and again will provide any relevant information and directions through official communication channels including the webpage .

If you have questions, please feel free to contact your instructor and/or supervisor directly, or the administrator in charge of your department. You can also send general questions or comments to info@lsc.edu and our team can help direct those to the appropriate contact.

Thank you all for your cooperation, calmness and understanding during this unique time. Overall, it’s largely business as usual unless and until anything changes.

For those of you on spring break, we hope you’ve been enjoying some time off and hope you have a happy and safe rest of the break.

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

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Email from Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra
March 25, 3:30 p.m.

Dear students,

Today, Governor Walz announced an official “stay at home” order for all Minnesota residents. This means that we are to stay home and limit movements outside of our homes to only essential needs. However, as part of his order, the governor has declared educational activities and services as essential, which means the 37 colleges and universities of Minnesota State are exempt from this order. Campus-based essential services will be staffed by a limited number of employees on campus in order to follow social distancing protocols and all other safety precautions. However, students can still access the campuses for needed services not accessible from home. Instruction will resume, as scheduled, on either March 30 or April 6 as previously announced. All classes will be delivered using alternative modes, and campuses will remain closed to the public, but let me be clear – you can access your campus for services that you are unable to access from home, but campus staffing will be limited.

Our top two priorities remain protecting the health and safety of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as helping our students to successfully finishing the semester. In the coming days, Minnesota State campuses will be moving their students to an online experience or an alternative method of delivery that is consistent with CDC guidelines. My request is that you have patience; faculty, staff, and campus leadership have been tirelessly working to make this possible. As you might imagine, an effort like this is not without challenges.

Please watch your email for information from your instructors regarding delivery of your particular classes. I know each day brings serious news. The situation we are in is unprecedented for all of us. We will get through this together. We will continue to share additional detailed information in the coming days. For now, the most important thing is to take care of yourself and your families.  As you know, we can all further protect ourselves and others by:
• Washing your hands often with soap and water; covering your cough and sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Practicing self-care by eating a healthy diet and taking time to rest
• Frequently cleaning all commonly touched surfaces
• Avoiding large gatherings
• Staying home if you are sick

If you feel you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, The Minnesota Department of Health recommends:
1. Stay at home for at least 7 days, and for 3 days with no fever and improvement of respiratory symptoms – whichever is longer. (Your fever should be gone for 3 days without using fever-reducing medicine).
2. Use the CDC website on how to Care For Yourself at Home with COVID-19.
3. If your household contacts were exposed to you while you had symptoms, they should try to stay home as much as possible for 14 days.
a. They should closely monitor their health, and if symptoms occur, they must isolate themselves. More guidance on this can be found here: MDH COVID-19 Basics
b. Use the CDC website for How to Minimize Spread.

Thank you, stay safe, and stay strong.
Devinder Malhotra Chancellor

 

All employee email from LSC President Patricia Rogers
March 25, 2020 2:31 p.m.

Dear LSC Colleagues:

Today Governor Walz issued a two-week “stay at home” order for Minnesota that at the same time exempts essential services such as grocery stores, gasoline stations, and higher education institutions, including UMD, CSS, and LSC. Travel to, and work performed at, these exempted and essential services is allowed. To be clear, this does NOT really change much for LSC at this time since we…all of YOU…have already geared up for minimal operation of our campus, with most services and classes already shifted to distance technologies.

So, todays’ campus update is really a call to greatness for each and every one of us. Reminder: Lake Superior College is committed to taking the steps necessary to protect the health and safety of all students and employees, while also enabling students to complete spring semester and progress their educational goals.

Think about it: the way we react to this crisis right now will set the tone for Lake Superior College’s future. The way we handle our educational institution right now, and particularly how we respond to students’ needs online and on campus, will greatly influence our ability to attract and retain students in the coming summer and spring. We can already anticipate groups of people who will be making critical decisions about their future.

For example: Displaced Workers and Adult Learners. This national crisis will have a tremendous impact on the economy. That unfortunately creates many displaced workers, and people who will want to prepare to move into new jobs quickly. We can anticipate that State and Federal funding will include funding to ramp up workforce development and training. Our trades programs align exactly with what these people will likely seek. The American Association of Community Colleges is working on legislation and lobbying efforts in anticipation of this great need. See the attachment entitled: Update on Stimulus Efforts.

And another example: High School Students Making Different Choices. In addition to displaced and adult learners, high school students are also making different choices. The Chronicle of Higher Education ran an article this morning discussing the results of a massive survey on high school students’ plans. From the Chronicle brief

“One in six high-school seniors who expected to attend a four-year college full time before the coronavirus pandemic say they will opt for something else.”

“College administrators knew that the new coronavirus would interfere with prospective students’ plans. A new survey, conducted by the higher-ed consulting firm Art & Science Group, found that one in six high-school seniors who expected to attend a four-year college full-time before the pandemic now say they will choose a different path. Here’s what else the survey found:

1. 1. 1. 1. • Three out of five students said they were concerned about their ability to attend their first-choice colleges.
            • Of the 17 percent of students who didn’t think they would enroll full time at a four-year college, a majority expected to take a gap year or enroll part time in a bachelor’s program.
            • About 32 percent of students said they were considering less-expensive institutions.”

 

LSC is well positioned today to be the choice for students seeking part-time educational options. We are a great choice for the 32% of surveyed students seeking “less expensive” options, knowing that LSC’s liberal arts and sciences programs are top of the line choices.

To promote LSC as the right choice for all, VP Daniel Fanning and his team have just launched a large marketing campaign that waives our application fee through April, with registration dates moved up to better accommodate these new students.

What this means right now:

First, LSC must remain open and operational unless the Chancellor or Governor orders full closing of campuses. As of right now, the Governor has made a decision that all higher education is essential, and that we must continue with our already established minimal operations plan (Minnesota State and the University of Minnesota system and the private colleges association are all following this option). That means we must be responsive to all LSC students, particularly those who are already disadvantaged. That means there will be some safe face-to-face interactions that must happen to meet the needs of all students. Supervisors are working out their final plans.

Second, we want our employees to be safe, and have taken measures to move most of our work to virtual media wherever possible. And we have some face to face (F2F) options in classes and for student services with carefully orchestrated physical distancing. We have plans in place to reduce the campus footprint by closing areas that can then be deep cleaned and locked. We will reduce building hours, provide very limited café and bookstore hours and services, provide computer access for students with physical distancing and cleaning, and shift the library to a mostly online access. Remember, our top priority is: Lake Superior College is committed to taking the steps necessary to protect the health and safety of all students and employees, while also enabling students to complete spring semester and progress their educational goals.

It is a tall order, but it is absolutely crucial that we get it right, since our reaction right now so greatly impacts our future. Making our campus as welcoming as we can while still practicing physical distancing and other technology options ensures our success for our summer online courses and our upcoming fall semester.

It seems, though, that the obstacles to success are our own attitudes, behaviors, and assumptions.

Call to Greatness:

We are in no way doing “business as usual.” The actions we are taking are a big departure from our normal spring semester, revealing a variety of reactions from people. I know some folks are feeling quite anxious and have no easy way to alleviate those feelings. We do have EAP services available online at: https://mn.gov/mmb/segip/health-and-wellbeing/eap/ and I encourage you to use that amazing service if needed, as it is a part of our benefits as state workers. In addition, I did find a nice short article on how to address COVID-19 anxiety with a few useful tips: “If Coronavirus Scares You, Read This to Take Control Over Your Health Anxiety” In The Guardian by Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett:

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/if-coronavirus-scares-you-read-this-to-take-control-over-your-health-anxiety?utm_source=emailsynd&utm_medium=social

Your physical and mental health are critical and important to me and to every member of the LSC community. We depend on each other to be supportive and positive. And rising to greatness in this peacetime emergency is also about calling on our best selves and our best behaviors. How each of us handles this crisis reveals both the challenging and the great behaviors we choose to present. I am calling each of you to greatness.

Specifically, the greatness behaviors we must choose right now are expecting and practicing clear and factual communications. Mis-communications, rumors (like the one I heard the other day about martial law being declared in Wisconsin), or well-meaning attempts to fill in missing facts can create obstacles that become harmful to our work.
I shared the following with our LSC union leadership members on Monday of this week, and I share it with all of you today:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. We need ALL campus leadership (administrators, union leaders, key faculty and staff) and every employee to please help control rumors, mis-information, and general over-reactions. It is a very human response to uncertainty that leads some into speculation and undo suffering about “what if” scenarios. It makes some folks decide that everyone else is not doing their job. Innocent (or deliberate) voicing of opinions as facts translates into hurtful criticism and puts unnecessary stress on those who are trying to do their work, make adjustments, and plan for next steps. I am thinking of the GMWs, student affairs staff, and others who have reported such stresses being placed on them by well-meaning, but uninformed or mis-informed, colleagues.

 

We need everyone to focus on their own work, keep informed through our website, and realize all aspects of the campus operation will be monitored and adjusted as the situation changes or new data is revealed. Stirring people up with “what if…” or “why aren’t you doing this job the way I think you should…” is really not helping those who are already stressed and anxious.

1. 1. 1. 1. 2. To ensure consistent and clear communication, we must have messages coming from the president and cabinet, and not from multiple sources that usually do not have all of the current data and facts. I am calling you to greatness here: Please do not try to take on such messaging yourselves. I know each of you is dedicated to helping students and your colleagues and you really are trying to offer comfort. Comforting each other and listening is encouraged, but we must as much as possible have campus communication messages come from sources that have all of the known facts. The appropriate campus communication sources are from my office and/or from VP Fanning’s office, and what is posted on our website https://lsc.edu/coronavirus .

 

That said, we DO want our campus community to have a place to voice their ideas, concerns, questions. Some folks may want to have a place to send the latest rumor they have heard so they can be reassured about what is real. That place is info@lsc.edu That email address is carefully monitored and information is quickly passed to the appropriate place, including appropriate campus committees that may need to work on plans or updates. Messages from me, VP Fanning, the system office, CDC updates, MDH updates, and so on are added to the website: http://lsc.edu/coronavirus on a regular basis, sometimes multiple times a day. Rise to the call for greatness and refer all questions, concerns, ideas, and so on to info@lsc.edu .

1. 1. 1. 1. 3. Do not be afraid to tell folks gently, but firmly, that you need more space between you and the person if someone seems to be moving too close. Remind folks that we are not shaking hands at this time, though we want to be welcoming. And no, we are not hiring security guards to enforce physical distancing.

 

1. 1. 1. 1. 4. PLEASE ask your questions at info@lsc.edu Send your ideas and suggestions to info@lsc.edu Encourage others to send their ideas, suggestions, worrisome rumors, and questions to info@lsc.edu.

And finally on another note, a few of you asked what three books I am reading right now. Well, as I mentioned, I am reading Erik Larson’s “The Splendid and the Vile.” I am also just about finished with Bill Bryson’s “The Body” and Curt Brown’s book entitled “Minnesota 1918: When Flu, Fire, and War Ravaged the State.”
Sheesh, who knew my reading choices could bring on the COVID Virus…oh wait, that’s a wild rumor. But just in case, I am going to start Dennis Staples’ new book: “This Town Sleeps.”

Stay well, stay positive, keep informed, and always rise to GREATNESS!

Patricia L. Rogers, Ph.D.
President
Lake Superior College

STAY AT HOME FAQs

from Minnesota State, updated March 26, 2020 2:30 p.m.

My extended spring break is going to be done soon and my classes were supposed to start on March 30.  Will that still be happening?
A: Yes.  The Stay At Home order named Minnesota State and its 37 colleges and universities “essential services.”
All instruction, whether online or through an alternative format, will continue. Students should watch their
emails for further information from their instructors about their specific classes.

If my class is moved from face-to-face to online, will I get a discount or refund?
A: Minnesota State is implementing alternative modes of delivery that will minimize person-to-person
interaction while allowing students to complete Spring semester courses. Although the delivery mode of a
course and the way services are being delivered are changing as a result of this unprecedented situation, we
have established a path to allow students to complete spring semester 2020. As such, upon completion of the semester,
students will receive credit for completing their courses.
Specific tuition and fees subject to this policy include tuition (including differential course and program tuition),
required fees, statewide student association fees, and campus discretionary fees.

Will libraries and computer labs be open to those of us staying in campus housing during the Stay At Home order?
A: Yes. All instruction and student support services will be available while the Stay At Home order is in effect. That includes
libraries, computer labs, and student unions.

I’m a student and I am very stressed or anxious about this situation. Where can I get help?
A: This is a challenging time and many of us are feeling stress or anxiety. United Healthcare is offering a
free emotional support help line for all students through Optum, one of their subsidiary companies. Their 24/7
toll-free helpline number, (866) 342-6892, is free of charge and open to any student.

I am an employee.  Will I get paid during the Safe At Home?
A: At this time yes, but how you get paid depends on your individual situation. At this time, Minnesota
State intends to provide paid leave to employees who are being directed to stop performing their job duties
by a Safe At Home directive. Unless directed to continue working by your supervisor, either as an essential
employee or working remotely, employees who report their hours should begin to charge their
time to payroll earnings code, CVD – Covid-19 Paid Leave.

Employees who do not regularly report their hours of work, but do report absences from work (faculty and administrators for example), should report this time as CVD – Covid-19 Paid Leave if they are directed to stop working.  Paid COVID-19 Leave is authorized in place of the employee’s normal work schedule until the shelter-in-place order is lifted or you are otherwise notified to return to work.

I’m an employee and I am very stressed or anxious about this situation. Where can I get help?
A: Employees may seek support through the Employee Assistance Program
available at no cost.

What do I need to know about the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)?
A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have provided this Fact Sheet on COVID-19:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/2019-ncov-factsheet.pdf

What should I do if I am sick and diagnosed with COVID-19 or suspect I am infected with the virus that causes COVID-19?
A: The CDC has provided this Fact Sheet outlining steps to help prevent the disease from spreading to people:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/sick-with-2019-nCoV-fact-sheet.pdf

What can students, faculty and staff do to protect themselves and each other?
A: Minnesota State encourage students, faculty and staff to practice respiratory (coughing and sneezing) etiquette and hand hygiene. Those who feel sick are recommended to stay home until they are free of fever, signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick, and seek medical attention depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Minnesota State-Specific Guidance and Information

When did the international travel suspension for Minnesota State-related business travel for students, faculty, or staff become effective?
A: The suspension became effective Friday, February 28, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. central standard time and impacted all international Minnesota State-related business travel for students, faculty, or staff at that time. There is no specific end date for the suspension, however, the suspension policy is being reviewed on a recurring basis.

How long is the suspension of international travel?
A: While the international travel suspension policy is being reviewed on an as needed basis, there is no specific end date for the suspension. Those with Minnesota State-related international travel planned for the future should be in contact with their carriers and destination or hosts on cancellation or change polices and alternatives or options, given the circumstances.

How does the suspension impact those traveling to Minnesota State institutions from international locations (Examples: guest speakers, candidates, potential students, family members)?
A: There is no limit or restriction on those traveling from international locations to Minnesota State colleges, universities, or the Minnesota State system office. They will be subject to the protocols in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) depending on where they are coming from.

What if I paid a service charge to my college/university or to a third party for a study abroad experience that was canceled?
A: Minnesota State is working in close partnership with its 37 colleges and universities with the goal of easing potential impact on students. Individuals who prepaid for their international trip should contact their college/university representative to seek guidance.

Other Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Updated Information:

I’m a student attending classes at Lake Superior College but living at the resident halls at a nearby university. Will I be able to remain at the residence halls?
A: At this time, it’s situational depending on where you live.

• UW-Superior – As of March 11, UW-Superior announced that they will extend spring break by one week, which means spring break will now take place March 16-29. On-campus classes are now scheduled to resume in an alternate delivery mode Monday, March 30. More information about UW-Superior can be found at their website.
• College of St. Scholastica – As of March 11, CSS announced the College will extend spring break for students until Friday, March 20, 2020. Beginning March 23, 2020 all classes will be offered in a virtual format and most residence halls will not be accessible. More info can also be found on the CSS website.
• UMD – As of March 11, UMD’s spring break will be extended until Wednesday, March 18. Students will resume classes, through online or alternative instruction, on March 18. More info can be found on their website.

If you’re a LSC student and have any questions about housing and/or other student support services, please contact the LSC Dean of Students Wade Gordon at wade.gordon@lsc.edu or call (218) 733-7656.

Why didn’t Lake Superior College announce the extension of Spring Break and the plan to move to delivery of classes through alternative delivery mode the same time some other local universities did on Wednesday, March 11?

A: Lake Superior College is part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, comprised of 30 state colleges and 7 state universities with 54 campuses throughout Minnesota. Other two year schools in the region including Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College and Hibbing Community College are also part of the Minnesota State system and we were all in the same situation. Similar to the University of Minnesota system, decisions made about campus closures and/or switching to alternative delivery modes – such as moving on campuses classes to online, when/where possible – are typically made at the system level and impact all schools within the system. As of Wednesday, March 11, the Minnesota State Chancellor, Devinder Malhotra, provided an updated to college and university presidents stating that all operations at Minnesota State colleges and universities will continue as normal as the system remains in close communication with the Minnesota Department of Health. At that time, the Minnesota Department of Health issued the following message on Wednesday, March 11, to higher education partners:

With five coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases reported in Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) knows there is increasing concern around what the next steps are for institutes of higher education, given that other colleges and universities across the country are taking various measures including tele-learning and closures.

At this time, MDH is not recommending those measures. Minnesota currently does not have evidence of ongoing community transmission, nor are there any cases currently in a college or university setting. If an institute of higher education has a case in a student, staff, or faculty member, MDH will work closely with the impacted college or university to provide guidance. Moreover, depending on how transmission and spread evolves in the state, we will work with colleges and universities throughout the state on our recommendations.

It was a very quickly evolving situation within 24 hours there were four new confirmed cases in Minnesota. On Thursday, Minnesota State made the decision to extend spring break and LSC shared that news, immediately and as promised, through official channels including this website, campus email and LSC’s official social media. More information can also be found on the Minnesota State website.

Are there any additional tips for students and/or employees at this time?

• Students, faculty and staff are all encouraged to practice respiratory (coughing and sneezing) etiquette and hand hygiene.
• Those who feel sick are recommended to stay home until they are free of fever, signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants).
• Employees should notify their direct supervisor and stay home if they are sick and seek medical attention depending on the severity of their symptoms.
• Students should notify their instructors and stay home if they are sick and seek medical attention depending on the severity of their symptoms. If students plan to be absent for an extended period of time, including not participating in an online class, they are encouraged to contact their faculty member and academic advisor to discuss options.
• It is suggested that campus users with laptops bring those home every night in case of an emergency situation where there may not be the opportunity to retrieve those devices from campus.
• Lake Superior College will announce any new information/updates as soon as they are made available to us.
• Students will be contacted by individual instructors and/or academic deans for specific details on course delivery methods as classes resume.
• Academic leaders and faculty will review and determine the most viable means for course delivery to fulfill course obligations/expectations.
• Students with unique circumstances, including off-site clinicals, should contact their instructors and/or academic dean.
• Thank you for your understanding, cooperation and calmness during this uncertain and unique time. Please send any questions or concerns to info@lsc.edu and we can ensure they get to the appropriate contact. Thank you.

When courses resume on March 30, what are the expectations around alternative modes of delivery?
When classes resume, they will not simply go on as before. In determining the appropriate alternative course delivery approach for each course, academic leaders should work with their faculty to explore the options below, listed in priority order:

1. Migrate the course to an online format within D2LBrightspace.
2. If option 1 is unviable, migrate the course to an alternative synchronous format such as ZOOM or other conferencing technologies.
3. If option 2 is unviable, migrate the course to an a-synchronous format, using email correspondence or other forms of non-synchronous technology or communication.
4. If the full course cannot be delivered in one of the above manners and must retain a face-to-face component, the course must be adapted to reduce contact time, ensure social distancing, and reduce personal interactions and/or contact time.
   1. Strategies for this adaptation include, but are not limited to:
      1. Moving non-applied components of the course to one of the formats enumerated above
      2. Reducing hours in the lab/classroom
      3. Implementing special safety and separation precautions (i.e., minimum of 6 feet buffer zones, etc.)
      4. Splitting of sections into smaller groups
      5. Expansion of lab availability, staggering students across time

Assessment and Final Examinations

• Course assessments and final examinations must be adapted to the new method of instruction.
• Face-to-face assessments and final examinations should only be used for those limited courses that cannot be fully delivered in a non-classroom format.

What about students who have no or limited access to technology or broadband?
Equity in access to technology has been a primary concern as we move courses to alternative delivery modes. Minnesota State has asked campuses to remain open to students so that they can campuses resources, including broadband, computer labs, and technology.

What will occur with concurrent enrollment courses?
Academic and Student Affairs staff have been in communication with Minnesota Department of Education, and they are developing guidance on how to proceed. We are also developing guidance and are in communication with NACEP. We will follow up once we have more information.

What if students are unable to complete course and/or program requirements this semester?
Faculty should work with students who have program requirements disrupted because of the suspension of normal in-person classes or the closure of a host organization, such as a business, clinic, hospital, or school where off-campus learning occurs. Minnesota State will be in contact with state licensing agencies to work on behalf of colleges and universities to address these situations, though that does not preclude individual campuses contacting those agencies when needed. If students