Dear Faculty and Staff,
ACC’s Emergency Management team would like to share important updates regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) and steps the college is taking. Our goal is to keep you informed and our community safe.
Situation Update
As you’re aware, on Monday, March 9, the college was notified that a student opted to self-quarantine as a precaution after a member of their family began experiencing flu-like symptoms. We have confirmed the following:
- The student attended classes at Riverside Campus.
- The student has not exhibited any symptoms to date. Austin Public Health determined that any potential exposure with this student is considered low-risk.
- Additional deep cleaning was conducted at Riverside Campus overnight including rooms, walls, windows, furniture, equipment, restrooms, etc.
- Austin Public Health determined no further action is recommended at this time.
Campus Operations
At this time, ACC does not anticipate closing the college or any campuses, but we recognize the situation changes daily and we are prepared to adjust our response. Changes to college operations will be done in coordination with state and local health officials. ACC faculty and staff are preparing for a possible transition to a virtual learning environment. In this situation, courses would be taught online. The college also would increase the availability of online services for employees and students to ensure their needs are met including free online tutoring, advising, library services, and support for financial aid and admissions and records.
Daily Updates
ACC’s Emergency Operations Center team continues to monitor the evolving situation and meets daily to update the college’s emergency response. ACC also collaborates closely with the Austin/Travis County Emergency Operations Center to share updates and coordinate response measures. These calls occur daily with the City of Austin, Travis County, Austin Public Health, and our partners at the local school districts and universities. Any update that could impact the college, our students, faculty, staff, and/or operations will be shared promptly.
As a reminder, ACC launched a COVID-19 webpage as a source for critical and updated information. Here, you may find more details about how to protect your health, what to do if you are ill, preparations at the college, and more.
Thank you,
Dr. Wayne M. Maines
Vice Chancellor of Safety & Operations
Austin Community College District