As we continue to evaluate the developments of the COVID-19 pandemic, we work to respond accordingly- making logical, well-informed decisions, with the overall goal of protecting our campus community. In light of the Governor’s recent statements, and with the data showing positive COVID-19 cases on the rise in our fine state, we have made the decision to effectively close each building on campus to students and the general public.
Prior to today, we had made the decision to keep a select few student service areas open on an appointment-only basis. However, recent developments have caused us to reevaluate our stance. Campus buildings are now closed, but business is operating as usual in a distance-learning/operations format. Computer labs are closed to all visitors. The only change from last week is that appointments will no longer be made on campus. All correspondence must be done via phone, email, or regular mail. All residence halls will remain closed.
Following are a few key details to provide more information as it relates to accessibility and campus operations:
• On both campuses (Poteau and Sallisaw), Wi-Fi services will be available in the parking lots. We invite you to visit the campus and remain in your vehicle, and utilize the Wi-Fi services to complete assignments and conduct correspondence. We would also like to extend this offer to any elementary, middle, or high school student of one of our area schools who does not have regular access to the internet; please come and take advantage of our Wi-Fi services to complete your work as well. o Poteau Campus: Large parking lot between the Stivers Center and the Ollie Center. o Sallisaw Campus: Parking lot between the Mayo and Mitchell buildings.
• Commencement services are still postponed; the rescheduled date will be announced at a later time. •
Campus police will regularly patrol both campuses
• Should any student feel they need to be evaluated by a physician, please contact the Office of Student Affairs. Carl Albert works closely with the Health and Wellness Center, and the Center has agreed to evaluate students virtually should the need arise. • Services required for student educational operations will still be conducted via phone, email, teleconference/Zoom, or regular mail. These include Financial Aid, the Business Office, Admissions, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Telecommunications, Physical Plant, and Human Resources. All buildings on campus will be locked at all times. Please call 918-647-1200 (Poteau) or 918-775-6977 (Sallisaw) to be routed to these offices for assistance.
• Faculty will still conduct their duties through regular office hours either on campus or remotely. Please reach out to your instructor via email for assistance and support. • All campus events are still cancelled. Your leadership feels that it is imperative to take proactive steps to do our part to help mitigate the spread of this virus by taking practical and wise steps to protect our College community- students, staff, and faculty. We continue to encourage you to practice the following:
- Self-isolate and practice social distancing, avoiding crowds of 10 or more
- Safe and frequent hand-washing, washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or utilizing a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Cover your mouth with your elbow when coughing or sneezing
- Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces with a disinfectant We encourage you to check the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites to find updated guidance. If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, you should remain home, notify your supervisor or instructors, and not report to work or class. The Oklahoma State Department of Health encourages anyone who returns from an area with travel restrictions, or anyone who is experiencing flu-like symptoms, to self-quarantine for 14 days and report any concerning symptoms to a health care provider or call the OSDH Call Center at 877-215-8336. Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 after exposure. The situation changes daily, sometimes hourly. We utilize the best resources at our disposal to stay informed of current trends and precautions. We feel this decision is in the best interest of our Carl Albert family. As always, thank you for your continued patience and flexibility. Kind regards, President Jay Falkner Carl Albert State College
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