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COVID-19 Messages from Highline College President and Leadership Teams

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COVID-19 Messages from Highline College President and Leadership Teams 2022-07-11T16:46:07+00:00

COVID-19 Messages and Updates from Highline College President and Leadership Teams

Spring Quarter Update from Highline College President

Dear Highline College Students,

For two years now, you have persevered through many challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has brought forward. Whether it was a disrupted learning environment or caring for sick loved ones, you have truly shown a strength to be admired. With each ebb and flow of caseloads, rules, restrictions and variants, you have been flexible and remained steadfast in your education.

For that, I thank you and applaud your hard work.

Two years ago today, we were preparing our college to transition to remote learning for the first time. Today, another change. But, this time, it’s a change that signals the worst may be over. For that, I am grateful.

Masks

Starting spring quarter, April 4, face masks will no longer be required indoors at Highline College. Community members will now also have the option to eat and drink in public spaces and no longer be limited to designated eating areas, such as Building 8.

Getting vaccinated, boosted and wearing masks are still the best defenses against getting COVID-19 yourself and/or spreading it to those who are immunocompromised. Respect will be given to those who will continue to wear masks for their own health, safety or comfort reasons. I ask that every Highline community member continues to uphold COVID-19 safety guidelines and stay home when sick or experiencing symptoms.

Additionally, I strongly encourage students, staff and faculty to wear masks in crowded areas the first two weeks of spring quarter. Examples of crowded areas include the Highline Bookstore, open lobbies upstairs and downstairs in Building 6 and anywhere that presents a long line with little space.

In order to ensure we continue to have sufficient supplies of masks available for those that want them, I ask that you complete this short two-question survey. I recognize the decision to lift the mask mandate may be hard for some and encourage you to reach out to our Counseling Center.

For more information on mask guidance for fully vaccinated campuses, visit the Washington State Department of Health’s updated guidance for higher education. For those who test positive for COVID-19, continue to use our COVID-19 Reporting Form to let campus know of close contacts.

Spring Cleaning

Spring quarter is a busy time as students apply for graduation, finish up their last classes before summer and celebrate with Commencement. To ensure this quarter goes smoothly, make sure you’ve enrolled in spring classes, familiarized yourself with the resources we offer and ordered your textbooks.

Spring quarter will see a slight change in student support service in-person hours. See the schedule below. Zoom lobbies and online services will continue to be available Monday through Friday.

In-person student support service hours:

Monday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
*Some areas on campus such as the Library and Building 30 will continue to offer expanded hours.

If you plan to come to campus for services, class or otherwise, please make sure you have a parking permit. Permits go on sale Monday, March 21.

Learn more about spring quarter.

Thank You

I look forward to a safe, healthy and happy spring quarter and appreciate each and every one of you for supporting one another this year. If you haven’t been on campus yet, I highly encourage a walk around the grounds this May. On a sunny day, the views of the Puget Sound combined with our blossoming flowers and trees in bloom remind me how special our campus is.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu. Thank you.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline Community,

After the Governor’s latest announcement stating the indoor mask mandate would end on March 12, we want to re-clarify that the higher education proclamation remains in effect until the Governor rescinds or modifies it. Nothing has changed from the February 22 message below. The college’s safety plans still require masks in all classrooms, labs, common areas, study areas, hallways, library spaces and places where others are present (with existing exceptions, such as dining on the first floor of Building 8). More information on safety planning for spring quarter will follow in the coming weeks. In the meantime, please continue to mask-up when indoors on campus.

Sincerely,

Highline College Joint Information Center and Public Health & Hybrid Operations Leadership Council

Dear Highline Community,

Greetings as we approach the middle of Winter Quarter!

Changes to state mask mandate

As you may be aware, Gov. Inslee announced last Thursday (February 17) that there are upcoming changes to the state’s indoor mask mandate. Citing the decreasing trend in COVID-19 transmissions, the Governor’s Office will rescind the mask mandate as it applies to public places and the K12 school system effective March 21. At this time, there has been no specific mention of the impact on higher education.

Awaiting further guidance from Department of Health

We expect the Department of Health to update their guidance for Higher Education Institutions with expanded information on changes regarding mask requirements, distancing, ventilation and sanitation. Once the guidance has been updated, we will communicate to campus changes to our current safety plans. In the meantime, our safety plans remain unchanged and masks are still required in all classrooms, labs, common areas, study areas, hallways, library spaces and places where others are present (with exceptions, such as dining on the first floor of Building 8).

Objectives remain the same

Our college’s public health objectives remain the same: Slow the rate of infection and limit the number of people who are affected at a given point in time. Our experience has shown us that our safety plans are successful and have effectively limited the amount of transmission on campus to no more than two individuals despite high transmission levels in the community

Welcoming the positive outlook

These changes to the state indoor mask mandate bring about a renewed energy and hopeful outlook to the pandemic. We’re optimistic that our county’s transmission rates will continue to reduce to safer levels. At that time, we can revisit our plans once we achieve lower levels. For more information about transmission levels, visit the King County COVID-19 Dashboard.

Thank you for all you do

We have the utmost respect and appreciation for everyone who is helping mitigate the effects of the pandemic by protecting themselves and their fellow Thunderbirds.

Highline College Joint Information Center and Public Health & Hybrid Operations Leadership Council

Dear Highline Community,

We hope everyone enjoyed the holiday season and had (safe) fun in the snow.

This quarter we all have a part to play in keeping the Thunderbird home healthy.

The public health leadership council continues to closely monitor COVID-19 trends, specifically the Omicron variant, in order to update and adapt safety plans. With the new Omicron variant, wearing a high quality face mask and staying home when experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, in addition to being fully vaccinated and receiving the booster shot, are the best strategies for keeping yourself and others safe.

Please take the time to read the college policies and safety information below:

Required COVID-19 vaccinations:

Per Gov. Jay Inslee’s Aug. 18 announcement, all students who enrolled for winter quarter 2022 are required to provide documentation of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or receive an approved exemption before enrolling. If you are a fully vaccinated student, staff or faculty member, you must fill out a brief immunization self-attestation form and report the date(s) you received your vaccination(s).

Remember, if it’s been at least 6 months since completing your primary COVID-19 vaccination series, the booster shot provides you more protection against the omicron variant.

Face Coverings:

Regardless of vaccination status, all students, employees and members of the public must wear masks indoors.

The following types of face masks are ranked by the CDC in order of highest protection to lowest:

  1. N95, KN95 and KF94 are the most effective, providing they are genuine and have been tested to meet a standard.
  2. Surgical face masks that have been tested to meet a national standard.
  3. Cloth face masks that have at least 2 layers of dense fabric and snugly fit around your nose and the sides of your face.

Review Highline’s FAQs for more information regarding masks.

Social Distancing:

There are no social distancing requirements at Highline College at this time. Please be aware of how close you are to co-workers and we ask you maintain a respectful distance.

COVID-19 Testing:

The college is partnering with UW Medicine to offer free COVID-19 testing from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The testing site is located in the S-1 parking lot, better known as the staff/employee parking lot adjacent to building 1 and the “horseshoe” bus stop area. Due to the high demand for testing, appointments are required at this time.

Report a COVID-19 case:

If you have a positive test, fill out a COVID-19 reporting form to assist with contact tracing.

Send in questions or concerns:

The college has set up an email address to take your questions and concerns about COVID-19 and how it affects campus. Send your questions to: covid19response@highline.edu.

Sincerely,

Highline College Joint Information Center and Public Health & Hybrid Operations Leadership Council

Dear Highline College Students,

We hope you’ve been enjoying fall quarter and learning all that you can in Highline’s hybrid environment.

Fall quarter was the first of our phased return-to-campus plan with 27% of classes offering an in-person learning model and a majority of student support services offering on-campus service hours.

Because the overwhelming majority of both employees and students have attested to being vaccinated, because we will continue to wear masks indoors, and because our vaccine clinic has been a success with hundreds of vaccines (including boosters) administered, we are happy to announce some positive changes for winter quarter.

Classes

With knowledge that we are a safer campus, we have decided to increase the number of classes with an in-person learning component to 56% winter quarter. This means you can take a class fully in person, on campus, you can take a class with a hybrid model of online and in-person learning, or you can take a class solely in a virtual or online environment.

For those who need to attend a virtual class via Zoom or any other modality but are already on campus, the computer lab in Building 30 is available to use with no appointment necessary.

More information about our winter quarter classes can be found here.

Student Services

Student support services will expand their hours to the following:

8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Monday
8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.,​ Tuesday
8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Wednesday
8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.​, Thursday
Virtual* – Friday

*Some areas, such as the Library and Building 30, may remain open for in-person services on Fridays. Please check their websites for more information as it gets closer to winter quarter.

Online services, such as email, Canvas and ctcLink, will continue to be available in addition to our Zoom lobbies.

Parking Permits

All students and visitors parking on campus will be required to have a valid parking permit and park only in designated areas beginning winter quarter 2022. See the campus map for parking areas.

You may buy a parking permit online through the Highline Bookstore to skip the lines and have it shipped to your home for free. Card payments only for online purchases. Or you can purchase one in-store; purchases can be made with cash, card, or check. Purchases can also be made from the Cashier’s office in building 6. Cash or check only.

If you don’t plan to park on campus often, you can purchase a daily parking permit for $2 from one of the kiosks located in each of the parking lots. See campus map for kiosk locations. Permits are valid all day (until 10 p.m.) and are for use in general parking areas only.

Thank You

Thank you for persisting this quarter toward your educational goals as we operate Highline College in a hybrid learning environment. We appreciate your perseverance and look forward to seeing more of your smiling, yet masked, faces on campus winter quarter.

Sincerely,
The Joint Information Center and Public Health Leadership Council

Dear Highline College Community,

Fall quarter is quickly approaching and we couldn’t be more excited to see students on campus again. But, with this exciting shift to in-person instruction, we must ensure campus is as safe as possible as we continue to manage challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has brought.

We’d like to clarify an important change to the rules surrounding our decision to become a COVID-19 vaccination-required college campus. In July, we announced that vaccinations for students would be required for those who physically attend courses, operations or other activities in person starting fall quarter. This vaccination requirement –– unless a student has an approved medical or religious exemption –– applies to all students whether they take online-only classes or not.

The immunization attestation form in ctcLink, which allows students to verify they’ve received the COVID-19 vaccine or begin the process to submit an exemption, must still be submitted whether or not you have met the previously-communicated Sept. 20 deadline. Those who do not complete the attestation will receive follow-up emails and other communications reminding them to complete it. If those prompts are ignored, students who do not complete the form will be unable to register for winter quarter classes.

As a reminder, we currently offer a COVID-19 vaccine clinic on campus from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Monday in September and now through October. Learn more about getting vaccinated on campus.

All COVID-19-related information, including our return to campus information, can be found at highline.edu/covid19 and the FAQ page. Please email COVID19response@highline.edu if you have any questions regarding this information.

Thank you for your patience as we navigate what it means to operate Highline College during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sincerely,

The Joint Information Center

COVID-19 immunization attestation form now available in ctcLink with philosophical exemptions no longer allowed

Dear Highline College Community,

Gov. Jay Inslee recently updated Washington state law declaring COVID-19 vaccine-required college campuses will no longer be able to offer philosophical vaccine exemptions to students. The full proclamation can be read here.

As a reminder, the immunization attestation form is available in ctcLink and must be filled out by Sept. 20, 2021. This form is also how students will be able to submit the first half of medical or religious exemptions. If you’re a student who plans to request an exemption, we encourage you to start that process by submitting your form in ctcLink as soon as possible. More information on the next steps for medical and religious exemptions will be coming this week.

All COVID-19-related information, including our return to campus information, can be found in this section. We will work on updating our FAQs. Please email ask@highline.edu if you have any questions regarding this decision. Learn more about getting vaccinated on campus.

Thank you for your patience as we navigate what it means to operate Highline College during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sincerely,

The Joint Information Center and Public Health and Hybrid Operations Leadership Council

COVID-19 immunization attestation form now available in ctcLink

Dear Highline Students,

The immunization attestation form is now available to all students in ctcLink. This form will allow you to confirm you have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Every student is required to complete the form by Monday, Sept. 20, 2021. However, we encourage students who come to campus to complete this form as soon as possible so that we can be ready for our next phase as a vaccination-required campus at the start of fall quarter.

An individual is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second shot of a two-dose vaccine (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech) or two weeks after a single dose (Johnson and Johnson, J&J, Janssen). To be fully vaccinated by the start of fall quarter, your final dose must be complete by Sept. 13, 2021. You may get vaccinated on Highline’s campus between 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Monday during August and September. Appointments are recommended but not required.

Instructions are available for completing the student immunization attestation form. Please note that you do not need to submit a copy of your vaccine card while completing this form but you may be required to show your card as part of the auditing process.

Exemptions

If you intend to request an exemption from the vaccination requirement, you can begin that process using the immunization attestation form. Note that our exemption policy and processes are still under review. After you have submitted your attestation form, additional steps will be required. Once the exemption policy and process has been finalized, we will contact you during the week of Aug. 30 with instructions on how to complete the exemption process. Medical and religious exemptions are available. While Highline thought philosophical exemptions would be an option when we made the July 22 announcement, we are currently awaiting guidance from Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee on whether they will continue to be accepted. Due to the changing landscape and risk that the COVID-19 Delta variant has put us in, we must be flexible in this decision.

If you need assistance accessing the attestation form in ctcLink, please contact the ITS Help Desk. Plans are being developed to provide support for completing these forms both remotely and in person on campus as we get closer to the start of fall quarter. Frequently Asked Questions about the vaccination requirement and our return to campus will continue to be updated as more information is available or additional questions are answered. If you have any questions you would like addressed, use this feedback form.

Thank You

At Highline College, we recognize the pandemic has taken its toll on all of us, and for those who have experienced COVID-19 personally or in support of a loved one, the threat and challenges are even more real. At this time last year, our best efforts were to keep operations remote and online, wearing masks and maintaining distance in public while hoping for a vaccine, and better conditions to stop the spread.

Now, the vaccine has provided us one more tool in the fight against the virus. Along with other measures, such as masking and improved contact tracing, we are able to begin some in-person instruction and provide on-campus services. The resilience of the Highline community throughout the pandemic, and all of your cooperation as we begin this return, affords you the best opportunities to continue your studies and shape the future of our community.

Thank you for doing your part to ensure the safety of our campus community as we transition back to in-person services and instruction.

Sincerely,
The Joint Information Center and Public Health and Hybrid Operations Leadership Council

Message from President Mosby on Highline becoming a vaccine-required campus

Dear Highline College community,

Highline’s Executive Cabinet, the Public Health and Hybrid Operations Leadership Council, and myself, your college president, have made the decision to require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students, staff and faculty — with waivers for specific exemptions — for those who physically attend courses, operations, or other activities in person starting fall quarter 2021. We have weighed the list of pros and cons related to this decision and strongly believe that requiring vaccines on our campus prioritizes the physical and mental health, equity, education, and safety of our community at large.

We don’t make this decision lightly. In lieu of the challenges we are faced with during the COVID-19 pandemic, we look forward to moving our campus toward our new normal. We recognize that many individuals in our community experience uncertainty and distrust of a historically inequitable health care system. We will continue to work on ways to provide you information and resources, as well as find answers to the questions and concerns you may have.

On July 12, 2021, Governor Inslee issued a new higher education proclamation that states community colleges may either choose to be a vaccine-required campus or not. New rules, restrictions and guidelines were issued for both decisions.

Beginning fall quarter, following the guidelines in the proclamation, vaccine required campuses will:

  • Require students, faculty, and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Students and employees will need to verify they have been fully vaccinated unless they are claiming a medical, religious or philosophical exemption.
  • Require those claiming vaccination exemptions and volunteers, contractors, and visitors to wear a face covering at college locations in accordance with the Secretary of Health’s face covering order and to comply with any applicable labor and industry workplace safety requirements.
  • For Highline, we continue to discuss mask and face covering guidelines for everyone on campus in relation to safety, comfort, and access to education. The decision on whether or not to require face masks for our vaccinated community members during fall quarter is still under review.

Process and procedure details for Highline College to meet the above guidelines are currently being developed in conjunction with our labor partners. We will share them with the community once they are finalized. Until you are notified otherwise, please continue to follow current health and safety protocols involving health screening, entry procedures, required physical distancing, and face coverings.

Continued Thanks

The safety and health of our students, staff and faculty is our highest priority. We will continue to work together and rely on each other. I’m forever grateful to the college’s faculty and staff who continue to support you as you work toward your educational goals. By supporting one another, we will all be better off, now and in the future.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu. Thank you.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Message from the Office of the President on Return to Campus Planning

Dear Highline College students,

In March, we announced Highline College was planning a phased return to campus for fall of this year. Today, we’re happy to provide more information on what that will look like.

But before we do so, we want to assure each one of you that we continue to take COVID-19 seriously.

This past year, the college campus has been operating at a reduced capacity under the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, and in accordance with Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee’s multiple proclamations. We will continue to follow the governor’s proclamations, in addition to the Campus Reopening Guide, the Safe Start Washington plan and our Safe Back to School Higher Education Plan when we return to campus in the fall. COVID-19 self-attestation forms, masks and social distancing have been required for on-campus activity and will continue to be mandatory for vaccinated and unvaccinated staff, faculty and students as we phase in our reopening.

With that, we are happy to announce that students can expect select student-facing, in-person services to open on campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday, beginning Aug. 2. Virtual services, such as Zoom lobbies and virtual appointments, will continue to be available.

On Sept. 7, services will expand hours to 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday and an additional 4-6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. A schedule for the computer lab in Building 30 and the Library is under development and will be communicated at a later date, as well as more detailed information on all on-campus services.

Then, on Sept. 27, when fall quarter begins, we can expect approximately 25% of classes to have some form of on-campus component. Currently, 67 courses will be offered in person across a wide variety of subject areas, such as chemistry, geology, multimedia design, business and physical education.

Summer and fall quarter class enrollment in our new ctcLink system will open for current students as early as May 13, with new student class enrollment available May 24. Learn how to check your enrollment date in ctcLink.

However, the summer and fall courses we plan to offer are available to view now. Many of them have different instruction modes that inform when and where your class will be held. We recommend learning about those modes, and how they’re presented in ctcLink, before enrolling for classes.

Our return to campus plan has been months in the making and will continue to be revised when necessary.

We hope to be able to increase on-campus instruction throughout the 2021-2022 academic year, with 50% of classes returning to in-person in winter and more in spring.

We appreciate your patience as we work through this and look forward to seeing our once vibrant campus alive with activity and smiling, yet masked, faces once again.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu. Thank you.

Wear your mask,
Office of the President

Dear Highline College students,

I hope this email finds you and your loved ones well. It is hard to believe that it has been one year since the college switched to remote learning. Our community has continued to stretch and grow in ways we did not know possible to serve our students, staff and faculty. I could not be prouder of the remarkable effort our students have made to adapt to this stressful time.

Over the last few weeks, Washington state has seen hopeful signs of lower COVID-19 positivity rates and increases in vaccinations. Because of these positive trends, I want you to know we’re actively planning and preparing for a phased return to in-person academics and services beginning in Fall quarter 2021. The planning for this phased return will happen as we remain vigilant in all critical prevention efforts and continue to prioritize the health and well-being of the college community. As we finalize plans, we will continue to update you with information about in-person classes and services.

Student survey

Help us plan for a successful phased return to campus.

As we begin planning for Fall quarter 2021, we’d like to know how you feel about attending in-person classes and utilizing services, whether it’s the Financial Aid office, the Academic Support Centers (Writing Center, Math Resource Center) or a computer lab. Please take some time to fill out the survey below and let us know your thoughts.

take students survey

It is with cautious optimism that we begin these plans for a partial return of our campus traditions, services and curricular activities. On behalf of our faculty and staff, we hope you carry the same energy and excitement for safely returning some services to campus.

In community,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

In an effort to help slow down the spread of COVID-19, any class or lab that is scheduled to be on campus winter quarter will be remote for the first week of instruction (Jan. 11-15, 2021) and will return to campus on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021.

This news will not impact many students, since most classes will continue in remote and online teaching for winter and spring quarters. For those of you who registered for in-person classes that do plan to meet on campus, check with your instructors for any additional information.

Technology distribution, bookstore pick-ups and other related drive through events will still happen the first week of winter quarter, Jan. 11-15, 2021.

Reasons for Restrictions

COVID-19 cases continue to rise with record-breaking daily counts. In response, Gov. Jay Inslee issued a set of restrictions on Tuesday, Dec. 8, that will last through early January. Among these are limitations on social gatherings, business operations and out-of-state travel. There are also guidelines on how to safely spend the holidays with others by means of quarantining and COVID-19 testing, which Highline College now offers on campus through our community partners at King County Public Health and CHI Franciscan.

The college will continue to operate on three guidelines outlined in Inslee’s summer plan for re-opening higher education, which led to our decision to limit in-person instruction in the fall, winter and now spring quarters of the 2020-21 academic year.

We must do our part as a higher education institution to slow the spread.

Access to Campus Jan. 19 and Beyond

Campus will remain physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public, with the exception of some classes and critical staff, such as public safety officers and facilities staff.

Very few classes will be held in person. These include specific sections of health care and science-based labs that require demonstration of skills and cannot be taught remotely. All students who do need to go to campus will need to have completed and be current with COVID-19 education training in Canvas and complete a self-screening check-in and check-out form each time they come to campus. We are still working on the possibility of opening some specific spaces on campus for limited access for students during winter and possibly spring quarter. We will share an update once a plan is in place.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu. Thank you.

Wear your mask,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

At Highline College, it’s not the campus that makes our community, it’s the people. That’s why protecting each and every student is so important during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s also why we’ve made the decision for instructors to continue with remote teaching and online learning for most classes during spring quarter, a decision we made for winter quarter in 2021 as well.

Reasons for Restrictions

COVID-19 cases continue to rise. Washington state recently set a record for the number of cases in one day since the pandemic began and daily counts have consistently reached the 2,000s.

In response, Gov. Jay Inslee issued a set of restrictions on Sunday, Nov. 15, that will last through Dec. 14. Among these are limitations on social gatherings, business operations and out-of-state travel. There are also guidelines on how to safely spend the holidays with others by means of quarantining and COVID-19 testing, which Highline College now offers on campus through our community partners at King County Public Health and CHI Franciscan.

The college will continue to operate on three guidelines outlined in Inslee’s summer plan for re-opening higher education, which led to our decision to limit in-person instruction in the fall, winter and now spring quarter of the 2020-21 academic year.

We must do our part as a higher education institution to slow the spread.

Access to Campus

Campus will remain physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public, with the exception of some classes and critical staff, such as public safety officers and facilities staff.

Very few classes will be held in person. These include specific sections of health care and science-based labs that require demonstration of skills and cannot be taught remotely. All students who do need to go to campus will need to continue to complete COVID-19 education training in Canvas and complete a self-screening check-in and check-out form each time they come to campus.

We are still working on the possibility of opening some specific spaces on campus for limited access for students during winter and possibly spring quarter. We will share an update once a plan is in place.

Virtual Student Support

Whenever, wherever you’re learning at Highline College, we’re here for you. We offer virtual support services, Zoom Virtual Lobbies, resources for remote learning and general resources for the whole student, all available on this official COVID-19 Information and Resources website.

Continued Thanks

I’m forever grateful to the college’s faculty and staff who continue to support you as you work toward your educational goals. By supporting one another, we will all be better off, now and in the future.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu. Thank you.

Wear your mask,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

For spring, summer and now fall quarter, you, the students of Highline College, have shown tremendous resilience and dedication to your learning during a time when it’s just not as easy to do so.

As much as we’d love to return to campus winter quarter, we’ve made the decision for instructors to continue with remote teaching and learning for most classes. Only very few classes will be held in person, such as specific sections of labs that cannot be taught remotely.

We are working on the possibility of opening some specific spaces on campus for limited access for students in Winter Quarter. We will share an update once a plan is in place.

Reasons for Restrictions

Over the summer, Gov. Inslee released his plan for re-opening higher education. The college’s leadership team focused on three guidelines mentioned in a July 6 message to make our decision to limit in-person instruction in the fall and those same guidelines apply to winter quarter as well.

Additionally, with winter coming, the spread of COVID-19 is not slowing to rates that are conducive to on-campus activities. Our concern remains for the safety of our students, faculty and staff. As we continue to work through this pandemic period, we need to continue to be vigilant and take precautions to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Our goal is to keep everyone safe and healthy. Our best strategy is to limit the amount of in-person contact on campus. But we do look forward to the day when it is deemed safe to bring students and our community together to enjoy and appreciate our beautiful campus and facilities.

Remain Off Campus

Until then, the campus remains physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public, with the exception of students attending required on-campus labs, and essential staff, such as public safety officers and facilities staff. Most college support services will continue to function remotely. Highline staff members are here to help you with resources and virtual support services.

Continued Thanks

In the winter, we will continue to offer robust educational opportunities, including many virtual events and online services and resources at Highline. I’m forever grateful to the college’s faculty and staff who continue to support you as you work toward your career goals through your education at Highline College. By supporting one another, we will all be better off, now and in the future.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu.

Wash your hands,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

As you may already know, the ongoing COVID-19 risks, restrictions, and uncertainties have led to the decision to deliver fall 2020 instruction virtually, with the exception of a few in-person labs.

We are however, dedicated to delivering quality remote classes, adapting and learning from our experience over the past spring quarter, and providing helpful online services meant to guide students through this transition.

Since this quarter will be anything but traditional, we want to help you become Thunderbird Ready for a virtual fall quarter at Highline College.

Steps to becoming Thunderbird Ready for Fall 2020:

  • Register for fall 2020 classes. We offer over 100 degrees and certificates within six career pathways. Visit our Highline Pathways to start exploring options.
  • If you already registered for fall classes, make sure that you check the mode of instruction since classes can be held in one of five Some things may have changed due to the decision to provide classes virtually.
  • While campus will remain physically closed, online support services are available and staff is ready to connect with students.
  • Find virtual learning tools, tips and support are available online.
  • Canvas is one of the primary tools the college is using to support online courses. Gain more experience with Canvas and Zoom by taking our non-credit, self-paced and instructor supported class, Introduction to Online Learning with Canvas and Zoom.
  • Let’s build a virtual community! Stay engaged with college events and programs over the quarter by checking the events calendar and by following Highline College on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat.

Mark your calendar with the following important fall quarter dates:

  • Fall quarter begins on September 28.
  • Tuition deadline is September 21.
  • Fall quarter check funds will begin dispersing to students on September 25.
  • Last day web registration available for adding classes is September 30.
  • For more important dates, please visit the Registration
  • For additional financial aid information, please visit the Financial Aid

Our college staff has worked hard to provide students a dynamic virtual college experience that prioritizes community support and provides an opportunity to safely continue your educational goals during this very difficult time. We look forward to a successful fall quarter at Highline College. Until then, stay safe and stay healthy, Thunderbirds!

Dear Highline College,

Today we learned that the recent federal policy ruling regarding international students has been rescinded. After a recent announcement that would have impacted more than a million international students studying in the United States, hundreds of colleges nationwide voiced their opposition. With the news, international students currently enrolled in colleges and universities across the country, including here at Highline, will still be within their visa status if their institutions continue to offer instruction through virtual and remote modalities.

Highline College continues to plan for a safe and successful fall quarter for all students. Most instruction will be offered in virtual and remote modes, building on our experiences in spring and summer quarters. We will continue to update the college community throughout this evolving situation and encourage those with direct questions to email ask@highline.edu.

Highline College values a global perspective and has continuously worked to integrate and institutionalize diversity and globalism throughout the college. We believe that students who have an inclusive environment to learn, backed by an institution that is committed to anti-racism, have the capacity to change the world as global citizens.

I appreciate the collaboration that Student Services, Academic Affairs and Administrative Services dedicated to this issue over the past several days. I also want to specifically thank our International Student Programs office for their hard work this past week. Communicating and responding to our International Students has been extensive and a heavy lift for the department. Your continued dedication to our community remains a model of excellent customer service and care that I believe has provided comfort for our wonderful International Students.

We continue to direct our full energies in support of our students and working with our staff and faculty to continue to address the challenges in the evolving environment due to COVID-19.

Best,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

The recent federal policy change regarding international students is absurd, unfair, cruel and harmful to higher education across the United States. This policy currently requires international students take in-person classes, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to keep their visa status. This decision is also devastating to our regional and national economies.

Currently, colleges in the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges system are working with our legislators from Washington state to Washington D.C. to reverse this decision and permit our international students to rightfully continue their educational goals throughout whatever means our institution determines to be safest.

Highline College is assessing how this decision will affect our international students and will communicate with them directly about how they best can continue their education as we move forward with identifying flexible program offerings that combine instructional offerings with online learning. We will continue to update the college community throughout this evolving situation and encourage those with direct questions to email ask@highline.com.

Highline College values a global perspective and has continuously worked to integrate and institutionalize diversity and globalism throughout the college. We believe that students who have an inclusive environment to learn, backed by an institution that is committed to anti-racism, have the capacity to change the world as global citizens.

Our international students are our students and they deserve better.

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

I hope you all had a chance to enjoy the long weekend.

As you are aware, classes this summer are continuing with remote teaching and learning for most classes. For fall quarter, that strategy will continue.

While we had originally hoped to offer more courses in a face-to-face format, the college’s leadership team has decided to limit instruction on campus in fall quarter. Only very few classes will be held in person, such as specific sections of labs that cannot be taught remotely.

Reasons for Restrictions

On June 25, Gov. Inslee released his plan for re-opening higher education. While it gives us some freedom to determine what can be offered on campus in fall, the college’s leadership team focused on these three guidelines:

  • “Work from home for operations able to be performed remotely.” This means that all lecture courses and labs should continue to be offered remotely, unless remote options are not possible.
  • “Identify available alternative arrangements for students/personnel upon requests or refusals to work due to concerns related to campus safety.” Anything offered on campus must have a remote alternative for students, staff and faculty. This is designed to encourage everyone to follow public health guidelines without penalties.
  • “Maintain minimum physical distancing whenever possible of 6 feet between all on-campus personnel, including with visitors; where physical distancing cannot be maintained, implement administrative or engineering controls to minimize exposure.” This guideline creates a significant burden, because it requires preparing campus spaces and procuring necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplies in order to prevent spread of COVID-19.

Our goal is to keep everyone safe and healthy. Our best strategy is to limit the amount of in-person contact on campus.

How Will I Know if My Classes Have Changed?

If you signed up for a course listed as a face-to-face class, then you will be notified if the mode of instruction has changed to another format. We will email you directly by the first week of August with any changes to your courses. We will also ask instructors to confirm the class delivery methods with their students.

Remain Off Campus

The campus remains physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public. Most college support services will continue to function remotely. Highline staff members are here to help you with resources and virtual support services.

Continued Thanks

In the fall, we will continue to offer robust educational opportunities and online services and resources at Highline. I’m sure you share my heartfelt thanks to the college’s faculty and staff who are supporting you as you continue with your education. I admire your resilience as we navigate together through these challenging times. By supporting one another, we will all be better off, now and in the future.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu.

Wash your hands,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College Community,

Earlier this week King County applied for Phase 2 and was approved. For information on the changes to gatherings, services and businesses, please visit the King County webpage.

Are operations changing at the college?

Not at this time.

We are still not open to the public and will not provide face-to-face services. As announced earlier, all classes for summer quarter will be held remotely. We will continue to require essential employees to have approval from their respective VP before working on campus. Each approval will be documented to drive the cleaning schedule and for contact tracing purposes. All employees not working alone in an office will be required to wear a mask and stay within their designated workspace.

Looking ahead

Under Phase 2, the college has the option to resume all non-lecture based higher education and workforce training, including those activities for which physical distancing may not be maintained. Labs that are approved to return to campus will require diligent preparation and training in order to comply with the infection prevention guidance from the state.

For example, according to the Phase 2 Higher Education Guidelines, when physical distancing cannot be maintained, other infection prevention measures must be in place including using barriers, minimizing employees and students in narrow or enclosed areas, staggering breaks, and delivering programs in shifts or cohorts. In addition, facial coverings must be worn by every employee, instructor, and student not working alone (with no chance of human interaction) at the location, unless their exposure dictates a higher level of protection under Department of Labor & Industries safety and health rules and guidance. Refer to Coronavirus Facial Covering and Mask Requirements for additional details. A cloth facial covering is described in the Department of Health guidance. Employees and students must be scanned for signs or symptoms of COVID‐19 at the start of each class.

We are working out a formal request process for faculty who wish to have their labs approved for return in fall quarter. The process will include developing an approved safety plan in close coordination with the COVID-19 Supervisor. Guidelines for the approval process will be distributed the first week of July.

What if King County moves to Phase 3 before fall quarter?

Executive Cabinet and ICS are closely monitoring King County infection rates and risk to public health. It is unknown when the county will move to Phase 3 or when Phase 3 Higher Education Guidance will be released. As a reminder, though the county and state may move ahead in phases, college leadership will analyze the safety and readiness of our community prior to changing operations. Based on initial drafts of Phase 3 guidance from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), we expect Phase 3 guidelines to require similar infection prevention measures. Consequently, we anticipate sending guidance about fall quarter to the campus during the first week of July.

Stay safe.

Highline College
Incident Command System

Dear Highline College students,

In an effort to celebrate all of the hard-working Highline College students who will be graduating this spring, we will host the college’s first virtual Commencement this June.

I want to thank the hundreds of students who responded to our Commencement 2020 Survey. Your necessary feedback informed the college’s decision to hold a virtual commencement. We take your creative recommendations for alternate ways to honor our grads to heart and hope to implement many of them with the help of our Commencement Committee.

Originally scheduled for June 11 at the Kent ShoWare Center, Commencement is one of the largest events Highline College puts on each year, regularly drawing thousands of students, families and community members to one single location. However, in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and in accordance with Gov. Jay Inslee’s four-phased approach for reopening businesses and modifying physical distancing, we are unable to host an in-person Commencement this spring.

Depending on the social distancing restrictions at the time, Highline College will plan to honor our 2020 graduates with an in-person reception in winter 2021. This celebration will include programming, photos, family, music and recognition of our incredible scholars

Additionally, fall 2021 marks the college’s 60th anniversary since it was founded in 1961. Our 60th Year Celebration will provide a unique opportunity to honor our 2020 graduates with a special ceremony. We envision a “Community Homecoming” event with alumni, retirees, students, staff and faculty in attendance.

The Commencement Committee has been hard at work, talking to colleagues at other institutions, attending webinars, reading articles and exploring options for a virtual celebration of our graduates. Our first virtual Commencement is sure to be a special one.

Please expect more information to come, and as always, email ask@highline.edu. with any questions.

Thank you and stay safe.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College students,

I have been thinking about all of you during this most unusual spring quarter. I hope you are well and finding some time for yourself. Self-care is very important during this stressful time.

As you have likely heard, Gov. Jay Inslee announced the extension of the state’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order through May 31. While our collective efforts are working to slow the transmission rates of COVID-19, Washington state is not yet ready to resume a full return to normal activities. On Friday, he shared Washington’s four-phased approach to reopening business and resuming activities.

For all of us at Highline, much will remain the same. As I announced on April 2, alternate modes of instruction — whether it is online, remote or another form of teaching — will continue for the duration of spring quarter. The quarter will end as scheduled on June 11, 2020.

Under Phase 1, specific classes are allowed to be held on campus as long as they demonstrate that they meet the Governor’s strict health guidelines. For Highline, those include classes within our health care programs, such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Home Care Aid, Medical Assistant and Respiratory Care classes. Instructors will communicate directly with students if their classes will be held in a face-to-face format on campus.

As I stated in my April 22 message, remote teaching and learning will continue during summer quarter. There will be no face-to-face instruction on campus next quarter, with the exception of the health care classes listed above.

Remain Off Campus

Through at least May 31, the campus will be physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public. Most college services will continue to function remotely. Highline staff members are here to help you with resources and support services available online.

Keep Yourself and Others Safe

Gov. Inslee estimated that each phase will last for approximately three weeks, but stressed that data, not the calendar, will determine when we move from one phase to another. Social distancing is critical to stemming the spread of COVID-19, and I urge you to observe the order to keep yourself and loved ones safe and healthy.

If you have any questions, email ask@highline.edu.

Wash your hands,

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College students,

I hope this message finds you safe and healthy.

Now that we’re settling into spring quarter, I want to share plans for summer and fall quarters.

Summer Quarter

Remote teaching and learning will continue summer quarter. There will be no face-to-face instruction on campus next quarter, with the possible exception for allied health programs. We are waiting on guidance from Gov. Jay Inslee.

As you view the class schedule, you’ll see classes are designated in one of three ways: virtual, hybrid/virtual, or online. Here’s what those designations mean:

  • Virtual: Your class will meet at the time listed in the class schedule. For example, if your class begins at 9 a.m. in the class schedule, then it will begin at 9 a.m. on Zoom. You will be attending the class at the same time as your classmates, just as you would on campus.
  • Hybrid/Virtual: Class times are listed in the class schedule. The portions of the hybrid course that would have occurred on campus will now be offered on Zoom. The rest of the course will be online.
  • Online: These classes don’t have a set time to attend, as do virtual classes. You can view video lectures whenever is convenient to you.

Fall Quarter

We are hoping to resume in-person classes during fall quarter. But in light of the uncertainty, we are scheduling our class delivery methods with flexibility in mind. Classes for fall quarter are designated in these five ways:

  • Face-to-Face: Class times are listed in the schedule and will be held on campus. Based on the state’s response to COVID-19, these courses may shift to virtual or hybrid/virtual using Zoom. Your instructor will let you know prior to the start of fall quarter.
  • Virtual: Your class will meet at the time listed in the class schedule. For example, if your class begins at 9 a.m. in the class schedule, then it will begin at 9 a.m. on Zoom. You will be attending the class at the same time as your classmates, just as you would on campus.
  • Hybrid: Part of the class will be held online without a set time to attend. The other part will occur in a face-to-face format on campus at the time listed in the class schedule. If on-campus instruction is not yet allowed by fall quarter, then in-person instruction will switch to virtual using Zoom. Your instructor will let you know prior to the start of fall quarter.
  • Hybrid/Virtual: Part of the class will be held online without a set time to attend. The other part will occur at the time listed in the class schedule in a virtual format using Zoom.
  • Online: These classes don’t have a set time to attend, as do virtual classes. You can view video lectures whenever is convenient to you.

Virtual Student Support Services

During summer quarter, we are planning to continue offering student resources and services online. Much will depend on when — and how — in-person activities can resume in our state and on our campus. We will provide updates once we know.

Thank You

Thank you for continuing with your education. You know, as we do, that it is an investment that will pay off for your life and career. We are doing everything we can to make sure you still can reach your educational goals. And while the situation is challenging, I know we can get through it. I’m reminded of a sign I saw recently: “We’re all in this together. Just 6 feet apart.”

If you have any questions about your classes, contact your instructor. They are here to help you. We also welcome your questions at ask@highline.edu.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College



Dear Highline College students,

I miss seeing our campus filled with students and activities. I hope this message finds you well.

In a press conference earlier this evening, Gov. Jay Inslee announced the extension of the state’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order through May 4. Social distancing is critical to stemming the spread of COVID-19, and I urge you to observe the order to keep yourself and loved ones safe and healthy.

This new date does not affect the start of spring quarter instruction, which will begin Monday, April 6, using online and alternate modes of instruction for most courses. The extension does impact our plans for a limited number of classes that must be held in a face-to-face format, particularly health care programs. We are working on a solution for those courses and will provide an update soon.

In the interim, I want to share a few reminders and new ways we are ready to help support you throughout the quarter.

Spring Quarter Plans

As mentioned earlier, classes will begin April 6. The method of instruction — whether it is online, remote or another form of teaching — will be in place for the duration of the quarter, even after the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order has been lifted. The quarter will end as scheduled on June 11, 2020.

We’ve compiled Resources for Remote Learning to help guide you through this change. And, you can also find answers to common questions in the “Getting Started With Your Classes” section of Student FAQs. If you have other questions, send them to ask@highline.edu or contact your instructor.

Virtual Student Support Services

To provide greater access to Highline’s resources and services, I am thrilled to share with you our new Zoom Virtual Lobbies. Currently there are over a dozen participating services, with more to be added in the coming days and weeks.

Also visit Virtual Support Services During Spring Quarter for information on many campus programs and services. The Counseling Center, to name just one, has spent the last week becoming certified in tele-mental health. During spring quarter, counselors will be conducting both drop-in and scheduled appointments using Zoom.

We are trying a variety of ways to make sure you feel supported this quarter.

Scam Alert

The federal government is seeing an increase in scams related to federal stimulus payments including phone calls, text messages and e-mails phishing for information. Here’s some important things to know:

  • The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money.
  • The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account or credit card number.

As always, be cautious when clicking on links in emails from unknown sources.

Thank You

I appreciate your patience as we work through the logistics of moving most instruction and services online. I am grateful to you, our students, for your resilience, and thankful for our amazing faculty and staff who are committed to making sure you continue to receive an excellent education.

As always, we welcome your questions at ask@highline.edu.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College students,

This week, the college received confirmation that a Highline employee tested positive for COVID-19.

We realize this news is concerning and want to reassure you that we are working closely with the employee and local health care professionals. We will remain in contact with this employee throughout the recovery process to ensure that they get the care they need before returning to work.

Employees who were confirmed to have been in close contact with the employee have been directed to self-quarantine at home until the suggested 14-day quarantine period ends. If you did not receive a notice, you were not identified as a close contact. If you have not been in close contact with a person confirmed to have COVID-19, you are considered to be at low risk for infection.

We will continue to follow CDC and King County Public Health guidelines and take every precaution to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

As you know, campus buildings have been closed during spring break to allow our Facilities department to clean and disinfect. We are most grateful for their work and believe this to be an important strategy in keeping our campus community safe and healthy.

If you have questions, send them to ask@highline.edu.

Thank you for your patience, concern and empathy throughout this time.

John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College students,

We have been busily working to outline clear measures about how we will successfully operate under Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.

Through at least April 6, the campus will be physically closed to all students, faculty, staff and the public.

Most college services will continue to function remotely. There will be few exceptions made to allow specific identified members to enter campus. The purpose of these exceptions are to provide needed and safe operations of the college; ensure critical operational functions of the college; ensure timely payment of employees; provide critical support to students; and to provide required preparation time for online instruction, which is set to begin April 6.

Here are several key announcements:

  • Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order: We expect the campus to open with limited in-person hours to support our social distance efforts at the time that state officials lift the stay-at-home restrictions.
  • Tuition: To make a tuition payment, visit online payments. For questions, email cashier@highline.edu.
  • Financial Aid priority deadline for summer quarter has been extended to April 28.
  • Bookstore orders can be submitted online, with free shipping of books and materials during the stay-at-home period. Stay tuned for details.
  • Public Safety: The office will continue its normal operating hours to ensure the safety of our campuses.
  • Highline faculty and staff are working on tips to help you succeed in an online environment. More info to come.
  • Admissions: For questions, email admissions@highline.edu.
  • Benefits Hub is available for emergency assistance.
  • Food Pantry: For information, visit Community Pantry at Highline College or email communitypantry@highline.edu.
  • Computer Labs: During the Governor’s stay-at-home order, campus computer labs will remain closed. We will continue to offer remote support during this time.
  • With the decision to extend online and remote teaching and online student services for the entire spring quarter, we recognize that some students are in need of technology resources to be successful. Highline will be able to provide some limited resources (such as Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots) so that students can participate in online learning. The Technology Resource Loan Program will allow students to request technology support for spring quarter. Depending on demand, there may be a random lottery selection due to the limited supplies on hand. If you would like to be entered in the selection pool for these resources, fill out the Student Technology Resource Loan Request.

All other Highline departments and programs are working remotely and available to support students, staff and faculty. To contact them or to review online resources, visit Virtual Support Services.

A team of Highline College employees will reach out to you next week to check in and answer questions. And feel free to email any questions or provide feedback to ask@highline.edu. We look forward to talking to you!

More information to come,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College Community,

First, a recap. As I stated in my March 17 campus message, Highline College will begin the spring term on March 30. For the first week of the quarter, instruction will be suspended to give faculty time to plan alternative modes of instruction, including online, Zoom-based and old-fashioned homework packets to ensure we serve our entire student community.

All faculty — tenured, tenure-track, one-year and adjunct — will be paid beginning March 30, allowing them to work with colleagues, coordinators and others to design appropriate instruction for students. All classes, regardless of modality, will begin on Monday, April 6, 2020. The quarter will end as scheduled.

For those limited classes that cannot be performed online, social distancing protocols will be practiced. Students will be updated by their instructors.

Now, some news. After consultation with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, our neighboring colleges and the Governor’s office, I have made the decision to extend online and alternative modes of instruction and student services for the entire spring quarter. More information and planning will be forthcoming in future communications as this is a fluid situation.

Even though this presents additional challenges, I believe it is the right thing to do for the health of our entire campus community.

Next, a bright future. Together, we have reason to be proud. We successfully completed winter quarter, so let’s celebrate that accomplishment. Many thanks to all students, staff and faculty who made this happen. Each completed course and quarter means students are that much closer to achieving their educational dreams. Highline remains committed to providing that opportunity for our community.

Take this next week to rest and connect with loved ones. I look forward to reconnecting with you soon.

Thanks,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College


Dear Highline College Community,

Good afternoon. To recap last week’s news, Gov. Inslee issued an emergency proclamation aimed at increasing social distancing efforts and limiting face-to-face instruction to reduce and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Effective Monday, March 16, at midnight, all college and universities in Washington must transition instruction to alternative formats through Friday, April 24, at noon. We will be moving quickly to make sure social distancing for all on campus is in alignment with public health directives.

Last Week of Winter Quarter

Thanks to the hard work and flexibility of the campus community, we will complete winter quarter — including finals — as planned by March 20.

In-person classes and finals should move online or to alternative formats, such as Zoom, Canvas and Panopto wherever possible. If necessary, for the completion of the program, the Governor’s proclamation allows for the continuation of limited in-person learning for classes and finals that cannot be offered online, such as labs and clinicals, as well as career and technical programs. In these cases, we will continue to follow social distancing protocols and limit the number of students in a room at any given time.

During the last week of winter quarter campus remains open for limited services in support of students.

Below is a listing of buildings that will remain open during the final week of winter quarter. All buildings open at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday and Wednesday (3/17 and 3/18):
B1: until 5 p.m.
B6: until 5 p.m.
B30: opens at 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
B99: until 5 p.m.
Classrooms: until 7 p.m.
Library: until 5 p.m.

Thursday (3/19):
B1: until 5 p.m.
B6: until 5 p.m.
B30: opens at 7 am until 5 p.m.
B99: until 5 p.m.
Classrooms: until 5 p.m.
Library: until 5 p.m.

Friday (3/20):
B1: until 3 p.m.
B6: until 1 p.m.
B30: opens at 7 a.m. until 3 p.m.
B99: until 3 p.m.
Classrooms: until 3 p.m.
Library: closed

Spring Quarter

Highline College will begin the spring term on March 30. However, there will be a suspension of instruction for the first week to give faculty time to plan alternative modes of instruction, including online, Zoom-based and old-fashioned homework packets to ensure we serve our entire student community. All faculty — tenured, tenure-track, one-year and adjunct — will be paid beginning March 30, allowing them to work with colleagues, coordinators and others to design appropriate instruction for students. All classes, regardless of modality, will begin on Monday, April 6, 2020. The quarter will end as scheduled.

For those limited classes that cannot be performed online, social distancing protocols will be practiced. Students will be updated by their instructors. This will also allow Highline’s executive leadership to continue to work diligently over the next few weeks to strategize and make final adjustments so technology is available and our core operations and services will remain available to maintain business operations.

While these practices are in place until April 24 at noon, depending on this fluid situation, prepare for the possibility that these alternative modes of instruction may last the entire spring quarter.

Highline College continues to remain open to serve all those who rely on our services, including our library, computer labs, business offices and student housing, but staff schedules and open hours may change.

Student Services will remain open to provide continued student support. To address the requirement for social distancing, all Student Services areas will be limiting face-to-face interactions and will be offering services online. Student Services will continue to stay in communication with students through email and phone calls.

While essential services remain open, telework is now the first choice and priority for as many employees as possible. Each office should immediately reassess their essential services and develop work plans that encourage social distancing among employees. Employees should only be on site to perform tasks that are critical to the functioning of the college and cannot be performed remotely. Adherence to social distancing protocols will be followed in all locations. In the upcoming week, the college will provide hours of operation to the campus community.

Surveys

Last week, all staff, faculty and students were sent surveys to assess technological needs as we transition into alternative instruction and ways to provide services. I’m pleased to say that over 1,000 students and 200 staff and faculty responses have been received. If you have already submitted, thank you. If not, please look for that email and complete the survey. It will only take a few minutes and will greatly help these efforts. Tim Wrye will be sending out additional information later this week.

Follow Up, Questions and Concerns

As we continue into these unchartered waters, I know there are questions. Some of them can be answered, others will take more time.

  • Students: Send questions to ask@highline.edu
  • Staff and faculty: Contact the Vice President or Executive Director in your area. For any personnel-related matters, always contact Human Resources.

In times of crisis, there is often panic and rumors. It’s imperative that you continue to check this page for official, current, Highline College–related information as well as our frequently asked questions.

I want to take a moment to thank Gov. Inslee for his leadership and coordination to protect the health and safety of everyone in Washington. Thank you to our staff and faculty for your continued dedication to providing critical services to our students. And thank you to our students for your patience and commitment to achieving your educational goals.

One last thing: Remember to wash your hands!

In gratitude,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

Today, Gov. Jay Inslee announced a prohibition on in-person instruction for all 2-year, 4-year, public, private and career colleges in Washington state except for those classes that are unable to be offered online, such as those in our Professional Technical programs, which will practice social distancing. Inslee is also allowing essential campus operations and services to continue. We are incredibly grateful for the governor’s thoughtful approach, during this time. The prohibition will begin Tuesday, March 17 and extend through Friday, April 24.

Inslee’s emergency order is in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) throughout Washington state.

I have spoken to our executive leadership and they have already prepared for this possibility. More information on our plan moving forward will be communicated on Monday, March 16.

While there is not yet a confirmed case of coronavirus at Highline College, I take the governor’s directives and concern very seriously. I appreciate the governor’s desire to protect the health and safety of our students, and I share that goal.

We knew this was a very real possibility and continue to utilize our emergency operation plans already in place. We will be acting immediately to help our campus community succeed and adjust.

I understand this action will affect students in different ways and encourage robust communication between instructors and students. We expect winter quarter finals to be delivered in alternative modalities to the greatest extent possible to limit student traffic on campus. If you have any concerns about attending class on Monday, please contact your instructor.

We encourage everybody to check this page frequently and sign up for campus emergency alerts.

If you have specific questions about this recent developments, please email ask@highline.edu.

Lastly, I want to discuss self-care. Take time to do something for yourself, whatever makes you happy. Give yourself permission for grace, to pause and self-care. Also, check on your friends, family, neighbors who might be facing challenges. Kindness, among all this uncertainty, is needed right now toward one another. Thank you for your patience, resilience and empathy as we move forward during this trying time.

Best,

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

Yesterday, Governor Inslee announced a new emergency proclamation to restrict gatherings of more than 250 people in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties. I take the Governor’s directives and concern very seriously, while continuing to adhere to King County Public Health’s recommendations of not closing colleges and schools unless there has been a confirmed case of coronavirus. At this time, no one at Highline College has been diagnosed with COVID-19.

I understand that this is a challenging and stressful time for our entire community. Please follow all guidelines to help protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19. By engaging in more self-care and healthy practices, together we can do our part to make the situation better for everyone.

In the coming days, the college will continue to engage in all of our options, including dramatically increasing remote work and developing alternative instructional strategies for the start of spring quarter. We are not alone in these efforts, as our neighboring colleges — Renton Technical and Green River College — are also reviewing their options. Regularly check your Highline email for key updates.

When you are on campus, practice social distancing, such as holding online instead of face-to-face meetings, to help slow the spread of COVID-19. We are making changes here on campus to help people from having to be in close proximity to one another. For example, you’ll notice fewer tables in Building 8, allowing for more room between people. For making purchases from the Bookstore, students can now order online and pick up in Mt. Skokomish to avoid waiting in long lines.

Wherever you are, take steps to prevent illness, such as protecting yourself and others:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water frequently for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cough into a tissue or the bend of your elbow.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

I appreciate all of you for your patience, flexibility, understanding and hard work:

  • Staff: Thank you for continuing to serve the college on campus and remotely.
  • Students: Thank you for persisting in your studies as our faculty have worked tirelessly to find ways to assist in your course completion.
  • Faculty: Thank you for your responsiveness in rapidly changing course delivery to assist our students toward academic completion.

As we work to complete winter quarter, which concludes March 20, we are looking at various options for spring. We take seriously the concerns we hear from all members of our campus community and are working hard to address them given the fluid nature of the situation. Stay tuned for updates in the next week. Until then, refer to our Coronavirus Information and Resources page for tips on keeping healthy and frequently asked questions. And if you have questions about personnel matters, such as sick leave and telecommuting options, contact Human Resources.

Once again, thank you for your patience, resilience and empathy as we move through this trying time.

Best,

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

Highline’s campus remains open and face-to-face classes are not being canceled. At this time, no members of the Highline community have been diagnosed with COVID-19.

The college continues to follow the recommendations of King County Department of Public Health in all matters related to the coronavirus. Public Health is not recommending closing colleges and schools at this time unless there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19.

However, while classes will continue to be held, we are giving instructors options. Instructors may elect to continue holding classes in person with no changes. Or, they could decide to move their courses online or use a videoconferencing tool such as Zoom. When instructors decide to make such changes, rest assured that they will take into account the unique needs of our student population.

Highline serves the most diverse student population in the state. Many of our students have limited or little access to technology. Simply moving instruction online will not serve all our students equitably or well. Unlike some of our peer institutions, we need to provide a wider range of options to students and instructors.

Instructors are encouraged to notify students as soon as possible if they elect to change the delivery method for their courses. Likewise, students should contact their instructors if they have questions about attending classes.

We will strive to be as flexible as possible in accommodating students’ unique situations. Students are urged to contact their instructors to make arrangements if they need to miss class for any reason. Highline’s goal is to continue to provide quality education to everyone while avoiding penalizing students during this evolving situation.

Here are resources for accessing online tools:

For answers to other questions, see Frequently Asked Questions.

If you are sick, or need to care for a sick family member, stay home. Your health and safety is our primary concern. If you suspect you may have come into contact with someone with COVID-19 or are feeling unwell, read what to do.

We are committed to keeping you informed and working with you to keep our college community safe. As this event continues to evolve, we will share information and updates.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

This has been an active and busy week for our community. I want to take a moment and thank our students, staff and faculty for your patience and understanding as we address this evolving coronavirus situation. For many, this is unchartered territory as our world is dealing with the outbreak and tragedy. I want to end this week with some updates about what to expect in the coming days and weeks.

Monitoring the situation

Highline College has officially activated our Incident Command System (ICS) to enable effective and efficient management of the COVID-19 response. The ICS is a structured response team to organize people from across the campus, to enable information sharing and problem solving. This will ensure campus stakeholders are involved in the response process and the campus is working as a cohesive unit. In addition, I’m in frequent contact with my fellow college presidents and local officials, state representatives and K-12 superintendents to ensure our campus receives information in a timely manner. It’s vital that information is shared and responded to immediately to ensure the safety and security of our community. You can expect constant updates from my office.

Living our values

COVID-19 is a global concern that can make anyone sick, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Highline is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all who study, work or visit. In times of fear and uncertainty, there is often misinformation shared as a result of bias and, at times, discrimination and xenophobia. Unfortunately, there has been instances of anti-Asian bias and harassment in our society and on this campus. At Highline, we simply do not tolerate this behavior.

If you experience or witness any bias or harassment, report it to Highline Public Safety at (206) 592-3218. You can also report it to the Student Assessment and Information Team (SAIT). The goal of the SAIT is to take an informed, proactive and preventive approach to addressing potentially threatening behaviors.

Any Highline student in need of more personal support during this time is encouraged to contact the Highline Counseling Center at (206) 592-3353. King County Public Health has also created a site dedicated to anti-stigma resources.

Planning on campus

In accordance with King County Department of Public Health guidance, we encourage supervisors to provide telework options to employees whose job duties can be performed remotely without hampering operations or instruction.

If you have a medical condition impacting your ability to report to work, contact your supervisor and HR at hrstaff@highline.edu.

Next week, Human Resources will send out information regarding sick leave and preparing for disruptions to business continuity, if necessary, in the event of a campus closure. While I don’t anticipate a closure, we want to be prepared and thoughtful in our efforts. Additionally, HR will provide reminders about FERPA to ensure we don’t violate federal laws or student privacy when speaking with parents or guardians.

Following recommendations

Highline College will always follow the guidelines of the King County Department of Public Health in all matters related to the coronavirus.

Testing for COVID-19

Governor Inslee announced state plans to cover the costs of COVID-19 tests for residents without health insurance. Additionally, Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler issued an order to Washington health insurers to cover required COVID-19 testing and provider visits without copays or deductibles. That order is in effect through May 4.

Spreading COVID-19

Important tip from public health experts: “… you generally need to be in close contact with someone with COVID-19 to get infected. Close contact includes scenarios like living with or caring for a person with confirmed COVID-19, being within six feet of a person with confirmed COVID-19 for about 10 minutes, or if someone with COVID-19 coughed on you, kissed you, shared utensils with you or you had direct contact with their body secretions.” (“What to Do If You Have Confirmed or Suspected COVID-19 or Are Worried That You May Have COVID-19,” King County Public Health, Public Health Insider, 3/5/20).

Caring for each other

Receiving these updates and hearing about coronavirus can be overwhelming and, for some, extremely stressful. Please know our campus is fortunate to have an incredible collection of students, staff and faculty that care for one another and a group of leaders who will always put Highline College first. I encourage everyone to take care of yourself, listen to your body and please err on the side of caution in all your activities. From washing your hands multiple times of the day to not sharing food or drinks, your habits have extraordinary power.

Take care,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

Late yesterday, we received new guidance from state and local health officials aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. At this time, King County Department of Public Health is not recommending closing colleges or schools. If there is a confirmed case of COVID-19, Public Health will work with the college or school to determine the best measures, including potential closure.

Public Health is recommending, but not requiring, the following steps:

  • People at higher risk of severe illness should stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible, including public places with a lot of people and large gatherings where there will be close contact with others. People at higher risk include:
      • – People 60 and older.
      • – People with underlying health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease or diabetes.
      • – People who have weakened immune systems.
      – People who are pregnant.
  • Workplaces should enact measures that allow people who can work from home to do so. Taking these measures can help reduce the number of workers who come into contact with COVID-19 and help minimize absenteeism due to illness.
  • For those planning events or gatherings, consider postponing them, which will avoid bringing large groups of people together.
  • All people should not go out when they are sick.
  • Avoid visiting hospitals, long-term care facilities and nursing homes to the extent possible. If you need to go, limit your time there and keep six feet away from patients.

At this time, no members of the Highline community have been diagnosed with COVID-19. However, given these new recommendations, if you fall into a high-risk group and/or you would like to work remotely from home, contact your supervisor for next steps. Supervisors will work with their department or division leaders to develop these plans. In addition, the college may reschedule upcoming large campus events on a case-by-case basis.

As always, the health and safety of all students, faculty and staff remain our top priority. We are monitoring the ongoing situation and will send updates as needed. And, we will continue to update our Coronavirus Information and Resources page. There, in addition to recommendations for the prevention and spread of the virus, you’ll find newly added FAQs, including those specific to students and faculty and staff, including this one:

Q. I have a student who has told me they are feeling ill. What should I do?
A. Encourage the student to stay home and contact their health care provider. If they do not have a health care provider, share MultiCare’s free virtual care services, using the promo code COVID19 to waive the regular $25 fee.

Finally, a reminder that thorough hand washing is the single best strategy you can take to protect yourself and others from spreading any virus.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College

Dear Highline College Community,

I’m writing today to provide updates regarding the novel coronavirus. Please know that the safety of our students, faculty and staff is our top priority.

As you may have heard, over the weekend public health officials announced that the first death in the United States attributed to the novel coronavirus has occurred in King County. At the time of writing this, there are 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in King County. While these individuals are not a part of the Highline College community, our hearts are with those who have been impacted by this outbreak.

Currently, no members of the Highline College community have been diagnosed with COVID-19. In preparation for potential changes to this status, state, county and local agencies are taking steps to prepare our communities should conditions change. In an abundance of caution, we are preparing as we would for any other potentially disruptive situation, such as a natural disaster.

What Is the College Doing?

The Highline Emergency Response Team (ERT) is monitoring the situation closely and has created an emergency response plan to ensure the health and safety of our community. Communication is key in an evolving situation such as this one. To that end, this webpage includes recommendations from the Washington State Department of Health and links to important resources. We will add information as we learn more.

We will also be hanging posters in every bathroom, reminding people of the importance of washing hands thoroughly, which is the single best strategy you can take to protect yourself and others from spreading any virus.

Campus Cleaning Efforts

The Facilities department will be cleaning high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces more often, with special attention to door handles and keyboards. They will also clean bathroom Dyson air dryers several times a day, which can harbor germs. The college will be ordering large quantities of disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer stations and/or bottles that will be distributed across campus.

Flexibility in Attendance

In the event a student or employee falls ill or needs to care for a sick family member, we are encouraging managers and instructors to be as flexible as possible when it comes to missing school or work. It will be up to individual faculty members and/or their department heads to determine what those policies are. Managers may be able to provide telecommuting options for employees on a case-by-case basis.

Many of our divisions and departments will also be sharing follow-up messages with their faculty and staff based on their unique situations and needs. The International Student Programs team is providing information and support to international students, too, given that many students may be planning on traveling during spring break.

For Employees: View office cleaning and remote work option tips from our ITS department.
For Students: View online resources for doing classwork from home.

What Can You Do?

Practice Good Hygiene

Prevention measures for the coronavirus are similar to those used against the common cold and flu, both of which are currently circulating in high numbers across the country. These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses:

  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if your are sick, especially if you have a fever.
  • Wash your hands often and with soap and water, making a good soapy lather, for at least 20 seconds, which is about the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Don’t share food and drinks.
  • Clean and disinfect shared surfaces and objects that are touched frequently.

Seek Medical Evaluation if You Have Symptoms

You should seek medical evaluation for COVID-19 if you have any of these symptoms.

  • Ill with a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing AND have traveled from an affected area in the last 14 days.
  • Ill with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing AND have been identified by Public Health as a recent close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case or had recent close contact with someone who is being evaluated for COVID-19 infection.
  • Ill with a severe lower respiratory tract infection and unknown contact during known community transmission.

Avoid Being a Target

Be aware that hackers are using the coronavirus to leverage phishing schemes that trick people into clicking on malicious links and sharing their personal security information. As always, be cautious when clicking on links in emails from unknown sources.

Live Our Values

Our community values will be tested in times like these. We must continue to be united and support each other as COVID-19 becomes more widespread. In times of fear and uncertainty, there is often misinformation shared as a result of bias and, at times, discrimination. COVID-19 is a global concern that can make anyone sick, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Highline College is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all who study, work or visit.

If you experience or witness any bias or harassment, report it to Highline Public Safety at (206) 592-3218. You can also report the behavior to the Student Assessment and Information Team (SAIT). The goal of the SAIT is to take an informed, proactive and preventive approach to addressing potentially threatening behaviors.

Any Highline student in need of more personal support during this time is encouraged to contact the Highline Counseling Center at (206) 592-3353. King County Public Health has also created a site dedicated to anti-stigma resources.

Stay Informed

King County Public Health publishes a page with regular updates relevant specifically to our region. You can sign up to receive free email alerts that will inform you when new information is posted to the site.

The Washington State Department of Health has established a call center to address questions from the public. If you have questions about what is happening in Washington state, how the virus is spread, and what to do if you have symptoms, please call 1-800-525-0127 and press #.

Sign up for HC Alerts and keep informed of campus emergencies, safety issues and inclement weather emergency closures through text alerts straight to your smartphone. If we have suspended operations, you will be notified through our HC Alerts system that sends out calls, emails and text messages.

Find Information and Resources

  • The CDC includes the latest information on the virus, how it’s spread, and prevention measures.
  • To learn more about U.S. cases, view the CDC’s map.
  • CDC travel advisories are at Level 3: Avoid Nonessential Travel for China, South Korea, and Italy. U.S. Department of State travel advisories are at Level 4: Do Not Travel for China and Level 3: Reconsider Travel for Italy and South Korea. Monitor the CDCand >State Department for the latest travel advisories.
  • The CDC also has helpful information on prevention tips and what to do if people may have contracted the virus or been exposed to the virus.
  • Washington State Department of Health fact sheets in 11 different languages.
  • The University of Washington is also maintaining a website with resources as well as updates specific to their campuses.

We know you may be worried about this new virus. We are committed to keeping you informed and working with you to keep our college community safe. As this event continues to evolve, we will share information and updates on our website and social media pages. You can find additional resources about how you can prepare as an individual, family or business on the Public Health – Seattle & King County website.

Best,
John

John R. Mosby, Ph.D.
President
Highline College