HELENA – This afternoon Carroll College sent the following communication to their students, faculty and staff regarding the college’s planning and preparation related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
As Carroll College navigates this evolving public health situation, Carroll’s top priorities are to ensure the safety, security and well-being of students, faculty and staff; to uphold Carroll’s values and mission; and to maintain normal operations to the extent that it is safely possible to do so.
At the time of this communication, there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 on Carroll’s campus, in Helena or in Montana. Current updates can be found on the CDC website.
A campus incident command team (ICT) has been established and is meeting regularly to actively prepare for contingencies that may arise on campus. The ICT is in contact with the Lewis & Clark Public Health Department and is following local, state, and national guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
While remaining vigilant and prepared, Carroll is currently doing everything possible to continue campus operations including academics, housing, dining services, and campus events until guidance suggests otherwise.
While other colleges across the U.S. have made the decision to move to remote learning, Carroll has not taken this step yet – although preparations are in place. Carroll continues to be in contact with their peer institutions and are following the guidance of health authorities, in this regard.
Carroll recognizes that this is a very fluid situation and circumstances may change rapidly. The college continues to work with their faculty and technology and digital course delivery experts to develop contingency plans should the need arise. Wednesday and Thursday of next week, the college plans to do two full-days of testing of their online learning capabilities involving both faculty and students to help ensure that they are well-prepared should they have to suspend in-person classes.
Carroll College is closely monitoring the situation and will provide regular updates to their community through email, e-newsletters, social media, and their coronavirus preparedness webpage. A “Frequently Asked Questions” section for the webpage is currently in development.
While there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in Montana, this is sure to change, and there are important steps that all can take to protect our own health and that of those around us. Please review the guidelines from the CDC.
Carroll College recognizes that this is a very challenging time and appreciates the Carroll community’s patience and understanding as they navigate this unprecedented and rapidly evolving health crisis. It is important to understand that circumstances can change day-to-day, even hour-to-hour.